Excellent
7-Day Switzerland & Northern Italy Itinerary: Alpine Charms & Lakeside Glamour
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Excellent
Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertGetting to Bellagio by ferry from Como rather than by road is a detail that sounds minor until you're on the boat watching the village approach from the water. The Lakes, Mountains and Adventures excursion from Zurich earns its position on day one: it opens the alpine register before you cross into Italy, so the shift to Lombard lake culture carries real contrast rather than arriving as an afterthought. Do the Milan walking tour before the Como day trip, not after; the city's medieval and Renaissance layers make the villa gardens read differently once you understand what the region was building toward.
Getting to Bellagio by ferry from Como rather than by road is a detail that sounds minor until you're on the boat watching the village approach from the water. The Lakes, Mountains and Adventures excursion from Zurich earns its position on day one: it opens the alpine register before you cross into Italy, so the shift to Lombard lake culture carries real contrast rather than arriving as an afterthought. Do the Milan walking tour before the Como day trip, not after; the city's medieval and Renaissance layers make the villa gardens read differently once you understand what the region was building toward.
Recommended route
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Zurich
Day 1 - 3
Zurich, or 'Zuri' as it is fondly known by its multicultural inhabitants, lies in northern Switzerland at the meeting point of a beautiful lake and river, with the magnificent snow-capped Swiss Alps standing guard high above it. This fairy tale city is renowned for its beauty, cleanliness, efficiency, and heritage. Explore medieval alleyways peppered with quirky corner cafes, steepled churches, trendy taprooms, and world-class galleries and restaurants. A day in Zurich can include browsing the unrivalled selection of luxury stores on it’s famous shopping strip, the Bahnhofstrasse; riding the Polybahn, the 19th-century funicular up a steep hill to admire the spectacular view; or ‘renting’ a free bike or skateboard to meander along the banks of picturesque Lake Zurich. The venerable palace of art at the Kunsthaus is also a major drawcard, containing numerous world-famous masterpieces.
Your accommodation
Central Plaza Hotel
A stay at Central Plaza Hotel places you in the heart of Zürich, within a 10-minute walk of Swiss National Museum and Bahnhofstrasse. This hotel is 0.5 mi (0.7 km) from Lindenhof and 1.4 mi (2.3 km) from Zürich Opera House.
Enjoy recreation amenities such as a health club or take in the view from a terrace. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a television in a common area.
Make yourself at home in one of the 103 guestrooms featuring espresso makers. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Your activity
Lakes, Mountains & Adventures
Travel by comfortable coach through scenic Swiss countryside to the stunning Bernese Oberland. Enjoy approximately seven hours of free time in Interlaken to explore at your own pace and choose from a variety of optional activities, from relaxing lakeside experiences to exciting mountain adventures.
Stroll along the Höhematte promenade and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps, including the famous Jungfraujoch. Browse local shops for traditional souvenirs, Swiss watches, and fine jewellery, or ride the funicular to Harder Kulm for panoramic views over Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. You may also visit the charming village of Iseltwald by bus or boat, or explore the fascinating St. Beatus Caves on the shores of Lake Thun.
For adventure seekers, options include rafting, canyoning, or a thrilling jet boat ride on Lake Brienz, while nature lovers can enjoy a scenic journey on the Schynige Platte Railway with magnificent views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. After a memorable day, meet your guide for the comfortable return journey.
- Starting Time: 08:00 am
- Meeting Point: Zurich Sihlquai Bus Station near Zurich's main train station (Zurich HB)
- Group size / Maximum number of people: 45
Milan
Day 4 - 7
The vibrant metropolis of Milan is the capital of Italy’s Lombardy region in northern Italy. Always at the forefront of international fashion, Milan’s sleek, glamorous facade has earned it a reputation for superficiality and excessive consumerism. However, beneath the surface lies a treasure trove of historical and architectural wonders—from its magnificent Gothic churches, Baroque mansions, and Art Nouveau palazzos to the striking modern skyscrapers of the Porta Nuova financial district. Must-see landmarks include the spectacular Milan Cathedral (Duomo), the glass-vaulted Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and of course, La Scala—one of the world’s most renowned opera houses. Milan offers something for everyone: those in search of high-end designer shopping will be more than satisfied, as will visitors interested in fascinating historical sites and extraordinary architectural achievements.
Your accommodation
Tivoli President Milano Hotel
A stay at Tivoli President Milano Hotel places you in the heart of Milan, within a 10-minute walk of Piazza del Duomo and Cathedral of Milan. This luxury hotel is 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from Via Montenapoleone Fashion District.
Make use of convenient amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge). This hotel also features wedding services and a banquet hall.
Make yourself at home in one of the 239 guestrooms featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Your bed comes with down comforters and premium bedding. Satellite television is provided for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature rainfall showerheads and designer toiletries.
Your activity
Guided Walking Tour in Milan
Enjoy a private guided tour of Milan, led by your expert guide, and explore the city’s most iconic landmarks. Your experience begins with hotel pickup if your accommodation is located in the central area; otherwise, a convenient meeting point will be communicated. Start your adventure with a visit to the magnificent Duomo di Milano, where you will not only admire the stunning interior of this Gothic masterpiece but also have the chance to ascend to the terraces. With a ride in the elevator, you will reach the top for panoramic views of Milan, offering an unforgettable perspective of the city and the cathedral itself. The tour continues with external visits to the Sforza Castle, Colonne di San Lorenzo, and the famous Scala Opera House, among other important landmarks. Explore Milan’s rich history and culture as your guide shares fascinating insights along the way.
Starting time: 9:30 am approx.
