Settle in for a 3-night stay in Padua, an ancient city of Veneto, and delve into the city’s culture on a walking tour. Embark on a guided tour of Venice and enjoy a free afternoon to do as you please. Witness the sinking castle of Sirmione. Relax during a leisurely 4-night stay on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Cruise the waters frequented by the rich and famous on Lake Como. From the stone bridges of Padua to the deep blue waters of Lake Maggiore, allow the beauty of Italy to move you.
Your tour includes:
Tour Highlights:
Day 1: Padua, Italy - Tour Begins
Take the best of Italian culture – savoury cuisine, friendly locals, eons of history – and add the beauty of mystical lakes. Your journey begins in Padua, an ancient city rooted in legend. Set in the picturesque Veneto region, some believe that Padua was founded by war heroes after the fall of Troy. The Bacchiglione River carves its way through the town, resulting in lovely riverside promenades and stone step-bridges. Meet your fellow travellers whilst enjoying a taste of Italian culture at a welcome dinner. Truly get to know the town’s legacy as you settle into your home for the next 3 nights.
Day 2: Padua - Murano - Venice - Padua
Start your day with a visit to Murano Island,* known for its intricate glass making. Witness a glassblowing demonstration, providing a glimpse into the methods behind this fine art. Feel the grandeur of the past come alive as you make your way to Venice, a floating labyrinth settled on a lagoon. Pass through the sprawling St. Mark’s Square with an expert guide and admire the Campanile, a brick bell tower that rises above the piazza. Step outside the main square and explore the Castello district, making your way past historic buildings and architecture as you walk the narrow streets. Enjoy an afternoon in Venice at leisure. Perhaps you will opt for a gondola ride through the postcard-worthy canals, taking in the city from a different perspective.
Day 3: Padua
Start the morning by strolling the streets of Padua with your guide. Make your way inside the Basilica of St. Anthony, a stately cathedral built in the 13th century. Engage with locals and feel the dynamic energy as you walk along open-air markets and street vendors setting up shop in the piazzas. Pass by the ornate Palazzo della Ragione, the former meeting place for the town’s council. Feel the history in the air when you see Caffe Pedrocchi, a famous coffee shop frequented by the intellectuals that influenced the Italian Risorgimento of the 19th century. The rest of the day is yours to discover the town however you wish. Perhaps you will choose to go on an exclusive optional tour down the Brenta Canal, enjoying an aperitif on your private boat as you admire the opulent homes on the water’s edge.
Day 4: Padua - Lake Garda - Lake Maggiore
This morning, head to Sirmione, an old village situated on the shores of Lake Garda. Embark on a boat ride through the Sirmione peninsula and see the famous sinking castle. Enjoy time at leisure to discover the narrow streets or simply relax alongside the bright blue waves of the lake. End the day next to Lake Maggiore, a stunning Italian lake, and toast to the start of your leisurely 4-night stay.
Day 5: Lake Maggiore
Enjoy the day at leisure to explore the nearby lakeside streets. Perhaps you’ll take an optional tour and coast along the ethereal water of Lake Maggiore by boat for an up-close look at the Borromean Islands before docking at Isola Bella, known as the “beautiful island.” Join an expert guide and venture into the Borromeo Palace, a seaside Baroque beauty with an exotic garden. Then, return to your boat and cruise by the remaining Borromean Islands.
Day 6: Lake Maggiore
The entire day is yours. You might soak up the sun on the beach, relax in an outdoor café, or head out on the waves by boat. Perhaps you will take an optional tour to Lugano, Switzerland to see the lake from the other side of the Italian border.
Day 7: Lake Maggiore - Lake Como - Lake Maggiore
Indulge in a day of sunshine and scenic peaks at the paradise of Lake Como, nestled against the Alps and a beloved retreat for the rich and famous. Enjoy a guided cruise of the waters before stopping in Bellagio, an ancient peninsula that fosters winding streets and unparalleled views. Enjoy some free time to discover the city’s secrets on your own. Return to Lake Maggiore and venture to Isola dei Pescatori** by boat, enjoying a farewell dinner of local cuisine to celebrate the end of your trip.
Day 8: Lake Maggiore - Tour Ends
Wish Italy arriverderci as your tour comes to a close today.
Please note prices may vary and are subject to availability at time of booking.
Advertised pricing is based on twin share accommodation for the following departures (solo pricing available on request):
Freecall our local travel team on 1300 414 198 for more details or to book your tour
Your accommodation includes:
Tour Activity Level:
The activity level for this tour is 3. This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.
Travel at 60 booking conditions apply
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