Get Away Friends Grand tour to Milan & the Italian Lakes
FEATURES
HIGHLIGHTS
HOTELS
SIGHTSEEING
FLIGHT
MEALS
Northern Italy enchants visitors with its elegant cities, romantic lakes, and breathtaking alpine scenery. From Milan’s grand Gothic cathedral and artistic masterpieces to the serene beauty of Lake Como’s historic villas and charming villages, the region blends culture with natural splendor. Just across the Swiss border, Lugano offers a taste of Mediterranean charm set against dramatic mountain landscapes. Further east, Lake Garda captivates with its picturesque lakeside towns and panoramic views, while nearby Verona tells timeless stories of romance through its Roman arena, medieval piazzas, and Shakespearean legends. This journey showcases the refined elegance, rich history, and scenic beauty that make Northern Italy one of Europe’s most captivating regions.
OVERVIEW
This Northern Italy journey blends the cosmopolitan charm of Milan with the stunning beauty of its famous lakes. Begin with two nights in Milan, exploring highlights like the Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Continue to Lake Como for four nights, visiting elegant towns such as Como and Bellagio, the beautiful Villa del Balbianello, and enjoying an excursion to Lugano. Next, spend three nights at Lake Garda, with visits to scenic villages and a guided trip to Verona, famed for its Roman history and romantic heritage. With a mix of guided touring and free time—including optional visits to the Dolomites or the Valpolicella wine region—the journey ends back in Milan with a farewell dinner, leaving lasting impressions of Northern Italy’s landscapes, art, and culture.
Itinerary
Prepare yourself! You are departing today for Italy to begin your unforgettable Italian journey, exploring the country’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and world-renowned culture.
Upon arrival in Milan, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax and settle in after your journey.
Overnight in Milan
After breakfast, meet your guide for a full-day exploration of Milan’s historic landmarks on a combined coach and walking tour.
Begin with a panoramic drive through the city, passing Foro Bonaparte, built to commemorate Napoleon’s victories, and the elegant Arco della Pace. Continue past the historic churches of Santa Maria delle Grazie and Sant’Ambrogio, as well as lively squares such as San Babila and Piazza Fontana, and the fashionable Corso Venezia in the Quadrilatero della Moda district.
Continue on foot to discover Milan’s architectural treasures, including the renowned Teatro alla Scala and the magnificent Duomo di Milano, the city’s iconic Gothic cathedral. Constructed over nearly six centuries, the Duomo is Italy’s largest church and the fourth-largest in the world. Visitors may also ascend to the rooftop terraces for panoramic views of the city.
Walk through the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a historic 19th-century glass-domed shopping arcade filled with cafés, boutiques, and restaurants. The tour then continues to the impressive Castello Sforzesco, a 15th-century fortress housing an important art collection.
Add-on: Upgrade the tour with a guided tour of Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper": USD 105 per person
Experience a fascinating journey into art and history with a guided visit to The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. You will meet your guide in front of Santa Maria delle Grazie, where the experience begins with a brief but essential check-in process, including ID verification, to ensure smooth and timely entry for all visitors. Your tour starts outside the church with an engaging introduction, during which your guide shares the rich history of the masterpiece, the significance of the surrounding religious site, and the artistic legacy of Leonardo, particularly his connection to Milan. Following the preparation, you will enter to admire The Last Supper itself. The viewing time is limited enough to take in the intricate details of this world-renowned mural and capture a few memorable photos while appreciating its enduring brilliance.
Important Notice: We will make every effort to obtain tickets for your group to visit The Last Supper in Milan. However, please note that tickets are typically released around three months in advance, and availability cannot be guaranteed. In addition, entry is restricted to a maximum of 25 at a time, meaning larger groups may need to be split into smaller parties.
The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration.
Overnight in Milan
After breakfast, depart Milan for the scenic shores of Lake Como.
Upon arrival in the town of Como, meet your guide for a walking tour through the historic center, still enclosed by its medieval walls. Stroll along the lakeside promenade while admiring elegant villas and historic architecture, and explore charming piazzas filled with art and history. Visit the impressive Como Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece built over four centuries that blends Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Pause at a renowned local enoteca, a historic wine bar dating back to 1930, to enjoy a tasting of regional wines paired with local specialties.
