We Love —
- Waking to the morning calm at Lake Maggiore, watching sunlight glint across the waters from Verbania’s lakeside promenade.
- Exploring the Baroque grandeur of Isola Bella, from its ornate palace rooms to terraced gardens dotted with statues and fountains.
- Walking the historic centre of Como, pausing at Piazza San Fedele and beneath the soaring Duomo façade.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
Your itinerary in brief —
Embark on a scenic road trip through northern Italy, where tranquil lakes, charming towns, and alpine vistas create a journey of elegance and discovery. Begin on the shores of Lake Maggiore, exploring lakeside promenades, hidden gardens, and the Borromean Islands with their palaces, terraced gardens, and quaint fishing villages. Continue to Lake Como, wandering its historic centre, enjoying panoramic viewpoints, and immersing yourself in the serene landscapes of Valsassina.
Opt for offer 2 and extend your journey with two additional nights to savour local traditions and the beauty of Lake Garda. Visit the Da Carozzi cheese shop and workshop in Pasturo for a guided tasting of eight artisan cheeses, then travel to Lake Garda, strolling lakeside promenades, exploring Peschiera del Garda’s historic streets, or visiting Sirmione with its Scaligero Castle and Roman ruins.
Our offers:
Offer 1: Lake Maggiore & Lake Como
4 night road trip: 2 nights in Lake Maggiore & 2 nights in Lake Como
5 night road trip: 3 nights in Lake Maggiore & 2 nights in Lake Como
7 night road trip: 4 nights in Lake Maggiore & 3 nights in Lake Como
Offer 2: Lake Maggiore, Lake Como & Lake Garda
7 night road trip: 3 nights in Lake Maggiore, 2 nights in Lake Como & 2 nights in Lake Garda
8 night road trip: 3 nights in Lake Maggiore, 3 nights in Lake Como & 2 nights in Lake Garda
Your suggested itineraries*
Offer 1: Lake Maggiore & Lake Como
7 night road trip
Day 1: Arrive in Baveno (Lake Maggiore)
Day 2: Baveno ⇄ Borromean Islands
Day 3: Baveno ⇄ Villa Taranto & Verbania
Day 4: Baveno ⇄ Cannero Riviera & Cannobio
Day 5: Baveno → Albese con Cassano (Lake Como)
Day 6: Albese con Cassano ⇄ Valsassina
Day 7: Albese con Cassano ⇄ Bellagio & Varenna
Day 8: Depart from Albese con Cassano
Offer 2: Lake Maggiore & Lake Como
8 night road trip
Day 1: Arrive in Baveno (Lake Maggiore)
Day 2: Baveno ⇄ Borromean Islands
Day 3: Baveno ⇄ Villa Taranto & VerbaniaDay 1: Baveno
Day 4: Baveno → Albese con Cassano (Lake Como)
Day 5: Albese con Cassano ⇄ Valsassina
Day 6: Albese con Cassano ⇄ Bellagio & Varenna
Day 7: Albese con Cassano → Ponti sul Mincio (Lake Garda)
Day 8: Ponti sul Mincio ⇄ Sirmione
Day 9: Depart from Ponti sul Mincio
The freedom to explore*
Discover our expertly curated self-guided road trips, designed to offer the perfect balance of structure and flexibility. While our travel experts suggest itineraries to help you explore each destination in depth, you have the freedom to tailor activities and pace to suit your personal preferences. Rest assured, the carefully selected hotels will remain as listed, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience throughout your journey.
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
Offer 1: Lake Maggiore & Lake Como
7 NIGHT ROAD TRIP (SUGGESTED ITINERARY):
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN BAVENO (LAKE MAGGIORE)
Arrive in the lakeside village of Baveno and settle into Hotel Rosa, ideally placed for relaxed exploration. Ease into the rhythm of Lake Maggiore with a stroll along the promenade, where mountain silhouettes ripple across the water. We suggest pausing at a café for your first espresso with a view, watching boats drift across the Borromean Gulf. If time allows, step inside the Romanesque church of Saints Gervaso and Protaso, a quiet reminder of the region’s deep-rooted past.
