Best of Northern Italy

Welcome to Milan, Italy's sophisticated capital of fashion and design. After arriving at our luxury hotel, we begin exploring the city's historic centre. Admire the magnificent Duomo di Milano, one of Europe's largest Gothic cathedrals, before strolling through the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its impressive glass-domed arcade. Continue into the artistic Brera district, where charming streets, stylish boutiques, and inviting cafés showcase Milan's cosmopolitan atmosphere. This elegant introduction perfectly blends history, culture, architecture, and contemporary Italian lifestyle.

Spend the day discovering Milan's remarkable artistic and cultural heritage. We visit Santa Maria delle Grazie to admire Leonardo da Vinci's world-famous masterpiece, The Last Supper (subject to ticket availability). Continue through the fashionable Via Montenapoleone, home to Italy's leading luxury brands, before exploring the impressive Sforza Castle and its beautiful surrounding park. As evening approaches, we embrace the Milanese tradition of aperitivo in one of the city's lively piazzas while experiencing the vibrant social atmosphere that defines northern Italy.

Today we journey to the elegant lakeside town of Stresa, beautifully situated on the western shore of Lake Maggiore beneath the foothills of the Alps. After checking into our luxury hotel, we take a leisurely stroll along the palm-lined waterfront promenade before boarding a boat to explore the enchanting Borromean Islands. Visit the magnificent Isola Bella, home to the opulent Borromeo Palace and its spectacular terraced Italian gardens, then continue to Isola dei Pescatori, a charming fishing island with narrow cobbled lanes and traditional lakeside restaurants. Throughout the day, enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped Alpine peaks, elegant Belle Époque villas, and the tranquil waters of Lake Maggiore. The combination of grand aristocratic estates, picturesque island villages, and stunning mountain scenery makes Stresa one of Northern Italy's most refined and scenic lakeside destinations.

Enjoy a leisurely day discovering Lake Maggiore's natural beauty and cultural attractions. We visit Villa Pallavicino Park, home to beautifully landscaped gardens and a fascinating collection of wildlife, or explore the unique Museum of Dolls and Toys. Spend the afternoon relaxing beside the lake, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, elegant Belle Époque villas, and charming waterfront cafés. The peaceful atmosphere and spectacular scenery make Lake Maggiore one of northern Italy's most relaxing destinations.

Today we travel into the heart of the Langhe, a UNESCO World Heritage wine region renowned for its rolling vineyards, medieval hilltop villages, and world-class gastronomy. Upon arrival, we explore the picturesque village of Barolo, visiting its charming cobbled streets, historic wine cellars, and the impressive Castello Falletti, home to the WiMu Wine Museum. From panoramic viewpoints, admire the patchwork of vineyards that produce the region's legendary Nebbiolo grapes. Later, enjoy a guided tasting at a local winery, sampling prestigious Barolo DOCG wines paired with traditional Piedmontese specialties such as tajarin pasta, vitello tonnato, local cheeses, hazelnuts, and seasonal white truffles (in season). The combination of exceptional wines, breathtaking vineyard landscapes, and authentic culinary traditions makes the Langhe one of Italy's most celebrated gastronomic destinations.

We spend the day exploring the picturesque villages of La Morra and Barbaresco, each offering spectacular vineyard panoramas and centuries-old wine traditions. We visit family-owned wineries to learn about Barolo and Barbaresco production while sampling exceptional vintages. Along the way, we savour regional specialties including handmade pasta, truffles, hazelnuts, and artisan cheeses. The combination of remarkable wines, beautiful countryside, and warm local hospitality provides an unforgettable immersion into one of Italy's greatest culinary regions.

Today we travel to the stunning Ligurian coastline and the beautiful Gulf of Tigullio. Upon arrival, we settle into our elegant seaside hotel before exploring the colourful coastal town of Sestri Levante. Wander through charming streets lined with pastel-coloured buildings before reaching the famous Bay of Silence, where calm turquoise waters and golden beaches create one of Italy's most picturesque coastal settings. We enjoy fresh Ligurian seafood while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

Today we explore the stunning Gulf of Tigullio, one of the most picturesque stretches of the Ligurian Riviera. Choose to hike a section of the scenic coastal trails linking Sestri Levante, Portofino, and San Fruttuoso, offering breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and the sparkling Mediterranean. Alternatively, join an optional boat excursion to the glamorous harbour of Portofino, where luxury yachts, pastel-coloured buildings, and designer boutiques line the waterfront, before continuing to the elegant seaside town of Santa Margherita Ligure. Stroll along palm-lined promenades, browse exclusive boutiques, and relax at a waterfront café while sampling Ligurian specialties such as fresh seafood, pesto alla Genovese, and locally produced focaccia. Surrounded by colourful fishing villages, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters, the Gulf of Tigullio provides a spectacular and memorable finale to our Northern Italy journey.

After breakfast, we return to Milan. Depending on our departure schedule, we enjoy some final shopping, visit one last café, or take a leisurely stroll through the city's elegant streets before transferring to the airport. Depart with unforgettable memories of Northern Italy's magnificent lakes, celebrated wine country, historic cities, and spectacular Mediterranean coastline.