Italy's Treasures

Travel along breathtaking landscapes and venture into metropolitan meccas ripe with culture and history. Discover Italy on an unforgettable journey that delves into its most cherished treasures.

Begin on the arresting shores of Lake Maggiore, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Alpine lakes region. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring independently and admiring the views. This evening, cruise to Isola Pescatori,* the most picturesque of the Borromean Islands, where you’ll engage with new friends at a dinner welcoming you to Italy.

During an <b>Impact Moment</b>, visit an ancient village nestled in the mountains, where a local family is actively working to preserve local traditions and historic buildings. After a tour of the village, they invite you to sample their very own artisanal cheeses, paired with the region’s best wines. The remainder of the day in Stresa is at your leisure. Explore its piazzas, flower-lined cobblestone streets, and lakeside promenades. Or, enjoy your breathtaking surroundings during an optional cruise to Isola Bella, known as the “beautiful island.” Here, an expert will guide you into the Borromeo Palace,** a lakeside Baroque beauty adorned with an enchanting garden.

Journey to the Italian Riviera and discover its immeasurable grandeur along the Liguria coast. Spend some free time in the famous village of Portofino, known for its picturesque harbour and vibrant colours, and as a glamorous getaway spot and retreat for the jet set. Early this evening, arrive in Chiavari and settle in for your two-night stay in this charming coastal town.

Travel by rail today as you discover the colourful Cinque Terre, a string of once-upon-a-time fishing villages, perched on the edge of the sea. Feel like you have stepped back in time as you traverse the rugged coastal area dotted with terraced vineyards and hop off to visit two of these fabled locales.

Veer off the beaten path to visit one of Italy’s natural wonders: the Carrara marble quarries. During an off-road drive in the Apuane Mountains, you’ll follow the pathways carved by quarrymen while extracting the precious stone. Over the centuries, Carrara marble was used by artists such as Michelangelo to carve his legendary statue of <i>David</i>. Continue on through the rolling hills of Tuscany, ending the day in a historic Tuscan villa for a rejuvenating 4-night stay.***

This morning, take in Tuscany’s landscape, a spectrum of verdant vineyards and endless groves en route to San Gimignano. Nicknamed the Manhattan of the Middle Ages, San Gimignano’s 14 towers soar distinctively over the landscape, making this iconic hilltop village stand out against the rolling hills. Later, journey into the heart of the Chianti countryside, where a family-owned villa welcomes you. After a tour of the house and grounds, engage in a hands-on cooking lesson. Break bread during an authentic Tuscan dinner and toast to your host with local Chianti wine.