northern italy switzerland tour

10 days in Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary

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Looking for a fantastic trip that combines Italy’s idyllic medieval towns and famous lakes with Switzerland’s most popular cities and the renowned Swiss Alps? Then you’re in the right place. Our 10 days in Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary takes you on an absolutely amazing trip through Europe’s most beautiful regions.

Planning a trip of this magnitude can be challenging. With so much to explore, like a walking tour in a picturesque Italian town or a scenic train ride through the snowy Swiss Alps, you’re bound to miss some hidden gems.

This is why we created this Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary for you. This 10-day itinerary takes you to some of the most beautiful cities in Italy and Switzerland to discover their famous landmarks and historical and cultural attractions. 

Perfect Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary you’ll love

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Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary | At a glance

Before we dive into this Switzerland and Italy itinerary, let’s have a look at what this amazing trip has in store for you:

• Day 1 of 10 Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary: Explore Bologna’s historical city centre
• Day 2 of 10 Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary: Experience the floating city of Venice
• Day 3 and 4 of 10 Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary: Discover Milan’s Art Nouveau buildings, shopping centers, and castles
• Day 5 of 10 Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary: Have a scenic escape in Lake Como
• Day 6 of 10 Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary: Explore Geneva’s best attractions
• Day 7 of 10 Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary: Experience the best of Bern
• Day 8 and 9 of 10 Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary: Escape to the resort town of Interlaken
• Day 10 of 10 Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary: End your Italy-Switzerland itinerary on a high in Zürich

Italy and Switzerland Itinerary with a scenic train ride (Bernina Express)

• Day 1 and 2: Fly to Milan, explore for 2 days

Day 3: Day trip to Lake Como and Bellagio (Italy) 

Day 4: Milan to Switzerland via the Bernina Express

• Day 5: Visit Chur (arrive in Zurich in the evening, 1 hour train ride)
• Day 6 and 7: Sightseeing in Zurich for 2 days
• Day 8: Lucerne and Mount Titlis day trip
• Day 9: Bern day trip
• Day 10: Rhine Falls day trip

Italy and Switzerland Itinerary: Fly to Rome, and fly out from Zurich

• Day 1 and 2: Rome
• Day 3 : Florence day trip (or extend 2 nights in Florence and visit Siena or Pisa)
• Day 4 and 5 : Visit and stay in Milan for 2 nights
• Day 6: Train travel to Chur in Switzerland via Bernina Express (stay overnight in Chur)
• Day 7: Explore Zurich for a day
• Day 8 and 9: Interlaken and Jungfrau
• Day 10: Bern (return to Zurich in the evening)

Switzerland and Italy Itinerary: Start in Zurich, end in Rome 

• Day 1 and 2: Fly to Zurich, explore for 2 days
• Day 3 : Bern day trip 
• Day 4 : Lucerne and Mount Pilatus day trip
• Day 5: Train travel to Tirano in Italy via Bernina Express. Make connections from Tirano to Milan
• Day 6 and 7 : Visit and stay in Milan for 2 nights
• Day 8: Explore Lake Como and Bellagio for a day (overnight in Milan)
• Day 9 and 10: Travel to Rome and explore for the next 2 nights

Planning a Switzerland and Italy Trip Itinerary

Begin your Northern Italy and Switzerland trip plan with visa requirements and arrival airports. 

Both countries are located in Europe and they follow Schengen visa requirements to allow non-visa-exempt passport holders to enter the country. Citizens of the United States and Canada can visit Italy and Switzerland visa-free and stay for 90 days. 

At the border crossing, your passports won’t be checked. But when you touch down in either country, your passport and other documents will be checked by immigration. 

Keep in mind, Switzerland is not a member of the European Union but Italy is. As mentioned, both follow the Schengen Agreement. 

Italy uses Euros as the official currency, and Swiss Francs are used in Switzerland. 

For your flights from North America, destinations like Zurich, and Geneva (in Switzerland) and Milan and Rome (in Italy) are good options to fly into. 

In the Italy Switzerland itinerary below, we have included samples where you can start in either country; and complete sightseeing using rental cars or public transportation. 

• To start in Northern Italy, fly to Milan Malpensa Airport (you can also arrive in Rome and then connect to Milan via high-speed trains)
• To start in Switzerland, flying to Zurich International Airport makes sense 

Once you’ve decided where to go and what you would like to explore, it’s time to start planning your itinerary . As with any trip, it’s important to determine transportation options within each destination. 

Both countries have a solid public transportation network, and depending on the duration of your trip, it may be best to purchase a rail pass that allows you to freely move between countries and cities.

Eurail Pass is a good option to consider here. Or you can opt for a country-specific pass with attractions access. 

We always use the Swiss Travel Pass when traveling in Switzerland, and use a mix of city passes, and tours to get around in Italy. We recommend booking train tickets and passes prior to your trip to save money. 

SWISS TRAVEL PASS

Get unlimited rides on trains, trams, buses, and boats throughout Switzerland with an all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass!

Buy it online, show your e-ticket on your phone, and start your Swiss Adventure with ease and stay on budget!

Note that in some cases, connections between cities via trains are faster as compared to a road trip in these two countries. Having said that you can always get a rental car, if that’s what you prefer. 

There are a plethora of guided excursions also available in each country, so you may also decide to take a day trip or do an organized tour from your accommodation base.

Accommodation is another important factor to consider when planning a trip to Northern Italy and Switzerland. We have included top picks for each city/ town where an overnight stay is suggested. 

Finally don’t forget to get travel insurance . 

Get a free quote for Safety Wing Travel Insurance

Day 1: northern italy itinerary – explore bologna’s historical city center.

Italy’s different regions and their unique offerings make the country one of the most visited in Europe. 

In the northern region of Emilia Romagna, Bologna is world-renowned as Italy’s foodie capital. The city also has lots of beautiful architecture you can explore.

Admire Bologna’s porticoes

The porticoes of Bologna are a recently-declared UNESCO World Heritage Site waiting to be explored. 

Spanning over 26 miles within the historic city center, Bologna’s porticoes and city walls are a symbol of the city’s bustling medieval era. 

Take a walking tour or leisurely stroll through the longest portico in Bologna – Portico of San Luca — it has about 666 arches. 

Or opt to tour the Portico Dei Servi, which extends towards Piazza Maggiore and has the widest corridors.

Grab lunch at Piazza Maggiore

As the heart of Bologna city center, Piazza Maggiore is the best place to hang around, people-watch, and get amazing views of some of the city’s best landmarks. 

Enjoy a tasty lunch while looking out at the dramatic Basilica di San Petronio and Palazzo d’Accursio. 

You’ll also find the Fountain of Neptune, depicting the god of the sea with a trident in hand and standing over four cherubs – the ultimate symbol of power.   

Climb Asinelli Tower

From Piazza Maggiore, walk for about five minutes to the colossal Asinelli Tower. The 319-foot tower is the tallest leaning medieval tower in the world. It stands next to Garisenda Tower, and together they make Le due Torri.  

These two towers are the most well-preserved in the city, and Asinelli is the only one you can climb. 

If you’re up for it, you can get an entrance ticket and climb up 498 steps to reach the top of the tower, where you’ll get stunning views of the city.

Take a food tour + private cooking class

If you’d like to take a piece of Bologna home with you, consider taking a food tour or private cooking class and learn how to make some tasty Italian delicacies. 

As the culinary capital of the world, Bologna offers great food tours that, at times, include cheese and wine tasting.

Marvel at La Finestrella

Discover Bologna’s long-lost canals through a small window on Via Piella. Yes, the city of Venice is not the only place in Italy where you can find canals. 

Bologna’s hidden canals date back to the Middle Ages when they were used for the transportation of goods and people. 

Where to stay in Bologna: 

• Art Hotel Commercianti: Centrally located Art Hotel Commercianti offers a hearty breakfast, and modern amenities in every room. Rooms have a beautiful traditional/medieval charm to them. Book your stay here
• NH Bologna De La Gare : Stay near the Bologna Centrale train station at the NH Bologna De La Gare! This hotel is conveniently located in the shopping district and about a 10-minute walk from Bologna Cathedral. It offers modern rooms, with a bar and parking on-site. Book your stay here

Note : Start early morning for Venice on day 2. Bologna to Venice is 1 hour 30 minutes by train and less than 2 hours by car

Day 2 Northern Italy itinerary – Experience the floating city of Venice

You can’t visit Northern Italy without making a stop in the City of Canals. Venice is dotted with stunning terracotta houses, medieval bridges, floating gondolas, and scenic canals that will make you fall in love. 

Here’s how you can spend one day in Venice .

Take a Grand Canal tour

The Grand Canal is one of the most notable features in Venice. Whether you’re visiting on a day trip or spending one day in Venice, taking a tour of the Grand Canal is a must-do . 

You’ll enjoy a boat ride through hidden canals and get a front-row seat to attractions like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Gritti Palace, and the postcard-worthy Salute Church.

Tip: Not sure if you should use a vaporetto (water taxi) or a canal tour? This guide about whether a gondola ride in Venice is worth it has what you need to know to make your decision.

Stroll around Piazza San Marco

Sitting in the heart of Venice, Piazza San Marco is the most vibrant square in the city. Flanked by historically significant buildings like St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, this public square is a great place to take a guided tour

You can also climb to the top of St Mark’s Campanile, where you’ll get a spectacular view of the city.

Visit Doge’s Palace

Doge’s Palace is one of Venice’s most popular attractions, and it’s easy to see why. 

Aside from the gorgeous Venetian Gothic-style architecture, you’ll also have the palace’s ornate interiors to marvel at. 

As a former residence of the supreme leader of the old republic, the museum is a great place to learn about the history of the city and see its stunning architecture. This Doge’s Palace entry ticket gives you access to the regal interiors and the Bridge of Sighs. 

Get a book at Libreria Acqua Alta

If you’re a bookworm, you’ll love spending time at this cozy, eccentric bookstore. Libreria Acqua Alta is one of the best Instagram-worthy photo spots in Venice . 

It boasts colorfully stacked books from floor to ceiling, some are stored in a bathtub and even a gondola.

Note: Libreria Acqua Alta is popular among tourists, and you may find it overcrowded.

Walk across Rialto Bridge

Spanning 66 feet over the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. 

And while it’s an absolutely beautiful piece of architecture to admire, Rialto Bridge also has a long history. It’s the oldest of the four bridges that cross over the Grand Canal. 

Walking across the Rialto Bridge is a great way to get up close views of the architectural details. But if you want to ditch the crowds and see the bridge in solitude, take a gondola tour along the Grand Canal and get stunning views of Rialto Bridge as you’re serenaded.

Where to stay in Venice: 

• Palazzo Veneziano – Venice Collection: Gorgeous 4-star property, located in the neighborhood of Dorsoduro, the Palazzo Veneziano is perfect for sightseeing in Venice, and you will also find many bars and restaurants nearby. Read traveler reviews and check current availability
• Hotel Campiello : This is an affordable 3-star hotel, located close to San Macro Piazza, and many other sightseeing areas. Check availability here

Note : Start for Milan the next day. You have 2 days of sightseeing here. Venice to Milan is 3 hours by the fastest train and car. 

Day 3 – 4 Northern Italy itinerary – Discover Milan’s Art Nouveau buildings, shopping centers, and castles

Milan is the capital of the Lombardy Region of Northern Italy. This bustling metropolitan is also world-renowned as the fashion capital of the world. 

It’s also home to some of Italy’s landmarks, like the Duomo di Milano and Sforza Castle.