In the afternoon, take the funicular up to Brunate, the hilltop village known as the “Balcony of the Alps.” Explore its quaint parish church, admire beautiful Art Nouveau villas, and climb the Volta Lighthouse, dedicated to Alessandro Volta, inventor of the electric battery. From here, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Lake Como before transferring to your hotel.
Overnight in Lake Como
After breakfast, embark on a private journey to discover the timeless beauty of Lake Como, known for its elegant villas, dramatic landscapes, and charming lakeside towns.
Meet your licensed guide in Como and travel by private car to Cernobbio, stopping to admire panoramic lake views and notable villas such as Villa Pizzo and the grand Villa d’Este. Continue along the scenic Strada Regina, lined with luxurious lakeside residences, until you reach Lido di Lenno.
From here, aboard a boat for a scenic crossing to Villa del Balbianello, a magnificent late-Baroque estate perched on a dramatic promontory and famously featured in films such as Star Wars and James Bond. Enjoy time to explore before continuing by boat to the beautiful town of Bellagio.Visit Villa Melzi d’Eril and its elegant English-style gardens, followed by a guided stroll through Bellagio’s charming cobblestone streets.
Return to your hotel by private transfer and enjoy lunch at a Michelin-starred local restaurant. The afternoon is free to explore additional lakeside villas and gardens at your leisure.
Overnight in Lake Como
Today is free to relax and enjoy the beauty of Lake Como at your own pace, or you may choose to join the optional excursion.
Add-on: Day trip to Lake Maggiore - USD 225 Per person (minimum 10 travelers)
Nestled at the foot of the Alps and dotted with elegant villas and islands, Lake Maggiore combines breathtaking natural scenery with a rich historical heritage. Begin with a private transfer to Stresa, often called the “pearl of the lake,” where your guide and skipper will welcome you for a scenic cruise across the Borromean Gulf. Glide past the lush gardens and grand villas of Isola Madre before arriving at Isola Bella, renowned for its opulent Baroque palace and terraced gardens. Next, visit Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island) for a leisurely stroll along its narrow lanes and charming artisan shops. Continue toward the eastern shore, passing Laveno Mombello and the dramatic cliffside monastery of Santa Caterina del Sasso, before returning to Como.
Overnight in Lake Como
After breakfast, depart Lake Como and cross into Switzerland for a scenic excursion to Lugano, beautifully situated on the northern shore of Lake Lugano and surrounded by Alpine foothills.
Explore the charming old town, browse elegant boutiques, and visit the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, home to Bernardino Luini’s famous Renaissance fresco. Stop at a renowned local maître chocolatier for a tasting before strolling along the scenic lakefront and through the peaceful Parco Ciani.
Before lunch, take the funicular up to Monte Brè, nearly 900 meters above sea level, where sweeping views stretch across Lake Lugano and the surrounding Alps.
Enjoy lunch at Ristorante Vetta, savoring delicious cuisine while admiring the spectacular scenery. In the late afternoon, return to Lake Como.
Overnight in Lake Como
After breakfast, depart for Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and most diverse lake. Upon arrival, check in to your lakeside hotel.
Lake Garda offers two distinct atmospheres: the charming alpine villages of the north, such as Riva del Garda, Malcesine, and Limone, and the lively southern towns of Sirmione and Desenzano, known for their vibrant waterfront promenades and restaurants.
After lunch (own expense), enjoy a scenic coach tour around the lake, passing picturesque villages and elegant lakeside villas. Cross to the opposite shore by boat while enjoying the sunshine and spectacular lake views.
Overnight in Lake Garda
Today, explore the romantic city of Verona on a full-day guided tour.
Visit Piazza Bra, Piazza delle Erbe, and Piazza dei Signori, once the political heart of the city. See the impressive Roman Arena, the medieval Mercato Vecchio, and the Gothic Scaliger Tombs, the burial site of the powerful Della Scala family.
