4-Star Luxury Multi-Regional Tour: Milan- Venice (12 Days - 11 Nights) Region: Lombardia - Veneto

Why You Should Embark on This Journey:

• Milan: The epicenter of fashion and design. Key sites to visit include the magnificent Duomo, La Scala Theatre, and Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper."
• Lakes of Lombardy: The region hosts some of the most stunning lakes in Europe, such as Lake Como and Lake Garda.
• Bergamo Alta: A picturesque medieval city nestled high up with historic walls, acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Verona: Celebrated as the city of Romeo and Juliet, its historic center is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Venice: The iconic city on the water, famed for its complex network of canals and historic architecture, and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Padua: Known for the Scrovegni Chapel decorated with Giotto's frescoes and the venerable University of Padua.
• Vicenza and the Palladian Villas: The city and its nearby villas, crafted by architect Palladio, are celebrated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Valcamonica: Noted for its prehistoric rock engravings, it is one of the earliest Italian sites honored by UNESCO.
• Cuisine and Wine: From the Milanese risotto to the Venetian tiramisu, paired with esteemed wines like Prosecco and Valpolicella.
• Olympic Theatre in Vicenza: Another creation by Palladio, this is the world's oldest indoor theatre and is recognized by UNESCO.
• Festivals: Dive into the Venice Carnival or experience a live performance in the ancient Verona Arena.
• Dolomiti Bellunesi: Located mainly in Trentino-Alto Adige, these mountains are a must-visit for their awe-inspiring landscapes and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• By exploring the regions of Lombardy and Veneto, you will be immersed in a mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and gastronomy unmatched by many other regions.

Description:

Lombardy: A Melting Pot of Culture, History, Landscape, and Gastronomy This northern region of Italy is unparalleled in its diversity and richness.

Cities and UNESCO Sites:

• Milan: More than just a bustling city, Milan is the dynamic heart of Italy, leading in fashion, design, and finance. Its grand and detailed Duomo is a central landmark, and nearby, nestled in a convent, is Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper," one of the most acclaimed artworks globally. The La Scala Theatre, a sanctuary for opera, draws classical music lovers worldwide.

• Bergamo Alta: An Italian treasure, this walled city with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture offers stunning views of the Lombard plains. Its churches and museums chronicle centuries of history and art.

• Mantua and Sabbioneta: Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these two Renaissance cities boast architectural and artistic wonders. Mantua is famed for its Ducal Palace and frescoes by Andrea Mantegna, while Sabbioneta represents an ideal city shaped by humanistic principles.

Landscapes: Lombardy's geography varies from glacial lakes, like Lake Como, surrounded by historic villas and stunning mountains, to Lake Garda with its charming shores, and up to the Alpine peaks, ideal for skiing and hiking.

Cuisine and Wines: Savor creamy risottos, ossobuco, cotoletta alla Milanese, and the festive Christmas panettone. The region is also famous for its wines, including the sparkling Franciacorta.

Veneto: A Rich Tapestry of History, Art, and Traditions

Cities and UNESCO Sites:

• Venice: Renowned for its intricate canals, majestic squares, palaces, and bridges. The Basilica of St. Mark and the Doge's Palace reflect the storied might of La Serenissima. Nearby islands like Murano and Burano enchant with their glass artistry and vibrant houses.

• Verona: Famous as the backdrop for Romeo and Juliet's tale, it boasts the ancient Roman Arena, host to a prestigious opera festival. The city's Renaissance palaces and medieval churches add to its rich heritage.

• Padua: Known for its venerable university and the Scrovegni Chapel, adorned with Giotto's pioneering Renaissance frescoes.

• Vicenza: As the city of Palladio, it features many of his designs, including the UNESCO-listed Olympic Theatre.

Landscape: Veneto extends from the UNESCO-protected Dolomites to the verdant valleys of Prosecco, perfect for culinary and wine tours.

Cuisine and Wines: From the origin of tiramisu between Treviso and Venice to bigoli with duck sauce, complemented by renowned wines like Prosecco, Soave, and Amarone della Valpolicella, Veneto is a food enthusiast's haven.

These regions offer a voyage through centuries of history, art, and culture, framed by spectacular landscapes and memorable tastes.

Tour Experience: The entire tour is crafted to provide a premier luxury experience, with personalized services, gourmet dinners, and superior room accommodations. Your driver-guide will be at your service throughout to cater to all your needs and ensure a smooth journey.

Program: Personalization for a Unique Experience

• The itinerary can be further personalized to align with guests' desires and interests, ensuring flexibility and the opportunity to create moments that are both unique and unforgettable.