Where to stay in Milan: 

• c-Hotel Atlantic Milano : c-Hotel Atlantic Milano is conveniently located near the central station, and is perfect for sightseeing, as well as for entering and leaving Milan. Plus you will find restaurants, bars with live music and parks nearby. Book your stay here (this hotel is also known as Atlantic Hotel Milano)
• Park Hyatt Milan: Located close to the Milan Duomo in Zone 1, Park Hyatt is a luxury property with stunning views of the city. It is about a 4-5 minute walk from the Duomo. Some suites also have a private terrace, and you can wine and dine in their restaurant on-site. View more information here

Day 3 – Visit Milan’s top attractions

There’s so much to do in this beautiful city that it raises the question, “ how many days in Milan is enough?” — and rightfully so. 

Your first day in the city of Milan takes you through all the city highlights. This is also a great one-day Milan itinerary if you can only stay for 24 hours or less. 

Marvel at the Duomo di Milano

Milan’s pre-eminent cathedral, the Duomo di Milano, is one of the most magnificent churches in the world. 

The white marble Gothic cathedral was commissioned by the Archbishop of Milan, Antonio da Saluzzo, and it took nearly six centuries to complete, from 1386 to 1965. 

Today, Milan Cathedral is one of the most celebrated landmarks in Italy. You can get an all-access ticket to the Duomo and get to see the cathedral’s museum, its terraces, and the rooftop. You’ll also get entry to the Chiesa di San Gottardo in Corte. 

Tip: Read this in-depth guide to get the lowdown about visiting Milan Cathedral .

Wander through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is home to some of the oldest restaurants and shops in Milan. Operating since 1877, the Galleria is the oldest active shopping gallery in the city.

You’ll find a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops selling luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel, Prada, and more. And although some of these brands may be out of your budget, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is worth visiting for its Renaissance Revival architecture. 

Stroll through Piazza Mercanti

Piazza Mercanti is one of Italy’s most idyllic squares. Located just a skip away from the magnificent Duomo, this quaint square is home to some of the most gorgeous medieval buildings in the world. 

The piazza was the city’s center of government and industry during the Middle Ages. This is why you’ll find the former courts of justice, the notary seat, and the Chamber of Commerce dotted around the square.

See the Last Supper at the Santa Maria delle Grazie

Art aficionados will appreciate a visit to the Santa Maria delle Grazie for a sneak peek at Leonardo da Vinci’s 15th-century masterpiece, “The Last Supper.” The painting sits in its original place along the walls of the refectory. 

To see the historical mural, take a guided tour of Santa Maria delle Grazie , where your expert guide will lead you through the viewing of the world-renowned painting for 15 minutes.

Day 4 – See Milan’s art and medieval architecture

The second day of your two days in Milan takes you through the city’s most famous art museums, galleries, and medieval architecture.

Wander through Sforza Castle + Arco della Pace

Sforza Castle is a Renaissance fortification built in the 15th century. The castle has served as a private residence for royalty, mainly the Visconti lords. It was also used as a weapons depot and as military barracks throughout its life.

Today, you can take an audio guide through the castle’s museums, each boasting interesting artworks and relics. 

Stroll through the castle’s lush grounds while admiring medieval architecture before dashing over to Arco della Pace for incredible photos.

Besides being almost identical to the Arc de Triomphe in France, Arco della Pace is one of Milan’s significant Neoclassical monuments, symbolizing peace between European nations. 

See masterpieces at Pinacoteca di Brera

Pinacoteca di Brera is Milan’s main public gallery and home to over 400 paintings dating between the 13th and 20th centuries. 

You can browse through the museum via a guided tour and see paintings from artists such as Caravaggio, Piero della Francesca, and Raphael. 

Visit the La Scala Opera House

Teatro alla Scala is an iconic opera house in Milan famous for its absolutely amazing acoustics. The theater is known for premiering many popular operas, especially many of Giuseppe Verdi’s. 

Book a ticket for the La Scala Museum tour , and get to see the famous stages, regal interior, and stunning crystal chandelier.

Note : You can extend your stay in Milan to day 5, and take a day trip to Lake Como and Bellagio.

Day 5 Northern Italy itinerary – Have a scenic escape in Lake Como

Lake Maggiore and Como offer the ideal tranquil getaway from the Lombardy Region’s bustling cities. Although Lake Maggiore is slightly bigger, the large lake doesn’t get as much tourist traffic as its counterpart. 

Here are a few ways you could spend your day in Lake Como.

Stroll through Como Town

Visiting Lake Como is one of the most popular day trips numerous tourists take from Milan, and it’s not hard to see why. 

But you can’t visit Lake Como without first making a stop at the picturesque city that gives the lake its name. 

Spend some time walking along the city’s gorgeous waterfront promenade, exploring its museums, and visiting famous churches like the stunning Como Cathedral.

Explore Lake Como

Surrounded by rolling green hills, picturesque old towns, and beautiful lakeside mansions, Lake Como is one of the idyllic places to visit in Italy. 

You can enjoy the upscale resort area and its beautiful scenery by taking a Lake Como cruise that ends with a stunning sunset. The lake also offers water sports opportunities, e-biking tours, and a lakeside dinner at a great restaurant.  

Take a trip to Varenna

Varenna is a small village sitting along the eastern shores of Lake Como. This idyllic old town offers views of colorful homes, medieval streets, and the gardens of Villa Monastero. It’s a great place to escape the high tourist summer season in Lake Como.

Visit Bellagio

Bellagio is another postcard-worthy old town on the shores of Lake Como. You can reach this gorgeous lakeside village via a 50-minute drive from Como Town. 

Once you arrive in Bellagio, hire a boat and take your own trip around the lake. End your day with a tasty meal at Ristorante Bilacus’s vine-covered terrace.

Tip: You can see the best of Lake Como, Varenna, and Bellagio with this day trip from Milan . The tour takes the most popular route to Lake Como, dotted with scenic villas and gardens.

Day 6 Switzerland itinerary – Explore Geneva’s best attractions

From here onwards, you will make your way to Switzerland. You have the option to either arrive in Zurich or Geneva to kickstart sightseeing here.   

Either way, we recommend starting early in the morning from Italy. Here is the travel time for each,

• Bellagio or Milan to Zurich is 3 to 4+ hours by train
• Bellagio or Milan to Geneva is 5 to 6+ hours by train 

As the capital of luxury watches and jewelry making, Geneva is a must-add to any Switzerland trip. This city boasts incredible views of the Swiss Alps, watchmakers, and many diplomatic headquarters to explore.

See the Jet d’Eau (Geneva Water Fountain)

Start this Switzerland trip with a visit to the star of Geneva Harbor. Shooting up to an altitude of 459 feet, Jet d’Eau is one of the largest fountains in the world. It is visible throughout the city and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Geneva.

Climb the tower of St. Pierre Cathedral

Nestled on the highest point of Geneva’s Old Town, St. Pierre Cathedral combines different architectural styles like Gothic and Ancient. The 12th-century cathedral boasts dramatic interiors and a tower you can climb for amazing views of the town.

Visit Palais des Nations + Red Cross Museum

As we touched on before, Geneva is home to several international headquarters, including the United Nations and the International Museum of the Red Cross. These buildings are of huge significance to all countries across the world and are perfect for taking pictures. 

Take a half-day trip to Chillon Castle (optional)

If you’re looking for something out of a fairytale, look no further than the Gothic-style Chillon Castle. 

Sitting on an island on Lake Geneva, this medieval castle boasts exhibitions across 36 gorgeous rooms and courtyards. 

Where to stay in Geneva: 

• Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva: This is a stunning 5-star lakeside property located in the heart of Geneva. It has about 400+ rooms and is elegantly decorated. Plus it is only a 2-minute walk away from the ferry terminal. Hotel amenities include a pool, spa, and a bar & restaurant. Book your stay here
• Hôtel des Tourelles: Hôtel des Tourelles is an affordable 2-star hotel, located about 10 minutes walk away from the city centre area. At less than $120 USD a night, this hotel serves its purpose. The hotel is pet friendly. Book your stay here

Note : Start for Bern the next day. Geneva to Bern is less than 2 hours by train or drive. 

Day 7 Switzerland itinerary – Experience the best of Bern

Bern has been the de-facto Swiss capital since 1848. And although you’d expect the capital city to be either Geneva or Zürich, Bern has a rich culture and lots of things to do on offer.

Take a walking tour of Old Town Bern

The UNESCO-designated Old Town of Bern is a well-preserved medieval center dotted with sandstone buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming shops and cafes. 

Take a stroll through Bern’s Old Town and discover its fountains, towers, and arcades. 

Visit Einsteinhaus

Head over to Einsteinhaus to see where Albert Einstein lives with his wife and son. This modest museum on the second floor shows the humble abode where Einstein wrote his annus mirabilis papers, which drastically changed how humanity understands the universe. 

Marvel at the Cathedral of Bern

Bern Minster is the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, sporting a single spire that soars about 328 miles into the sky. 

After admiring the cathedral’s Gothic architecture, you can take the 400-odd-step climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city.  

Stop by the Bern Historical Museum + Einstein Museum

Visiting Bern Historical Museum is a quintessential must-do activity when spending one day in Bern . 

The museum boasts a range of historical and ethnographic collections dating back to the Stone Age. 

It’s also connected to the Einstein Museum, where you can browse through photos, objects, and documentation of the physicist’s time in Bern.

Fun Fact: Albert Einstein spent seven years of his life in Bern, so you’ll find a deep connection between many of the city’s attractions and the physicist.

Note : We recommend leaving for Interlaken by evening. Trains and road trips will take about an hour to get there. 

Where to stay in Interlaken: 

• Hotel Interlaken: Hotel Interlaken is a vintage hotel, dating back to the 1400s. It offers a variety of amenities for a comfortable stay in Interlaken. The hotel has free parking and is a good option if you are road-tripping. And the train station is 10 minutes walk away. Check availability here
• Hotel Staubbach: Hotel Staubbach is one of the first hotels in Lauterbrunnen. Suites feature amazing panoramic views of the Staubbach Falls and Lauterbrunnen Valley. You can choose your accommodation from a private room with a shared bathroom or larger family-friendly rooms. Book your stay here

Day 8 and 9 Switzerland itinerary – Escape to the resort town of Interlaken

Surrounded by gorgeous mountains with dense forests, lakes, alpine meadows, and icy glaciers, Interlaken offers a great escape from Switzerland’s busier cities. 

Enjoy a cruise on Lake Thun

On the west of Interlaken, Lake Thun is a gorgeous deep blue waterbody popular for windsurfing, sailing, and sunbathing. 

The picturesque town also boasts stunning medieval architecture like Thun Castle, which you’ll have unobstructed views of from your boat cruise.

Marvel at Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm is one of the biggest draws on any Switzerland itinerary . The panoramic restaurant offers sweeping views of the valley floor, the two lakes, and the Swiss Alps in the distance. 

You can either take a short hike or ride a funicular (cable car) to the top.

Take a train ride to Schynige Platte

Enjoy a scenic train ride to the Schynige Platte, passing forests, alpine pastures, and marvelous views of Lake Thun and Brienz. 

The cogwheel train ride is about 4.5 miles and climbs to a height of nearly 4659 feet. You’ll enjoy spectacular views from the top. 

Go on a half-day trip to Jungfraujoch

Famously known as the top of Europe, Jungfraujoch is a saddle between two peaks of the Bernese Alps. 

Sitting at 11,362 feet above sea level, Jungfraujoch is a major feat to tick off your Switzerland trip bucket list . 

Catch this scenic ride to the top of Europe from the Interlaken Ost train station. 

Note : Leave for Zurich on day 9 (in the evening). Settle in with a nice dinner at the Old Town.

Day 10 Switzerland itinerary – End your Italy-Switzerland itinerary on a high in Zürich

As the economic capital and the largest city in Switzerland, Zürich is a great place to end this amazing trip. Admire the city’s architecture and see what its galleries and museums have to offer.

