Best of Italy: Rome, Milan, Lakes, Cinque Terre & Swiss Alps – 9 Days

Highlights

• Explore Rome's greatest ancient landmarks — the mighty Colosseum, the legendary Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum — led by a certified professional guide with personal audio receivers provided
• Travel from Rome to Milan aboard a high-speed train, then discover the elegant shores of Lake Como on a one-hour boat cruise, and stroll the charming cobblestone lanes of Bellagio, one of Italy's most beautiful lakeside villages
• Experience the magic of Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site — visit the colourful cliffside villages of Manarola and Monterosso al Mare, then admire all five villages from the sea on a 90-minute coastal boat cruise
• Ride the legendary Bernina Red Train, a UNESCO World Heritage railway, from the glamorous mountain resort of St. Moritz through the Engadin Valley, over the Bernina Pass at 2,253 metres, past icy glaciers and soaring bridges, down to Tirano in Italy
• Enjoy optional experiences including a Vatican Tour, a Rome Food Tour, and a full-day guided Venice Tour with lagoon boat ride and a walk through St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace

9-Day Best of Italy Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1

   Welcome to Rome

   Upon arriving in Rome, make your way to the hotel and check in. Spend the rest of the day exploring the charming streets of the city at your leisure.

2. 2

   Day 2

   Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

   Ancient Romans were not fond of sleeping in. In fact, anyone who lingered in bed after dawn was viewed with distrust. Most people rose at sunrise — or even earlier — and made their way to the Forum to begin the day's affairs. If you share this early-morning spirit, this guided tour of Rome's archaeological sites is the perfect choice for you.

   You'll be led by a certified professional guide and equipped with a personal audio receiver and headphones, ensuring you can clearly follow every explanation and story shared by our expert. Explore the Flavian Amphitheater, remarkably preserved through the centuries, and discover how Romans spent their free time as you walk through the very spaces where gladiators battled.

   The tour continues to Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome, founded over 2,772 years ago by the twin brothers Romulus and Remus. From there, you'll wander through the Roman Forum, once the vibrant center of political, social, and commercial life. Let your guide bring this extraordinary era back to life and transport you deep into the past.

3. 3

   Day 3

   Day at Leisure in Rome

   Enjoy a free day in Rome to explore at your own pace, or join one of the optional experiences available today. You may choose to visit the Vatican — home to St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums — or embark on a Rome Food Tour and discover the city's rich culinary traditions. Both options are not included in the tour price and are subject to availability.

4. 4

   Day 4

   Rome to Milan by Train

   Make your own way to Rome Termini Station and take the train to Milan. Your one-way train ticket from Rome Termini to Milan Centrale is included. When you arrive, head on your own to your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the city at your leisure. Overnight in Milan.

5. 5

   Day 5

   Lake Como & Bellagio

   Travel from Milan to Tremezzina on the shores of Lake Como, an area renowned for its elegant villas set against the dramatic backdrop of the Alps. Upon arrival, enjoy a one-hour boat cruise, taking in the stunning lakeside scenery from the water.

   Next, visit Bellagio, famous for its charming cobblestone lanes and inviting cafés tucked along steep, picturesque streets. From there, another boat ride will bring you to Cadenabbia and Como, where you can explore the historic center, browse local boutiques, and soak up the atmosphere before returning to Milan in the late afternoon.

6. 6

   Day 6

   Cinque Terre With Cruise

   Experience the magic of Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Picture colorful houses perched on cliffs with the sea as a backdrop.

   Depart from Milan, arriving in Manarola, one of Cinque Terre's most scenic villages. Enjoy free time to explore and sample local flavors.

   Next, continue by train to Monterosso al Mare, the largest village, noted for its medieval fortifications. Free of car traffic, it preserves the authentic spirit of a fishing village on the Italian Riviera. Enjoy its inviting streets or relax by the seafront, where restaurants, bars, and accommodations retain a simple, welcoming charm.

   End the day with a 90-minute boat cruise along the coastline, admiring the breathtaking beauty of the five villages. Afterwards, your coach will be waiting to take you back to Milan.

7. 7

   Day 7

   Swiss Alps and St. Moritz with Bernina Red Train

   There is no better way to observe the majesty of the Swiss Alps than on the legendary Bernina Red Train. Imagine yourself admiring the fairy-tale alpine landscape from carriages with opening windows to enjoy the mountain air and activate all your senses, fully immersing yourself in nature. On a 100-year-old railroad route, today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from luxurious Saint Moritz up to the Bernina Pass and down to Italy, our guide will deep dive into the history of this fascinating Swiss territory.

   Your adventure departs from the meeting point in Milan. On an air-conditioned coach you will arrive in St. Moritz, where you can admire the Alps while sipping famous Swiss hot chocolate at the best chocolate house in Switzerland, walk around the lake, or shop in luxurious boutiques. The train ride starts from St. Moritz through the Engadin Valley up to Bernina Pass (2,253 m) before descending to Italy, crossing the helical stone bridge in Brusio, ending in Tirano. Along the way you pass wild gorges, icy glaciers, soaring bridges, and loop tunnels. At the end, return to Milan by coach for a quiet rest after an overload of emotions.

8. 8

   Day 8

   Milan Day at Leisure or Optional Venice Tour

   Enjoy a free day in Milan to explore the city at your own pace, or join the optional full-day Venice Tour (not included).

   Venice is often called the world's most romantic city. On this full-day trip from the meeting point in Milan, you'll see why, with a guided tour of the city and a boat ride on the lagoon. Thanks to its location on the Adriatic Sea, Venice has been a major commercial center for centuries. Ruled by the doges, the city became one of Europe's wealthiest republics, with buildings showcasing a mix of architectural styles. Its grandeur earned Venice the name La Serenissima, or the most serene of republics.

   Your day starts with a boat trip around the lagoon's islands, followed by a 2-hour guided walk to see Venice's top sights, such as St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace. Enjoy free time for lunch and to explore on your own. Visit museums, shop for souvenirs, or simply wander before returning to Milan.

9. 9

   Day 9

   Departure from Milan

   All good things must come to an end — but your adventure doesn't have to! Contact us to request a quote to extend your stay. After breakfast, check out and conclude our services.

What's Included

Not Included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Pre & post tour accommodation
• Optional experiences
• Other activities and services not listed under Included
• City tax (payable directly at the hotel)
• Transfers to/from meeting points for guided visits
• Transfers from/to stations or airports unless specified

Additional Information

• You will receive an e-ticket for this tour.
• This tour operates year-round, subject to availability.
• The optional Vatican Tour, Rome Food Tour, and Venice Tour are not included and are subject to availability.
• Tour reference code: 344423

Dates & Availability

Frequently Asked Questions