7 Nights / 8 Days Milan & The Lakes Tour

The 7 Nights / 8 Days Milan & The Lakes Tour is an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most iconic regions. This tour allows you to explore the stylish city of Milan and the beautiful lakes in northern Italy, offering a perfect mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. Whether you are an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or a fan of Italian history, this tour will provide a wonderful experience.

Milan: The Heart of Italian Fashion and Culture

Milan is the starting point of your 7 Nights / 8 Days Milan & The Lakes Tour. Known as the fashion capital of the world, Milan is a modern, vibrant city filled with artistic, historical, and architectural treasures.

Key Attractions in Milan

1. Duomo di Milano: One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, the Duomo is an architectural masterpiece. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Milan from the rooftop or explore the stunning interiors, which are filled with intricate stained glass windows and sculptures.

2. Sforza Castle: The Sforza Castle is a symbol of Milan's historic past. The castle houses several museums, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, offering insight into the city's rich artistic heritage.

3. The Last Supper: Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting "The Last Supper" is located in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This is one of the most famous works of art in the world, and it’s a must-see for art lovers.

4. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Milan's most famous shopping arcade, the Galleria is home to luxury boutiques, cafes, and elegant shops. It’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and indulge in some Milanese coffee.

5. Navigli District: This district is famous for its picturesque canals and charming atmosphere. It’s a great place to relax in a café, enjoy Italian aperitivo, or take a boat tour along the canals.

Milan’s Culinary Delights

Milan’s food scene is a blend of traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist. Some of the local dishes you shouldn’t miss during your stay are:

• Risotto alla Milanese: A creamy, rich risotto made with saffron, giving it a beautiful golden color.

• Cotoletta alla Milanese: A breaded veal cutlet, fried to perfection, often served with a side of salad or potatoes.

• Panettone: A sweet, fruit-filled bread traditionally eaten during the Christmas season, but loved year-round in Milan.

Milan is a city where food is taken seriously, and dining here is an experience in itself.

Exploring The Lakes of Northern Italy

After experiencing the charm of Milan, your 7 Nights / 8 Days Milan & The Lakes Tour will take you to the stunning lakes of northern Italy. These lakes, nestled between the mountains, are famous for their natural beauty and tranquil settings. The lakes in this region are perfect for relaxation, outdoor activities, and exploring charming towns.

Lake Como

Lake Como is one of Italy’s most famous lakes, known for its picturesque scenery and luxurious lakeside villas. The lake is surrounded by lush green mountains, and charming towns such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio.

1. Bellagio: Known as the "Pearl of the Lake," Bellagio is famous for its cobbled streets, beautiful villas, and stunning views of the lake. You can visit the beautiful Villa Melzi, stroll through the gardens, or take a boat ride across the lake.

2. Villa Carlotta: Located in Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta is known for its lush gardens and art collections. The villa overlooks Lake Como, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.

3. Varenna: A picturesque village with narrow streets, colorful houses, and beautiful gardens. You can visit the Villa Monastero and enjoy the panoramic views of the lake from the villa’s terraces.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and is known for its clear blue waters, mountains, and charming towns. It’s a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports.

1. Sirmione: Located on a narrow peninsula, Sirmione is known for its beautiful beaches, medieval castle, and ancient Roman ruins. The Scaliger Castle offers stunning views of the lake, and the Grotte di Catullo are the remains of an ancient Roman villa.

2. Desenzano del Garda: This lively town is located on the southern shore of Lake Garda and is known for its beautiful beaches, shopping, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a leisurely day by the lake.

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore, located near the Swiss border, is another stunning lake worth visiting during the 7 Nights / 8 Days Milan & The Lakes Tour. The lake is known for its charming lakeside towns, gardens, and islands.

1. Isola Bella: This island is famous for the stunning Borromeo Palace and its magnificent gardens. The island offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

2. Stresa: Stresa is a popular lakeside town known for its beautiful villas, gardens, and scenic views. You can take a boat ride to explore the nearby islands or enjoy a relaxing walk along the lake.

3. Villa Taranto: Located in Verbania, Villa Taranto is a botanical garden with exotic plants from all over the world. The garden offers stunning views of the lake and is a peaceful place to explore.

Outdoor Activities Around The Lakes

The lakes of northern Italy are also known for a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in hiking, cycling, or water sports, there is something for everyone:

• Hiking and Nature Walks: The surrounding mountains offer numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The views of the lakes from the trails are breathtaking.

• Boating: Take a boat ride on the lakes to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the region. You can rent a boat or take a guided tour to explore the lakes and their charming towns.

• Cycling: The area around the lakes is perfect for cycling, with numerous trails that offer stunning views and the chance to explore the surrounding nature at your own pace.

Culture and Heritage of Milan & The Lakes Region

Both Milan and the lakes region have rich cultural and historical significance. Milan is known for its art, design, and fashion, while the lakes region is home to charming villages, beautiful villas, and stunning natural landscapes.

• Milan’s Cultural Influence: Milan is home to world-class museums, galleries, and theaters. The city’s history as a center of art and culture has left a lasting impression on Italy’s cultural heritage.

• Lakeside Villages: The lakes in northern Italy have long been a retreat for artists, writers, and aristocrats. The beautiful villas and gardens reflect the region’s heritage and connection to art and nature.

Local Cuisine of Milan & The Lakes

The 7 Nights / 8 Days Milan & The Lakes Tour is a culinary journey that will introduce you to some of the finest Italian food. In Milan, the cuisine is refined, while in the lakes region, dishes are often centered around fresh, local ingredients.

• Milanese Cuisine: Try Risotto alla Milanese, a saffron-flavored rice dish, and Cotoletta alla Milanese, a breaded veal cutlet. Don’t forget to enjoy Panettone, a sweet bread filled with dried fruit, especially if you’re visiting during the holiday season.

• Lakes Cuisine: The lakes region is known for its fresh fish dishes, especially Lavarello (lake trout) and Carpione, a marinated fish dish. You’ll also find excellent wines produced in the region, including Valtellina red wine and Lugana white wine.