Day 1: Milan

• Morning:

  • Arrival at Milan airport.
  • A personal driver-guide will welcome you and escort you to your 4-star luxury hotel, booked in a superior room.
  • Lunch at a traditional Milanese restaurant selected by Gambero Rosso to ensure a first-class gastronomic experience.

• Afternoon:

  • Transfer and guided tour of Pavia featuring the Church of San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro, exterior of the Visconti Castle, Piazza della Vittoria, Basilica of San Michele Maggiore, Covered Bridge, Borgo Ticino, and Arnaboldi Dome.
  • Sweet break with a tasting of a typical Pavia dessert.

• Evening:

  • Gourmet dinner at a choice between a classy restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso or a refined dinner at your luxury hotel.
  • Pavia by night: an evening walk through the city lights with your guide.
  • Overnight stay in the comfort of your 4-star luxury hotel.

Day 2: Pavia - Cremona - Brescia

• Morning:

  • Breakfast at the hotel with a selection of local and international delicacies.
  • Excursion to Cremona with a guided tour including Piazza del Comune, Cathedral, Baptistery, Town Hall, and Loggia dei Militi.

• Afternoon:

  • Visit to Brescia: tour the grand complex of Santa Giulia and San Salvatore, Piazza della Loggia, Piazza della Vittoria, and Piazza Paolo VI.
  • Lunch at a renowned restaurant in Brescia, celebrated for its recognition by Gambero Rosso.

• Evening:

  • Return to Milan.
  • Gourmet dinner: choose between dining at a classy restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso or at your luxurious hotel.
  • Bergamo by night: explore the city's nocturnal charm with your guide.
  • Overnight stay in the comfort of your 4-star luxury hotel.

Day 3: Bergamo - 'A City Built on Stairs'

• Morning:

  • Breakfast at the hotel in Milan.
  • Transfer to Bergamo and start the guided tour: The Walls (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Borgo Pignolo, Accademia Carrara Picture Gallery, Porta Sant’Agostino, and Porta Sant’Alessandro.
  • Ride up with the funicular to San Virgilio and walk along Via Colleoni, ending at Piazza Vecchia.

• Afternoon:

  • Lunch at a typical Bergamasque restaurant.
  • Continue the tour in Bergamo: Palazzo della Ragione, Civic Tower, Piazza del Duomo, Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, and Colleoni Chapel.

• Evening:

  • Return to Milan.
  • Gourmet dinner: choose between your 4-star hotel, a classy restaurant, or a traditional cuisine restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso.
  • Free evening with the guide always available for any needs.
  • Overnight stay in Milan.

Day 4: Bergamo - Crespi d’Adda - Castelseprio - Castiglione Olona

• Morning:

  • Breakfast at your Milan hotel.
  • Departure for Crespi d’Adda and a guided tour of this industrial-era workers' village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Afternoon:

  • Transfer and visit to Castelseprio with its Archaeological Park, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Continue to Castiglione Olona for a tour of the Collegiate Church, Baptistery, and the historic center.
  • Lunch at a traditional restaurant, followed by a tasting of local products.

• Evening:

  • Return to Milan.
  • Gourmet dinner: choice between dining at your hotel or a renowned gourmet restaurant in Bergamo to further savor Lombard cuisine.
  • Free evening with the guide always available.
  • Overnight stay in Milan.

Day 5: Milan - "The Capital of Fashion and New Trends"

Morning:

• Start with a rich breakfast at your Milanese hotel.
• Enjoy a guided tour of Milan featuring:
  • The imposing Milan Cathedral.
  • The elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele.
  • The exterior of La Scala Theatre.
  • Sforzesco Castle and Michelangelo’s Pietà Rondanini.
  • Pinacoteca di Brera, showcasing masterpieces such as Raphael's "The Marriage of the Virgin" and Bramante's "Christ at the Column."
  • Museum of Science and Technology.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a traditional Milanese restaurant.
• Continue the guided tour with visits to:
  • Church of San Maurizio at the Monastero Maggiore, often called "the Sistine Chapel of Milan."
  • Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio, one of Milan’s oldest and most significant historical sites.

Evening:

• Return to your hotel.
• Gourmet dinner: choose between dining at your hotel or a high-class restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso.
• After dinner, explore Milan by night with a guided tour highlighting the city’s nocturnal charm.
• Overnight in Milan.

Day 6: Venice - "The Serenissima"

Morning:

• Breakfast at your hotel.
• Depart by private car for Venice Santa Lucia, passing through breathtaking landscapes.
• Arrive in Venice and enjoy lunch at an authentic Venetian restaurant.

