Échappée Belle aux Lacs Majeur et de Côme

Flight or train to Milan upon request.

Arrival in Milan and independent transfer to your hotel located in the heart of Italy’s second largest city.
Free time for personal discovery. A perfect blend of tradition and modernity, Milan captivates with its historical monuments, luxury boutiques, and lively arts scene. Milan Cathedral, or Duomo, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its impressive façade and 135 spires make it one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Right next to the Duomo, this historic shopping arcade is often called « the living room of Milan ». Under its majestic glass roof, you’ll find haute couture shops, stylish cafes, and restaurants. The Brera district, the famous Scala opera house, and the Sforza Castle are all just a short walk from your hotel.

Overnight at the hotel.

Departure by train for Lake Como. You will arrive in the city of the same name after about one hour.
This lake, located in the center of the Alps, is a haven of peace with a most pleasant climate. In summer, the lake is a true oasis for cooling off. Your guide and driver will pick you up at the station.
Private transfer for a visit to Villa Carlotta, a late 17th-century palace admired for its collection of sculptures and paintings as well as its magnificent botanical garden full of varieties of camellias, cedars, centuries-old sequoias, and tropical plants.
Next, you will continue your visit to Bellagio. Return to Como by fast boat.

Overnight at the hotel. (BB)

In the morning, take the Swiss train that brings you to the northernmost part of Lake Maggiore.
During the journey, you will cross the stunning landscapes of Lake Lugano and its picturesque shores, with mountains as a backdrop. Along this section, the railway often follows rivers, with many Alpine forests.

Arrival in Locarno, situated on the Swiss side of Lake Maggiore, featuring a combination of lake and Alpine landscapes.
Welcome to the canton of Ticino, located in southern Switzerland and the only Swiss region where Italian is the official language.
After dropping off your luggage, set off to explore the surroundings of this lesser-known region.

First stop, the charming small town of Ascona with cobbled streets, colorful houses, and small squares. Explore the local shops, art galleries, and craft boutiques.
Departure by boat for the Brissago islands, a pair of islands known for their natural beauty and rich biodiversity, especially Isola Grande, which houses the Botanical Garden of the Brissago Islands. This garden is home to more than 1,700 species of exotic plants from around the world. At the heart of the garden stands Villa Emden, an elegant mansion built by Baron Max Emden in the early 20th century.
Return to Locarno. Free time to discover the town of Locarno.

Overnight at the hotel. (BB)

A day to explore the region.
Start the day with a funicular ride up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Sasso, located on a hill overlooking Locarno, offering spectacular views of the city and the lake.
If you’re in the mood for even more altitude, the cable car takes you up to Cimetta, where you can enjoy hikes and breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps and Lake Maggiore (optional, extra charge).

Use the second part of the day to visit the capital of Ticino, the stunning city of Bellinzona. Famous mainly for its three medieval castles, all listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites for their exceptional historical and architectural value.

Return to Locarno, evening free to stroll along the lakeshore or in the town on the Piazza Grande.

Overnight at the hotel. (BB)

Head to the pier in the morning for the great crossing of Lake Maggiore from North to South. Discovery Trains provides you with the voucher-confirmation, to be paid at the pier ticket office.

The cruise lasts 3 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll drop your bags at the hotel reception and set off to discover the city of Stresa, facing the Borromean Islands, the jewel of Lake Maggiore. Piazza Cadorna is the heart of the city, with its shops, cafés, and restaurants. The elegant promenade runs alongside lush gardens, private villas, and prestigious hotels, offering an extraordinary view of the surroundings.

Overnight at the hotel. (BB)

Leave your luggage at the hotel reception.

Departure to the three beautiful Borromean Islands, dear to Ernest Hemingway. Discover Isola Bella, entrance and visit the 16th-century Borromeo Palace renowned for its vast halls, bedrooms, music rooms and armories, grottos decorated with stone and shells, and gardens featuring exotic plants and ten superimposed terraces. Continue on to Isola Madre and its majestic garden. 

Evening train from Stresa to Milan.
Your final evening amidst the jewels of the Alps, Lake Como and Lake Maggiore.

Overnight at the hotel. (BB)

Depending on your departure time, you may wish to visit Santa Maria delle Grazie Church and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this church houses one of Leonardo da Vinci’s most famous works, « The Last Supper. » Book your tickets in advance to admire this Renaissance masterpiece.

Independent transfer. End of your journey. (BB)

Additional night, return flight or train upon request.