Romantic village of Tremezzo, Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy, Europe

The Italian Lakes and Verona

October 16 - 23, 2026

Discover the magic of Northern Italy in the fall on this unforgettable journey through the Italian Lakes and the romantic city of Verona. Begin in the serene beauty of Lake Orta, where cobbled lanes and the mystical island of San Giulio offer a charming welcome. At Lake Maggiore, enjoy a unique cheese tasting with a local producer, followed by a dreamy boat ride to the opulent Borromean Islands, where baroque palaces and lush gardens await.

Next, immerse yourself in the elegance of Lake Como, exploring its grand villas and stunning lakeside towns. Then, head to Verona, where a guided foodie walk will tempt your taste buds with regional delights while uncovering the city’s Shakespearean charm.

The journey continues into the rolling hills of Valpolicella, where a visit to a boutique winery offers sips of rich Amarone amidst vine-draped vistas. Finally, end your adventure in the fairytale village of Borghetto sul Mincio, where you’ll learn to craft authentic tortellini in a hands-on cooking class with a local chef. After lunch, you’ll sail along Lake Garda for a private tour.

From breathtaking scenery to unforgettable flavors, this tour is the perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and classic Italian romance. Let the lakes and landscapes of Northern Italy sweep you off your feet.

Day 1 - Welcome to Lake Orta

Welcome to the enchanting Lake Orta, where history, romance, and vibrant culture come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Check in to our lovely accommodation at Hotel San Rocco with a panoramic lake view and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure, taking in the serene surroundings.

Tonight, we’ll gather for a delightful group dinner and meet and greet, the perfect opportunity to connect, get to know each other, and savor the flavors of Italy together!

Overnight stay at Lake Orta.

Day 2 - Explore Charming Lake Orta

Today, we embark on a captivating journey beginning in the storybook village of Orta San Giulio. We will wander its cobbled lanes, admire the charming architecture, and take in sweeping views of the lake. Next, hop aboard a small ferry to the serene Isola di San Giulio. There, we will enjoy a leisurely walk around the island, soaking up its mystical ambiance, and visit the medieval basilica, where intricate frescoes whisper tales from centuries ago.

We will return to Orta by motorboat and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, our guide will lead us to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sacro Monte di Orta. Here, we will discover this remarkable sanctuary—an inspiring fusion of art, architecture, and nature—perched above the lake with breathtaking vistas. Spend some time exploring its peaceful chapels and tranquil surroundings.

As the day draws to a close, we will return to our hotel, carrying with us the charm and serenity of this unforgettable experience.

Overnight stay at Lake Orta.

Day 3 - Special Cheese Experience on Lake Maggiore + Visit to the Borromean Islands

Today, we begin our day by meeting our guide at our hotel, then set off in the comfort of a private transfer to the charming town of Stresa. From there, board a quaint local ferry to explore the enchanting Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore. First, we’ll visit Isola Bella, renowned for the grandeur of the Borromeo Palace and its exquisite terraced gardens. Continue to Isola dei Pescatori, where time seems to stand still amid its narrow alleys and old-world charm.

We will enjoy lunch at our leisure on either Isola dei Pescatori or Isola Bella, savoring the unique atmosphere of these picturesque islands.

In the afternoon, a private transfer will take us to Arona for an exclusive experience at Guffanti Formaggi, one of Italy’s most esteemed cheese refiners. Explore their historic aging caves and uncover the time-honored craft of cheese refinement, a tradition lovingly passed down through generations. Our visit culminates in a guided tasting—a flavorful journey across Italy and beyond through exceptional artisanal cheeses.

Afterwards, we return to the serene beauty of Lake Orta, where we’ll visit a breathtaking sanctuary that seamlessly unites art, architecture, and nature. Perched above the lake, it offers sweeping panoramic views and a tranquil setting. We’ll spend about an hour here, exploring its unique chapels and soaking in the peaceful ambiance.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll be transferred back to our hotel, carrying with you the memories of an unforgettable journey.

Overnight stay at Lake Orta.

Day 4 - Explore Fascinating Lake Como

After breakfast, we will check out from our hotel at Lake Orta begin our scenic transfer to Verona, with a visit to Lake Como along the way, for an unforgettable day trip.

Upon arrival, we will immerse ourselves in the timeless charm of the town of Como. We’ll embark on a guided walking tour through its historic center, where centuries of art and architecture unfold before us. Admire the breathtaking Duomo, a masterpiece of Gothic-Renaissance grandeur, stroll along the elegant Via Vittorio Emanuele, and pause in the captivating Piazza San Fedele. Wander the ancient streets within the medieval walls and behold the imposing Porta Torre, the city’s storied gateway from the 12th century.

Following a delightful lunch, we will embark on a serene ferry boat tour across the shimmering waters of Lake Como. With our guide offering insights along the way, take in panoramic views of vibrant lakeside villages, colorful facades, and gardens blooming with flowers.

We will explore the idyllic villages of Torno or Moltrasio, where elegant villas and tranquil vistas create postcard-perfect moments at every turn. The boat tour lasts approximately one hour, but the beauty and serenity of this journey will linger in our memory long after.

