• Aarp Logo Red
    AARP Members Save $50 AARP SAVE $50 on Costsaver vacations booked with us ON THIS VACATION
    Learn More

Highlights of the Italian Lakes

Operated by: CostSaver

8 Days from $1,184 per person
APR - OCT 2023
Lake Garda in the Lake District, Italy

Countries Visited

Italy, Switzerland ...more Italy, Switzerland

Locations Visited

Milan, Saronno, Como, Bellagio, Lugano, Lake Maggiore, Verona, Lake Garda, Rovereto, Bergamo ...more Milan, Saronno, Como, Bellagio, Lugano, Lake Maggiore, Verona, Lake Garda, Rovereto, Bergamo
  1. Day 1 Arrive Milan – Saronno (2 Nights)

    Arrive in Milan and head to Saronno, a pretty little town best known for the famous Amaretto liqueur whose honey-almond flavours are a sweet delight after dinner. You’ll have some time to explore on your own before meeting your Travel Director and travel companions for an included dinner at your hotel.

    meals Dinner
    hotel Starhotels Grand Milan Saronno
  2. Day 2 Lake Como excursion

    It’s just a short hop to Lake Como, whose deep blue waters have inspired great writers like Mark Twain and Ernest Hemingway. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll see for yourself why this idyllic retreat has endured as a firm favourite among aristocrats, celebrities and locals since Roman times. Board your included cruise to Bellagio, the pearl of the lake, with its steep lanes and sophisticated harbour area. Soak up the fresh lake breeze, as you cruise past luxurious villas and elegant terraced gardens that line the lush hills along the lake’s expansive coastline. You could spend hours sipping a refreshing Spritz and watching the world go by but you’ll want to join an optional dinner in Como instead.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Starhotels Grand Milan Saronno
  3. Day 3 Saronno – Lugano (Switzerland) – Lake Maggiore (2 Nights)

    As you cross the border into Switzerland this morning, you may do a double take arriving in Lugano, known as the ‘Monte Carlo of Switzerland'. Italy has had quite the magic touch on shaping its culinary, cultural and architectural scene as you’ll come to see in its piazze and along the narrow streets. Choose an optional scenic cruise on Lake Lugano or take a leisurely stroll along its lakeside promenades or indulge in some well-deserved retail therapy – the city is famous for its high-end fashion boutiques. Once you’ve bagged all the best buys, return to Italy for a two-night stay at your hotel on the western shores of Lake Maggiore, Italy’s second-largest lake. Tuck into another Italian cena before turning in for the evening.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Hotel Milano
  4. Day 4 Lake Maggiore free day

    Immortalised in Hemingway's 1920s novel 'A Farewell to Arms', Lake Maggiore is one of Italy’s most scenic lake landscapes. With so many hidden treasures to uncover, we’ve included a free day for you to do whatever you wish. One of our favourite options is to join a breathtaking excursion to the Borromean Islands, purchased by the Borromeo family in the 16th century and still owned by them. Explore the magnificent palace and elegant gardens that remain dotted across the lake’s islands and islets to this day.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Hotel Milano
  5. Day 5 Lake Maggiore – Verona – Lake Garda scenic drive – Rovereto (2 Nights)

    Lose yourself in the tragic love affair of Romeo and Juliet when you visit Verona. Your orientation tour of this romantic Italian city will include views of the ancient Roman Arena and balcony where a fictional Juliet once called for her Romeo. During your free time, visit Piazza delle Erbe, home to a fruit and vegetable market since medieval times. The beautiful square is surrounded by exquisite buildings from different periods of Verona's history. The sun at its peak, we take a scenic drive along Lake Garda, renowned for its crystal-clear waters. Snap a selfie and admire the view before arriving at your hotel for your two-night stay.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Mercure Nerocubo
  6. Day 6 Lake District free day

    Throw your guidebook out the window and switch off your phone. This is the perfect time to indulge in a relaxing siesta, as Italian families have done for centuries. Kick back near the shores of Lake Garda and reflect on the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you, watch the world go by or let your mind contemplate your next journey. If you’re feeling energetic, you could make the most of your time by joining a full-day Optional Experience to Bolzano, capital of southern Tyrol. Shop in the arcaded streets and soak up the mountain views.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Mercure Nerocubo
  7. Day 7 Rovereto – Bergamo – Milan (1 Night)

