Enchanting Waters: Discovering the Lakes of Italy, Self-Drive
Enchanting Waters: Discovering the Lakes of Italy, Self-Drive
Enchanting Waters: Discovering the Lakes of Italy, Self-Drive
8 Days Starting and ending in Milan, Italy
Visiting: Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Verona, Milan
Tour operator:
Tour code:
645546
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating self-drive adventure through Italy's most enchanting lakes with the "Enchanting Waters: Discovering the Lakes of Italy" tour. This 8-day journey begins with the serene beauty of Lake Maggiore, where you'll explore the picturesque Borromeo Islands. Continue to the dramatic landscapes of Lake Como, renowned for its lush gardens and historic villas. Discover the medieval charm of Bergamo and the romantic allure of Verona, the setting of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet." Experience the tranquil shores of Lake Garda, visiting charming villages and stunning botanical gardens. Conclude your trip in the vibrant city of Milan, home to iconic landmarks and world-class shopping. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and the freedom of unlimited mileage with your car hire, making this an unforgettable Italian escape.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival Malpensa Or Linate Airport / Car Hire Pick-Up – Lake Maggiore (60Km – 1Hr / 115Km – 1.5Hr)
Location: Lake Maggiore
Accommodation Name: Hotel Regina Palace or similar 4*
Arrival at the Milan Malpensa or Linate Airport and pick-up the car. Night spent in the region of Lake Maggiore. Please note that this tour is a suggested itinerary. While the sites listed may be visited independently, the package does not cover any applicable entrance or tour fees.
Overnight in Lake Maggiore area.
Day 2 : Lake Maggiore: Stresa And The Borromeo Islands
Location: Lake Maggiore
Accommodation Name: Hotel Regina Palace or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel. This day is entirely dedicated to the discovery of Lake Maggiore. Leaving from the loading dock of Stresa by ferryboat to visit, by crossing the Borromeo bay, the three islands of this little archipelago: L’Isola Bella, l’Isola Madre and l’Isola dei Pescatori. On the Isola Bella the Borromeo Palace will be visited where it is possible to admire the thirty main rooms distributed over two floors. Recently the gallery of the “General Berthier” was opened to the public. The baroque garden of the Isola Bella, which is composed of 10 terraces, is considered to be one of the most beautiful gardens of Italy. The next island is L’isola dei Pescatori, which has still 50 inhabitants and was built in the sixth century. Its main characteristics are the narrow streets, the little boutiques and many restaurants which serve mainly the fish of the lake. There is also a very beautiful little church consecrated to San Vittore. And to finish off, the last Island to visit is L’Isola Madre, where the English-style botanical gardens dominate the scene with thousands of plants and flowers. In the palace there are period furniture and the puppet theatre. In the garden of the Isola Madre the peacocks, the pheasant and the parrots combined together, create a joyous atmosphere.
Overnight in Lake Maggiore area.
Day 3 : Lake Maggiore – Lake Como – Lake Maggiore (250Km – 5Hrs)
Location: Lake Como
Accommodation Name: Hotel Regina Palace or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to Lake Como. You will succumb to the charm of this region and discover an explosion of Mediterranean colours of the gardens filled with camellias, oleanders and luxurious palm trees around the light blue lakes. In Lenno it will be possible to visit Villa Balbianiello and then in Cernobbio Villa d’Este. Moving on to Tramezzo where you will visit Villa Carlotta, an example of life of the nobility of Lombardy. They loved living in very beautiful houses surrounded by magnificent gardens and full of treasures of art. Villa Carlotta houses works of Canova, Tadolini and Thorvaldesen. Departure by boat (pax + car) of Cadenabbia (near Villa Carlotta) to Bellagio, known as “the pearl of the lake”, a “charming villa full of history”. Here we will walk to La Punta Spartivento where you will be able to admire the bifurcation of the lake and the mountains which surround this enchanting landscape. Then visit some magnificent gardens of Villa Melzi, in addition to the visit of the superb Botanical Garden. Departure to Como and short visit of the city, where we suggest you see some examples of very different but very interesting architecture: The Dome with the Cupolas of Filippo Juvara and la Casa del Fascio (House of the Fascists) which is an extraordinary example of Italian rationalism. You will have the possibility to do an excursion by funicular to Brunate, to admire the breathtaking view over Lake Como. At the end of the afternoon, you will leave for Lake Garda. Night spent in the region of Lake Maggiore.
Overnight in Lake Maggiore area.
