Northern Italy and Its Lakes
Wander along winding canals and cruise on mountain-lined lakes as you take in the essence of Northern Italy. Settle in for a 3-night stay in Padua, an ancient city of Veneto, and delve into the city's culture on a walking tour. Embark on a guided tour of Venice and enjoy a free afternoon to do as you please. Witness the sinking castle of Sirmione. Relax during a leisurely 4-night stay on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Cruise the waters frequented by the rich and famous on Lake Como. From the stone bridges of Padua to the deep blue waters of Lake Maggiore, allow the beauty of Italy to move you.
Call (517) 548-3151 for more information or to book today! Mention code 17277534
- Tour Operator
- Collette
- Offer
- Offer valid through 6/30/2023
- Duration
- 9 Days
| Day | Destination | Description |
| Day 1 | Padua | Take the best of Italian culture - savory cuisine, friendly locals, eons of history - and add the beauty of mystical lakes. A blend of winding canals and gently lapping waves, this is the northern lakes region of Italy. Delve deep into this relaxing hub, serving as a favorite getaway for the international elite. |
| Day 2 | Padua | Your journey begins in Padua, an ancient city rooted in legend. Set in the picturesque Veneto region, some believe that Padua was founded by war heroes after the fall of Troy. The Bacchiglione River carves its way through the town, resulting in lovely riverside promenades and stone step-bridges. Meet your fellow travelers while enjoying a taste of Italian culture at a welcome dinner in Padua's historic CaffE Pedrocchi. Truly get to know the town's legacy as you settle into your home for the next 3 nights. |
| Day 3 | Padua | Start the morning by strolling the streets of Padua with your guide. Visit Palazzo Bo, the principal building of Padua's University, founded in AD 1222 and among the oldest in Europe. Here, in the 16th and 17th centuries, cultural and scientific minds gathered to work on their history-changing research. Astronomers like Galileo and Copernicus studied the stars, and the founder of modern anatomy Andrea Vesalio worked here as well. Afterwards, feel the dynamic energy as you walk along Padua's open-air markets and street vendors setting up shop in the piazzas. The rest of the day is yours to discover the town however you wish. Perhaps you will choose to go on an exclusive optional tour down the Brenta Canal, enjoying an aperitif and drink on your private boat as you admire the opulent homes on the water's edge. |
| Day 4 | Padua | Start your day with a visit to Murano Island,* known for its intricate glass making. Witness a glassblowing demonstration, providing a glimpse into the methods behind this fine art. Feel the grandeur of the past come alive as you make your way to Venice, a floating labyrinth settled on a lagoon. Pass through the sprawling St. Mark's Square with an expert guide and admire the Campanile, a brick bell tower that rises above the piazza. Step outside the main square and explore the Castello district, making your way past historic buildings and architecture as you walk the narrow streets Enjoy an afternoon in Venice at leisure. |
| Day 5 | Padua | This morning, head to Sirmione, an old village situated on the shores of Lake Garda. Embark on a boat ride through the Sirmione peninsula and see the famous sinking castle. Enjoy time at leisure to discover the narrow streets or simply relax alongside the bright blue waves of the lake. End the day next to Lake Maggiore, a stunning Italian lake, and toast to the start of your leisurely 4-night stay. |
| Day 6 | Lake Maggiore | Enjoy the day at leisure to explore the nearby lakeside streets. Perhaps you'll take an optional tour and coast along the ethereal water of Lake Maggiore by boat for an up-close look at the Borromean Islands before docking at Isola Bella,** known as the "beautiful island." Join an expert guide and venture into the Borromeo Palace, a lakeside Baroque beauty with an exotic garden. Then, return to your boat and cruise by the remaining Borromean Islands. |
| Day 7 | Lake Maggiore | Take a scenic drive along the glittering shores of Switzerland's Lake Lugano before enjoying a day of sunshine and scenic peaks on the stunning banks of Lake Como. Sail to Bellagio, an ancient peninsula home to winding streets and views that will take your breath away. Enjoy some free time to discover the town's secrets on your own. Return to Lake Maggiore where the evening is yours to enjoy the twinkling lights that illuminate the shores as night falls on the lake. |
| Day 8 | Lake Maggiore | The entire day is yours. You might soak up the sun on the beach, relax in an outdoor cafE, or head out on the waves by boat. Perhaps you will take an optional tour to picture-perfect Lake Orta, a hidden gem surrounded by picturesque villages and filled with quaint islands. This evening, venture to Isola dei Pescatori*** by boat, enjoying a farewell dinner of local cuisine to celebrate the end of your trip. |
| Day 9 | Lago Maggiore | Wish Italy arriverderci as your tour comes to a close today. |
- Dates/Pricing
- Lodging
- Hotel Europa - Padua, Italy
- Zacchera Hotels - Lake Maggiore, Italy
- Disclaimer
- * NOTE: Tour prices are land only rates based on per person, double occupancy. Some dates may feature various changes in hotels, sightseeing and inclusions. Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking. Government taxes and fees are additional. Land rates are guaranteed at time of deposit. Certain taxes and fees are to be paid upon exiting the country in local currencies.
Airfare is additional and is available through Collette Vacations.
