Experience authentic culture and elaborate history during your custom-tailored tour of Northern Italy and Lake Como that will take you from the splendor of Venice to cosmopolitan Milan and from the serene waters of Lake Maggiore to the charming cafes of Turin. You will indulge in the marvels of Italy that can be found in the tranquil ambiance of Alpine towns and sample the traditional cuisines of the Venetian lagoon. Whether learning the art of glassblowing or finding the indelible connection...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Venice – Arrive in Italy with a Stunning Introduction to Venice
The famous canals divide the city of Venice, drawing attention to the marble palaces soaring above the tranquil secluded waterways and leading to more than 400 bridges, which connect the various islands that create the elegant city. Vaporetti, gondolas, and speed boats glide down the famous waters of the Grand Canal that wind more than two miles through the cityscape. The familiar bell tower, which is known as the Campanile, towers above the rooftops and domes of St. Mark’s Cathedral at 323 feet.
Your flight will land at Marco Polo Airport, where your private transfer will greet you upon arrival and escort you to your accommodation by a private boat. The opulence of the city on the lagoon will enchant you before you meet your guide in the hotel lobby. By now, you will be ready for an introduction to the classic beauty for which Venice is celebrated. The scent of dishes such as risi I bisi, risotto with peas and pancetta, baccala’ mantecata, and dried salted codfish will drift from the restaurants and fill the winding, cobbled lanes.
Your guide will lead you to the famous St. Mark’s Square to visit the fascinating architecture and artwork of the eponymous cathedral, which grew in importance in the 9th century after the remains of the saint were smuggled from Alexandria to Venice. Your guide will provide cultural, historical, and artistic commentary on the structure as they lead you from the captivating exterior into the breathtaking interior that is decorated with nearly 45,638 square feet of gilded Byzantine mosaics.
What's Included:
Day 2
Venice – Delight in a Classic Culinary and Hidden History Tour of Venice
Day 3
Venice – Revel in a Private Guided Tour of the Venetian Lagoon
Day 4
Verona – Cruise the Brenta Canal and Visit Padua en route to Verona
Day 5
Milan – Discover Charming Verona before Arriving in Elegant Milan
Day 6
Milan – Explore the Bustling History and Dynamic Art of Milan
Day 7
Como – Transfer to the Gorgeous Scenery around Lake Como
Day 8
Como – Traverse the Enchanting Landscape of the Italian Alps
Day 9
Como – Enjoy the Beautiful Towns and Culture along Lake Como
Day 10
Stresa – Indulge in the Gardens and Ambiance of Stresa at Leisure
Day 11
Stresa – Visit the Opulent Isola Bella on a Boat Tour of Lake Maggiore
Day 12
Turin – Venture to Turin for a Lovely Walking Tour Italy’s First Capital
Day 13
Turin – Wander the Exceptional Museums and Cafes of Turin
Day 14
Turin – Depart for Home
Trip Highlights
- Indulge in the history and luxurious ambiance of the town of Como, which is located on the shores of the famous waters of Lake Como
- Marvel at the fascinating beauty of Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper, when visiting Milan
- Discover the remarkable history and captivating architecture of St. Mark’s Cathedral in Venice during a private, guided tour of the city
- Delight in an immersive luxury tour of the Borromean Islands, which are captured in the opulent terraces that decorate the garden on the Isola Bella villa
- Cruise along the Brenta canal from Venice to Padua for a stunning view of the villas that once belonged to Venetian aristocracy
- Explore the captivating display of Egyptian artifacts in the Museo Egizio in Turin, which is the largest collection of Egyptian objects outside of Cairo
- Indulge in the sensational cuisine of Venice during a guided market visit and cooking class, which showcases the unique flavors that have sustained on the lagoon
- Wander the fabulous villages and villas around the town of Como to find natural majesty, panoramas, and charm at Brunate and Bellagio
- Learn the ancient and coveted art of glassblowing with a private visit to an artisan studio to continue in the traditions of the island of Murano
Detailed Description
Discover the beauty of Renaissance cities and hidden alpine villages during your 14-day tour of Northern Italy and Lake Como. This tour provides an exciting immersion into the culture that has been shaped by a fascinating history, preserved heritage, and classic opulence. The brilliance of Northern Italy takes you from the canals of Venice and into the foothills, ascending from the shores of lakes Maggiore and Como. You will experience the essential marvels of Milan while exploring the depths of Turin and sampling delicious flavors, sipping bright Prosecco, and uncovering rich customs that date back to the Roman Empire.
Your exceptional luxury tour begins with your arrival in Venice, where you have three nights exploring the enchanting Venetian Lagoon. Traverse the cobbled lanes that wind alongside serene canals and stroll beneath the artwork of tremendous gilded mosaics in St. Mark’s Cathedral. Try your hand at crafting a traditional glass artwork and learn the distinctive recipes of Venice by tasting the delectable cuisine during a private cooking class. Travel to Padua by way of the Brenta Canal where you visit lavish villas that line the banks. You will also spend time in the gorgeous city of Padua where you will uncover the historic university and incredible Scrovegni Chapel before reaching Verona. A single night in Verona connects the ancient wonders of Rome with the masterful Renaissance architecture that decorate the streets and squares. Witness the grandeur of the opulent city as it rises out of the banks of the Adige River before continuing to Milan for two nights.
The cosmopolitan city reflects Northern Italy’s transition into production after World War II while hiding monuments such as the Duomo and Santa Maria delle Grazie. Three nights in the town of Como place you along the banks of the eponymous lake where you can indulge in the natural splendor of the Alps, the charms of the surrounding villages, and enchanting panoramas that spread from Bellagio to Brunate. Two nights in the town of Stresa provide elaborate wonders along the banks of Lake Maggiore, which is where you will visit the medieval charms of town and the Baroque elegance of the Borromean islands. Your tour ends with two nights in Turin, highlighting the sophisticated ambiance of the European city with grand palaces, wide tree-lined boulevards, and tremendous museums such as the captivating Museo Egizio. Don’t take just our word for it - consider reading some of our travelers’ reviews of Italy.
Starting Price
$3,845 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service
4.89 stars based on 4172 reviews.
Reviewed By Michael P.
Reviewed By paulette a.
Reviewed By Michael B.
Reviewed By Jean Y.
Reviewed By Pamela K.
Reviewed By Ravi O.