From Venice’s iconic canals and masterpieces to the alpine elegance of Lake Como, this journey blends guided city highlights with a scenic self-drive and lakeside leisure in Varenna and Cernobbio.
Charming Venice and Lake Como 3 Star
11 Days/10 Nights
Starting from
$
per person*
Unforgettable Italian Journeys, Designed for You
Curated by passionate Italy experts, this sample itinerary is just the beginning of your Italian adventure. Every journey we design is unique, crafted around your interests, pace, and dreams so you can experience Italy’s beauty and culture like a true insider. Let us transform your vision into a one-of-a-kind travel experience, filled with authentic moments and lasting memories
Day 1
ITALY
Bound for Venice’s Wonders
- Board your overnight flight to Venice
Day 2
VENICE
Leisure Time on the Canals
- Arrive in Venice, Italy
- Water taxi transfer from Venice Airport to your hotel
- Check in to your hotel
- Rest of the day at leisure to relax and get acquainted with the city
Day 3
VENICE
Highlights of the Lagoon
- Enjoy a healthy Italian breakfast
- Half-day guided walking tour of Venice
- Stroll through Venice’s narrow, typical streets into the historic center
- Visit St. Mark’s Square
- See St. Mark’s Basilica
- Admire the Ducal Palace, the Prisons, and the Bridge of Sighs
- Rest of the day at leisure for shopping and a fresh seafood meal
Day 4
VARENNA, LAKE COMO
Steam Boats and Bellagio by Ferry
- Day at leisure in Varenna with Lake Como and Alps views
- Optional steam boat ride across the lake to admire mountains and elegant villas with gardens
- Optional ferry to Bellagio, one of Lake Como’s most famous towns
Day 5
VARENNA, LAKE COMO
Easy Lakeside Wonders
- Another full day at leisure in Varenna
- Time to relax, explore lakeside paths, and enjoy the atmosphere at your own pace
Day 6
CERNOBBIO, LAKE COMO
The New Shores of Como
- Drive to Cernobbio and check in to your hotel
- Discover the “other side” of Lake Como
- Possible celebrity spotting near famous villas
- Optional drive to the refined city of Como for monuments and museums
- Time at leisure to enjoy views and shop for silk in local boutiques
Day 7
MILAN
Farewell, Italia!
- Drive to Milan Malpensa Airport
- Return your rental car
- Board your return flight back to America
MAKE THIS ITINERARY YOURS
Turn this sample itinerary into your dream Italy vacation – tailored to your pace, passions, and budget.
Day 1
ITALY
Bound for Venice’s Wonders
Begin your Italian journey by boarding your overnight flight to Venice, heading toward the shimmering lagoon and one of Europe’s most enchanting cities.
Day 2
VENICE
Leisure Time on the Canals
Arrive in Venice and enjoy a memorable water taxi transfer from the airport to your hotel, your first taste of the city’s canal-lined magic. After check-in, the remainder of the day is free to unwind or begin exploring Venice at your own pace, from quiet backstreets to lively campi and waterfront views.
Day 3
VENICE
Highlights of the Lagoon
After breakfast, join a half-day guided walking tour that brings Venice’s most iconic monuments into focus. Wander through atmospheric lanes and into the historic heart of the city to experience St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the grandeur of the Ducal Palace. Continue to the Prisons and the legendary Bridge of Sighs, hearing stories that reveal Venice’s power, artistry, and intrigue. The afternoon and evening are yours—perfect for shopping, lingering in hidden corners, and enjoying a meal of fresh seafood.
Day 4
VARENNA, LAKE COMO
Relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Alps and Lake Como from Varenna. Consider a ride on the steam boat to admire the dramatic mountain scenery and the lake’s beautiful villas framed by elegant gardens, or take a ferry to the celebrated town of Bellagio for a classic Lake Como experience.
Day 5
VARENNA, LAKE COMO
Easy Lakeside Wonders
Enjoy another day at leisure in Varenna. Perfect for slow mornings, lakeside strolls, and soaking up the serene beauty of Lake Como. Use the day to revisit favorite viewpoints, enjoy a long lunch, or simply relax and watch the light change over the water and mountains.
Day 6
CERNOBBIO, LAKE COMO
The New Shores of Como
Drive to Cernobbio and check in to your hotel to discover a new side of Lake Como. This refined lakeside area is known for elegant villas, and you may even come across George Clooney or celebrity guests near his famous residence. From Cernobbio, it’s easy to visit the city of Como for its monuments and museums, or simply enjoy the scenery and browse the unique boutiques known for beautiful silk.
Day 7
MILAN
Farewell, Italia!
Drive to Milan Malpensa Airport, return your rental car, and check in for your flight home—bringing your Venice and Lake Como journey to a close with unforgettable memories of canals, mountains, and lakeside elegance.
