High-End Northern Italy Tour: Venice, Lake Garda, Milan

Perched at the northern tip of the Adriatic Sea like a shining beacon of red-tiled brilliance, Venice charms visitors with its floating neighborhoods, elegant architecture, and warm hospitality. As the capital of the Veneto region, Venice also is an excellent ambassador for the cultural and historical richness of Northern Italy. After arriving in the city, a water taxi will ensure your timely arrival at your accommodation. In the afternoon, you will be able to enjoy a walking tour to complete your Venetian orientation.

With the Adriatic sun shining brilliantly off facades that are centuries old, the morning on your first full day will be a great time to explore the city. Today, the colorful atmosphere of the city will be yours to explore on an optional walking tour that can include visits to the Grand Canal, the famous Rialto Bridge, or the Arsenale. The city center of Venice is extremely walkable and presents visitors with a maze of cobblestone alleys, idyllic bridges, and charming piazzas.

Venice was originally a humble collection of fishing hamlets set against the backdrop of an Adriatic lagoon. As the mercantile and commercial value of the location grew, so did its population. Soon Venetian neighborhoods ran out of land. This did not stop these industrious people, and development continued on pontoons and piers, giving the city a floating aspect. Today, you will be able to enjoy an excursion to some of the islands that originally made up this lagoon on a boat tour with a guide who will be well-versed in Venetian history.

Today, you will turn your back on the windswept vistas of Venice and make your way inland to the famed Alps that crown Italy's northernmost border. After you enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hands of your attentive hotel staff, a comfortable transfer will convey you to the stunning Lake Garda and the famous Riviera dei Limoni. Upon arriving at your luxurious accommodation, you will have the remainder of the day to recline in the thermal bliss of the adjoining spa facility or to stroll the lakeside paths of this breathtaking environment.

As the largest lake in Italy, Garda presents visitors with a head-spinning variety of spectacular lake views, scenic parks, and trails to explore. Likewise, it is difficult not to be charmed by the pastel villages that dot the lakeside and provide a splash of color to a world that is otherwise comprised of lush green woodlands and craggy mountains. For your first full day in the Lake Garda area, you will be able to chart your own course through the day and either partake in the numerous activities available through your accommodation. You will also have the option to relax in the alpine scenery.

Today, you will visit the hometown of the two most famous star-crossed lovers in the world: Romeo and Juliet. Spanning the picturesque Adige River, Verona is the setting in which Shakespeare placed his two young romantics of Romeo and Juliet. Today, the town enjoys particular prominence with both enthusiasts of literature and history. Upon your arrival, you will be able to explore the sunny piazzas and medieval structures of this beautiful town.

Few cities in Northern Italy enjoy such accolades as Mantua. Today, it is this award-winning destination that will be your muse as you enjoy a private walking tour through what was named in 2017 as the European capital of gastronomy. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, Mantua will allow you to witness Roman ruins that stand side by side with modern villas. As you stroll past some of the city's most famous sites, time will seem to stand still.

After two consecutive days of trips to Mantua and Verona, a day of leisure will provide you with an excellent way to spend your final day in this alpine paradise. The hanging valleys and craggy peaks of Lake Garda were formed long ago as glaciers carved through this region like a woodworker's knife. The exquisite terrain you have enjoyed since your arrival will be enough to rival the best-carved facades in Italy. The unique landscape of Lake Garda will be your playground to enjoy a menu of options of outdoor explorations or to find fulfillment in the hotel's spa facilities.

Today, you will make your way from the lofty perch of Lake Garda to the flat and fertile lands that surround Milan and the heart of the Lombardy region. After enjoying a fortifying breakfast from the hotel staff, a private transfer will convey you into the cosmopolitan and fashionable city center of Milan. After settling in to your new accommodation, you will be met by a private guide who will be well-versed in all things Milan. When you are ready, your guide will lead you on a captivating walking tour of the city's main highlights.

Since your arrival, you will have visited the sacred temples and churches of a spirituality that goes back 2,000 years. Today, you will visit a more recent spiritual movement that is headquartered at the Damanhur Community. From Milan, a private transfer will carry you into the alpine foothills and a modern spiritual community that was founded in 1975. Upon your arrival, you will be able to enjoy tours of Damjl, Damanhur Crea, and the Temples of Humankind. Here, the past meets the present through modern murals that have been painted over ancient ruins. After your visit, a private transfer will convey you back to your comfortable hotel.

Your last morning on this tour will provide you with a final moment to stretch your legs on a walk around the city center. Perhaps, you will marvel at the facade of the famous main cathedral or stroll around the block to watch the mesmerizing city slowly come to life. Regardless, there is no delaying your departure. After a delicious breakfast provided by the hotel staff, you will be met by your private transfer and make your way to Milan's main airport.