
Venice, Verona, Stresa, Orta San Giulio, Como, Sirmione, Val di Fassa, Col Sella, Cortina d’Ampezzo
8 Days
All year
8 Days through the northern lakes, Alpine villages & dramatic Dolomite peaks
Day 1 – Welcome to the Venice Region
Your northern Italian adventure begins as you arrive in the Venice region. Settle into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening in this historic area where the sea meets the Alps. The evening may offer a chance to explore nearby Mestre or enjoy a stroll and a hearty Venetian meal featuring fresh seafood and local risottos.
Day 2 – Verona’s Romance & Journey to Lake Maggiore
Today, visit Verona—Italy’s city of love and legend. Walk through its elegant streets, explore the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, and visit Juliet’s iconic balcony. After soaking in the romantic ambiance, travel west toward the peaceful shores of Lake Maggiore. This beautiful alpine lake, framed by forested hills and dotted with islands, is your resting point for the evening.
Day 3 – Borromean Islands & Hidden Lake Orta
Board a boat for an enchanting cruise across Lake Maggiore to the Borromean Islands. First, visit Isola Bella, a fairytale islet crowned by a baroque palace and lush gardens. Then continue to Isola dei Pescatori, a charming fishing village. In the afternoon, escape the crowds and head to Lake Orta, a jewel among northern lakes. Stroll through the serene town of Orta San Giulio, with its cobbled lanes, lakeside promenade, and quaint piazzas.
Day 4 – Exploring Lake Como & Picturesque Sirmione
Head north to glamorous Lake Como. With its alpine setting and elegant villas, Como has long been a favorite of poets and film stars. Enjoy a walking tour of the town, then continue to Sirmione on Lake Garda, a charming medieval town set on a narrow peninsula. Discover Rocca Scaligera castle, thermal springs, and delightful shops along the waterfront.
Day 5 – Garda Villages & Into the Dolomites
Today you’ll explore the enchanting towns around Lake Garda—perhaps Bardolino, Lazise, or Malcesine—each offering lakeside cafes and artisanal markets. Then the landscape transforms as you ascend into the Dolomites. Wind through pine forests and towering rock faces until you arrive in the Val di Fassa, a peaceful alpine valley surrounded by breathtaking peaks.
Day 6 – Leisure in Val di Fassa & Drive to Col Sella
Spend the morning at leisure, perhaps enjoying a mountain hike, a relaxing spa, or simply admiring the views. In the afternoon, embark on one of Europe’s most scenic drives: pass through hairpin roads and dramatic Dolomite passes to reach the majestic Col Sella. Take in the panoramic views before returning to your mountain lodge.
Day 7 – Cortina d’Ampezzo & Return to the Venice Region
Journey through more of the Dolomites, passing through charming alpine villages and valleys. Stop in Cortina d’Ampezzo, a glamorous mountain town famous for skiing and luxury boutiques. Enjoy some free time before descending toward the Venetian plains for your final night.
Day 8 – Departure from Venice
After breakfast, transfer to Venice airport. You’ll leave with memories of lakeside elegance, mountain serenity, and the timeless beauty of northern Italy.