Stop at the legendary House of Juliet, associated with Shakespeare’s famous love story, before returning to Piazza delle Erbe, surrounded by colorful frescoed buildings and the historic Madonna Verona fountain.
After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Verona’s charming streets and shops. Later, return to Lake Garda and enjoy a delightful dinner at a lakeside restaurant.
Overnight in Lake Garda
Today is free for you to relax and enjoy the beauty of Lake Garda, or you may choose to join one of the following optional excursions.
Add-on: Day Trip to the Dolomite Mountains with Lunch - USD 245 (minimum 10 travelers)
Today, set out to explore the stunning Dolomite Mountains, part of the Southern Limestone Alps stretching from the River Adige to the Piave Valley. Begin in the Gardena Valley, a renowned sports region in South Tyrol, and visit the charming village of Ortisei, known for its traditional homes and beautifully carved and painted wooden sculptures.
Take the cable car up to 7,600 ft (2,500 m) for breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites. Enjoy a traditional Tyrolean lunch in the village before continuing your journey to Sella Pass, where you can admire the scenery and capture memorable photos. Descend the pass toward Canazei and drive through the picturesque Fassa Valley into the Ega Valley, ending the day at Lake Carezza. Known for its strikingly blue waters, the lake offers iconic views of the Catinaccio and Latemar mountain ranges. In the evening, return to Lake Garda.
Add-on: Valpolicella Wine Tasting with Lunch - USD 205 Per person (minimum 10 travelers)
After a leisurely breakfast, set out for a full-day sensory journey through the vineyards of the Valpolicella region, renowned for its red wine production, second only to Chianti and Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. The name “Valpolicella,” derived from ancient Latin and Greek, means “valley of many cellars.” Nestled between the foothills of the Alps and the valleys of the Lessini Mountains in Veneto, the region’s fertile alluvial soils produce some of the world’s finest grape varieties, giving rise to four celebrated red wines: dry classic Valpolicella, rich Amarone, spicy Valpolicella Ripasso, and sweet Recioto. With such diversity, there’s a wine for every taste, perfect to take home and share.
Begin at a local winery for a tasting of a fine red and a tour of the cellars to see how the wine barrels are stored and aged. Enjoy a traditional Valpolicella lunch at a nearby trattoria before visiting the charming village of San Giorgio, a postcard-perfect hamlet with a Romanesque church and panoramic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding countryside. Return to Lake Garda in the afternoon, leaving time for an evening of shopping or relaxation.
Overnight in Lake Garda
Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to Milan in the afternoon for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
In the evening, gather for a special farewell dinner celebrating the journey.
Overnight in Milan
Your memorable journey through Italy concludes today. Depending on your flight schedule, you may enjoy some free time to explore Milan at your own pace.
Take the opportunity to visit any attractions you may have missed, such as the magnificent Duomo di Milano, the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, or the historic Brera district, or indulge in some last-minute shopping in the city’s renowned fashion boutiques. Whether you choose to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city or pick up a few final souvenirs, the time is yours to enjoy.
Later, you will be transferred to Milan Airport for your departure flight. We wish you a safe journey and hope to plan your future trips with Voyages Hub!
Note - The itinerary above may be modified without prior notice. The sequence of activities and scheduled day trips may vary due to operational factors, including weather and traffic conditions.
Accommodation
Hotel Como
Staying at Hotel Como will put you in the heart of Como, just ten minutes' drive from Villa Erba and the Como Silk Museum. Lake Lugano is 12.8 miles (20.6 km) away from this golf hotel, while Piazza San Rocco is 0.6 miles (1 km) away.
Benefit from the recreational options available, such as a fitness center, a seasonal outdoor pool, and rental bicycles. This hotel also has a television in a common area, concierge services, and free wifi internet connection.
At the poolside bar or the bar/lounge, unwind with your preferred beverage. For a cost, buffet breakfasts are served every day from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM.
Features include luggage storage, a front desk open around-the-clock, and dry cleaning and laundry services. On-site self-parking is provided (subject to fees).
Get comfortable in one of the 79 air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs. You can stay connected with free wireless internet access, and you can enjoy satellite programming. Bathrooms have showers or bathtubs with bidets and rainfall showerheads. Desks and safes are among the amenities, and regular housekeeping is offered.