Where to stay in Zurich: 

• Fred Hotel Zürich Hauptbahnhof (Walhalla Hotel) : Conveniently located near Zurich HB, this 3-star hotel is perfect for a short trip to the city. The rooms are spacious and clean. Check availability here
• MEININGER Hotel Zürich Greencity : Located in District 2, this is an affordable option to stay along the Lake Zurich shores and within walking distance of the FIFA Museum. They have dorm-style accommodation. Check availability here

Stroll through the Altstadt (Old Town)

Start your day in Zürich with a leisurely stroll through the city’s medieval Old Town. Its elegant streets are dotted with colorful homes, cozy bars, and art museums like the Kunsthaus. 

You’ll also get to see the colossal Fraumünster Church.

Visit the Swiss National Museum

Sitting across the Zürich HB train station, the Swiss National Museum is home to a vast collection of cultural history, craftsmanship, and artworks from Switzerland’s past. 

A visit to the museum is a great way to learn more about the country.

Alternate Italy and Switzerland Itinerary 10 days

Here is an alternate Italy-Switzerland itinerary that can be explored by public transport, and also includes a scenic train ride.

Day 1 and 2 in Milan (Italy)

Start your trip by exploring Milan for 2 days. Visit Milan’s iconic Duomo, Vittorio Emanuele II, see the Last Supper, and Sforzesco Castle, and enjoy shopping and art walks. 

Visit Lake Como and the famous town of Bellagio from Milan on a day trip. You can also join a day tour to check out all the highlights

Spend day 4 of the itinerary to travel to Switzerland in style by riding the scenic Bernina Express . From Milan, you will arrive in Tirano, located at the foothills of the Swiss Alps. 

The Bernina Express leaves from Tirano and arrives in St. Moritz in Switzerland. For the purposes of this itinerary, plan to disembark in Chur. 

This route can be done in both ways and makes for an unforgettable experience.

To make the most of your trip in Switzerland, we recommend purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass to get unlimited rides on the public transportation network like trains, buses, ferries, and free access to over 500 museums. 

Train rides such as Bernina and Glacier Express require an additional cost for seat reservation, but with the Pass, it is 1000% worth it. 

Stay overnight in Chur (or St. Moritz). 

Day 5: Chur

Chur is the oldest city in Switzerland , making it an ideal destination for history buffs. The Old Town area is a great way to explore the city’s past, with its winding cobblestone streets and medieval buildings. 

There are also plenty of museums and churches to visit, such as the Cathedral of Chur, Rätisches Museum, Shelter for Roman Ruins, and the Alt-Haldenstein Castle. 

You can spend a few hours in Chur before making your way to Zurich. 

Day 6 and 7: Zurich

See the best of Zurich in 2 days . Keep Zurich as a base to explore other destinations in Switzerland for the remainder of your itinerary. 

In Zurich, enjoy a lovely riverside stroll along the Limmat River. This scenic route is one of the most popular spots in Zurich. 

You can easily walk through Old Town, which is the medieval heart of Zurich. 

Stop by Grossmünster, a 12th-century Romanesque-style church with two tall spires that dominate the city skyline. 

Next, visit Bahnhofstrasse for some of the best shopping in Switzerland. Here you’ll find world-famous fashion brands as well as high-end jewelry stores and boutiques.

During your trip, also visit the FIFA and the Swiss Museum of Transport. 

Day 8: Lucerne and Mount Titlis

Go on a day trip to Lucerne and Mount Titlis from Zurich. Located in the heart of Switzerland, Lucerne is a vibrant city on the banks of Lake Lucerne, filled with medieval architecture, boutique shopping, and world-class restaurants. 

From here, you can take a cable car or funicular to Mount Titlis, the highest mountain in Central Switzerland. Atop the summit, explore an array of Alpine activities, such as paragliding, hiking, and skiing. 

For those seeking a more leisurely activity, there is also an observation deck with stunning views of the surrounding area. 

Lucerne and Mount Titlis are two must-see destinations for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Northern Italy and Switzerland.

Day 9: Bern

Arrive in Bern from Zurich train station, and explore it for a day. Almost all of the primary attractions in Bern are centrally located making it easy to navigate and make the most of the visit. 

The beautifully preserved Old Town of Bern should be top on your list. Here you’ll find cobbled streets flanked by 16th-century buildings that are now used as shops and cafes. 

The city’s centerpiece is the clock tower called Zytglogge – a must-see when visiting Bern. Other destinations include the Einstein Museum, Münster Cathedral, and the Bern Historical Museum. 

If you’re looking for a bit of culture, make sure to check out some of Bern’s many galleries and theaters. And while you’re in Bern, be sure to enjoy some of its delicious local dishes such as rösti or fondue!

For your outdoor needs, take a stroll through the Aare River Gorge, where you can explore historical monuments and beautifully landscaped gardens. 

There are also plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained like hiking, kayaking, and cycling. Spend a few hours at the nearby Bear Park, where you can get up close and personal with Switzerland’s national animal!

No trip to Bern is complete without visiting one of its many parks or gardens. The Rose Garden is especially beautiful in summer, while Bundesplatz, an old public square, is great for people-watching. 

Day 10: Rhine Falls 

Taking a day trip to the Rhine Falls is an adventure that should not be missed when visiting Switzerland. 

Located only about 60 minutes from Zurich, the largest waterfall in Europe provides some of the most beautiful views and opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

When planning your visit you will want to decide whether you’d like to make the journey by train or by car. If you decide to use public transportation, it is possible to take a direct train from Zurich main station to Neuhausen am Rhinefall, or drive 35 minutes to get there.

Day tours are also offered on this route!

Once at the falls, you can enjoy free parking as well as easy access to all areas of the site – including its many observation decks overlooking the impressive cascading water.

The Rhine Falls are open all year round and offer a wonderful experience for visitors of all ages. 

Although we focused heavily on Northern Italy in this post, it is possible to explore Rome and the Tuscan region on a short trip as well. 

For this, we recommend flying to Rome and leaving from Zurich in Switzerland. 

A typical itinerary will look like this,

Switzerland and Italy Itinerary: Itinerary in reverse

You can do the same itinerary in reverse by starting in Zurich, the largest airport in Switzerland. 

Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary Travel Tips

Now that we have covered all of our itinerary samples, here are some additional tips, 

Renting a car or using public transportation

It is a personal preference if you wish to explore by driving or riding the train (or any other public transportation). But keep in mind that most of the cities like Venice, Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne all have car-free city centres. 

In places like Lake Como, Milan or Interlaken cars are fine, but you will also find good public transportation options including guided tours to take you there. 

Savings tips

We highly recommend booking accommodation in advance for your trip to Italy and Switzerland. Hotels in Switzerland can be very expensive in the summer and winter months – so book early!

A Swiss Travel Pass for 4 days will be your best bet to save money in Switzerland if you are splitting your 10 days in each country equally. 

For Italy, use websites like Trenitalia to make reservations prior to your trip. To save time, opt for high-speed trains that connect cities like Rome, Milan, Venice, and Florence. 

Bernina Express is a great add-on to your itinerary to experience the BEST of both countries. The entire route takes 4 hours to complete and has multiple stops along the way. 

Best time to visit Italy and Switzerland

Both countries are perfect for a visit all year round. 

If possible, it’s best to plan your trip for the early summer or fall months when temperatures are milder. This also allows you to experience the breathtaking scenery of the Alps throughout Switzerland and northern Italy in all its glory.  

The Swiss Alps is a world-renowned geographical feature that attracts skiers, climbers, and snow lovers from across the world. Straddling the border between Italy and Switzerland, the pyramid-shaped Matterhorn peak is perhaps the most famous of the Swiss Alps.

Although you can see the Alps from Lake Geneva, just a few hours from Interlaken and Zurich, you can spot stunning views of the Matterhorn from the Swiss town of Zermatt. Zermatt is a must-add when you visit Switzerland in winter !

Note : Both countries are located in the Central European Time zone

Should you visit Switzerland and Italy?

Italy and Switzerland are two of the most visited countries in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. From stunning Italian villages to lakeside resorts in Switzerland, you will find the perfect blend of natural and cultural attractions.

And this 10-day itinerary has got all you’ll want to see and do in this region. So don’t wait, plan your next trip to Italy and Switzerland!

Pin: Italy and Switzerland Itinerary 10 days

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Home » northern italy tours » 10-Day Switzerland and Italian Lakes Tour

Home » Northern Italy Tour Packages 2024 & 2025 » 10-Day Switzerland and Italian Lakes Tour

10-Day Switzerland and Italian Lakes Tour

This best of Switzerland and Italian Lakes tour travels through charming old villages full of culture and history with the natural beauty of the alps and lakes also stunning and stimulating. This escorted tour of Switzerland includes gorgeous natural beauty, plenty of photography points, while traveling among Zürich, St. Moritz, Lugano, Zermatt, Lake Geneva, and Lucerne.

The tour itinerary even includes a visit to the Principality Liechtenstein located high up in the alps.

The Italian Lakes portion of the itinerary includes a stop to see Lake Como and some free time on the shores of Lake Maggiore in Stresa.

Bring you camera! Beautiful scenery and charming cities are waiting for you on this tour of Switzerland. Click here for vacation itinerary.

Switzerland and Italian Lakes Tour Highlights

• Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites Old City of Berne
• ZURICH – Welcome dinner; orientation walk of the Old Town
• ZERMATT – Visit the Chillon Castle
• LAKE MAGGIORE – Enjoy evening in Baveno. Visit the Borromean Islands with an optional tour.
• ST MORITZ – Ride the Bernina Express train
• INTERLAKEN – Take pictures of the Jungfrau massif
• LUCERNE – Walking tour including the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge
• NOTE: On arrival at Zürich Airport, a complimentary transfer by hotel shuttle bus is available

Click here for vacation itinerary .

Accommodations

Switzerland and italian lakes tour accommodations.

• 1 Night Zurich – Hyatt Place Airport
• 1 Night Montreux – Eurotel Montreux
• 2 Night Zermatt – Alpen Resort
• 1 Night Baveno – Simplon
• 1 Night St Moritz – Reine Victoria
• 2 Nights Lucerne – Grand Europe

Click here for vacation highlights .

Day 3 – Chaplin’s World and Lake Geneva Cruise

Enjoy the palm trees on the shores of Lake Geneva from a romantic side­wheel paddle steamer as we cruise along the eastern shore of Lake Geneva. We’ll visit the Charlie Chaplin museum, set on the banks of the lake on his former estate, Manoir de Ban. Chaplin spent the last 23 years of his life here and you’ll discover all the facets of this incredible man’s life. We’ll see sets and props from his greatest movies and then finish with a peaceful walk in the gardens.

Day 5 – Klein Matterhorn Excursion

A unique electric taxi service will drive us to the foot of Zermatt’s highest and most spectacular mountain ride. You’ll enjoy stunning views as we ascend to Furi and Trockener Steg, before boarding Europe’s highest cable car to 3779m (12,400ft) and the magnificent snow­capped top of the world.

Day 5 – Zermatt Dinner Experience

Discover the beautiful mountainous resort town of Zermatt. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a wonderful dinner in a typical chalet­style restaurant with an opportunity to try the world­famous raclette and chocolate fondue.

Day 6 – Discover The Borromean Islands

We’ve organised a private launch to take you to the beautiful islands of Lake Maggiore. Here, with your Local Specialist, you’ll see the Isola Madre, the Isola dei Pescatori, and on the Isola Bella we visit the magnificent palace of the Borromean Princes (this optional is only operated between mid March and the end of October).

Day 6 – Dinner on Isola dei Pescatori

This evening escape to the charming and tranquil island of Isola dei Pescatori. A short boat ride from the shores of Lake Maggiore, this fisherman’s Island is inhabited year round by only 50 permanent residents. Stroll through the small piazza, surrounded by tight and winding alleys, to enjoy dinner at one of the Island’s restaurants.