- Arrive in Milan or Turin
- Pick up your car hire (with flight-inclusive bookings only) or transfer on your own
- Night at Hotel Rosa 4*
DAY 2: BAVENO ⇄ BORROMEAN ISLANDS
After breakfast, travel to nearby Stresa and board a boat bound for the Borromean Islands. Begin with Isola Bella, where the ornate Borromeo Palace dazzles with lavish interiors and theatrical terraced gardens patrolled by white peacocks. Continue to Isola dei Pescatori, a lived-in island of narrow lanes and timeworn balconies once used to dry the daily catch. Return to Isola Bella for a refined lunch at Ristorante Elvezia before ending the excursion on Isola Madre, wandering through its botanical gardens and intimate palace.
- Breakfast included
- 1 x day excursion to The Borromean Islands (with light lunch)
- Night at Hotel Rosa 4*
DAY 3: BAVENO ⇄ VILLA TARANTO & VERBANIA
Spend the morning immersed in the Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto, one of Europe’s most impressive horticultural displays. Follow winding paths past fountains, greenhouses and rare plant species gathered from across the globe. In the afternoon, explore Verbania’s historic centre, stopping at the lakeside Church of San Leonardo. Browse local artisan shops and enjoy the relaxed rhythm of this elegant town.
- Breakfast included
- Free day, or consider visiting Villa Taranto & Verbania
- Night at Hotel Rosa 4*
DAY 4: BAVENO ⇄ CANNERO RIVIERA & CANNOBIO
This day, consider a trip to two of Lake Maggiore’s most atmospheric villages. Start in Cannero Riviera, where medieval castles rise dramatically from the water just offshore. Continue north to Cannobio, consistently ranked among Italy’s most beautiful villages. Wander its cobbled streets, admire pastel façades and visit the Baroque Sanctuary of the Pietà overlooking the lake.
- Breakfast included
- Free day, or consider visiting Cannero Riviera & Cannobio
- Night at Hotel Rosa 4*
DAY 5: BAVENO → ALBESE CON CASSANO (LAKE COMO)
After breakfast, travel south to Lake Como and check in at Agriturismo Cascina Mirandola in Albese con Cassano, surrounded by peaceful countryside. In the afternoon, head into the city of Como to explore its elegant historic centre. We recommend visiting the striking Como Cathedral, then strolling along the lakeside promenade.
- Breakfast included
- Depart for Albese con Cassano (Lake Como)
- Night at Cascina Mirandola
DAY 6: ALBESE CON CASSANO ⇄ VALSASSINA
Travel inland to Pasturo in the Valsassina valley for a guided visit to the renowned Da Carozzi cheese dairy. Learn the techniques behind celebrated local cheeses as the master cheesemaker shares stories and traditions. The tasting features eight varieties paired with artisanal preserves, wine, and coffee. In the afternoon, enjoy the alpine scenery with a visit to Barzio or a gentle walk through mountain meadows offering wide-open views.
- Breakfast included
- 1 x cheese tasting & light lunch at a local cheese shop in Lake Como
- Night at Cascina Mirandola
DAY 7: ALBESE CON CASSANO ⇄ BELLAGIO & VARENNA
Why not begin a day in Bellagio, the celebrated “Pearl of the Lake,” where steep stone stairways lead past boutiques and cafés. Consider visiting Villa Melzi’s gardens, a serene blend of sculpture, water and exotic plants. From Bellagio, we recommend crossing the lake to Varenna, a village of colourful houses and quiet romance. The day is yours to shape: walk along the Lovers’ Walkway, visit Villa Monastero or simply indulge in stunning views, overlooking the water.
- Breakfast included
- Free day, or consider visiting Bellagio & Varenna
- Night at Cascina Mirandola
DAY 8: DEPART FROM ALBESE CON CASSANO
After breakfast and check-out, travel to Lecco for a final glimpse of Lake Como framed by dramatic mountain peaks. Enjoy a short walk along the waterfront or through the historic centre. Then begin your return journey, carrying with you the layered beauty of Italy’s great lakes.
- Breakfast included
- Check-out
- Drop off your car hire (with flight-inclusive bookings only) or transfer on your own
Offer 2: Lake Maggiore, Lake Como & Lake Garda
8 NIGHT ROAD TRIP (SUGGESTED ITINERARY):
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN BAVENO (LAKE MAGGIORE)
Arrive in the lakeside village of Baveno and settle into Hotel Rosa, ideally placed for relaxed exploration. Ease into the rhythm of Lake Maggiore with a stroll along the promenade, where mountain silhouettes ripple across the water. We suggest pausing at a café for your first espresso with a view, watching boats drift across the Borromean Gulf. If time allows, step inside the Romanesque church of Saints Gervaso and Protaso, a quiet reminder of the region’s deep-rooted past.
