Explore picturesque northern Italy and the Swiss Alps on this 6-day small group tour from Milan. Enjoy an included boat trip on beautiful Lake Como, explore the cultural melting pot of Lugano, and wander around the ‘Garden City’ of Varese. Marvel at the famous Matterhorn peak on a train ride, discover the stunning town of Lauterbrunnen, journey through the picturesque UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch, and experience the historic castles of Bellinzona.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Lake Como & Locarno
Milan - Como - Lugano (Switzerland) - Locarno. Welcome to Italy! Starting the day in Milan, we begin by travelling to stunning Lake Como. Marvel at the panoramic mountain views and picturesque villas as we glide across the lake on an included boat trip to the town of Lenno. After enjoying the views and lunch in Lenno, we cross the border into Switzerland and visit the city of Lugano where we have a couple of hours to explore this melting pot of Swiss, Italian, and Mediterranean cultures. Following an hour-long drive, we arrive in the small and sunny town of Locarno, where we spend the night.
Please note: Pick up point for this tour is at 8:15 on day 1 (tour departs at 8:30) - Milan Pick Up, Business Palace Milan, Milan.
Overnight: Locarno
Locarno, Stresa & Varese
Locarno - Stresa (Italy) - Locarno (Switzerland). After breakfast we travel back across the border to the Italian lakeside town of Stresa. Here there is an optional tour to Isola Bella where we wander through picturesque gardens and explore Palazzo Borromeo, a 17th century palace of the influential House of Borromeo.
In the afternoon we continue to the ‘Garden City’ of Varese. Enjoy a guided walk through the old town center to learn about how this town earned its nickname. Returning to the shores of Lake Maggiore we spend our second night in the town of Locarno.
Overnight: Locarno | Breakfast
The Alps & The Matterhorn
Locarno - Lausanne. Leaving Locarno, our first stop of the day is Santa Maria Maggiore. After this quick stop that gives you time to take some pictures of this stunning town, we head up to the Simplon Pass. This is a historic location that has been a major route through the Alps since the Stone Age. Arriving in the village of Tasch we take a round-trip train journey to Zermatt where we admire the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the world-famous Matterhorn peak. Returning to the mini-coach, we head to our overnight accommodation in the city of Lausanne, overlooking the shore of Lake Geneva.
Overnight: Lausanne | Breakfast
Lausanne, Gruyeres & Gstaad
Lausanne - Gruyeres - Gstaad - Lausanne. We begin our day in Gruyeres, the birthplace of Gruyere cheese. Explore the charming medieval town and enjoy panoramic views of the Saane Valley. Next, we'll journey alongside majestic Alpine peaks to Gstaad, a renowned Alpine village frequented by skiing enthusiasts and celebrities alike. Following this, there is an optional excursion to Chillon Castle near Montreux. This captivating castle is the most famous and visited in all of Switzerland. Returning to Lausanne in time for dinner, we spend our second night here.
Overnight: Lausanne | Breakfast
Lauterbrunnen & Interlaken
Lausanne - Lauterbrunnen - Interlaken. Welcome to the "Valley of 72 Waterfalls," a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and our first destination today. We have the entire day to explore Lauterbrunnen at our leisure. Take a pick from scenic walks, mountain peak train rides, and much more. If suggestions are needed, feel free to ask the guide for recommendations. After immersing ourselves in Lauterbrunnen's breath-taking mountain views and picturesque Swiss landscapes, we journey to Interlaken. This charming resort town, nestled snugly amidst the mountains, is our home for the night.
Overnight: Interlaken | Breakfast
Return to Milan
Interlaken - Bellinzona - Milan. Leaving Interlaken, we journey through the picturesque UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch, a landscape straight out of a "Sound of Music" scene, with cows grazing in lush green fields and awe-inspiring views. While nature rejuvenates the soul, it won't satisfy your hunger. Your guide will locate an excellent lunch spot, possibly in Altdorf, however, we're flexible and may explore other fantastic dining options.
Descending from the Alpine heights, we arrive in Bellinzona, where ancient castles, now UNESCO heritage sites, have guarded the northern Italian access since Roman times. You can choose to explore these impressive castles or simply relax in the town.
We arrive in Milan in the evening where the tour comes to an end.
Please note: This tour finishes at 18:30 - Milan Drop Off, Business Palace Milan, Milan.
Breakfast
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Home Hotel Locarno, Locarno
Nestled in picturesque Locarno, Switzerland, Home Hotel Locarno offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Stylish and contemporary rooms, some with stunning lake or mountain views, ensure a comfortable stay. With a terrace offering stunning views and an on-site restaurant this hotel is the perfect place to relax. The central location provides easy access to Locarno's cultural attractions, including Piazza Grande and Visconti Castle. With a train station just a short walk away, exploring the region is a breeze. Home Hotel Locarno is the perfect choice for those seeking a memorable Swiss getaway filled with natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Hotel Des Patients, Lausanne
Hotel des Patients in Lausanne, Switzerland, seamlessly combines contemporary design with modern comfort. This hotel offers tastefully decorated rooms, many with scenic views of Lake Geneva or the Jura Mountains. Guests can savour Swiss cuisine at the on-site restaurant and unwind in the cosy bar. The hotel's prime location puts Lausanne's attractions, including the Olympic Museum and the charming Old Town, within easy reach. With nearby public transport options, exploring the surrounding vineyards and lakeside towns is effortless.
Hotel Weisses Kreuz, Interlaken
Nestled in the heart of Interlaken, Switzerland, Hotel Weisses Kreuz is a charming retreat offering both comfort and convenience. The hotel's central location provides easy access to the town's vibrant shops, restaurants, and attractions. Inside, guests will find tastefully appointed rooms that offer a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a restful night's sleep. As for amenities, the hotel boasts a delightful on-site restaurant, serving Swiss and international cuisine, perfect for savouring a meal after a day of adventure in the Swiss Alps. Hotel Weisses Kreuz is the ideal choice for travellers seeking a memorable Swiss experience with a touch of traditional hospitality.
At a Glance