Day 7 – Rosegg Valley By Horse And Carriage

Arriving in Pontresina, you’ll experience a horse­drawn carriage ride through the wild beauty of the Alps and the picturesque Rosegg Valley, with its spectacular mountain views.

Day 8 – Mount Stanserhorn And Lake Cruise

Take a scenic cruise with us across Lake Lucerne to Stans, and one of Switzerland’s oldest mountain railways. Travelling by railway and Cabrio cable car, we’ll reach 1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery. On certain departures, this optional may be operated in reverse, ending with the cruise. It may also be operated without the cruise.

Day 8 – Swiss Dinner by the Lake

Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious Swiss meal that includes the famous Swiss cheese fondue in a typical local restaurant. Its Lakeside location and well­placed terrace will ensure a relaxing evening enjoying the hearty Swiss menu. Two drinks are included.

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Switzerland and Italian Lakes Tour Itinerary

Click tour itinerary map to review the trip.

Day 1 – Depart the United States for Switzerland

This evening board plane in the United States for overnight flight to Swtizerland. Flights from the United States to Switerland arrive the following morning, which is Day 2 of the tour itinerary.

DAY 2 – Arrive in Zurich, Switzerland

Time to rest or to discover Zurich’s attractive historic center and lakeside promenade. This evening meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of your Switzerland and Lake Como Italy tour.

Meals: Dinner

DAY 3 – Zurich – Bern – Montreux

We leave the bright lights of Zürich behind and stop in Bern with its Old Town, admiring its medieval streets, ornate fountains and arcaded walkways. Journeying on to Lake Geneva, we arrive in the resort town of Montreux, set against the pristine backdrop of snow­covered peaks and vineyards. After lunch, consider joining an optional experience to cruise Lake Geneva, including a visit to the Charlie Chaplin museum in his former estate, Manoir de Ban.

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4 – Chillon Castle and Zermatt

This morning, we visit Chillon Castle, immortalised by Lord Byron’s ‘Prisoner of Chillon’. For nearly four centuries, this water fortress was the residence of the Counts of Savoy and an important stop for traders.

Our next stop is Bourg en Lavaux, a charming wine village above Lake Geneva, where we’ll Connect With Locals over lunch at a lunch with locals experience.

After lunch continue your journey to the resort town of Zermatt, set against the backdrop of the snow­capped Matterhorn.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

DAY 5 – Zermatt

Spend the day soaking up the crisp mountain air and panoramic alpine vistas. You have a full day on your own to explore the town, or simply relax in beautiful surrounds.

You may consider an optional experience to Klein Matterhorn for the most spectacular mountain views or explore the heritage of what was once a remote mountain village.

DAY 6 – Lake Maggiore, Baveno, Northern Italy

Departing Switzerland, we travel to the lakeside town of Baveno on Italy’s Lake Maggiore. Spend the rest of the day indulging in the laid­back lakeside atmosphere or consider joining an optional experience to Isola Bella , one of the lake’s Borromean islands, with its palazzo and exquisite gardens.

DAY 7 – Bernina Express train to St. Moritz

Today you travel through the scenic Italian countryside to the fortified town of Tirano. Here, we will board the famous Bernina Express train and wind our way through scenic landscapes en route to the stylish resort town of St. Moritz. This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 8 – Lucerne

Journeying through lush green landscapes, past Lake Zürich, we arrive in lakeside Lucerne. Pay tribute to the brave Swiss Guards, who lost their lives defending King Louis XVI at the Lion Monument, and cross the iconic wooden Chapel Bridge before strolling past the city’s colourful façades.

Consider joining an optional experience to cruise on the tranquil lake waters and then ride the world’s first double deck ‘CabriO’ cable car to the top of Mount Stanserhorn .

DAY 9 – Admire Scenic Brienz and Interlaken

Today travel to Interlaken at the heart of Switzerland, which lies in the shadow of the Jungfrau Mountain. Stopping in the village of Brienz en route, you’ll gain insights into the centuries­old tradition of wood carving for which this village is so famous. Afterward, spend some time on your own and enjoy superb views of the peaks of the Bernese Oberland.

This evening, we enjoy a Farewell Dinner with your fellow travellers and Travel Director toasting the highlights of Switzerland we’ve enjoyed along the way.

Day 10 – Travel Home

Your journey through the Best of Switzerland comes to an end, we bid our newfound friends a fond farewell. Airport transfers are included at speciic times. Speak with ItalianTourism.us regarding the Switzerland and Italian Lakes tour with air so as to arrnage flghts that work with included transfers.

Click tour itinerary map to see the route through Swtizerland.

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7 Day Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary 

Published: 3/8/2024

The Complete Itinerary for Our Northern Italy and Switzerland Trip

If you’re planning a trip to northern Italy and Switzerland , I’m laying out our entire itinerary in this post.

In November 2023, I flew to Milan, Italy with my sister-in-law. We crafted an epic week in both the Lombardy region of northern Italy and Switzerland’s Ticino canton. Although we never get more than an hour away from Milan Malpensa Airport, our week included everything from big city bustle and culture, leisurely lakeside dining, and hikes through the Swiss Pre-Alps.

This itinerary includes three nights in Italy’s business and fashion capitol, Milan . From there, we’ll hop on a train in Milan Central and pop across the border to Lugano, Switzerland . After two days of soaking up leisure and luxury of Lugano, we return to Italy to round out our week with time on Lake Como .

You’ll be amazed by how easy it is to explore the Italian Lake District by train. Since we’re spending this week in a very concentrated area of Europe , you’ll never be on a train for more than 1.5 hours. This maximizes sightseeing opportunities and allows you to soak up the area’s culture and striking landscapes.

So let’s jump in and start exploring these beautiful and rewarding parts of Italy and Switzerland.

This post may contain affiliate links. When you purchase something through these links, I receive a small commission that helps me create this blog’s content. There’s no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Day one: arrive milan, day two: milan highlights, day three: milan explorations, day four: travel to lugano, switzerland.

• Day Five: Lugano, Switzerland Explorations

Day Six: Travel to Lake Como, Italy

• Day Seven: Como City, Italy

About This Itinerary

Getting around, where to stay, conclusion: 7 days in northern italy and switzerland.

We took an overnight flight from JFK and arrived at Milan Malpensa Airport in the mid-morning. After a speedy trip through customs, we grabbed our luggage, and headed to the Malpensa Express terminal which connects right to the airport.

One of my favorite things about Milan is how user-friendly it is. Instead of having to faff about with tickets in our jetlagged state, you can just use a tap credit card (or ApplePay) to the board the train. You tap your card again at the turnstiles at your destination so it can properly calculate your fare.

Since we were staying just west of central Milan, we took the Malpensa Express to Milan’s Cadorna station . From there it was about a half mile walk to our Airbnb . If we had taken the train to Milan Central – which I think is most people’s first instinct – we would have added a 20-minute subway ride to our journey.

Our Airbnb host kindly accommodated an early check-in. We did a little jetlagged exploration of our neighborhood on Viale S. Michele del Carso near the Conciliazione subway station. After we’d grabbed lunch and some breakfast supplies, we turned in for a nap before starting our Milan explorations in earnest later that afternoon.

Day One Waypoints

We signed up for a two-hour walking tour of central Milan through Airbnb experiences. This was an excellent introduction to Milan. Since it was just the two of us and our excellent tour guide, Ruth, the tour was extremely tailored to our interests.

Points of interest included most major Milan landmarks including Sforzeco Castle , Brera , La Scala Opera House , Galleria Vittorio Emanuele , Duomo Cathedral , and Peck grocery store.

Day One Eats

Our Airbnb was located on a bustling neighborhood street. We hit up the nearest bakery – Panificio Pastore – for lunch, where I had the shocking realization that I still can’t speak Italian. Despite the language barrier, I ended up with a very tasty panzerotti.

I figured my lack of fluency in Italian – a language I’ve never studied – must be because I was undercaffeinated. We headed across the street to Franci’s espresso bar . Since it was after 11 a.m., I played it safe and got “un caffe” – that is, an espresso – rather than a cappuccino.

Since our walking tour ended right in the Piazza del Duomo, we hit up Ravizza 1871 for our first-ever aperitivo experience . We were immediate converts.

This is the sort of sightseeing day that I get told is impossible when I write about it. However, I can assure you, we really did see all of these Milan things in one single day. It only took us 14 hours!

If you want to leave your hotel or apartment at 8:30 a.m. and return around 10:30 p.m., you can absolutely replicate this day in Milan ! I’m not sure I 100% recommend it – but we did sleep really well this night . . . .

Day Two Waypoints

We started the day off strong with a guided tour of Da Vinci’s The Last Supper . From there, we walked to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery where we enjoyed affogatos made with approximately one pint of vanilla ice cream.

We spent about an hour going through the galleries at Pinacoteca di Brera located on the first floor of the Palazzo Brera , then popped into the building’s “back yard” to the Orto Botanico di Brera . From Brera, we made it back to Piazza del Duomo just in time for a tour of Milan’s Duomo cathedral . We toured both the rooftop and the interior.

I popped into Peck , a gourmet delicatessen, to pick up a panettone to bring home for my Christmas celebrations. Jokes on me – I actually ended up with a pandoro , which was amazingly delicious. We then took our first Milan subway ride to Bar Basso , home of the Negroni sbagliato . Our day ended along the Navigli canals .

Day Two Eats

Really busy sightseeing days often go hand-in-hand with slightly disordered eating. Happily, we started off the day strong with breakfast in our apartment. Since we had some time to kill in between checking in for our Last Supper Tour and the actual tour, we popped into nearby Leonardo Bistrot on Corso Magenta for an espresso.

On our way from Palazzo Brera to the Duomo, we popped into Bistrot El Birocc on Via Brera to grab something fast we could eat on the go. While this bistro isn’t well-reviewed, we enjoyed prompt, speedy service as well as tasty sandwiches.

We hit the popular aperitivo (really more of an apericena) spot La Hora Feliz . This was meant to be an appetizer, but we were pretty hungry by this point and the massive buffet was just too tempting.

After spending most of the day in a calorie deficit, we decided to make up for last time and hit up L’Altro Luca & Andrea for some traditional Milanese fare along the Grand Canal in Navigli.

After visiting basically all of the Milan “must see” attractions the day before, we enjoyed a slower pace today. We still didn’t get home until well after 10:30 p.m. I love the point in a trip where a destination starts to click.

We spent a lot of time on the Milan metro today. Nothing tricks you into thinking you’re a local faster than successfully using the public transportation.

Day Three Waypoints

We had a great experience at a Pasta and Tiramisu making class in the Casoretto neighborhood near Milan Central. After three hours of cooking and dining, we took the subway to central Milan, where we capitalized on the beauty sunshine by wandering through Parco Sempione to Arco de Pace . We also visited the famous bone chapel in Chiesa di San Bernardino alle Osso .

Our night ended at the Teatro alla Scala , attending the Onegin ballet.

Day Three Eats

We of course got to eat the pasta we made during our class with Pietro. For dinner, we went to a charming bistro near our apartment: Larky .

All good things must come to an end. After nearly 72 very full hours in Milan, we headed to Milan Central to board a train to Lugano, Switzerland .

Because of its close proximity, Lugano is often included in a tour of northern Italy and the Italian Lake District. You can do Lugano as a Milan day trip, but I think it’s better to spend at least an overnight in Lugano .

Don’t believe folks who tell you that Lugano is the same distance by train from Zurich as it is from Milan. It took us less than 1.5 hours by train to reach Lugano from Milan Central. From Zurich, it takes 3 hours.