Day 4 : Lake Maggiore – Bergamo – Lake Garda (225Km – 4.5Hrs)
Location: Lake Garda
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Sofia or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to Bergamo and stop to visit the upper city (by funicular). Though the medieval streets, which still have their charm, we will go up to “la Rocca”, an ancient defensive point where you will be able to admire an unexpected view of the lower city and the valleys in the surroundings. Then we will arrive at Piazza Vecchia, the heart of the city, in which there are the ancient palaces of the city and the impressive “Campanone”. The majestic and unique Piazza del Duomo will welcome us with its basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, gem of the roman art, the Cathedral, the Baptistery and the Chapelle Colleoni, unique gem of the Renaissance. Then walk “la Corsarola”, the main street of the upper city with many ancient and modern shops, restaurants and cafés. Continuation to Lake Garda with a stop in the peninsula of Sirmione to visit this beautiful little city. We will visit the Scaliger caste (lords della Scala, of Verona), a beautiful medieval castle surrounded by the waters of the lake. The view of the dungeon is splendid. The visit of the famous caves of Catullo is very interesting and rich in terms of the views over the lake. It is a large ancient Roman villa. Take a stroll in this beautiful city and admire also the splendid villas, such as the villa of Maria Callas. Night spent in the region of Lake Garda.
Overnight in Lake Garda area.
Day 5 : Lake Garda – Verona – Borghetto – Parco Sigurtá – Lake Garda (55Km – 1Hr)
Location: Verona
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Sofia or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel. You cannot miss to visit Verona. The most beautiful places to see are: the Verona Arena, a Roman amphitheatre, the symbol of the city where plenty of prestigious concerts take place and also the famous Verona festival (dedicated to the opera); the house of Juliette with its balcony; Piazza delleErbe, Piazza dei Signori; the Basilica of San Zeno, to understand that Verona is a city that offers some evidence of every era: Roman, medieval, Renaissance. In the afternoon you will go to Borghetto sul Mincio, considered one of the most beautiful small villages of Italy. Not far from Borghettosul Mincio you will find Parco Giardino Sigurtà, an extraordinary public park with a beautiful English-style garden. For anyone with an interest in history, you are very close to Solferino with its battlefield and where the Red Cross was created. Night spent in the region of Lake Garda.
Overnight in Lake Garda area.
Day 6 : Lake Garda: Westerm Shore & North Side Of Lake Garda Limone – Riva Del Garda – Lake Garda (186Km – 2.5Hrs)
Location: Lake Garda
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Sofia or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel. You will arrive at Torri del Benaco and then by ferry you will reach Tescolano Maderno on the western shore of the lake. You will keep heading northand stop at Gargnano, where it is possible to see the ancient orangeries. Through the panoramic road by way of Tignale and Tremosine, you will arrive at Limone sul Garda, the small harbour known for its mild climate. In the afternoon continue moving north to visit Lake Ledro, where there is the reconstruction of a prehistoric village and the Museum (not to be missed if you have kids between 8 and 15 years). You will go to Riva del Garda, the most northern point of the lake in the province of Trento. A beautiful little city, a paradise for surfers. In high season we suggest you reach Pregasina, 7 km from Riva, with a unique view over the lake. Night spent in the south-eastern region of Lake Garda.
Overnight in Lake Garda area.
Day 7 : Lake Garda – Milan (150Km – 2Hrs)
Location: Milan
Accommodation Name: Hotel Concorde or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to Milan, this day is entirely dedicated to the visit of the city, from Piazza del Duomo where you can admire the Duomo, which is one of the most important symbols of Milan. From Piazza del Duomo you will go to the magnificent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, which was built around 1870 and it is called “Salotto di Milano”. Your tour will continue by way of the Galleria, you will walk to Piazza della Scala, where it is possible to see the famous theatre La Scala, the “temple of Opera”. From Piazza della Scala, the next place to visit will be Castello Sforzesco. This large building was the siege of Sforza, the Dukes of Milan. In the middle of Piazza Sempione there is l’Arco della Pace, a 25-metre tall monument from the Napoleonic period. It was built in the neoclassical style and decorated with the marble sculpture and the Corinthian columns. You will be able to admire the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio, but, most importantly, do not miss the visit of La Cena of Leonardo da Vinci inside the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie (which must be booked in advance). Lastly you will walk and go shopping in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele or in the famous Via Montenapoleone, the kingdom of famous fashion brands. Night spent in Milan.
Overnight in Milan.
