Exploring the Dolomites: Splendid Northern Italy Tour

Compared to the sun-drenched beaches of the south, Northern Italy presents visitors with a rugged, mountainous terrain of gentle foothills and craggy alpine peaks. Perhaps, no better ambassador for this terrain can be found than in the Trentino-South Tyrol area and the magnificent Dolomites. Into this stunning alpine escape you will venture on a private transfer after your arrival in Milan. When you reach your comfortable accommodation on the shores of Lake Garda, you will have the remainder of the afternoon to spend at your leisure.

For your first full day exploring the area of Lake Garda, you will enjoy a scenic transfer to the lake’s opposite side to visit the picturesque town of Sirmione. Upon your arrival, you will be able to meet with your expert guide and explore the famous castle, the caves of Catullo, and the brilliant architecture of St. Peter's Church. Next, you will visit the lakeside community of Peschiera, where you can stroll the promenade of the waterfront and enjoy stunning views of the lake.

Turning your back on the lake that you have learned to love, you will make your way to the red-tiled roofs of Verona. Although in possession of rustic ruins and cozy piazzas, Verona is known as being the setting of Shakespeare's masterpiece, Romeo and Juliet. As you walk in the footsteps of the two star-crossed lovers, you will be able to enjoy an in-depth tour of the city, including the major sites. During your tour, you will also be accompanied by an expert guide. In the evening, past and present will be united as you enjoy a contemporary opera performance in a 1st-century Roman amphitheater.

Deep into the alpine foothills you will venture today. After breakfast, you will make your way into an atmosphere of green and gray. As your eyes trace the contours of the rock formations and lush woodlands, your imagination will be filled with the tough people that once carved out a living here. Before arriving at your final destination of Valgardena, you will be able to enjoy a winery tasting experience that will allow you to sample the hearty grapes found at these higher altitudes. Afterward, you can settle in to your comfortable accommodation.

With your travels out of the way for the time being, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the virtual playground of the Dolomites and the variety of activities and adventure that can be found here. In the morning,  you can take in the many scenic overlooks from two wheels during a bike tour along the numerous paths that cross this pristine landscape. You will be able to enjoy a more relaxing pastime in the afternoon, when you visit a local apple orchard to pick your favorites of the colorful fruit before enjoying a picnic lunch.

The regional diversity of culture and customs found throughout Italy is a virtual kaleidoscope of unique festivals, culinary curiosities, and customs that help form the backbone of the local economy. In the morning, this distinct culture will come to life as you learn about the proud traditions of wood carving in Valgardena. Later in the afternoon, you will roll up your sleeves and visit an Italian kitchen. As you enjoy this educational cooking course, you will learn the secrets of the region's famous bread dumplings and local cheeses that never cease to delight.

For your final full day in the Dolomites, you will be able to maximize your enjoyment of this outdoor recreational paradise in a number of ways. As you will have undoubtedly noticed since your arrival, the trekking scene is alive and well here. Today, you can don your most comfortable shoes and take to any number of trails that boast panoramic views and exceptional biodiversity. You can also enjoy horseback riding, canyoning, or rafting, which are all excellent ways to create lasting memories in this stunning environment.

Today, you will make your way from the scenic heights of the Dolomites into the brilliant atmosphere of the Adriatic Sea and the charming hospitality of Venice. During your transfer, you will be able to stop at a traditional Veneto dairy where award-winning cheeses are proudly presented, including the famous Asiago. Next, you will get a chance to stretch your legs on a wine and grape tour in Bassano del Grappa, the home of the digestive spirit. Afterward, you will transfer to your luxurious hotel tucked among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Venetian city center.

For your final full day on this Northern Italian tour, this rags to riches tale of this once sleepy lagoon will come alive on a private walking tour of the old town. As you ponder the engineering genius of the Rialto bridge and the artistic magnificence of St. Mark's Basilica, the beauty of the city will come to life. Later in the afternoon, you will gain a new perspective of the area with a ferry ride to the adjacent communities of Burano and Torcello before concluding the day's excitement with a relaxing gondola ride back in Venice.

With the sun reflecting brilliantly off the Adriatic, your final morning in Venice will be an excellent time for you to make those last visits that you know you will regret ignoring. Whether you enjoy a stroll along the pier or climb the heights of the Campanile to take in the view, the city provides many opportunities to capture those final Italian memories. After you have been fortified by breakfast from the hotel staff, a private boat will transfer you to Marco Polo airport for your return flight home.