Best of the Italian Lakes

Italy

Discover the Italians’ favourite holiday haunts on this irresistible Italian Lakes trip. Linger over a sweet gelato on the shores of Lake Maggiore, sample authentic balsamic vinegar in Modena, then ease into the easy-going local way of life in enchanting lakeside villages. All hotel tips, charges and local taxes.

All porterage and restaurant gratuities.

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver.

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing.

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals.

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted.

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys).

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised..

Optional Experiences and free time
Best of the Italian Lakes

Accommodation

DAY 1: Simplon - Meals: Dinner
DAY 2: Simplon - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 3: Poiano Resort - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4: Poiano Resort - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5: Poiano Resort - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6: Poiano Resort - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7: Poiano Resort - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 8: Starhotels Business Palace - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Experiences

Bergamo: See Bergamo's characteristic bell towers and admire the city's captivating Renaissance architecture.

Como: Take in exquisite views of the lake and its alpine backdrop as you enjoy an orientation of this magnificent town.

Mantua: Visit UNESCO-listed Mantua with a Local Specialist. See the central arcade and grand dome of the basilica as you stroll past gold-toned façades.

Milan: See Milan's central highlights on an orientation tour with your Travel Director.

Modena: Delve into the history and culture of Modena with a Local Specialist. Stroll through the Old Town streets and see the beautiful arcade of the Piazza Grande.

Verona: Join a Local Specialist on a sightseeing walk along Verona's charming central streets. See the bronze statue of Juliet and the Roman arena.

DAY 1: Journey from Milan to Lake Maggiore

A favourite summer retreat for the who's who of Italy for centuries provides an enchanting backdrop for your first day in Italy. Airport transfers will be provided at set times from Milan Malpensa Airport to your hotel in the charming resort of Baveno on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Enjoy a Light Supper with a drink this evening to meet your fellow travel companions and Travel Director before embarking on your journey together.

DAY 2: Admire Beautiful Lake Como

Journey through Italy's exquisite Lake District to scenic Lake Como. Walk along the beautiful Como waterfront or relax by the lake indulging in a tasty gelato. Then it’s time to ease into la dolce vita, strolling along the lake shore at Baveno – the gentle sounds of this lakeside setting are a soulful way to enjoy your afternoon. Spend free time exploring Baveno with its Romanesque bell tower and octagonal baptistery.

DAY 3: Continue to Lake Garda

The enchanting lanes of Bergamo, near the foothills of the Alps, yield architectural and artistic treasures which we will have an opportunity to explore this morning. Wander past centuries-old Renaissance façades and into the exquisite Piazza Vecchia built on the site of an ancient Roman forum, the heart of political power in the city for several centuries. See the ornate Contarini Fountain and 12th century Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, which the people of Bergamo built to thank the Virgin Mary for coming to their aid in the midst of the plague during the 12th century. We continue our love affair with the Italian Lakes, travelling to the Lake Garda area for a relaxing five-night stay, where long, lazy days are a way of life.

DAY 4: Explore Verona

Romance is in the air today as we journey to Verona, the home of Shakespeare's tragic star-crossed lovers. Our walking tour with a Local Specialist will take us to Juliet's Balcony, as well as the incredible Roman arena, still in use today. There is also plenty of time to explore the city at leisure - see the seven medieval towers of Castelvecchio, relax under the shady trees in Verona's expansive Piazza Bra or clamber up Lamberti's Tower for magnificent views.

DAY 5: Discover the Treasures of Mantua Connect with Locals Make Travel Matter

A leisurely start to your day could see you stroll along the lakefront and enjoy a quiet coffee. Later today, you’ll embark on a half-day excursion to Mantua, a European 'Capital of Gastronomy' renowned for its significant role in the history of opera. Surrounded by lakes, this historic city with its UNESCO-listed centre is a delight to explore as you’ll come to discover during your visit with a Local Specialist. See architectural treasures and artefacts, elegant palaces and Renaissance cityscapes before returning to the picturesque lakeside setting of Lake Garda. This evening, enjoy a Be My Guest experience featuring local fare with the Serenelli family. On this memorable Be My Guest experience, you’ll hear all about the farm’s incredible role in Napoleon’s Battle of Solferino, the bloody aftermath of which inspired the establishment of the International Red Cross.