NYX Hotel Milan by Leonardo Hotels
Located just a three minute walk from Stazione Centrale Train Station, NYX Hotel Milan by Leonardo Hotels offers a convenient and stylish stay in Milan, approximately 1.5 km from the Milan Fashion District. The hotel features an inviting inner garden and modern air conditioned rooms equipped with a 40 inch HD flat screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower and complimentary toiletries, with towels and linens provided. Guests can dine at the onsite Clash restaurant or relax at the lounge bar, while free WiFi and a business center are also available. Castello Sforzesco and the magnificent Milan Cathedral are about 3 km away, and Milan Linate Airport can be reached within a 20 minute drive.
Leonardo Hotel Lago di Garda
Leonardo Hotel Lago di Garda – Wellness and Spa is a luxury four-star property set amid vineyards near the shores of Lake Garda, just 3 km south of Lazise, offering complimentary parking for guests. The hotel features 2,000 m² of wellness facilities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, and a full-service spa with a variety of saunas, steam baths, relaxation areas with heated loungers, and a selection of massages and beauty treatments based on the Mareminerale SPA Culti method. Its contemporary rooms are elegantly designed with Italian designer furnishings and include modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a minibar, bathrobes and slippers for spa use, and a private balcony or patio. Guests can begin the day with a generous buffet breakfast featuring hot items like bacon and eggs, while the hotel’s stylish restaurant serves gourmet Italian cuisine for dinner.
INCLUSIONS
- International return airfare ex-Los Angeles (Please check with us for pricing from other cities)
- Airport taxes, (Current) fuel surcharge, and baggage fees
- 10 Nights' accommodation in TWN/DBL sharing basis at listed hotels or similar
- Daily buffet breakfast
- 2 Lunches as per itinerary
- 2 Dinners as per itinerary, including a farewell dinner in Milan
- Guided panoramic city tours of Milan, Como, Verona, and Lugano
- Entrance and guided visits to the Duomo of Milan, Santa Maria delle Grazie, Villa del Balbianello, and Villa Melzi Gardens
- Walking tours of Milan's historic center, Como's old town, Bellagio village, Verona's historic district, and Lugano's old town
- Scenic boat rides on Lake Como and Lake Garda
- Funicular ride to Brunate in Lake Como and Monte Brè in Lugano
- Transportation in a Deluxe Tourist Vehicle
- All sightseeing with admissions as per the itinerary
- Services of an English-speaking driver & guide
- Applicable taxes
EXCLUSIONS
- All other meals & other sightseeing or services
- Gratuities for meals, tourist guides, and drivers
- Visa fee & Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses such as alcohol and other beverages, telephone calls, and laundry
- Any other services or Items not mentioned above are not included
- Hotel tax - EUR 5 - 9 per night per person, payable at the hotel at the time of check-in
Gallery
Planning a trip to Italy?
Visa Requirements: In order to enter Italy, U.S., and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
- We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
- There is no visa required for U.S. or Canadian citizens.
- If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
Language: The official language of Italy is Italian, and it's recommended that you learn some basic Italian phrases before you go. While many Italians speak English, particularly in tourist areas, it's always polite to make an effort to communicate in their native language.
Currency: The currency used in Italy is the Euro. You can exchange currency at airports, banks, and exchange offices. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash with you.
Transportation: Italy has an extensive public transportation system, including trains, buses, and metros. It's a good idea to purchase tickets in advance to save time and money. Taxis can be quite expensive, especially in larger cities.
Dress code: Italians tend to dress stylishly and conservatively. When visiting religious sites, you may be required to cover your shoulders and knees, so it's a good idea to bring a shawl or scarf with you.
Food and drink: Italian cuisine is famous around the world, and you're sure to enjoy delicious meals during your trip. Italy is also famous for its wine, and you should definitely sample some of the local varieties. Keep in mind that Italians tend to eat dinner later than in other countries, usually between 8 and 10 pm.
Safety: Italy is generally a safe country, but it's always a good idea to take basic precautions such as not leaving your belongings unattended, particularly in tourist areas.
