Milan & Italian Treasures
Day 1 - Depart USA Overnight flight to Milan.
Day 2 - Arrive Milan You are met at Milan's Malpensa airport and transferred to your hotel. Later, we enjoy a walking tour of the city centre including the gothic Duomo, the 19th century Galleria and "La Scala" Opera house. This evening enjoy a Welcome Drink with our Tour Director and fellow travellers. (Welcome Drink)
Day 3 - Milan — Italian Lake District — Lake Garda Today we head to the Italian Lakes. Our first stop is at Stresa, where we can see the idyllic Borromean Islands. Time to relax or take a boat trip before we enter the Italian speaking region of Switzerland on a visit to Lugano. Time to shop for Swiss chocolates and watches. Later, back in Italy enjoy a scenic drive around Lake Como to Como itself. At Bergamo, we join the 'autostrada' to Lake Garda for six nights. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
Day 4 - Lake Garda — Vicenza — Bassano del Grappa First we're off to the ancient Roman town of Vicenza. Here we will visit the Piazza dei Signori and the Corso Andrea Palladio. Next, via Castelfranco Veneto to Bassano del Grappa, famous for its white brandy, and covered bridge over the Brenta River, and Marostica, the beautiful 14th century town renowned for its historic chess game played in the main piazza. Finally we make our way back to Lake Garda. (Buffet Breakfast)
Day 5 - Lake Garda — Venice Excursion Our Tour Director will show us one of the Hidden Treasures of magical Venice on our excursion today. On our arrival a private motor launch will take us along the canals past Palladian palazzos and churches, to St. Mark's Square. Here we'll see St. Mark's Basilica and Doges' Palace. Then after witnessing a demonstration of Murano glass-blowing, enjoy time on your own. Why not venture out to the lagoon and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch" Later, a gondola ride would be hard to resist! (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
Day 6 - Lake Garda at leisure After breakfast enjoy a full day at leisure to perhaps stroll along the lakeside, take an excursion to nearby Mantova visiting the magnificent Palazzo Ducale or simply relax. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
Day 7 - Lake Garda — Sirmione & Verona Excursion Today we experience the beauty of Lake Garda on an included excursion along its shores to Sirmione. Here we can admire the imposing Scaligers' castle before continuing to romantic Verona, for a walking tour with a local guide of the city, home of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers. We will see the Roman arena and Juliet's balcony. Then free time to shop, or simply "do as the locals do" and sit in one of the pavement cafés on the Piazza Bra. We return to Lake Garda for the night. (Buffet Breakfast)
Day 8 - Lake Garda at leisure Another full day at leisure in this serene area. Perhaps take a boat trip across the lake. Or join a full day excursion into the Dolomite Mountains where you can ride a cable car up one of the mountain peaks for spectacular alpine views. Alternatively, you may wish to relax in these peaceful surroundings! Whatever you decide, your Tour Director can advise you on how to make the most of your stay! We dine at our hotel this evening. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
Day 9 - Lake Garda — Bergamo — Milan After breakfast, we visit the attractive town of Bergamo. Here we ascend to the upper traffic-free town by funicular to see the town's finest buildings. Then we walk to the Piazza del Duomo to admire the 15th and 16th century buildings, with time for a cappuccino before returning to Milan. This evening join your Tour Director and fellow passengers for a Farewell Dinner in a local restaurant. (Buffet Breakfast / Farewell Dinner)
Day 10 - Milan - USA After breakfast time to bid farewell to your new-found friends as we arrange your transfer back to Milan Malpensa airport for your return flight to America. (Buffet Breakfast)
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