    Our return journey to Milan would not be complete without a stop in Bergamo, enveloped within Venetian walls whose construction famously caused eight excommunications by the local clergy. You may agree it was worth it when you board the funicular which has been ferrying locals and visitors for over a century to the Upper Town, enjoying the most breathtaking views of the town’s beautiful gardens and even the Apennines on a clear day. Arriving in Milan, your walking tour with a Local Specialist will reveal some of the city’s most treasured sights, including the 14th-century Gothic Cathedral and La Scala Opera House, which you could choose to visit as an Optional Experience. Later, you’ll toast a fond farewell to an exhilarating journey over dinner at your hotel with new friends.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Holiday Inn Nord Zara
  8. Day 8 Depart Milan

    Your heart full and probably a few pounds heavier, it’s time to close the curtain on an enchanting encounter with the Italian Lakes. For now, it’s arrivederci but not goodbye forever as you say farewell to your travel companions and Travel Director. Find out more about your available transfers at costsavertour.com/transfers.

    meals Breakfast
Highlights Italian Lakes Guided Tour Map
Price Includes

Whats Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • Many meals and daily breakfasts included
  • City orientation tours
  • Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries
  • Extensive variety of Choice Optional Experiences

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 7 Breakfast (B)

Essentials

  • : Enjoy the alpine peaks and sparkling waters of this scenic lake as well as an included cruise to Bellagio
  • : Visit the Swiss city of Lugano located on the shores of this spectacular lake
  • : Visit Italy's second-largest lake and see the beautiful towns, villages and gardens
  • : View the Roman Arena and Juliet's Balcony
  • : Visit Italy's largest lake and enjoy breathtaking scenery on an included scenic drive
  • : Visit this fascinating historic city with two distinct centres and enjoy a funicular ride with spectacular views
  • : Enjoy a sightseeing tour in Milan with your Local Specialist including views of the Duomo, the Galleria and La Scala Opera House

Whats Included

  • : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • : Many meals and daily breakfasts included
  • : City orientation tours
  • : Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
  • : Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries
  • : Extensive variety of Choice Optional Experiences

Dates & Prices

Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.

Online Booking Process

Onlinebookingprocesssteps
July 2023
AARP Members Save up to $50
Jul 1 Sat
Jul 8 Sat
AARP Members Save up to $50
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,315 $1,184 Save $132
GETAWAY DEALS
August 2023
AARP Members Save up to $50
Aug 26 Sat
Sep 2 Sat
AARP Members Save up to $50
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,315 $1,184 Save $132
GETAWAY DEALS
Optional Add-Ons

Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.

Italian Lakes

Available on Day 2

Italian Lakes Dinner in Como

Embrace the luxury and elegance of Lake Como with an evening tour you’ll cherish for years to come. Explore the picturesque streets of Como town with your fellow travellers, marvelling at neoclassical mansions and traditional storefronts, before enjoying a delightful dinner with drinks at a local restaurant.
Adult Price: € 64

Lugano

Available on Day 3

Mount San Salvatore and Lake Cruise

Take your tour of Switzerland to the next level with a scenic cruise on Lake Lugano, admiring villas and villages that dot the shores of the beautiful lake. Next, you’ll board the funicular to gradually climb the summit of Lugano’s most well-known mountain; San Salvatore, the balcony of the Swiss Alps! Here you’ll have time to explore and take in the breath-taking views from the mountain peak.
Adult Price: € 65

Available on Day 4

Discover The Borromean Islands

All aboard! Today is all about the beautiful Lake Maggiore, which you can explore alongside a Local Specialist. Enjoy cruising along the pristine lake, viewing the Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella, where you’ll visit the magnificent Palace of the Borromean Princess. Visiting spectacular sights in the Italian lakes district, you’ll love the chance to explore these postcard-worthy islands.
Adult Price: € 49
Note: This optional is only able to be operated between mid-March and the end of October.

Available on Day 4

Visit Lake Orta And San Giulio Island

Come with us to the hillside village of Pettenasco, on the shores of Lake Orta, to experience Northern Italy's best-kept secret with a Local Specialist. Afterwards, we'll cruise to the island of San Giulio, famous for its peaceful atmosphere and delightful church. Then, spend time strolling in Orta town, taking in the area's beauty, with old-school trattorias and quintessential Italian charm.
Adult Price: € 43

Available on Day 5

Lake Garda Discovery

Today is all about exploring the largest of the Italian Lakes as we take a route along the scenic shoreline of Lake Garda. You’ll enjoy views of the mountains, lush countryside and its glistening blue waters as you cross the lake, taking in historical towns and breathtakingly beautiful sights along the way.
Adult Price: € 43