Customs: Italians are known for being friendly and welcoming to visitors, and it's important to be polite and respectful in return. Greeting people with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is common.
Sightseeing: Italy is home to many famous landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Vatican. It's a good idea to book tickets in advance for popular attractions to avoid long lines.
Weather: Italy has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly.
Tipping: Tipping in Italy is not as common as it is in other countries, but it's still appreciated. It's common to leave a few euros as a tip at restaurants or for taxi rides.
Payment Policy
Deposit: US$ 500 per person [Non-refundable / Non-transferrable]
Booking and Deposit Date: 30th May 2026
50% Deposit: 31st August 2026
Full Balance: 16th February 2027
(Once the deposit is paid, the travelers can then pay any amount on any date. Travelers to ensure that the payment deadlines are met as above)
Insurance & Get Away Friends Booking Terms and Agreement
We consider adequate travel insurance to be essential. Travel insurance is widely available to purchase. It is the personal responsibility of each traveler to ensure that they have adequate travel insurance coverage. Please read the policy details carefully. It is each traveler’s personal responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover purchased is suitable and adequate for their particular needs. Voyages Hub will not be responsible or liable for any consequence of any nature arising from the failure to comply with the responsibility of providing adequate travel insurance cover.
Please contact Jean Freeman for your Travel Insurance Needs
Please refer to the Get Away Friends Booking Agreement. Your booking and payment constitute acceptance of those terms.
https://www.voyageshub.com/getaway-friends-booking-terms-conditions
Cancellation Policy
- From the booking date until August 30, 2026, a cancellation will incur a $ 500-per-person non-refundable/non-transferable deposit fee, plus any interruption insurance costs if purchased.
- From August 31, 2026, to February 16, 2027, cancellation will result in cancellation of 50% of the tour price
- From February 17, 2027, to May 17, 2027, cancellation will result in the full tour price being charged as cancellation with no possibility of a refund.
Note:
A person who becomes single because of the roommate’s cancellation must pay the single supplement
All payment cut-off dates are firm, and missing deadlines without approved extensions will result in cancellations without refunds being offered.
PLEASE NOTE
Voyages Hub reserves the right to levy a surcharge commensurate to the fuel increase at the time of operation of this movement.
REVIEW
Our Northern Italy trip was absolutely unforgettable. Milan was the perfect starting point, especially visiting the magnificent Duomo and seeing The Last Supper in person — something I had dreamed about for years. Lake Como was breathtaking; the boat ride to Villa del Balbianello and strolling through Bellagio felt like something out of a movie. Lake Garda was equally charming, and the day trip to Verona was a highlight. Walking through the historic piazzas and seeing Juliet’s balcony made the city feel magical. The itinerary was well balanced with guided tours and free time to explore. Everything was organized seamlessly, and the hotels were excellent. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting to experience Northern Italy in a relaxed and beautiful way.
This was one of the best travel experiences my wife and I have ever had. The itinerary combined culture, scenery, and fantastic food perfectly. Milan was vibrant and full of history, while Lake Como offered some of the most stunning landscapes we have ever seen. We especially loved the scenic drives and the charming lakeside towns. The visit to Lugano in Switzerland was a wonderful surprise and added a different flavor to the trip. Lake Garda was equally beautiful, and Verona truly lived up to its romantic reputation. The guides were knowledgeable, and the overall pace of the tour allowed us to really enjoy each destination. We came home with incredible memories and hundreds of photos.
This tour exceeded all my expectations. Northern Italy is such a beautiful region, and this itinerary captured it perfectly. Milan offered incredible art and architecture, and seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper was an emotional experience. Lake Como was simply stunning — elegant villas, peaceful waters, and picturesque villages everywhere you looked. I also loved the excursion to Lugano and the views from Monte Brè. Lake Garda had a completely different atmosphere, lively yet relaxing, and Verona felt like stepping into history and romance at the same time. The farewell dinner in Milan was the perfect ending to a fantastic journey. I would recommend this tour to anyone who loves culture, scenic landscapes, and authentic Italian experiences.