Tour of the Italian Lakes
⁍ Journeys ◦ Europe ◦ Italy ◦ Nature ◦ Culture ◦ Family ◦ Couples ◦ Rental Car
Highlights
Exploring the lakes of Northern Italy
✓ A leisurely tour of three lakes in northern Italy, following a carefully planned itinerary.
✓ Explore the Borromean Islands by private boat from Stresa, featuring Baroque palace gardens, lively fishing villages, and tranquil botanical gardens.
✓ Experience Lake Como from the water, passing historic villas that are only visible from the lake.
✓ Cultural stops in Bergamo Alta and Milan, where Italian grandeur provides the historic finale to this journey.
Luxury Tour of Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, and Lake Garda
On this luxurious fly-and-drive tour, you’ll discover three lakes in northern Italy: Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, and Lake Garda. Let yourself be swept away by the serene beauty of sparkling blue waters, surrounded by charming villages, lush gardens, and majestic Alpine vistas. Enjoy refined Italian cuisine, elegant villas, and a touch of la dolce vita. From the rustic charm of Lake Maggiore to the glamour of Lake Como and the liveliness of Lake Garda, Pegase is your guide to these Italian gems.
Itinerary
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Your enchanting tour of Northern Italy begins at Lake Maggiore, where water, mountains, and elegant villages alternate. You’ll stay in Stresa, a charming town on the lake’s shore and an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding area at a leisurely pace.
On the second day, you’ll set out on the water for an excursion to the Borromean Islands. You’ll visit Isola Bella, with its impressive Borromeo Palace and Baroque terraced gardens that cascade down to the lake. Afterward, you’ll stroll through the narrow streets of Isola dei Pescatori, where daily life revolves around small shops and waterfront restaurants. You’ll finish your day on Isola Madre, known for its English-style botanical gardens and the peaceful atmosphere among flowers, ancient trees, and free-roaming peacocks.
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Leaving Lake Maggiore behind, you head toward Lake Como, a region known for its deep waters, elegant villas, and refined atmosphere. Along the way, the landscape gradually changes, with steeper shores and villages clinging to the hills surrounding the lake.
You’ll explore places like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio at your own pace, where colorful facades, gardens full of camellias, and waterfront squares set the scene. On day 4, you’ll discover Lake Como from the water during a private boat tour. You’ll sail past historic villas and green shores that are only visible from the lake. There’s plenty of time to stop, relax, and take in the surroundings in peace and quiet.
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On your way to Lake Garda, make a cultural stop in Bergamo Alta. Stroll through the medieval streets to Piazza Vecchia, visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Cappella Colleoni, and soak up the lively atmosphere on the main street, La Corsarola.
Next, you’ll reach Lake Garda, the most diverse of the three. You’ll discover towns like Sirmione, Malcesine, Riva del Garda, and Limone sul Garda, each with its own unique character and waterfront location. Lake Garda also serves as an excellent base for visiting Verona, where you can walk past the Arena, visit Juliet’s House, and stroll through the historic center.
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For the final few days, you set the pace. If you’d rather stay a little longer at Lake Garda, there’s time to relax, take a boat ride, or visit another village. If you prefer to end your trip in a city, head to Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital.
You’ll start at Piazza del Duomo, walk through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, and see La Scala and the Castello Sforzesco. With a reservation, you can also admire Leonardo da Vinci’s *The Last Supper* at Santa Maria delle Grazie. On the last day, you’ll return your rental car at the airport and fly back home, with memories of a trip filled with lakes, villages, and cities that will linger for a long time to come.
Practical Information
Trip duration 8 days, 7 nights
Estimated price: €4,640 per person
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This price is subject to change. The estimated price includes a rental car and accommodations but excludes flights.
With Pegase Tailored, we bring your travel dreams to life, fully tailored to your wishes. No standard package—just a unique journey so you can discover the world on your own terms. Best time to visit
Our highlight of the trip
“During the private boat tour on Lake Como, you’ll sail past famous historic villas and hidden gardens. A unique perspective on the most beautiful spots that are otherwise inaccessible”
Amber De Cramer, Product Manager Italy
Featured Hotels
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como
Grand Hotel Tremezzo is an iconic, 5-star Art Nouveau palace on Lake Como, renowned for its unparalleled luxury and historic charm. The hotel offers elegant rooms with lake views, lush gardens, a modern wellness center, and the famous swimming pool that floats on the lake.
Grand Hotel Fasano, Lake Garda
The Grand Hotel Fasano is located on the western shore of Lake Garda, in a quiet and lush setting. The hotel combines its historic charm with modern comfort and wellness amenities. It’s a pleasant base from which to explore Lake Garda at your own pace.
Me Milan II Duca, Milan
ME Milan Il Duca is a contemporary design hotel in the heart of Milan, within walking distance of the city’s main attractions. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to explore Milan in comfort and style.
Featured experiences
Borromean Islands by private boat
From Stresa, you’ll take a private boat to the Borromean Islands, each with its own distinct character. You’ll combine a visit to the Borromean Palace and the Baroque gardens of Isola Bella with a glimpse into daily life on Isola dei Pescatori and the botanical tranquility of Isola Madre.
Private boat tour on Lake Como
During this boat tour, you’ll discover Lake Como from a different perspective. You’ll sail past historic villas, hidden gardens, and lush shores that are barely visible from the road. The boat is entirely at your disposal, allowing plenty of time for relaxation, stops, and sightseeing.
Upper Bergamo
Bergamo Alta is a compact, walled upper town with a distinct historical character. Here you can stroll through medieval streets, squares, and monuments such as Piazza Vecchia and the Cappella Colleoni. As a cultural stopover, the town serves as a natural link between the lakes and Milan.
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