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.

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.

5 night road trip:

Day 1: Arrival in Verbania

Day 2: Borromean Islands

Day 3: Verbania

Day 4: Lake Maggiore → Lake Como

Day 5: Valsassina

Day 6: Departure

7 night road trip:

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN VERBANIA

• Arrive in Italy and settle into a charming lakeside retreat, where the gentle breeze carries the scent of greenery and the soft shimmer of afternoon sunlight dances across Lake Maggiore.
• Spend the afternoon exploring Verbania’s lakeside promenade, watching the islands drift like jewels across the glassy water, framed by rolling green hills.
• Wander into the Pallanza district to discover cobbled streets lined with elegant buildings and artisanal shops or explore a historic church or a hidden garden tucked among century-old trees.

Overnight in Verbania

DAY 2: THE BORROMEAN ISLANDS

• Start your day with a relaxed breakfast before setting out from Stresa to explore the Borromean Islands, each a jewel of art, history, and natural beauty.
• Begin at Isola Bella, where a grand palace rises above terraced gardens ablaze with flowers, fountains, and statues, while elegant peacocks roam, their feathers catching the sunlight.
• Continue to Isola dei Pescatori, where narrow lanes and rustic houses convey the timeless life of a small lakeside village, with water gently lapping at the edges.
• End at Isola Madre, a haven of rare and exotic plants, where wandering birds and quiet palace rooms evoke the elegance of a bygone aristocratic world.

Breakfast and lunch included & overnight in Verbania

DAY 3: VERBANIA

• Spend a leisurely day savouring the lakeside atmosphere by strolling along the shore, breathing in the crisp morning air, or simply pausing to watch boats glide across the water.
• We recommend taking the time to wander the Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto, admiring its rich plant collections, or taking a gentle boat ride around the gulf to view Verbania from the water (not included).

Breakfast included & overnight in Verbania

DAY 4: LAKE MAGGIORE → LAKE COMO

• Cross scenic landscapes of rolling hills, quiet villages, and distant mountains mirrored in the glistening waters as you journey toward Lake Como.
• Arrive in Erba and settle into a welcoming lakeside retreat, perfectly positioned for exploring the region’s elegant towns and natural beauty.
• In the afternoon, wander through Como’s historic centre, admiring the Gothic and Renaissance grandeur of the Duomo, the medieval charm of Piazza San Fedele, and the gentle lakeside promenade.

Breakfast included & overnight in Erba

DAY 5: VALSANNINA & LAKE COMO

• Venture into Valsassina, a bright, tranquil valley at the foot of the Grigne mountains, where soft trails and elevated plateaus invite slow, mindful walks amidst fresh alpine air.
• Pause at small alpine huts along the way to enjoy coffee, a slice of homemade cake, or to take in the serene mountain panorama.
• Visit the picturesque village of Varenna, wandering its narrow alleys and charming stairways before exploring the lakeside gardens of Villa Monastero, where lemon trees, palms, and classical statues create a tranquil, contemplative setting.

Breakfast included & overnight in Erba

DAY 6: DEPARTURE

• Savour a final morning in your lakeside retreat before bidding farewell to northern Italy’s serene waters.

Breakfast included

Days 1 to 4 are the same as the 5 night tour.

DAY 5: PASTURO

• Visit the renowned Da Carozzi cheese shop and workshop in the heart of Valsassina, where the master cheesemaker crafts traditional cheeses with passion and expertise.
• Follow a guided tour through the small, aromatic production spaces, learning how fresh milk is transformed into a variety of cheeses using both ancient and modern techniques, then enjoy a tasting of eight distinctive cheeses paired with artisanal preserves and a glass of selected wine.
• In the afternoon, you can explore the nearby village of Barzio or wander along one of the valley’s scenic trails, breathing in crisp mountain air and enjoying the serene alpine landscapes.

Breakfast included & overnight in Verbania

DAY 6: TOWARD LAKE GARDA

• Enjoy breakfast before travelling toward Lake Garda, watching the landscape shift from alpine valleys to vine-covered hills.
• After checking in at your countryside retreat, you can unwind by the pool or wander the estate’s green paths in complete tranquillity.

Breakfast included & overnight near Lake Garda

DAY 7: SIRMIONE

• Spend the day discovering Sirmione, a captivating peninsula known for its turquoise waters, thermal springs, and elegant villas.
• Here you can explore the medieval Scaligero Castle, stroll through lively streets, and optionally take a boat tour to admire the peninsula and its Roman ruins from the water.

Breakfast included & overnight near Lake Garda

DAY 8: DEPARTURE

• Conclude your journey with a morning by the lake, enjoying breakfast and the quiet beauty around you.

Breakfast included

At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in thoughtfully selected hotels (or similar).

Your hotels:

Verbania: Hotel Pallanza 4*

Erba: Hotel Leonardo da Vinci 4*

Ponti sul Mincio / Lake Gard: Relais Corte Cavalli 4*

If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply. 

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.

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.

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.

Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, is a stunning natural gem surrounded by towering mountains and crystal-clear waters. Known for its serene landscapes, charming villages, and outdoor adventures, the lake offers an ideal mix of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or thrilling activities, Lake Garda promises a memorable experience.

Must-sees:

• Boat tours: Explore the lake by hydrofoil or a leisurely boat, visiting islands such as Isola del Garda, renowned for its gardens and historic villa.
• Monte Baldo: Take the cable car for panoramic views and access to hiking trails in the lush alpine terrain.
• Brenzone sul Garda: A tranquil lakeside retreat offering relaxation, hiking, and breathtaking lake views.

Culinary culture:

Lake Garda’s cuisine reflects its unique setting, with dishes like bigoli con le sarde, rustic pasta with lake sardines, and freshly caught lavarello. The region is also famous for its delicate olive oil and Lugana wine, a crisp white perfect for pairing with fish. For dessert, enjoy the fragrant torta di rose, inspired by the area's floral landscapes.

Dive deeper:

Explore the rich history and culture with visits to medieval treasures like Sirmione, featuring the Scaliger Castle and the ancient Grotte di Catullo ruins. Discover the charm of Lazise, a picturesque town with cobbled streets and a lively lakeside atmosphere.

Good to know:

The ideal times to visit are spring and early autumn when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Lake Garda is easily accessible by ferries, buses, and nearby airports like Verona, though renting a car offers greater flexibility for exploring hidden gems. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes and sunscreen for hiking and lakeside walks.