Tour of Maggiore and Como Lakes, Rimini and Venice

Begin your journey by arriving at either Milan or Verona Airport, or by train at the station. Should you choose, a rental car is available for pick up. Your first destination is the charming Hotel Rosa in Baveno (or a similar establishment), where we've arranged your accommodation. We recommend taking a detour to visit the picturesque town of Stresa on your way. Your first night will be spent comfortably at the hotel.

Join us for a delightful breakfast at the hotel before we embark on a day dedicated to explore Lake Maggiore, the westernmost of the three large pre-Alpine lakes. Thanks to its mild climate, the area boasts a Mediterranean-type vegetation, with exotic plants easily found in the gardens. Our journey begins in Stresa, from where we'll set sail to the Borromeo islands (Isola Madre and Isola Bella). Here, we'll marvel at the Borromeo residences, home to invaluable art pieces and lush gardens that epitomize the classic Italian garden of the era. After our island visit, we suggest a leisurely stroll along the lakeside towards Pallanza and Intra. At Punta della Castagnola, you'll find the stunning Villa Taranto and its breathtaking park. Spanning over 20 hectares, the park features avenues, waterfalls, fountains, and panoramic terraces. After a day filled with exploration, we'll return to the comfort of our hotel for an overnight stay.

We'll kick off our day with a hearty breakfast before setting off for the stunning Lake Como. Our first stop is the city of Como, where we'll explore the majestic Cathedral, the historic Church of Sant’Abbondio, and the impressive Palazzo Broletto. If time allows, we highly recommend taking the Funicular from Como to Brunate for a breathtaking panoramic view of Como. We'll then settle in for a restful night in the Como area.

Join us for breakfast at the hotel before we embark on a full day's exploration of the stunning Lake Como. We'll set sail after breakfast, heading for the exquisite Villa Carlotta. As we navigate through the charming former hamlet of Tremezzo, we'll arrive at Villa Carlotta, a gem that enjoys a uniquely privileged position overlooking Lake Como. Not only is it renowned for its breathtaking location, but also for its botanical garden. This magnificent villa, dating back to the 1600s, was constructed by Giorgio Clerici. Inside the Italian gardens that envelop the villa, you'll find some of Canova's lesser-known sculptures still intact. The botanical garden is a sight to behold, boasting as many as 150 different azalea species. After a day filled with beauty and history, we'll return to the hotel for a restful night. Join us for an unforgettable journey.

Join us for breakfast at your hotel before we set off for a scenic drive to Rimini. Along the way, we'll have the chance to explore the historic cities of Verona and Padova. Our journey begins in Verona, where we'll park in Piazza Bra, home to the city's iconic Arena di Verona, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. From there, we'll stroll down Via Mazzini to reach Piazza delle Erbe, a charming square lined with ancient houses, towers, loggias, and fountains, including a central one featuring a Roman statue and Juliet's house. Our adventure continues as we drive to Padova, where we'll visit the Scrovegni Chapel, the Eremitani Church, and the Picture Gallery. These, along with the Sistine Chapel, are two masterpieces that everyone should see at least once. We also recommend a visit to the Basilica of St Anthony. Our day concludes as we continue our journey to Rimini, where we'll spend the night.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. The day is yours to unwind or embark on an adventure in the city. You might choose to spend your day in Venezia. We suggest a drive to Venice, where you'll marvel at attractions such as the 'Campanile di San Marco', the Doge's Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs. After the tour, you're free to explore or take a boat trip from Piazzale Tronchetto to 'Piazza San Marco'. Return to Rimini and if time permits, visit Ravenna, a city famed for its vibrant mosaics that decorate numerous historic buildings, like the octagonal Basilica of San Vitale, the 6th-century Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and many others. North of the centre, you'll find the renowned Mausoleum of Theodoric, built in the 6th century for King Theodoric the Great. Return to Rimini for a restful overnight stay.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. The day is yours to unwind or discover the enchanting cities of Gradara and Fano. We suggest a trip to Gradara, a medieval village nestled on the Romagna and Marche border. Enclosed by a magnificent, well-preserved wall, Gradara is part of the 'Most Beautiful Villages of Italy'. Explore the Gradara Castle, where each room reflects the grandeur of the influential families who once reigned here (Malatesta, Sforza, Borgia, Della Rovere). The castle is also known for the romantic tale of Paolo and Francesca, immortalized by Dante in Canto V of Inferno. Next, we head to Fano, entering the old town through the Arch of Augustus, the heart of the ancient Augustan walls. Wander through the old Roman alleyways, visit the Romanesque Cathedral, Piazza XX Settembre with the Fountain of the Goddess of Luck, the exterior of Palazzo Malatestiano, and the churches of Santa Maria Nuova (featuring works by Giovanni Santi, Raffaello's father, and Perugino) and San Francesco (home to the Tombs of the Malatesta family). End your day with a peaceful overnight stay in Rimini.

We'll start our day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel in Rimini. Our journey continues as we check out at 10:00 AM. From there, we'll drive to the airport or train station, marking the conclusion of our services. We'll bid farewell as you return your rental car. Thank you and see you soon!