Taste of Northern Italy - Itinerary
Northern Italy awaits you, offering historic villages, cosmopolitan cities, stately mountains, and brilliant lakes. Enjoy a special welcome dinner on Isola Bella, the largest of the Borromean Islands in Lake Maggiore. The landscape is striking as you cross the border into Switzerland and shop or people-watch at the lovely lakeside resort of Lugano. In Como, visit one of the area’s most distinguished silk producers.
Travel to the energetic and modern city of Milan and tour the mighty Duomo (Cathedral) and La Scala Opera House, and see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie. In Bergamo, admire the exquisite collection of frescoes and tapestries at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica. Visit a local violin-maker in Cremona and be treated to a mini recital featuring a genuine Stradivarius violin. Travel to a local farm and learn how organic cheese is produced. Feast your eyes as you travel by train through the magnificent five villages of Cinque Terre along the ruggedly beautiful Mediterranean coast.
The sequence of touring and days may be altered to adjust to religious holidays, special closings of sites, air schedule changes, etc. Hotels listed subject to availability. Meal inclusions may vary by departure.
Day 1: Overnight Flight
Magnificent lakes, mountain panoramas, cosmopolitan cities and historic villages - northern Italy has so much to be discovered! Join Collette Vacations on a leisurely program that features the best of this spectacular region. Your adventure begins with an overnight flight.
Day 2: Stresa, Italy - Tour Begins
Your tour begins in Stresa, on the shore of Lago Maggiore. Tonight you are transported by boat to your welcome dinner on Isola dei Pescatori, the most picturesque of the Borromean Islands – a wonderful opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers. (D)
Day 3: Stresa - Como - Lugano - Stresa
Today your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. Driving through the stunning landscapes of the Lake District, you will cross the border to Switzerland to explore the lovely lakeside resort of Lugano. Take advantage of the excellent shopping opportunities or enjoy a stroll among the beautiful parks that make the town such a popular destination. Later, depart for the resort town of Como and take some time to enjoy the charms of the town at leisure. (B)
Day 4: Stresa - Milan - Cremona
Your destination today is the exciting and modern city of Milan. Join a local expert on a sightseeing tour that includes the magnificent Duomo (Cathedral), the Vittorio Emmanuele II Gallery, and the La Scala Opera House*. Time is allowed to explore the city at your own pace before continuing to the town of Cremona. (B)
Day 5: Cremona
Spend the day enjoying the sights of Cremona, a town steeped in musical history. Begin with an escorted walking tour of the town, featuring the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Palazzo Communale and a local violin maker to see up-close how these instruments are so expertly crafted. A special stop includes a visit to a violin collection, where you will be treated to a mini recital of a genuine Stradivarius violin! (B,D)
Day 6: Cremona - Cinque Terre - Cremona
Travel south from Cremona to the magnificent Ligurian Coast. At the town of La Spezia, board a train for a spectacular journey through the villages of Cinque Terre. This rugged coastal area is an Italian treasure, with terraced vineyards and fishing villages overlooking the azure beauty of the Mediterranean. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring these magical villages at leisure before returning to Cremona. (B)
Day 7: Cremona – Mantova – Sirmione – Lake Garda – Cremona
This morning begin your journey to the ancient city of Mantova, mentioned in William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. Enjoy a guided walking tour through its historic streets. Visit the famous Palazzo Ducale made up of numerous buildings, courtyards and gardens. This famous palace is gathered around the Palazzo del Capitano, the Magna Domus, and the Castle of St. George. Continue to Sirmione in Lake Garda, once described as “the gem of all the peninsulas.” Here you can enjoy a stroll through its marvelous center. Admire the villas, churches, gardens and castle before returning to Cremona. (B,D)
Day 8: Cremona
Enjoy a full day at leisure to pursue your own pleasures in Cremona. Perhaps you will choose an optional tour to Bologna: rich in history and culinary tradition, and surrounded by hills, the center of this city is virtually untouched since the Renaissance. (B)
Day 9: Cremona - Bergamo - Milan/Malpensa
Depart Cremona for the lofty medieval city of Bergamo. Step back in time as a local guide escorts you through the historic "upper town" surrounded by 16th century Venetian walls. See the 14th century citadel, the town square, and Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica with an exquisite collection of frescoes and tapestries. Following some free time, depart Bergamo for a local wine cellar. Here you will not only learn about wine production, but also enjoy a tour. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner. (B,D)
Day 10: Malpensa - Tour Ends
Your tour ends this morning in Malpensa. (B)