One advantage of accessing Lugano from the north is that it’s easier to catch the celebrated Bernina Express , which is itself a UNESCO World Heritage site. However, the Bernina Express doesn’t actually stop in Lugano. Instead, you buy a bus ticket that will take you from Lugano to the Bernina Express’s terminus in Tirano, Italy. We skipped it this go-round.

Day Four Waypoints

We settled in on a Zurich bound train for an hour and 20 minute ride up to Lugano. Upon arrival, we checked into the Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola . We immediately started to soak up Lugano’s leisure vibes and enjoyed a laidback afternoon enjoying our room’s balcony and garden view.

After a while, we decided to stroll along the Lake Lugano waterfront, visiting Parco Ciani and Piazza della Riforma along the way.

Day Four Eats

Il Fermento is a brew pub located right along the waterfront in downtown Lugano. It was the perfect spot for today’s aperitivo.

We ended our night with an epic food and wine event at Restaurante Arte de Lago . This Michelin star restaurant is run by Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola although it’s located in a separate building right on the waterfront about a block away from the hotel. The restaurant also hosts an art gallery with rotating exhibits. We opted for the tasting menu with wine pairing .

While the entire experience was fun and memorable, at the price point I just can’t in good faith tell you this is a “can’t miss” Lugano thing to do. I’m kind of like Ron Burgundy and teleprompter: I will eat anything you put in front of me. I’m not sure my palette is refined enough to truly appreciate a fine dining experience.

Day Five: Lugano Explorations

I’d been looking forward to exploring Lugano for decades. Yes this is another trip inspired by a novel : Sharon Creech’s Bloomability to be specific . We couldn’t have asked for a better day: it was our fifth mild, sunny day in a row! I’m glad I didn’t put a rain jacket on my Milan packing list !

Day Five Waypoints

We took the funicular to the top of Monte Bre , where we enjoyed stunning views of Lugano, Lake Lugano, surrounding foothills, and the Swiss Alps . Once we’d drunk in the view, we started a long descent down Monte Bre on a well-signed path to the medieval town of Gandria .

To return to Lugano, we caught a passenger ferry boat at the Gandria dock. After a little souvenir shopping in Lugano, we return to our hotel for some well-earned soak time in the pool and sauna.

Day Five Eats

After a few days of Airbnb apartment living, I was really looking forward to an impressive European breakfast spread. The Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola didn’t disappoint with an array of hot breakfast foods, pastries, cakes, yogurt, cereals, juices, and more. Most notable was a tray of honeycomb!

After our hike and boat ride, we popped into the elegant Grand Café al Porto in downtown Lugano for a late lunch. Because our lunch was so late, we settled on a light supper at our favorite Lugano haunt, Il Fermento .

All too soon, it was time to say good-bye to lovely Lugano. But don’t worry – we’re not leaving the Italian Lake District just yet!

Day Six Waypoints

After breakfast we wandered back into downtown Lugano for a little souvenir shopping. Since it was Tuesday, we stumbled upon the Lugano Farmer’s Market . Ashley also found the perfect Switzerland souvenir: Swiss Army knives!

Eventually we made our way to the train station and took a 30-minute ride to Como City on Lake Como in Italy.

The reason we decided to include Como City on this trip was because they were the only city in the Milan area that had their Christmas market up and running in late November. (If we hadn’t been concerned about the Christmas market, we probably would have ended up in a more celebrated Lake Como destination like Bellagio.)

We spent a fair amount of time exploring the Christmas market – including spending an hour skating on the rink in Piazza Cavour . We also toured the Como Cathedral .

Day Six Eats

We arrived in Como just in time to hit Osteria de Gallo for a late lunch. This was very fortuitous timing since the busy restaurant usually requires reservations unless you come after lunch or dinner rushes. Their homestyle regional menu changes daily.

We hit up Hemingway Bar for aperitivo which doubled as a light supper. Their champagne cocktails are one of the best things I’ve ever tasted.

We tried multiple times to find a good gelateria on this trip, but because we were traveling in the off-season, we found them all closed by early evening. We settled on gelato at our hotel’s restaurant. While it wasn’t the same experience, it wasn’t any less tasty.

Day Seven: Como City Explorations

I will admit, I was not particularly excited about Como City when we planned our travels. However, as is so often the case with destinations I’m reticent about, I ended up loving it. I’m not sure if it was because we’d firmly settled into our travel pace by the time we arrived or because we left while we were still having fun, but Como ended up being my favorite place on this trip.

While we didn’t doing any popular Lake Como excursions like take a boat to Varenna, we found more than enough to fill a day right in Como City .

Day Seven Waypoints

Let’s be honest, when you visit Switzerland and Italy, one cable car ride isn’t enough. We started our day off with a funicular to the small town of Brunate  located about halfway up Monte Boletto. This mountain flanks Como City’s eastern side.

From the funicular station, we continued our upward climb: hiking about 25 minutes to the viewpoint at Faro Voltiano , a memorial lighthouse celebrating Como inventory Alessandro Volta. 

After taking the funicular back to town, we did a little souvenir shopping at the Christmas market and in the Como Old Town area. Sadly, the day ended with a train ride to Milan Malpensa, where we checked into an airport hotel and prepared for our journey back to the States the next morning.

Day Seven Eats

We loved Osteria de Gallo so much that we returned again for lunch a second day. While my pork shank and polenta wasn’t as much to my tastes as the meatloaf I’d had the day before, it was an excellent example of regional cuisine. Ashley tried their red table wine, which was very nice.

If you read through this and thought, “wow, there’s a lot of northern Italy and Switzerland you didn’t cover,” you’re right. While I didn’t realize until the end of our trip that we never got more than an hour away from Milan Malpensa Airport, we intentionally kept our travel scope pretty small.

There’s so much to see in Milan and the Italian Lake District, that we wanted to spend as much time as possible with our boots on the ground actively sightseeing. If you use this itinerary, in total, you’ll spend less than three hours in transit during this entire week – and that’s factoring in the commute from Milan Malpensa to central Milan on the Malpensa Express.

So while you won’t see northern Italy highlights like Venice, the Dolomites, or Turin, I really do think this itinerary offers a great immersion into the Lombardy region of Italy and the small Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. If you must cover more ground on this trip, I’d shave off a day in Milan and turn your Lugano experience into a day trip.

However, since you’ll often find discounted tickets to Milan Malpensa Airport, this trip makes a great introduction to the Lombardy and Ticino regions of Italy and Switzerland. You’ll have all sorts of amazing northern Italy and Switzerland destinations to explore on your next Italian/Swiss adventure!

We traveled from town to town in northern Italy and Switzerland by train. I booked our tickets online about 2 months ahead of time and they worked perfectly.

• For train journeys originating in Italy, book your tickets through Italia Rail .
• For train journeys originating in Switzerland, book your tickets through SBB CFF FFS .

We had assigned seats for our trip from Milan to Lugano. The rest of the time, we used regional trains to get around. These tickets were actually valid for four hours around the boarding time I’d booked them for. We really appreciated this flexibility, but the trains were definitely more crowded with fewer places for our luggage.

From a souvenir standpoint, bringing my large roller bag was a great decision. But it was definitely a pain on our commutes. Several of the trains didn’t have large luggage racks and we ended up sitting in seats with the bags wedged in front of our knees. Next time I’ll forego bringing home a full-sized pandoro and just use my carry-on bag.

When we were at our destination, we used a mix of public transportation – including subway, bus, and taxi – to get around. However, all our destinations were very walkable, so we mostly depended on our feet.

Milan Lodging

We stayed in this Airbnb in the San Vittore neighborhood near the Santa Maria delle Grazie and The Last Supper . Our street was filled with shops, restaurants, espresso bars, and bakeries. We loved pretending we were locals. I definitely gained an understanding of why so many people love living in Milan after three days based here.

If this apartment doesn’t work for you and your group, there’s no shortage of other lodging options in Milan .

Lugano Lodging

I embraced Lugano’s luxury and leisure vibes and booked two nights at the Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola . Although it’s not centrally located, its position on the far east end of town right at the base of Monte Bre actually worked out perfectly for us.

The hotel offers a gym, salon, pool and sauna area, three restaurants (one in a separate building near the waterfront), meeting rooms, libraries, and garden. We ended up with a fantastic view of both Lake Lugano and the gardens. If you want a five-star property, the Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola is definitely worth the splurge. Otherwise, check out these other Lugano hotels .

Como City Lodging

We spent one very pleasant night at the Albergo Terminus Hotel . This four-star hotel conveniently located right on the waterfront offers a spa, restaurant, and boutique as well as a variety of rooms ranging from single rooms to deluxe suites.

While the shared spaces in the hotel felt a little dark and cramped (the building was originally built as a spa), we had a beautiful suite with a massive bathroom, comfortable sitting area, and a great view overlooking Piazza Cavour. The best part of our stay was the gorgeous breakfast spread. Seriously, don’t miss it.

You can also check out other Como City lodging .

To be honest, a week will never be enough time in Italy and Switzerland. However, if you want to maximize your time in the Milan and Italian Lake District, this 7-day itinerary gets you to all the best sites in Lombardy and Ticino.

I designed this trip to be a truly immersive experience with the perfect balance of sightseeing, outdoor adventure, and delicious food.

You really don’t have to cover much ground to fill your week with Milan masterpieces like Da Vinci’s Last Supper and the Milan Duomo cathedral, beautiful views of the Swiss Alps from the foothills in Lugano, or amazing regional cuisine beside Lake Como.

With ample public transportation options, it’s easy to travel around northern Italy and Switzerland without a guide. You can opt to either stay in the lap of luxury at a five-star hotel or find a cozy apartment that will accommodate any budget.

I hope this post inspires you to book tickets to Milan, Italy so you can experience this beautiful corner of Europe yourself!

Hi! I’m Ada, a travel writer based in northern Minnesota, on a mission to see the world. I use this travel blog to provide practical, no-nonsense travel tips and itineraries for both domestic and international travels.

Home Airport:

Skagit Valley, WA

Where I’ve Been:

If you liked this Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary, check out these posts!

  Ada is a travel writer based in northern Minnesota. She’s spent two decades as a freelance writer. She’s lived in three countries and has visited all 50 states. In addition to traveling the world, she runs a Boundary Waters outfitters and helps people plan canoe trips and other outdoor adventures in northeastern Minnesota.

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10-Day Northern Italy Switzerland Itinerary

One of the most memorable trips I’ve been on was a family trip to Northern Italy and Switzerland in late May through early June 2018.

We booked our luxury Northern Italy and Switzerland trip through Crawford Concierge who crafted the best bespoke itinerary for us. This itinerary is not only perfect for families, it is also great for solo travelers, couples and friend groups.

Italy is one of the most desired travel destinations in the world and it is almost impossible to see the entire country in one trip. If you want to see a good chunk of Italy like myself, I recommend doing separate trips for each area of Italy.

So far, I’ve been to Italy four times. The first time was a trip to Sicily in June 2017 for my 26 th birthday. My second trip to this beautiful country was when I did my Northern Italy and Switzerland adventure with my family in 2018. I enjoyed a ski trip to the Italian Dolomites in South Tyrol during January 2020 and I did a second family trip to Rome and the Amalfi Coast in September 2021 while also adding on a fun Puglia itinerary with my friend Ashley of World to Wander .

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.

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Northern Italy Switzerland Itinerary

Day 1: arrive in zürich.

We started our Northern Italy Switzerland journey in Zürich.

The journey from the airport to downtown Zürich will take around 10-15 minutes.

Where to Stay in Zürich:

Luxury: Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zürich

Mid-Budget/Boutique: 25hours Hotel Langstrasse

Budget/Hostel: Zurich Youth Hostel

Rentals: Airbnb or Vrbo

I recommend that your first day in Zürich be more of a relaxing one since you will most likely have a tiring travel journey.