We will conclude our day with a transfer to Hotel Touring in Verona. Check in, unwind, and enjoy a restful overnight stay in the romantic heart of northern Italy.

Overnight stay in Verona.

Day 5 - Verona Food Walking Tour

Today, we embark on a delightful journey through the heart of Verona with our expert guide, discovering the city’s artistic charm and rich culinary traditions. This immersive tour features four carefully selected stops that celebrate Verona’s vibrant food culture.

We will start our morning at a historic pastry shop, where we will enjoy traditional sweet treats perfectly complemented by a refined cup of coffee. Wander through Verona’s picturesque streets to a celebrated venue offering an authentic aperitivo experience. Sip a fine glass of wine and sample classic cicchetti. Next, settle into a beloved local trattoria to savor a flavorful pasta dish that captures the true spirit of Italian cuisine. We will conclude our gastronomic adventure with a refreshing scoop of artisanal gelato at a nearby gelateria—indulge in your favorite flavors or discover new ones.

Overnight stay in Verona.

Day 6 - Valpolicella: Wine, History and Vistas

After breakfast, enjoy the comfort of a private transfer from Verona’s city center as we journey through the scenic countryside to the captivating wine region of Valpolicella. Our first stop is an exquisite historic estate—a noble manor graced with frescoes dating from the 16th to 18th centuries. Wander through its serene gardens and verdant grounds, pausing to take in sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Next, we savor an immersive wine-tasting experience, where finely crafted local vintages are paired with artisanal cured meats and cheeses, each bite and sip a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage. We will continue on to the picturesque hilltop village of San Giorgio di Valpolicella, where a light lunch awaits at a traditional restaurant boasting stunning vistas of rolling vineyards.

Following our meal, we will enjoy a guided stroll through the charming cobbled streets of the village, steeped in history and local character. As the afternoon draws to a close, our private transfer returns us to Verona, leaving us time to reflect on a day enriched with wine, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Overnight stay in Verona.

Day 7 - Borghetto sul Mincio and Peschiera del Garda with Cooking Class and Boat Tour

Today, we begin our day with a private pick-up in the heart of Verona and set off by comfortable coach to the enchanting village of Borghetto sul Mincio, nestled near the shores of Lake Garda. Upon arrival, embark on a delightful culinary journey with a hands-on tortellini-making class. Guided by local experts, you’ll discover the time-honored techniques behind these delicate pasta creations—affectionately known as “love dots.”

Following our workshop, we will savor a delectable lunch showcasing your freshly made tortellini, paired with a traditional sbrisolona—a sweet, crumbly dessert rooted in regional heritage.

After lunch, take time to wander the cobbled lanes of Borghetto sul Mincio, where medieval architecture and serene river views create an atmosphere of timeless charm.

Next, we will continue our journey to the idyllic lakeside town of Peschiera del Garda, where a private one-hour boat tour awaits. Glide across the sparkling waters of Lake Garda, taking in panoramic views of the Sirmione Peninsula, its majestic medieval castle, and the legendary Grottoes of Catullus.

Overnight stay in Verona.

Day 8- Check Out

If your schedule permits, this morning you can enjoy one more breakfast at the hotel before checking out.

NOTE: As we partner with small, family-run businesses, some flexibility in the above itinerary is necessary. We may adjust the schedule, modify activities, or substitute locations to ensure the best possible experience. A finalized itinerary will be provided two weeks before our adventure begins.

Price & Details

8 Days / 7 Nights

$6,300 USD Per Person Room / Single Supplement is $1,100 USD.

$1,000 USD Non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot.

Francesca Montillo, Native Italian, Owner and Tour Leader Accompanies all Activities​​. Contact Francesca at francesca@thelazyitalian.com for booking/reservation and further details.

If you would like to reserve a spot for this tour, or have any questions, please use the contact form below and we will send you the necessary booking instructions or additional information.

Included

  • 7 Night Hotel Stay on Lake Orto and Verona
  • Welcome Dinner at Hotel
  • Full day tour guide Lake Orta- San Giulio Island- Sacro Monte
  • Lake Orta private boat on your 1st day
  • Lunch on your 1st day
  • Entrance Tickets on the Islands
  • Restaurant Lunch on Isola Bella (or Isola dei Pescatori) (TBD)
  • Cheese Refiner Private Visit and Tasting
  • Full Day Lake Como Guided Tour
  • Ferry Tickets Lake Como
  • 4-Hour Guided Walking Tour in Verona with Samples
  • Private Guided Tour of a Fourteenth-Century Manor House in Valpolicella with Tastings
  • Light Lunch at a Traditional Restaurant in Valpolicella
  • Tortellini Cooking Class in Borghetto sul Mincio
  • Private Boat Tour on Peschiera del Garda

Not Included

  • Airfare / Flights (Participants should fly into Malpensa Airport in Milan)
  • Transfer From / to Airport
  • Tips / gratuities for guides, instructors and drivers
  • Hotel City Tax
  • Travel Insurance-Click Here for Options

Want more information?

Fill out the form below for more information about this trip!

Marketing Consent
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

lazyItalian - favicon - 2022-07

Share This

Scroll to Top