Alpina & Dolomiti 9 Days
9 Days: Rome - Assisi - Siena - Florence - Bologna - Venice - Tuscany Wine Region (Traditional Tuscan Lunch in Montepulciano) - Rome - Pompeii - Sorrento - Capri - Rome
Tour overview:
Discover Northern Italy and the Swiss Alps on this 9-day journey. Explore Milan’s iconic landmarks, enjoy the breathtaking Bernina Express through alpine villages, and visit historic towns like Trento, Bolzano, Merano, and Vipiteno. Experience the stunning Dolomites with stops at Lake Braies, Lake Misurina, and Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Conclude with Bassano del Grappa, tasting its famous grappa, before returning to Milan. This tour blends culture, history, Alpine scenery, and authentic local experiences, offering the perfect balance of guided sightseeing and leisure time.
Day 1 - Arrive Milan
Welcome to Milan! Meet your driver at the airport and enjoy your included transfer to the hotel. Check in at your Milan hotel and overnight.
Day 2 - Milan - Bernina Express - Milan
After breakfast, meet your driver and travel to St. Moritz for some free time. Then, board the Bernina Express and enjoy one of the world’s most scenic train rides through the Swiss Alps. Marvel at alpine villages, tunnels, and breathtaking mountain views as you cross the Bernina Pass toward Tirano. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting to take you back to Milan. (B)
Day 3 - Milan
After breakfast, enjoy some free time to explore Milan at your own pace. In the afternoon, meet your local guide for a threehour walking tour through the heart of the city. Begin at Porta Venezia, a historic gate with medieval and Roman origins, and continue to Corso Venezia. Walk through the Giardini Indro Montanelli, pass by the Galleria d’Arte Moderna and continue along Viale Manzoni. From the outside, see the iconic Teatro alla Scala and admire the majestic façade of the Milan Cathedral (Duomo). The tour ends at Castello Sforzesco, a medieval fortress, followed by a relaxing aperitivo. Free time before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay in Milan. (B, Local Food Experience)
Day 4 - Milan - Peschiera del Garda - Trento - Kaltern an der Weinstraße (Scenic Drive) - Bolzano
After breakfast, we depart and head towards Peschiera del Garda, a charming town located on the southern shore of Lake Garda. Next, we stop in Trento, where we’ll admire the impressive Castello del Buon Consiglio and the Santa Maria Maggiore Cathedral. After a leisurely lunch, we continue along Italy’s oldest wine route, reaching Caldaro (Kaltern), known for its lake and wine. The day ends with our arrival in Bolzano. Overnight. (B)
Day 5 - Bolzano - Merano - Vipiteno - Bolzano
After breakfast, we travel to Merano, known for its Christmas market and rich cultural heritage. We’ll explore the old town and you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch. Next, we visit Vipiteno, a picturesque town with medieval architecture and Alpine charm. Stroll through its streets, enjoy local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs. In the afternoon, we head to Bolzano to admire the Gothic-style Duomo and Via dei Portici, the heart of the city. Bolzano combines Alpine and Mediterranean influences, making it a must-visit destination. The evening is free for personal exploration or relaxation. Overnight in Bolzano. (B)
Day 6 - Cortina - Bassano del Grappa - Milan
After breakfast, reach Bassano del Grappa, a charming town at the foot of the Venetian Prealps, known for its rich history and timeless charm. Walk its cobbled streets to see medieval towers, elegant Venetian palaces, and mountain traditions shaped by centuries of culture. Don’t miss the iconic Ponte degli Alpini, designed by Andrea Palladio, crossing the Brenta River with postcard views. Visit the Museo della Grappa to explore Italy’s famous distillate origins. The experience includes a tasting session, offering insight into local craftsmanship. After Bassano, head to Milan. Overnight in Milan. (B)
Day 7 - Cortina - Scenic drive around the lakes near Cortina - Lake Misurina - Lake Dobbiaco - San Vito di Cadore - Cortina
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel and get ready to explore the stunning surroundings of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Enjoy panoramic views of the Dolomite Mountains and spot the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Continue to Lake Misurina, the largest natural lake in the region, offering mesmerizing mountain views. Then, visit Lake Dobbiaco with its unique emerald-colored waters. Drive to San Vito di Cadore, a charming village surrounded by UNESCO-listed mountains, Mount Antelao and Mount Pelmo. Afterward, return to Cortina for free time, relax, and enjoy dinner at the hotel before an overnight stay. (B, D)
Day 8 - Cortina - Bassano del Grappa - Milan
After breakfast, reach Bassano del Grappa, a charming town at the foot of the Venetian Prealps, known for its rich history and timeless charm. Walk its cobbled streets to see medieval towers, elegant Venetian palaces, and mountain traditions shaped by centuries of culture. Don’t miss the iconic Ponte degli Alpini, designed by Andrea Palladio, crossing the Brenta River with postcard views. Visit the Museo della Grappa to explore Italy’s famous distillate origins. The experience includes a tasting session, offering insight into local craftsmanship. After Bassano, head to Milan. Overnight in Milan. (B)
Day 9 - Depart Milan
After breakfast, transfer to the airport. Arrivederci! (B)