I suggest grabbing food and leisurely strolling around the city. After settling into our hotel, we got pizza at Razzia , which is a swanky bar and restaurant known for its cheeses. Needless to say, it was absolutely delicious!

After grabbing food, enjoy a relaxing walk around Lake Zürich . Located on the lakefront are outdoor bars, live music venues, boats and people having a great time! The lake area is absolutely beautiful!

Later into the evening, I recommend watching the sunset and grabbing drinks at a rooftop bar in the city.

Since we stayed at Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador , they had a great rooftop bar called The View Hidden Bar . It is open to the public, but please note that they have a capacity for the amount of people who sit up there.

Day 2: Day in Zürich

After getting a good night’s rest, we wandered into Zürich’s Old Town, which is a real life storybook.

In the Altstadt (Old Town), there is a lovely Swiss café called Conditorei Schober that offers delicious chocolates, cakes, pastries, tarts and breads. It is absolutely amazing!

Once you are finished with breakfast, stroll through the cobblestone streets and quaint alleyways.

A few churches and landmarks that you must see are the St. Peterskirche , Grossmünster and Framünster .

I also recommend making your way to the mountainous side of Zürich to the beautiful town of Adliswil. From there, you could hike or take a gondola up to Felsenegg vantage point. Once you reach the top, you could savor the views of the city of Zürich and nearby Swiss Alps. Felsenegg also has a bar called Panorama where you could grab a refreshing Swiss beer!

Another wonderful thing to do in Zürich is take the ferry across Lake Zürich. It is the perfect way to relax, admire the swiss Alps and catch beautiful views of the mansions along the lake.

During your last evening, I recommend grabbing an authentic Swiss German dinner at Restaurant Brasserie Johanniter . It was by far one of the best restaurants I’ve eaten at during my travels!

For dessert, you cannot miss out on getting macaroons at Confiserie Sprüngli !

Day 3: Arrive in Como

The second place we visited on our Northern Italy Switzerland itinerary was Lake Como. Overall, Lago di Como is magical and one of the best places to visit in Lombardy, Italy !

We traveled from Zürich to Como by train from the Zürich Hauptbahnhof to Como San Giovanni train station. It was around a 3-hour train ride and the views were astronomical!

From the train station in Como, you could easily walk to your accommodation, which I recommend you booking in the actual village of Como. (There are also taxis available.)

Where to Stay in Como:

Luxury: The Palace Hotel

Mid-Budget/Boutique: Rumi Rooms

Budget/Hostel: In Riva al Lago

The top things to do when you first arrive in Como is walk around and grab lunch at one of the authentic restaurants in town. Our favorite restaurant in the town of Como was Trattoria Il Solito Posto .

I also recommend taking the Pigra Cable Car in Como to the top of the mountain where you could catch amazing views of the lake along with all the beautiful towns nearby.

Later in the day, I recommend taking a cooking class with Paola Lovisetti Scamihorn. Paola is a food blogger of Passion and Cooking and is also the author of the books The Mamma Mia! Diet , Authentic Italian Cookbook: Love is Eating along with Love is Eating – Healthy and Tasty Italian Recipes for Family Meals . Paola’s recipes are healthy and have proven that consuming a Mediterranean diet helps keep people fit.

Paola also hosts cooking classes for those visiting Como and that is what we did. Overall, we felt welcomed and part of Paola’s family from the moment we stepped foot into her home.

We enjoyed an aperitivo that consisted of prosciutto, salami, cheese and an assortment of breads. We then helped Paola cook a healthy whole-wheat linguine with fresh vegetables and herbs in a white wine sauce dish along with chicken, prosciutto and sage roll ups. For dessert, we made tiramisu. Everything tasted amazing!

Day 4: A Day on Lake Como

During our second day in Lake Como , we did a guided boat tour . If you make your way to Como, this is definitely something you HAVE TO DO! It was one of the best days we had during our time in Northern Italy .

Our guide Giacomo sailed us around on his gorgeous handcrafted wooden boat. During our boat day, we sailed passed lavish mansions and colorful villas. A lot of these homes are actually owned by celebrities, top CEOs, bankers and world leaders such as George Clooney, Richard Branson, Gianni Versace, Guinness and more.

Our first stop on our boat journey was to the colorful village of Varenna . We enjoyed strolling through the gorgeous cobblestone alleyways and catching glimpses of the lake. The architecture and historical monuments are also something to admire in Varenna.

The second village we visited was Bellagio , which is known as The Pearl of Lake Como. Bellagio is definitely more touristy than Varenna, but it is absolutely beautiful with pastel-colored villages, stunning views and a charming culture.

During your time in Bellagio, I recommend getting lunch at Terrazza du Lac Ristorante and also exploring the gardens of i Giardini di Villa Melzi .

Later in the afternoon, we made our way to Locanda dell Isola Comacina. It is a unique island that includes walking trails, fishermen houses and a church. There is also a bar on the island called La Botte where you could grab an aperitivo and enjoy the views of the lake.

Day 5: Arrive in Venice

Traveling from Como to Venice is around 3.5 hours by train . It requires you to take the local train from Como San Giovanni station to Milano Centrale and then you will need to switch trains that will take you to Venice’s Venezia Santa Lucia train station. Once you get to Venice, you will most likely need to take a water taxi to your accommodation.

Where to Stay in Venice:

Luxury: Palazzo Veneziano

Mid-Budget/Boutique: Carnival Palace Hotel

Budget/Hostel: Generator Venice

One of the best things to do in Venice is take a Venetian rowing lesson . Personally, I recommend doing this activity over a traditional gondola ride if you are short on time.

Before you actually take your rowing lesson, I recommend grabbing lunch at a nearby restaurant called Ristorante Diana . It was one of the best restaurants I went to in Northern Italy.

Taking a rowing lesson in Venice was one of the most memorable activities we did there. We did our lesson through Row Venice , which is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of traditional Venetian culture.

Row Venice ’s employees are predominantly all females creating the best experiences for locals to enjoy as well as visitors. Our lesson began with the introduction of the traditional batelina, which is a rowing boat that is now rare to see in Venice.

We practiced in the quiet canals, away from the tourists. Once we got comfortable, we made our way onto the popular Grand Canal where there was more traffic. We had such as blast!

After our rowing lesson, we made our way through the fairytale streets of Venice. We admired the stunning Gothic architecture, charming bridges and Arabic touches. As you stroll through Venice, it is a MUST that you see the iconic Rialto Bridge , Bridge of Sighs and Saint Mark’s Basilica .

While you are making your way through the area, I recommend grabbing gelato at VizioVirtù Cioccolateria . For dinner, try some delicious pizza at Ostaria al Vecio Pozzo !

Day 6: Island Tour of Murano, Burano and Torcello

During your second day in Venice, take a tour of the three islands off of the main city – Murano , Burano and Torcello .

There are a lot of tour companies that take travelers to these islands, but I personally recommend seeing them on your own.

The island of Murano is renowned for its tradition of glass making. In fact, I recommend seeing a glass making demonstration where you can watch a glassmith (or glassblower) create stunning glass work.

After learning about glass making in Murano, head over to the colorful fishing village of Burano.

According to Italian legend, Venetians living in Burano painted their homes bright colors so that the local fishermen could see them even during the grayest days to avoid crashing into shore after a long voyage at sea.

It is best to stroll through the adorable streets of Burano, wander through the gorgeous lace shops and learn about Italian lace making , touring the leaning church tower of San Martino and grabbing delicious butter cookies.

Torcello is the most northerly island of the Venetian lagoon and most of it is uninhabited. The people who do live there mainly reside in farmhouses.

An iconic landmark that you cannot miss in Torcello is the Devils Bridge . According to folklore, this bridge was built in one night by the devil to win a bet. The Church of Santa Fosca is also a wonderful landmark to see in Torcello!

Day 7: Day in Florence

Traveling from Venice to Florence could easily be done in two hours and 15 minutes by taking the train from Venezia Santa Lucia to Firenze Santa Maria Novella . Once you get to Florence’s main train station, you could either walk or haul a taxi to your accommodation in the city.

During our Northern Italy Switzerland trip, we wanted to include Tuscany and Cinque Terre in our itinerary, so we decided to base ourselves in Florence and do day trips from there.

In my opinion, if you have more time, I recommend staying a couple nights in Cinque Terre and having a lovely beach vacation and also renting a villa in the Tuscan countryside to get the most authentic experience.

Where to Stay in Florence:

Luxury: Hotel Spadai

Mid-Budget/Boutique: Residenza La Musa Amarcord

Budget/Hostel: Ostello Tasso

With only one day in Florence, you will need to pack a lot in.

The first place we visited during our time in Florence was the Duomo . Known as Florence’s most iconic landmark, the Piazza del Duomo is one of the most amazing sites in the city. If you want to go into the Duomo , it is recommended that you book your tickets in advance to get in.

Before seeing the rest of the fascinating sites and landmarks of Florence, I recommend getting lunch at SimBIOsi , which is a great organic restaurant.

Afterwards, head over to the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David . It is truly fascinating to see the David in person!

Another great thing to do during your time in Florence is to go shopping in Ponte Vecchio . Known as Florence’s oldest bridge, Ponte Vecchio was the only bridge across the Arno River that did not get destroyed by the Germans during World War II.

Initially, butchers occupied the shops, but nowadays, it is a collection of high-end jewelers, art dealers, souvenir sellers and more.

Later on into the evening, you have to watch the sunset from the Piazzale Michelangelo . It is the most famous lookout in Florence and it truly is an amazing spot to see an epic sunset!

After watching the sunset, grab a lovely dinner at Trattoria Zà Zà .

Day 8: Day Trip to Tuscany from Florence

From Florence, we did a beautiful day trip to Northern Tuscany . It was such a lovely day and we got to see so much.

Our first stop in Northern Tuscany was to San Gimignano , which is where you could capture iconic views that Tuscany is known for, from the rolling green hills to the picturesque Cypress trees. San Gimignano is a picture-perfect Tuscan village that is filled with stone buildings and 13 th Century fortress walls.

During your time in San Gimignano, you have to walk around and admire all of the beauty!

You also have to visit the stores and purchase truffle oil, since it is a staple in the Tuscan region. You could use truffle oil with a variety of Italian and non-Italian dishes such as French fries, pizza, potatoes, eggs and more.

I also recommend seeing the Duomo di San Gimignano and climb the Torre Grossa (tower).

To top it off, you HAVE to visit Gelateria Dondoli , which is the world champion gelato shop!

After exploring San Gimignano, make you way over to Siena , which is one of the most popular cities in Tuscany and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

A fun fact about Siena is that it is where you could hear the most beautiful Italian being spoken.

When you arrive in Siena, I recommend getting pizza for lunch at Ristorante Pizzeria Spadaforte in the Piazza del Campo .

Once you are finished with lunch, wander through the medieval city of Siena and visit the beautiful Siena Baptistery , Medici , Torre del Mangia and Duomo di Siena .

The third stop on our Northern Tuscany tour was to the charming village of Monteriggioni .

This small fortress town is absolutely lovely and the perfect place to grab a mid afternoon coffee and relax. It is in Monterioggioni where you could admire views of the surrounding Chianti region.

During your time in this lovely city, see the Castello di Monteriggioni (castle) and Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta (church).

Last, but not least, it is best to end your Northern Tuscany day trip by wine tasting in Chianti .

In Chianti, we visited the Poggio Amorelli estate where we tasted the amazing wines of Marco Mazzarrini at his winery called Famiglia Mazzarrini .

During our wine experience in Chianti, we tasted a few whites and reds, including a delicious Prosecco. In between each wine tasting, we also got to taste the regional olive oil, truffle oil and balsamic vinaigrette on fresh Italian bread. We were even served a charcuterie platter.