Available on Day 6

Sudtirol and the Dolomite Mountains

Come with us as we follow the Adige Valley to Bolzano, the quaint capital of the southern part of the Tyrol. With our Local Specialist, we'll explore the city, have time to shop in the arcaded streets and take a cable car to the top of The Renon. At the top, we'll ride on the century-old train and enjoy incredible panoramic views from this famous mountain plateau.
Adult Price: € 62

Milan

Available on Day 7

Treasures Of Milan

Enjoy a fantastic opportunity to uncover some of the highlights of elegant Milan, from the world’s most famous Opera House, La Scala, to the gothic spires of the towering Duomo (Cathedral). Our wonderful Local Specialist will bring this city’s eventful past to life before your eyes, showing why this fashionable city is known as the culture capital of Italy.
Adult Price: € 45

Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Mary Griffith
Saturday, October 1, 2022
Service
Great customer service! Beautiful scenery. The itinerary was more strenuous than I anticipated and was not the same as what was sent to me. We had a fabulous driver. Would have liked more detail about what what to expect day-to-day from the tour guide. Pick-up at airport went smoothly.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for your valuable feedback. We appreciate your suggestions and will be sure to pass them along to the tour operator.
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Vacation
Beautiful scenery including lakes and mountains. Tour guide was very kind.
Patricia Trujillo
Monday, August 29, 2022
Service
Each time I called a booking agent I felt I received their undivided attention. Any question, any concern was met with friendly attitude.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are so excited you enjoyed your trip to the Italian Lakes. It sounds like you have a wonderful time and came back with lifelong memories. So glad we were able to help you plan and book this fabulous vacation. Thank you for leaving a review. We appreciate the feedback.
Wednesday, September 7, 2022
Vacation
Our travel directory, Chris Daley was extremely knowledgeable and showed great passion for the history of the area. He never blamed or shamed anyone for their behavior. His manner was always friendly and helpful. He was a fantastic guide and person.
Diane Tortolani
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Service
Itinerary was good. Guide was good weather great!
Vacation
Enjoyed the trip. Hotels were good.
Margaret Yaeger
Saturday, September 14, 2019
Service
Alicia has been great and very responsive to my inquiries.
Vacation
The tour guide, Alissa, and our driver made this an exceptional trip. I also traveled with 36 other congenial people. This trip exceeded my expectations. The additional excursions enhanced the trip.
Tripta Chabra
Thursday, August 23, 2018
Service
Possibly Except for the problem encountered in Belegrate. Hotel Corallato whisch was not only below standard with no A/c for two nights when it was above 90 plus F temperature. The food in that hotel was also below par
Vacation
Could have been better if we were taken to lake Como than drive by it
Indira Throp
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
Service
Always very punctual and the the sight steering selection of places very good. Disappointed with bland food at the first 2 hotels and were surprised that no salt and pepper were on the table to give any taste to the food . The visit to Dolomites were excellent.
Vacation
Was disappointed with the bland food at the first 2 hotels .
Yoginder Chabra
Monday, August 20, 2018
Service
Over all it was good tour but very disappointed with Hotel Villa Carlotta in BELIGRATE. THERE WAS NO AIR CONDITIONING IN A OLD FASHIONED ROOM WHEN THE TEMPERATURE WAS ABOVE 90 degrees F . Small fan in the room made 2 nights stay miserable. We expected a better class of hotel with better dinner and No Salt/ Pepper in the dinning hall.Actually every hotel customers were trying to find and chase only one set of salt pepper bottles.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for taking the time to write. We are sorry to hear about your experience at the Villa Carlotta. We will share this with the Quality Control team immediately.
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
Vacation
Wish the tour included the actual visit to lake Como and not just drive by it
Daniel Vaughn
Friday, June 23, 2017
Service
We had a great time. The tour included a nice variety of rural and city experiences. Gianluca D'errico made the trip fun and informative. We would recommend GET Tours. This was our second trip with them.
Vacation
The optional excursions were a good value.
Kathryn Leber
Saturday, June 17, 2017
Service
An excellent tour guide, very nice accommodations and wonderful places to visit.
Vacation
Great tours with a tour guide who was engaging and knowledgeable.
Trusted Customer
Sunday, May 21, 2017
Service
It was a good value for the price.
Vacation
The hotels could have been a little nicer and had locations close to things to do or see. Otherwise it was a GREAT trip
See More Reviews
Terms & Conditions
Click here to view Terms and Conditions for this guided vacation
Back To Top