- Arrive in Milan or Turin
- Pick up your car hire (with flight-inclusive bookings only) or transfer on your own
- Night at Hotel Rosa 4*
DAY 2: BAVENO ⇄ BORROMEAN ISLANDS
After breakfast, travel to nearby Stresa and board a boat bound for the Borromean Islands. Begin with Isola Bella, where the ornate Borromeo Palace dazzles with lavish interiors and theatrical terraced gardens patrolled by white peacocks. Continue to Isola dei Pescatori, a lived-in island of narrow lanes and timeworn balconies once used to dry the daily catch. Return to Isola Bella for a refined lunch at Ristorante Elvezia before ending the excursion on Isola Madre, wandering through its botanical gardens and intimate palace.
- Breakfast included
- 1 x day excursion to The Borromean Islands (with light lunch)
- Night at Hotel Rosa 4*
DAY 3: BAVENO ⇄ VILLA TARANTO & VERBANIA
Spend the morning immersed in the Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto, one of Europe’s most impressive horticultural displays. Follow winding paths past fountains, greenhouses and rare plant species gathered from across the globe. In the afternoon, explore Verbania’s historic centre, stopping at the lakeside Church of San Leonardo. Browse local artisan shops and enjoy the relaxed rhythm of this elegant town.
- Breakfast included
- Free day, or consider visiting Villa Taranto & Verbania
- Night at Hotel Rosa 4*
DAY 4: BAVENO → ALBESE CON CASSANO (LAKE COMO)
After breakfast, travel south to Lake Como and check in at Agriturismo Cascina Mirandola in Albese con Cassano, surrounded by peaceful countryside. In the afternoon, head into the city of Como to explore its elegant historic centre. We recommend visiting the striking Como Cathedral, then strolling along the lakeside promenade.
- Breakfast included
- Depart for Albese con Cassano (Lake Como)
- Night at Cascina Mirandola
DAY 5: ALBESE CON CASSANO ⇄ VALSASSINA
Travel inland to Pasturo in the Valsassina valley for a guided visit to the renowned Da Carozzi cheese dairy. Learn the techniques behind celebrated local cheeses as the master cheesemaker shares stories and traditions. The tasting features eight varieties paired with artisanal preserves, wine, and coffee. In the afternoon, enjoy the alpine scenery with a visit to Barzio or a gentle walk through mountain meadows offering wide-open views.
- Breakfast included
- 1 x cheese tasting & light lunch at a local cheese shop in Lake Como
- Night at Cascina Mirandola
DAY 6: ALBESE CON CASSANO ⇄ BELLAGIO & VARENNA
Why not begin a day in Bellagio, the celebrated “Pearl of the Lake,” where steep stone stairways lead past boutiques and cafés. Consider visiting Villa Melzi’s gardens, a serene blend of sculpture, water and exotic plants. From Bellagio, we recommend crossing the lake to Varenna, a village of colourful houses and quiet romance. The day is yours to shape: walk along the Lovers’ Walkway, visit Villa Monastero or simply indulge in stunning views, overlooking the water.
- Breakfast included
- Free day, or consider visiting Bellagio & Varenna
- Night at Cascina Mirandola
DAY 7: ALBESE CON CASSANO → PONTI SUL MINCIO (LAKE GARDA)
After breakfast, travel south to Ponti sul Mincio and check in at the charming Relais Corte Cavalli. Unwind by the swimming pool, surrounded by countryside calm. Later, visit Peschiera del Garda, encircled by impressive Venetian walls recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day is yours to shape: walk beside its canals, explore the historic centre, or settle into a café for a relaxed lakeside pause.
- Breakfast included
- Free day, or consider visiting Bellagio & Varenna
- Night at Hotel Corte Cavalli 4*
DAY 8: PONTI SUL MINCIO ⇄ SIRMIONE
We recommend dedicating your last day to visiting Sirmione, one of Lake Garda’s most iconic locations. To fully appreciate the peninsula, consider visiting from the water with a boat cruise, passing historic villas and lush hills. Back on land, explore the impressive Scaliger Castle, rising dramatically from the lake. Continue to the Grotte di Catullo, the remains of a vast Roman villa offering sweeping views over the water.
- Breakfast included
- Free day, or consider visiting Sirmione
- Night at Hotel Corte Cavalli 4*
DAY 9: DEPART FROM PONTI SUL MINCIO
Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel, taking in the last moments of lake scenery. Departure follows, bringing your journey through northern Italy’s great lakes to a finale.