Day 9: Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence

In addition to our day trip to Tuscany, we also did a wonderful tour to Cinque Terre from Florence. (Cinque Terre definitely needs to be part of your Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary!)

Just like with a Tuscany day trip, a day to Cinque Terre could be done with an organized group or on your own. I personally recommend you do a day trip to Cinque Terre on your own so that you could enjoy the coast without being on a time limit.

During a trip to Cinque Terre, I recommend starting in Manarola , which is the smallest, but most iconic village on the Italian Riviera . In Manarola, it is best to enjoy food and drinks at Punta Bonfiglio where you could admire the colorful homes on the cliffs.

The second village to visit in Cinque Terre is Vernazza . This beautiful village is located on a small harbor that also has colorful houses as well as a plethora of cafés, restaurants and souvenir shops.

Monterosso al Mare is the only village in Cinque Terre with a beach that is perfect for both relaxing and swimming. Not only do I recommend enjoying a beach day in Monterosso, it is best to also grab lunch here and enjoy a pesto dish from a waterfront restaurant.

The Liguria region, which Cinque Terre is situated in, is known for pesto sauce that consists of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil and sometimes Parmesan cheese. A great restaurant to eat at in Monterosso al Mare is Ristorante il Gabbiano .

To end your day trip in Cinque Terre, it is best to take a boat to the town of Porto Venere that is a historic fishing port with more colorful harbor houses. During your time in Porto Venere, visit the gorgeous Gothic-style Church of St. Peter and also the centuries-old Castello Doria .

Day 10: Day in Bologna

Getting from Florence to Bologna could be done by taking the train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Bologna Centrale . It takes around 40 minutes to get from Florence to Bologna and once you arrive, you could either walk or take a taxi to your accommodation.

Discover why Bologna is the best city to conclude your Northern Italy Switzerland itinerary.

Where to Stay in Bologna:

Luxury: Hotel Corona d’Oro

Mid-Budget/Boutique: Palazzo Trevi Charming House

Budget/Hostel: Dopa Hostel

After arriving in Bologna and checking into your hotel, I recommend walking around and visiting the city’s historical landmarks.

I suggest climbing the Torre Asinelli or Torre Prendiparte where you could catch stunning views of Bologna.

From there, definitely check out the Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro , which is a late 16 th Century cathedral.

For lunch, the best place to eat at is Ristorante Trattoria Oberdan da Mario . It is located near Bologna’s beautiful canals that are definitely worth seeing!

Once you are finished with lunch, it is best to walk off what you ate by strolling down the glam streets of Via dell’Indipendenza, Via Ugo Bassi, Via Rizzoli and Via D’Azeglio where you could go shopping.

Later into the afternoon, grab a gelato and aperitivo at Piazza Maggiore where you could admire the beautiful architecture and enjoy live music.

For dinner, savor a delicious meal at Trattoria Del Rosso .

Plan Your Northern Italy Switzerland Itinerary!

Looking for more epic places to visit? Check out Southern Italy too!

Rome Bucket List for Your First Time

Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 5 Days

Puglia Itinerary for 4 Days

Planning an epic European vacation? Find more  Europe travel tips here .

I hope you all enjoyed reading about the best 10-day Northern Italy Switzerland itinerary. If you would like your own bespoke itinerary made for your trip, contact Crawford Concierge . For additional questions, email me at [email protected].

Make sure to pin this post if you find it useful!

Basic Facts of Italy and Switzerland:

Italy – Currency: Euro, Capital: Rome, Time Zone: Central European Standard Time

Switzerland – Currency: Swiss Franc, Capital: Bern, Time Zone: Central European Time

*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more.  Click here  to get insured for your next trip.

In addition, a great and secure luggage storage to utilize during your summer Europe trip is  Nannybag ! It is easy to use; all you do is download the  Nannybag  app, type in the city that you will be visiting and when you plan to arrive and depart. At a small cost per luggage,  Nannybag  will list the stores, restaurants or hotels where you could drop your bag off at the city you are visiting.

Nannybag  is also insured against theft, loss and breakage. It’s a convenient way to store your bags when you are traveling from one city to the next in Europe.

Shop My Italy and Switzerland Look:

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60 comments.

Loved this wonderful trip by Crawford Concierge ~ it was a perfect family trip to alot of the most beautiful regions of Italy and Zurich, Switzerland. This was my first trip to Italy and one I will never forget. The architecture and cathedrals were stunning. The food and great wine were amazing ~ the views at the top of the Swiss Alps were breathtaking ~ Venice such a beautiful region and way of life ~ surrounded by gorgeous bodies of water. Cinque Terra, the Italuan Riviera was amazing. Florence was a great city ~ saw the original David by Michelangelo, Lake Como my favorite ~ private boat ride ~ best experience on Lake Como ~ private cooking class with Paola Scamihorn and her beautiful family and seeing beautiful Burano ~ known for their homemade lace and Murano ~ known for their blown glass ~ loved everything about this awesome and memorable family trip ~ thank you again Crawford Concierge ~ great blog Taylor ~ love you ~ mom xoxo ♥️

Thank you mom! It really was so amazing. They create the best bespoke itineraries. 🙂

Girl I am SO glad you wrote this. Im planning a trip to Europe next year and that’s exactly where I wanted to do it!

Ah awesome! Italy and Switzerland are so amazing, although I wish I spent more time in Switzerland. If you have the time, definitely visit Zug and Lugano in Switzerland. 🙂

This is exactly the type of trip I want to take! I’ve been missing Europe lately and I have so many “bucket list” places to check off in Switzerland and Italy both. My dad’s side of the family can be traced back to Felsberg, Switzerland in the 1600s so I’ve always wanted to visit there. It looks gorgeous. P.S. I love the outfit you’re wearing in Cinque Terre!

Ah awesome! You would love this trip. I wish I saw more in Switzerland though, next time! If you do this trip and have extra time, I recommend Zug and Lugano. Also thank you so much Bri! 🙂

This sounds like the perfect itinerary! Can’t wait to visit Cinque Terre and Florence 🙂

Thank you Nina! It was perfect and you would love both destinations. 🙂

That’s an awese itinerary covers best of Switzerland and Italy ..thanks for sharing

Thank you so much Madhu! I’m glad you liked it. 🙂

Every time I see photos of Italy, I swear it gets prettier and prettier! Loved your photos & now I have some wanderlust for Switzerland too.

Thank you so much Shelley! You would love it there 🙂

Amazing trip Taylor! It am surprised by all the beautiful places you got the opportunity to see during those 10 days: many are very iconic! Thank you for all the info.

Thank you Ophelie! It was definitely an amazing trip. 🙂

Those pictures are gorgeous – I want to plan my trip now!

Thank you so much Jenny! You would love this trip. 🙂

Sounds like an absolutely amazing trip, I love all the colorful pictures! I haven’t been to either country yet so I will definitely use this guide to help me plan my trip! Thank you Taylor 💕

It really was Madi! I loved it so much and I know you would too! 🙂

I love the idea of doing a Switzerland / Northern Italy trip. We visited Venice and some Greek Islands this past 2019 and I just can’t wait to go back and see more of both Greece and Italy. I am going remember your tip about about boating around the lake and viewing the Alps, that just sounds wonderful!!

That sounds wonderful and I definitely need to get back to Greece and see more. It is one of my favorite countries. Also, yes, definitely do not miss out on the boat tour around Lake Como. 🙂

Love this post! Cinque Terre is my favorite!

Thank you Molly! It truly is a beautiful place. Next time I want to do the hike. 🙂

This is a great itinerary and I love your photos! 🙂

Thank you so much Lauren! 🙂

This itinerary is so helpful! I’ve been to Venice but am dying to get back to Italy! It all looks so stunning. Also, I love your outfits – so cute!

Thank you Allison, I loved it there. Also I appreciate the compliments on my outfits. 🙂

That sounds like a fantastic trip! This is an amazing itinerary as well. Thank you for sharing. Cannot wait to be able to go back to Italy 🙂

It really was Polly! I loved it so much. I cannot wait to go back as well. 🙂

Oh such a wonderful itinerary idea! It makes me miss Europe so much. I never get tired of Italy (who could?!), I explored most of those places already but will probably go back at some point.. And I really want to explore more of Switzerland! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Thank you Lea and yes, I could never get sick of Italy either. Also, I need to get back to Switzerland and explore more cities and places. 🙂

I really love Italy. Hope to return there this year! Incredible photos, looking at them, I kind of was there. Thanks for this opportunity! I’m impressed!

Thank you so much! I’m looking to go back this year as well. It’s an amazing country. 🙂

I am planning for a trip to Switzerland and Europe in the Fall of 2022. I appreciate your post. 🙂

Ah fun! You’re doing to love it there. It’s so beautiful. Also, thank you so much. 🙂

Hi Taylor, this is sooo cool, we booked this trip and are extremely excited to go! On Lake Como, which company did you use for your boat tour? I’d like to use the same one if possible!!

Hi Sadonia, You’re going to LOVE Lake Como. It was one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited, especially in Italy. So, my trip was organized by Crawford Concierge at the time. They booked my family a private tour. I’m sorry I do not have the name for it, but I recommend reaching out to Paola from Passion and Cooking, https://www.passionandcooking.com/intro/ . She knows of a lot of great people you can book your tour through and get an authentic experience. I also recommend taking her cooking class if you can. 🙂

Hi Taylor, just wanted to say that my wife and I just got back from this trip as our honeymoon! It was incredible- so far best trip we’ve been on! We added one more day in Switzerland to spend more time in Lucerne and do the gelmerbahn in Handegg; train from Lucerne to Meiringen was filled with the best views ever and added two days at the end to be in Rome; flew back home from Rome yesterday!

We did everything on your Itinerary which was incredible and even had the same guide Giacomo on lake Como which was a blast!

Thanks for this as it made our year!

Wow! I am so happy to hear you had an amazing honeymoon Emilio and that my blog post was inspiration and a help for you! Also, so happy you had Giacomo on your Lake Como boat tour. His tour was absolutely magical! You made my day! 🙂

Loved reading this blog! My husband and I are planning a trip and this was so helpful! I definitely want to do the boat tour around like como! Would you mind dropping a link to the website you booked through for that?

Thank you so much Megan! It was such an amazing trip and I know you and your husband would love it. So my tour was booked through a travel agency, but I recommend searching for Giacomo’s tour in Como. 🙂

Hi! Love that I found your blog just searching the internet, you were one of the top hits! How was the weather being there the end of May? We are thinking of doing Switzerland and/or Northern Italy next year around that same time but I don’t want it to be too cold. We plan on doing some hikes and city tourist stuff.

Hey Anna! The weather was actually perfect, not too hot and not cold at all! I will say that the water on Lake Como was definitely not swimming water yet. In the summer, you can usually go in the water there and cool off. 🙂 You would love this trip!

Hi….looks like the link to Crawford Concierge no longer works. Do you know if they are still in business? If not, any other recommendations for a travel planner for this area?

Sorry, they change a few things. This is the website, http://www.sitinmyseats.com/ .

Hi! This is so helpful when planning our trip to Italy for our honeymoon 🙂 Can I ask how you packed for this? how many bags did you have to travel around with?

Thank you Maddy! I brought one big luggage with me that carried all of my clothing. If you go during the summer, you can easily fit everything into a mid-sized luggage. I also brought a light cross body bag to take with me as I explored. 🙂

Would you recommend this same trip in the winter (over Christmas/New Years holidays) with a family?

Hey Jeff, yes, you can definitely do the same trip over the holiday season. What is nice about traveling in Europe during that time of the year is that you have the Christmas markets, which are magical! You won’t have the weather you typically get in the warmer months and some activities may not be doable, but it can still be a nice trip! 🙂

Great itinerary. very helpful indeed but do you mind sharing the cost of this 10 day trip 🙂

This itinerary can cost anywhere from $2,000 to over $3,500 per person. It can obviously be more or less if you decide to add anything else to the trip.

