A lakeside paradise in northern Italy awaits you as you explore the region's beautiful and elegant lakes and gardens on this no-fly holiday.
Your base for seven nights will be the four-star Hotel Giardinetto, set in a peaceful location beside the foothills of the Alps, on Lake Orta. Lake Orta itself is a largely undiscovered gem and there will be plenty of time to take in its treasures with free time, or you could opt to explore the surrounding area, including the island of San Giulio.
Visit Stresa on Lake Maggiore's western shore, known for its beautiful villas and gardens. You'll cross the border to Switzerland to explore Locarno on the lake's northern tip, as well as the popular resort of Lugano, with its numerous parks and public gardens adorned with subtropical plants.
Back in Italy, discover the beauty of Lake Como, with trips to the picture-perfect villages, villas and parks around its shores. In Como, there are many beautiful sites to see including the 11th century church of Sant'Abbondio and the Basilica of San Fedele. In Tremezzo, you'll be treated to some of the most spectacular views on the lake and be sure to visit the popular Villa Carlotta, the only historic villa on the lake which offers public access.
You'll also travel to Milan for a day trip, with plenty of time to explore its historic and artistic attractions - as well as shopping opportunities.
Take the Eurostar from London to Paris and join the high speed train to Stresa (via Basel). Upon arrival, transfer by coach to Lake Orta and check in to the four-star Hotel Giardinetto.
After breakfast, you are free all day to explore Lake Orta at your leisure. Situated entirely in Piedmont, it's only eight miles long and less than two miles wide - a hidden gem. You may wish to head to the island of San Giulio to enjoy a peaceful stroll or see the 12th century Basilica. Or, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sacro Monte di Orta. This evening, have dinner at the hotel.
After breakfast, you'll visit Lake Maggiore by coach. Your first stop will be Stresa, on the lake's western shore. The town is full of villas and gardens and has an attractive lakeside promenade, perfect for a stroll. Continue to the Swiss canton of Ticino to stop at Locarno on the northern tip of the lake. Locarno is laced with Latin charm, and all the cobbled alleys of the old town lead to the colonnaded Piazza Grande which is renowned for its annual film festival. Return to the hotel for dinner.
After breakfast, you'll visit Lake Como in Lombardy. Lake Como is striking for both its mountain landscape and shores dotted with picturesque villages, luxurious villas and parks. Visit the town of Como at the foot of the Como branch. There are many artistic sites to see including the 11th-century Church of Sant'Abbondio and the Basilica of San Fedele. The heart of the old town is the Piazza del Duomo with its Renaissance cathedral, one of the most beautiful churches in Lombardy.
Next, visit Tremezzo, which offers some of the most spectacular views on the lake. One of the most visited destinations in the town is the Villa Carlotta, the only historic villa on the lake which offers public access. The other villas are private, but you can still admire their beautiful structures and architecture. Later, cross the border to Switzerland to visit the popular resort of Lugano, on the northern shoreline of the lake with the same name. Set within a bay surrounded by mountains, its town centre is full of Mediterranean-style squares and arcades with numerous parks and public gardens adorned with subtropical plants.
Return to the hotel for dinner.
After breakfast, you are free all day to explore Lake Orta at your leisure. Situated entirely in Piedmont, it's only eight miles long and less than two miles wide - a hidden gem. You may wish to head to the island of San Giulio to enjoy a peaceful stroll or see the 12th century Basilica. Or, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sacro Monte di Orta. This evening, have dinner at the hotel.
After breakfast, enjoy a day trip to the city of Milan, internationally famous for fashion and design. Milan is also home to several historic and artistic attractions and is a fascinating city to explore. Wander around the spectacular Duomo, and explore the magnificent 'Galleria' where designer names jostle for attention. Or perhaps enjoy an Aperol whilst watching the Milanese go about their daily business. Return to the hotel for dinner.
After breakfast, you are free all day to explore Lake Orta at your leisure. Situated entirely in Piedmont, it's only eight miles long and less than two miles wide - a hidden gem. You may wish to head to the island of San Giulio to enjoy a peaceful stroll or see the 12th century Basilica. Or, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sacro Monte di Orta. This evening, have dinner at the hotel.
After breakfast, transfer back to the station in Stresa for your return journey to London (via Paris for your Eurostar connection).
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* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a standard room, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £270. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Limited (ATOL bonded).
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a standard room, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £270. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Limited (ATOL bonded).