- Breakfast included
- Check-out
- Drop off your car hire (with flight-inclusive bookings only) or transfer on your own
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in thoughtfully selected hotels (or similar).
Your hotels:
Baveno (Lake Maggiore): Hotel Rosa 4*
Albese con Cassano (Lake Como): Cascina Mirandola
Ponti sul Mincio (Lake Garda; offer 2 only): Hotel Corte Cavalli 4*
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Maximum room occupancy: 2 adults Single rooms are not available
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Included services —
Assistance at destination
Enjoy an included destination assistance service provided by our local partners trained to Voyage Privé standards. A dedicated contact person, available 24 hours a day (by phone or WhatsApp), will assist you throughout your stay with advice, reservations, or help in case of unforeseen circumstances. Travel with peace of mind.
Your journey to Italy —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
Lake Maggiore
Nestled between majestic alpine peaks and serene waters, Lake Maggiore has long been a haven for writers and artists seeking tranquillity and inspiration. With its elegant villas, lush gardens, and charming lakeside villages, this storied destination offers a refined retreat steeped in history and natural beauty.
Must-sees:
- Isola Bella – A masterpiece of Baroque landscaping, the island’s grand palazzo and terraced gardens provide a glimpse into aristocratic splendour.
- Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso – Perched on a sheer cliff, this 14th-century monastery offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Angera’s Rocca Borromeo – A medieval fortress housing a fascinating museum of dolls and childhood memorabilia, with panoramic vistas over the lake.
Culinary culture:
Lake Maggiore’s cuisine is a blend of Piedmontese and Lombard traditions, enriched by fresh lake fish and Alpine produce. Local specialities include perch risotto, marinated whitefish, and mortadella di fegato, a rich, spiced liver sausage. Pair these with a glass of Ghemme or Boca, elegant red wines from the northern shores.
Dive deeper:
Beyond its famous sights, Lake Maggiore rewards the curious with hidden gems. Explore the ancient Sacri Monti, UNESCO-listed devotional complexes with frescoed chapels and scenic walking trails. In the Val Grande National Park, the largest wilderness area in Italy, remote paths lead through forests and abandoned hamlets, revealing a forgotten rural past.
Good to know:
The ideal time to visit is spring and early autumn, when the lake’s atmosphere is at its most tranquil. While ferries connect major towns and islands, hiring a private boat allows for a more intimate discovery of secluded bays and elegant lakeside villas.
Lake Como
Lombardy, a district of world-famous lakes, is a diverse region blending cosmopolitan sophistication with serene natural beauty. Nestled in northern Italy along the Swiss border, this area captivates with its stylish cities, majestic mountains, and pristine lakes. While Milan, the region's bustling capital, entices with its glamour and culture, the treasures of Lombardy extend far beyond its city limits to the tranquil landscapes of its northern reaches.
Must-sees:
- Lake Como: Admire the sumptuous lakeside villas and their verdant cascading gardens set against the backdrop of the Rhaetian Alps, which extend along the Italian-Swiss border.
- Lake Maggiore: Visit the tranquil Borromean Islands, offering postcard-perfect scenery and rich history.
- Lake Garda: Explore the laid-back charm of Gardone Riviera, with its scenic promenade and leisurely pleasure cruises across the lake.
Culinary culture:
Lombardy's culinary heritage is a reflection of its varied landscape. Relish local classics such as risotto alla milanese, flavoured with saffron, or hearty pizzoccheri, buckwheat pasta typical of the mountain regions. Around the lakes, fresh fish like lavarello is a highlight, while the region’s famed Taleggio and Gorgonzola cheeses add a decadent touch to any meal. Pair these dishes with Franciacorta, a sparkling wine from the region.
Dive deeper:
Step beyond the main attractions to uncover hidden gems like Varenna, a picturesque village on Lake Como, with its botanical gardens at Villa Monastero. For art lovers, the shores of Lake Garda host Il Vittoriale degli Italiani, the eccentric home of poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. Nature enthusiasts will find adventure in the Orobie Alps, which reach northwards towards Bergamo, offering hiking trails with breathtaking views.
Good to know:
Lombardy’s idea; travel seasons are spring and autumn, offering mild weather and fewer crowds. Milan is a central hub with excellent transport links, but exploring the lakes is easiest by car or ferry. The local currency is the euro, and English is widely understood in tourist areas. Comfortable shoes are essential for cobblestone streets and hillside villages.