Day 8 : Milan – Departure Malpensa Or Linate (50Km – 1Hr / 10Km – 20Min)
Location: Milan
Accommodation Name: Hotel Concorde or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel. Delivery of the vehicle at the Milan airports (Malpensa or Linate) and departure to your following destination.
What's Included
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Accommodation
7 nights' accommodation in superior hotel categories: Hotel Regina Palace or similar 4* in Lake Maggiore, Hotel Villa Sofia or similar 4* in Lake Garda, and Hotel Concorde or similar 4* in Milan.
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Meals
7 breakfasts are included.
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Car Hire
8-day car hire including pick-up and drop-off from Malpensa or Linate Airports, unlimited mileage, all insurances (SCDW, PAI, TP), tax, domestic one-way fee (except to/from Sardinia or Sicily), airport and railway surcharge, road tax (VRF), additional driver, and a grace period of 29 minutes.
What's Not Included
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Tour Guide
A tour guide is not included.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to attractions are not included.
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Ferryboat Tickets
Ferryboat tickets are not included.
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Funicular Tickets
Funicular tickets are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees are not included.
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Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
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Drinks During Meals
Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours, if any, are not included.
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City Tax
City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.
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Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
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Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any) are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
, is not included. -
Fuel & Refuelling Charge
Fuel and refuelling charge (Fuel fees approx.
€20 + IVA 22%) are not included. -
Admin Fee
Admin fee (€50 + tax) in case of car damage, traffic fine, etc.
, is not included. -
No Show Fee
No show fee is not included.
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Delivery and Collection
Delivery and collection of the car are not included.
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Insurance for Young Drivers
Insurance 'young' for all clients between 23 and 25 years is not included.
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Windscreen Protection
Windscreen protection (WDW) and Road Side Safety Net (RSN) are not included.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for traveling in Italy. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
Please Note
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-3 Lake Maggiore
Day 4-6 Lake Garda
Day 7 Milan
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
Mode of Transport
This self-drive tour includes an 8-day car hire with unlimited mileage, all necessary insurances, and pick-up/drop-off from Malpensa or Linate Airports.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights' accommodation in superior 4-star hotels, including Hotel Regina Palace at Lake Maggiore, Hotel Villa Sofia at Lake Garda, and Hotel Concorde in Milan.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-3 Lake Maggiore
Day 4-6 Lake Garda
Day 7 Milan
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 7 nights' accommodation in superior hotel categories. Specifically, you will stay at Hotel Regina Palace or similar 4-star hotel in Lake Maggiore for the first three nights, Hotel Villa Sofia or similar 4-star hotel in Lake Garda for the next three nights, and Hotel Concorde or similar 4-star hotel in Milan for the final night.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 7 breakfasts.
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What is included in the car hire options?
The car hire options include an 8-day car hire with pick-up and drop-off from Malpensa or Linate Airports, unlimited mileage, all insurances (SCDW, PAI, TP), tax, domestic one-way fee (except to/from Sardinia or Sicily), airport and railway surcharge, road tax (VRF), additional driver, and a grace period of 29 minutes.
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What are some of the key highlights of the tour?
Key highlights of the tour include visiting Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Bergamo, and Verona. You will explore picturesque lakes, charming towns with historical significance, and cities with rich cultural heritage.
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Are entrance fees and tour guides included in the package?
No, entrance fees and tour guides are not included in the package. The tour is a suggested itinerary, and while the sites listed may be visited independently, the package does not cover any applicable entrance or tour fees.
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What should I wear during the tour?
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended for traveling in Italy. Visitors should avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can also be very useful during your stay.
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Are there any specific requirements for car hire?
Yes, the car hire excludes fuel and refueling charges (approx. €20 + IVA 22%), admin fee (€50 + tax) in case of car damage or traffic fines, no-show fee, delivery and collection charges, insurance for clients between 23 and 25 years, and windscreen protection (WDW) and roadside safety net (RSN).
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Can children be added to the booking?
Yes, children can be added to the booking when sharing a room with at least 2 adults. If not, they must be added to the booking with the adult rate. Only 1 child is allowed per room.
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What happens on the first day of the tour?
On the first day, you will arrive at Milan Malpensa or Linate Airport, pick up your car, and spend the night in the region of Lake Maggiore.
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What activities are planned for the second day of the tour?
The second day is dedicated to discovering Lake Maggiore. You will take a ferryboat from Stresa to visit the three islands of the Borromeo archipelago: Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori. You will explore the Borromeo Palace, baroque gardens, and enjoy the local culture and cuisine.
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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Low Deposit
Tui Italia requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of tui italia charges.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 8 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.