Afternoon:

• Guided tour of classic Venice, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including:
  • St. Mark's Square and the imposing Basilica.
  • Exterior of the Doge's Palace.
  • Accademia Gallery, featuring Giorgione's famous painting "The Tempest."
  • Walk through the narrow alleys of Venice in the Castello district to Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo and the iconic Rialto Bridge.
• Check into a 4-star luxury hotel in Venice.

Evening:

• Gourmet dinner: choose between dining at your hotel or a renowned luxury restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso.
• After dinner, experience Venice by night with a walk in St. Mark’s Square and enjoy a Venetian dessert.
• Overnight in Venice.

Day 7: Islands of the Lagoon - "Hidden Jewels of the Venice Lagoon"

Morning:

• Wake up with a delicious breakfast at your hotel.
• Private boat excursion to the Lagoon Islands:
  • Murano: famous for its glassmaking. Visit a historic furnace and witness a live glassmaking demonstration.
  • Burano: known for its lace and colorful houses.
  • Tasting in a traditional Venetian tavern of wine and cicchetti, traditional Venetian snacks.

Afternoon:

• Gourmet seafood lunch in Burano.
• Visit Torcello, the oldest island in the Lagoon, known for its Basilica and the Throne of Attila.

Evening:

• Return to your hotel in Venice.
• Gourmet dinner: choose between dining at your hotel or a high-class gourmet restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso.
• Free evening with the guide always available.
• Overnight in Venice.

Day 8: Treviso & Castelfranco Veneto - "Exploring the Magic of Veneto"

Morning:

• Start with a substantial breakfast at your hotel.
• Head to Treviso for a guided tour of the historic center, admiring landmarks such as the Palazzo dei Trecento, the Cathedral, and the Loggia dei Cavalieri.
• Walk along the canals and ancient walls of the city, enjoying the tranquility of this "city of water."

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a typical restaurant in Treviso.
• Visit Cittadella for a step back in time with a walk along its medieval walls.
• Explore the historic walled town of Castelfranco Veneto, the birthplace of the famous Renaissance painter Giorgione. Visit the Cathedral and admire Giorgione's "Madonna and Child."
• Prosecco tasting, sampling the renowned sparkling wine of the region.

Evening:

• Check into a 4-star luxury hotel in Abano Terme, known for its therapeutic spas.
• Gourmet dinner: choose between dining at your hotel, a classy restaurant, or a renowned gourmet restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso.
• Overnight stay, with the guide available to meet any needs.

Day 9: Verona & Soave - "Together Among History, Love, and Wine"

Morning:

• Enjoy a gourmet breakfast at your hotel, then depart for Verona.
• In Verona (UNESCO World Heritage Site), take a scenic drive through the hills. Embark on a walking tour in the historic heart, visiting the Scaliger Tombs, Piazza dei Signori, and Piazza Erbe. Make brief stops to admire Juliet's House and the Arena from the outside.

Lunch:

• Savor lunch at a classic Verona restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso.

Afternoon:

• Head to Soave to explore the picturesque village and Scaliger Castle. Visit notable sites including the Church of San Lorenzo and the historic palaces like Palace of Justice and Cavalli Palace.
• Experience the world of wine with a guided tour of a historic Soave winery, including tastings of Soave DOC and Recioto.

Evening:

• Return to your hotel in Abano Terme.
• For dinner, choose between your hotel or a high-class restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso.
• Explore Arquà Petrarca by night, wandering through this picturesque medieval village linked to the poet Francesco Petrarch.
• Overnight at your hotel.

Day 10: Vicenza, Marostica & Bassano del Grappa - "Architecture, Chess, and Spirits"

Morning:

• Start with a relaxing breakfast at your hotel.
• In Vicenza (UNESCO World Heritage Site), take a guided tour of Palladio's masterpieces including Piazza dei Signori and the Olympic Theatre.

Lunch:

• Dine at a traditional restaurant in Marostica, chosen for its excellence by Gambero Rosso.

Afternoon:

• Explore the charming village of Marostica, known for its Chess Square and live chess games.
• In Bassano del Grappa, stroll across the famous Bassano Bridge, visit the Hemingway and Great War Museum, and see Villa Angarano Bianchi (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
• Visit a historic Grappa distillery for a tasting and discover various types of Grappa.

Evening:

• Return to your hotel in Abano Terme.
• Choose between dining at your hotel, a classy restaurant, or a gourmet restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso.
• Enjoy a free evening to relax or explore, with your guide always available.
• Overnight at your hotel.

Day 11: Padua - "Cradle of Culture and Spirituality in the Heart of Veneto"

Morning:

• Begin your day with a gourmet breakfast at your hotel.
• Padua (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Padua with a guided tour. Explore the vibrant historic center, the grand Piazza dei Signori, the impressive Palazzo della Ragione, and the spiritually significant St. Anthony's Basilica—a true architectural marvel. Continue to the scenic Piazza delle Erbe and marvel at the vast Prato della Valle, Europe's second-largest square.