DAY 6: Lake Garda Your Way

Indulge in a full day at leisure to soak up the picture-perfect setting of Italy's largest lake. Journey along its tranquil shores, stopping at lakeside villages to savour the intoxicating aroma of lemons around every turn. Enjoy the flavours of delicious local olive oils and cheese at local markets, stroll along flower-lined lakeside paths or visit the lake's extraordinary sights. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to visit the magnificent Dolomite mountains, a World Heritage Site comprising 18 peaks over 10,000 feet (3,000 m).

DAY 7: Admire Ferraris in Modena Dive Into Culture

Your day starts with an introduction to the gastronomic hub of Modena, home of sparkling Lambrusco, salty prosciutto and the intense aromas of parmigiano, for an exploration with a Local Specialist. Wander past pastel-hued façades in the heart of the city that was the birthplace of Ferrari, Pavarotti and tortellini. Modena's Old Town and the magnificent Piazza Grande with its 12th century cathedral and Torre Civica, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the day continues, you will visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum where you'll Dive Into Culture and explore the history of this Italian icon. This afternoon you will enjoy a gourmet interlude at a historic, traditional Acetaia on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience to taste the delicious sweet and sour flavours of some of the world’s best organic and biodynamic balsamic vinegar. This experience contributes to UN Global Goal 12: Responsible Production and Consumption. This evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner in our Italian lakeside resort.

DAY 8: Onwards to Milan

In search of spires that reach the sky, we leave our tranquil lakeside setting behind for the chic northern capital of Milan. Admire the extraordinary Gothic Duomo, La Scala Opera House and 19th-century Galleria with its impressive glass and iron-domed roof. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure to jostle with the glamorous Milanese for your spot in the shopping district of Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga and Via Sant'Andrea. This evening we indulge in a Farewell Dinner, joining our fellow travellers to celebrate the end of an exquisite holiday together.

DAY 9: Farewell Italy

Our leisurely jaunt through the Italian Lakes has come to an end. We say arrivederci to Italy and our newfound friends.

Tour
Departs
Tour
Returns
Starting From
(price per person)
Definite Departure
What's this?
Book Now!
18/04/2025 26/04/2025 £1,980 Book
09/05/2025 17/05/2025 £1,980 Book
23/05/2025 31/05/2025 £1,980 Book
30/05/2025 07/06/2025 £1,980 Book
13/06/2025 21/06/2025 £1,980 Book
04/07/2025 12/07/2025 £2,090 Book
18/07/2025 26/07/2025 £2,090 Book
01/08/2025 09/08/2025 £2,222 Book
15/08/2025 23/08/2025 £2,222 Book
29/08/2025 06/09/2025 £2,046 Book
05/09/2025 13/09/2025 £2,046 Book
12/09/2025 20/09/2025 £1,914 Book
19/09/2025 27/09/2025 £1,914 Book
03/10/2025 11/10/2025 £1,892 Book
17/04/2026 25/04/2026 £2,425 Book
24/04/2026 02/05/2026 £2,425 Book
01/05/2026 09/05/2026 £2,425 Book
08/05/2026 16/05/2026 £2,425 Book
15/05/2026 23/05/2026 £2,425 Book
22/05/2026 30/05/2026 £2,425 Book
29/05/2026 06/06/2026 £2,425 Book
05/06/2026 13/06/2026 £2,425 Book
12/06/2026 20/06/2026 £2,425 Book
19/06/2026 27/06/2026 £2,550 Book
03/07/2026 11/07/2026 £2,550 Book
17/07/2026 25/07/2026 £2,550 Book
31/07/2026 08/08/2026 £2,725 Book
14/08/2026 22/08/2026 £2,725 Book
28/08/2026 05/09/2026 £2,495 Book
04/09/2026 12/09/2026 £2,495 Book
11/09/2026 19/09/2026 £2,350 Book
18/09/2026 26/09/2026 £2,350 Book
25/09/2026 03/10/2026 £2,325 Book
02/10/2026 10/10/2026 £2,325 Book

Please contact Global Coach Tours for a list of the latest optional activities available.

Discover the Wonders of Italy: A UNESCO World Heritage Adventure

Discover the Wonders of Italy: A UNESCO World Heritage Adventure

Discover Italy’s rich heritage through its world-renowned landmarks, including Florence’s Piazza del Duomo, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the ancient city of Pompeii. Explore iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, indulge in luxurious wine tours through Tuscany, and visit captivating destinations like Venice and the Italian Lakes. Whether you prefer short excursions or immersive multi-day adventures, Italy offers endless opportunities to experience its art, culture, and history.
Search Blogs