Milan | Italy's Northern Treasures Independent Tour

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Enjoy the best of both worlds! The chic, cosmopolitan city of Milan with its rich culture & art treasures combined with the breathtaking beauty of Lakes Como & Maggiore.

Day 1: Milan

Arriving at Milan airport, collect your luggage and make your way to your hotel in central Milan. After checking in, enjoy some time to relax or perhaps set out to get acquainted with this cosmopolitan city.

Day 2: Milan | Walking Tour & Last Supper

Today join our Last Supper and Best of Milan Walking Tour and in just 3 hours you’ll see all the must-see sites, including Leonardo da Vinci’s famous "Last Supper" fresco, and get acquainted with this enigmatic city, visited by many but known by few. Our tour starts at the centre of the city (geographically and socially) with the famous Milan Duomo. This incredible cathedral is often described as one of the most beautiful churches in the world. With Skip-the-Line entrance at the Duomo, you won’t waste time in line, getting straight inside for a guided tour of this majestic space. Our next stop is the impressive Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century glass vaulted shopping arcade. Passing through the Gallery we arrive at Piazza Della Scala, the square which houses the world-renowned Scala Theatre - Milan’s Opera House since 1778 which is still in use. Next up is the Brera District; rich in historical buildings, literature cafés, restaurants and fashionable bars, this area has long been home to artists and intellectuals. From here picturesque, winding streets lead us north past Castello Sforzesco. An imposing medieval castle and fortress, Sforzesco was once seat and residence of the ruling family of Milan and now houses several of the city's museums and art collections. We end our tour with a bang at Milan’s most famous attraction – Leonardo Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’. With a pre-booked slot and Skip-the-Line access we get you straight inside, where you’ll spend 15 minutes alone with this masterpiece, your group of just 25 people or less, and your guide. This tour has a duration 3 hours approximately and the balance of the day is at your leisure. (B)

Day 3: Milan | Lake Maggiore & Borromean Islands

A full-day tour to Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Island is planned for today. Lake Maggiore is one of the most beautiful Italian lakes with an excellent climate all year round, thanks to the surrounding mountains and hills that shelter it from the cold northern winds. Eleven islands, stunning villas and imposing fortresses and castles are among the many beauties of this lake. After our walking tour through the lively village of Stresa, you'll enjoy a pleasant boat cruise to the fascinating archipelago of the Borromean Islands with stops to visit the islands of Isola Madre, known for its botanical garden, Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori. Nature lovers will find Lake Maggiore the ideal place to spend an exciting day, away from the hustle of the city. To end this perfect day, enjoy a walking tour through the exclusive town of Arona before returning to Milan for overnight accommodation. (B)

Day 4: Milan to Como

After breakfast, and at a time to suit your departing train, make your way to the railway station where you'll board a high-speed train for the short journey north to beautiful Lake Como. Arriving at Como railway station, transfer independently to your hotel and the remainder of the day is free to enjoy Como as you choose. (B)

Day 5: Como | Food Walking Tour

Todays Como Food Tour provides a unique food tasting experience. More than a simple “walk and eat” tour, our professional English-speaking guides will give you the local insider view of the history, culture and architecture, which makes up this fascinating city. Enjoy a cultural and gastronomic journey strolling along the alleyways of the historical city centre in our pleasant sub-tropical climate. Admire the principal monuments such as the great Gothic-Renaissance Duomo, the “Broletto” - town hall Palace, the eighteenth-century “Teatro Sociale” and the church of San Fedele - a fine example of Romanesque style, all whilst pausing at the most popular food shops to enjoy the dishes and flavours most appreciated by locals. You'll meet your friendly guide in front of the Hotel Metropole Suisse and begin wandering through historic neighbourhoods to take in the vibrant cultural atmosphere while sampling tasty focaccia, followed by a choice of local cheeses. If you are a cheese lover you are in the right place: with the mountains in proximity, dairy delights can be found here. Sample high quality extra virgin olive oils harvested from the most current crops around Lake Como and Southern Italy. Taste delicious fruit-based barrel-aged balsamic from Modena and visit one of the most famous "enoteca" to sample a delicious local wine together with an exquisite tasting of the finest local sliced meats such as bresaola, prosciutto, salami and mortadella. Our expert guide will explain the various wines produced in the area. Learn all about the cooking process from your expert guide as you savour a tasting of typical fresh lake fish in one of the most popular restaurants in Como. This is the best time to sit, relax and get to know your travelling companions while enjoying a delicious pasta dish accompanied by a glass of local wine finishing with our famous Italian espresso. With a maximum of 15 participants, this small-group tour lasts about 2 ½ hours and the rest of the day is at your leisure. (B) 

Day 6: Como

A full day at leisure to enjoy this beautiful lake region as you chose. Lake Como is a treasure of nature, culture and wonderful landscapes and you can spend a relaxing day in Como, take a scenic boat cruise to admire superb villas & gardens from the lakeside or perhaps board a ferry to explore the picturesque towns of Varenna or Bellagio. (B)

Day 7: Como

Today marks the end of your Northern Treasures vacation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way to the railway station or nearest airport for your onward journey. (B)

Departure dates

This tour departs on Friday, Saturday, Monday & Tuesday from  April 03  to October 27, 2020.
Excursions featured in this tour do not operate daily; the itinerary will be modified to suit.