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at a traditional Padua restaurant, carefully selected by Gambero Rosso for its outstanding local cuisine.

Afternoon:

• Take some free time to further explore the city, shop, or simply relax.

Evening:

• Depart for Milan, traveling through the beautiful Lombard landscape.
• Check into a luxurious 4-star hotel in Milan.
• Dinner: Choose to dine either at the hotel's elegant restaurant or at a high-class restaurant recommended by Gambero Rosso.
• After dinner, enjoy the freedom to explore Milan by night or relax at the hotel. Your guide will be available for any needs.

Day 12: Milan - "Concluding the Tour in Style"

Morning:

• Start your last day with a gourmet breakfast at the hotel, savoring authentic flavors while reminiscing about the trip's highlights.

Early Afternoon (if departure is in the afternoon):

• Have lunch at one of Milan's elite restaurants, recommended by Gambero Rosso, for a final taste of iconic Lombard cuisine.

Afternoon (if departure is in the evening):

• Spend some free time for last-minute shopping or a relaxing walk through Milan's streets. Your guide will be available to provide advice or assistance.
• Enjoy a lunch or afternoon snack at one of the city's renowned patisseries or bistros.

Pre-Departure:

• Check out from the hotel and transfer by private car to Milan airport. Your guide will assist with the check-in procedures, ensuring a hassle-free transfer.
• At the airport, the guide will help with packing any delicate purchases and ensure everything goes smoothly until the departure gate.

Tour Summary: This tour is meticulously designed to provide a luxurious and culturally enriching experience, paying special attention to the details and needs of discerning travelers. The guide serves as a constant point of reference, ensuring a smooth and highly personalized journey.

Participation Fee for a Luxury 4-Star Hotel Stay in a Superior Room

Number of Participants: Minimum: 2 people Maximum: 8 people

Cost Per Person: $21,750.00 for a party of 2

Additional Costs: Single Supplement $1,850.00 for those desiring a single room

 For small private groups of 4, 6, or 8 people, the price per person will be lower.

 

Included in the Rate:

• Accommodation in a Luxury 4-Star Hotel in a Superior room as scheduled.
• Buffet breakfasts.
• 11 lunches in typical restaurants.
• 11 gourmet dinners at the hotels where you will stay or, if otherwise indicated, in upscale restaurants selected from the "Il Gambero Rosso" guide.
• A bilingual driver-guide  with a luxury car, available for the entire duration of the tour.
• All the entrances planned in the Tour are included in the price.
• Taxes and VAT.
• City taxes.
• Evening excursions.

Not Included: Beverages and anything not expressly mentioned in the "Included in the Rate" section.

 

 

Our 4-Star Luxury Hotels in Superior Rooms

Milan: Hotel Urban Hive Milano or a similar establishment

This 4-star luxury hotel, ideally located in the heart of Milan, offers a perfect blend of modern elegance and comfort. Hotel Urban Hive Milano features spacious and stylishly furnished Superior rooms, each designed to provide a unique and relaxing experience. Guests can unwind in the cozy lounge areas, enjoy gourmet meals at the on-site restaurant, and benefit from impeccable service that ensures an unforgettable stay.

Venice: Hotel Papadopoli Venezia MGallery Collection or a similar establishment

Situated in the historic center of Venice, Hotel Papadopoli Venezia MGallery Collection combines timeless elegance with modern amenities. This 4-star luxury hotel offers beautifully appointed Superior rooms with views of the canal or the lush Tolentini Gardens. Guests can indulge in a gourmet breakfast, relax in the intimate library, and enjoy the hotel’s convenient access to Venice’s renowned attractions such as the Grand Canal and St. Mark’s Square. The warm hospitality and exquisite service ensure a memorable experience.

Abano Terme: Europa Terme Boutique Hotel or a similar establishment

Located in the renowned spa town of Abano Terme, Europa Terme Boutique Hotel provides a tranquil and luxurious retreat. This 4-star luxury hotel features elegantly furnished Superior rooms, combining classic style with modern comforts. Guests can rejuvenate in the hotel’s thermal pools, indulge in various spa treatments, and enjoy gourmet dining in the on-site restaurant. The serene environment and attentive service make for a relaxing and revitalizing stay.

These 4-star luxury hotels, or similar establishments, ensure an extraordinary travel experience, combining maximum luxury with exclusive locations and impeccable services. If one of the mentioned hotels is not available, a 4-star luxury hotel in a Superior room of similar quality will be provided to ensure an equally pleasant stay.

 

 

I certify that my review is my honest opinion and have no personal or professional relationships.