I’m curious how you got around Switzerland and Italy? Did you get a rail pass or rent a car? This is almost the exact trip we are doing in a month!

We took the train. You can easily get tickets at the station, or you can purchase tickets ahead of time on Omio! 🙂

Awesome blog, Taylor! I didn’t know that rowing lessons were possible in Venice. Sounds like so much fun!

Thank you Robyn! Yes, it’s such a fun experience. Definitely recommend it!

Hi! Am I missing where you flew out of- was it Bologna?

Hi Michelle, yes, I flew home from Bologna. 🙂

Hi Taylor! Love this article, hoping to take this trip with your suggestions. What was the budget range for this trip?

Hi Francesca, thank you so much! So this was a family trip, so it was more expensive than if I would’ve done it myself. You can easily do this trip under $5K.

Thank you for the great post and itinerary. We are planning a similar trip in July. It’s hot I know but we need to meet family in Zurich the 9 – 12. Is it possible to reverse the trip and end in Zurich?

Also, I might have missed it, where did you fly out of…Zurich again?

Awesome, you’re definitely going to enjoy it! You can definitely reverse the trip. The airport you fly in and out of in Zurich is Zurich Airport. Since our trip ended in Bologna, we flew out of Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport.

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3 of the Best Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary Ideas You’ll Love

• July 2, 2021

Table of Contents

Northern Italy and Switzerland are two of the most fantastic European regions. These are areas marked by high-end civilizations, exciting activities, breathtaking architecture, and phenomenal art. To explore them on your vacation, you must embark on a diverse multi-city itinerary. If you need help planning one, here are three excellent Northern Italy and Switzerland ideas to assist you:

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• 10 Days in Italy | 5 of The Best Itinerary Ideas for an Amazing 10 Days in Italy

1. 10-Day Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary: Florence – Turin – Lausanne

This classic 10-day in Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary begins in the Italian city of Florence , a destination famous for the richness of its culture. Florence was one of the major Italian hubs of the Renaissance and therefore possesses many great artifacts and monuments belonging to the era. The Renaissance themes are evident in its famous architectural sites, like the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella , and in art as displayed in galleries like the Uffizi Gallery . Additionally, thanks to a buzzing gastronomical culture, Florence is ripe with opportunities for all food enthusiasts. With several food tours, cooking classes, and dining experiences awaiting your attention, the city guarantees you an incomparable food affair.

Following the three days spent in Florence, hop onto a train to continue your Northern Italy and Switzerland by train itinerary and reach Turin , your second stop. Turin is an Italian destination popular for its Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neo-classical, and Art Nouveau architecture. This means that being in this city is equivalent to being in an architectural haven, with remarkable marvels right at your dispense. Plan visits to iconic destinations like Palazzo Reale, Palazzo Madama , and La Venaria to get a full-blown experience of the city. Turin’s historic cafes are also worth a visit. The city boasts the highest density of cafes in the country, many of which hold great historical significance. Therefore, a chance to dine in them is highly precious and should not be let go of.

Your ten days in Northern Italy and Switzerland end in the Swiss city of Lausanne . The town may be small, but it is jam-packed with attractions waiting to be explored. First and foremost, Lausanne flaunts a gorgeous setting, sitting on top hills north of Lake Geneva. The beauty is so commendable that you will find yourself wowing very often. Secondly, the city has a long, long history, one that dates to the Roman Empire. Therefore, it is no surprise that you find architectural wonders and museums littered across the city. A few notable ones are the Cathedral of Notre Dame, Collection de I’Art Brut , and Place de la Palud .

Travel Guide & Resources for this 10-Day Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary:

Enjoy this 10 days in  Northern Italy and Switzerland  itinerary? With this guide, now you can find the  best flights ,  train tickets ,  buses , or  rent a car  for your trip to  Northern Italy and Switzerland  you can do all that with the links provided.

Also, here you can browse our list of the  best hotels in  Florence, Turin, and Lausanne  to stay in.

Need more ideas to add to your 2-week or 14-day  Northern Italy and Switzerland  itinerary? Find  top attractions & things to do in  Florence, Turin, and Lausanne  in addition to what is already mentioned here.

2. 12-Day Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary: Zurich – Geneva – Bologna – Florence

This northern Italy and Switzerland by train itinerary begins in Zurich and promises a fun-filled twelve days. Thanks to the small size of Zurich and easily accessible attractions, you can explore the city thoroughly in two days. Zurich is the financial capital of Switzerland; therefore, it comes as no surprise that it is the hub for luxurious and extravagant shopping and living experiences. The city also features several remarkable museums, like the Swiss National Museum, and several Michelin-star dining options. So, wave your average life goodbye for a couple of days and indulge in high-end luxury!

The next step in your northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary is Geneva . The city may give off professional and bureaucratic vibes, for it is the center of many global organizations, but this does not mean that it has nothing to interest its visitors. The city is ripe with buzzing opportunities whose experiences will stay with you for a lifetime. For example, you should take the chance to explore the city by boat, which provides an unforgettable experience. Exploring museums and art galleries like Musee d’Art et d’Histoire and Musee Ariana are excellent and meaningful activities that you would love.

Bologna is a destination loved by many for its stunning architecture, distinctive gastronomical culture, and lovely seaside. Plus, the opportunities here are so many that you will inevitably fall in love with this Italian town. While you are here, indulge in the Bolognese cuisine as much as you can. You will leave the city having wholeheartedly accepted its culinary supremacy. Furthermore, the nightlife of the city is electrifying, thanks to its sizeable student population. So, if you are looking to dance and party through your travel, now is your chance!

Your Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary ends in Florence, the romantic and artistic capital of the Tuscan region of Italy. Ensure you take good advantage of the opportunities available here, for they are endless and extremely enjoyable. Some of the most popular sites that you cannot afford to miss include the Uffizi Gallery, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and the Basilica of Santa Croce.

Travel Guide & Resources for this 12-Day Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary:

Enjoy this 12 Days in  Northern Italy and Switzerland  itinerary? With this guide, now you can find the  best flights ,  train tickets , and buses , or  rent a car  for your trip to  Northern Italy and Switzerland  you can do all that with the links provided.

Also, here you can browse our list of the  best hotels in  Zurich, Geneva, Bologna, and Florence  to stay in.

Need more ideas to add to your 2-week or 14-day  Northern Italy and Switzerland  itinerary? Find  top attractions & things to do in  Zurich, Geneva, Bologna, and Florence  in addition to what is already mentioned here.

3. 14-Day Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary: Bern – Interlaken – Milan – Venice

This fourteen-day Northern Italy and Switzerland by train itinerary provides you with a thorough insight into the two countries’ cultures and traditions. Start your trip from Bern , the city of fountains. You can find tens of fountains, both modern and historical, littered across the city. Plan a fountain-hopping trip, which would also allow you to explore the attractions that lie in between. Other destinations you must visit include the Old Town, marked by medieval buildings, Bern Munster, a glorious representation of Gothic architectural designs, and the Historical Museum.

From Bern, you should travel to Interlaken , which is recognized as one of the oldest and best-known summer resorts globally. And it makes perfect sense, for the city is surrounded by the Alps and sits on a valley floor between two lakes. A destination cannot have a more attractive location than this! There are several exciting and relaxing activities you can participate in, including hiking, kayaking, and cruising.

Following your time in Interlaken, you should head to the Italian city of Milan. Milan is regarded as the most fashion-forward city in Italy and is, therefore, home to several high-end shopping brands and plazas. There cannot exist a better opportunity to indulge in a shopping experience more extravagant and more luxurious than this! When you are tired of shopping, you should embark on a quest to explore the city’s various landmarks. Sites like Duomo di Milano and Teatro Alla Scala will blow your mind away.

To conclude your trip in style, head to Venice , the floating city. Spend a day relaxing your muscles and then gear up with the most comfortable pair of shoes you have, for it is time to flex your leg muscles. This is because Venice is a city best explored on foot or by boat. The city is ready to be photographed at all times, so while you are aimlessly roaming through its streets, keep your camera ready. Make sure that you visit destinations like St. Mark’s Basilica, Ponte di Rialto , and Gallerie dell’Accademia .

Travel Guide & Resources for this Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary:

Enjoy this 2-week in Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary? With this guide, now you can find the  best flights ,  train tickets , buses , or rent a car  for your trip to  Northern Italy and Switzerland you can do all that with the links provided.

Also, here you can browse our list of the  best hotels in Bern, Interlaken, Milan, and Venice to stay in.

Need more ideas to add to your 2-week or 14-day Northern Italy and Switzerland itinerary? Find  top attractions & things to do in Bern, Interlaken, Milan, and Venice in addition to what is already mentioned here.

Video Guide: Northern Italy & Switzerland Itinerary Ideas

Related Posts

Additional travel resources for planning a trip to Northern Italy and Switzerland

To make planning a trip to Northern Italy and Switzerland easier, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do in each destination during your trip to Northern Italy and Switzerland, and other European cities.

Agoda : Search thousands of destinations around the world & quickly compare prices to find amazing deals on the best flights.

CheapOAir : You can find airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages all on one site!

Kiwi.com : What we like about Kiwi is the fact that they are able to create combinations of flight, train, and bus tickets and offer them in a single itinerary. Also, Kiwi has what they called “ Nomad ” which helps you find the best way of visiting multiple destinations, saving you time and money.

JetRadar : You can search and compare airfares from 726 airlines and dozens of travel agencies and systems.

Agoda : Agoda is one of the world’s largest online travel accommodation platforms with a network of over 2,000,000 vacation rentals and hotels worldwide.

Hotellook : They have more than 250,000 hotels in 205 countries, working with data from more than 10 online booking systems, such as Booking.com, Agoda.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and others.

Transportations:  

Airport Transfers :  KiwiTaxi ,  Viator

Train :  EuRail ,  Trainline  or  RailEurope  

Bus :  Flixbus : Very affordable (as low as $6) and convenient way to transfer between cities in Europe.

Car Rentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking  (Bikes & scooter rentals) 

Transportation Comparison :  Omio  (search, compare, and book tickets for buses, trains, and flights all in one site)

Tours & Activities :

TakeWalks  (WalkofItaly): This is our favorite site for walking tours & day trips.

Tiqets : Great site for entrance tickets. It offers directly bookable, instantly available, and completely mobile tickets for museums, shows, and attractions all over the world.

Musement : They have good activities and tours in Italy and Spain, also many great day trips you can choose from.

GetYourGuide : A large number of tours, excursions, and other travel activities

Viator : The largest one. It has everything from tours, attractions, shore excursions, and private guides in over 2,700 destinations worldwide. It also has many transportation and transfer options and some unique experiences we didn’t find anywhere else.

Need help planning a Northern Italy and Switzerland trip?

Want to plan your trip to Northern Italy and Switzerland but don’t know where to begin? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!

At  MultiCityTrips , multi-destination travel and complicated itineraries such as a multi-city trip to Northern Italy and Switzerland are our specialties.  Contact us  today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can  personalize your multi-city vacations   at the best price.

Don’t want to start from scratch and need some trip inspiration? Check out our  marketplace  for customizable pre-designed packages available right now for many amazing destinations.

To learn more about how our process of trip planning works in detail, please see our “ How It Works ” page or check out our video on  “How to Plan a Multi-City Trip to Europe in  5 Easy Steps”   here.

Have questions for us?  Schedule a FREE Call  with us here or contact one of the travel experts/destination specialists at  [email protected] , call/text us at  (888)223-2316  today.

Private Travel Coaching & Consulting Call

Want to plan and book your upcoming trip yourself? If this is your first time traveling to any of the European destinations or you are new to multi-city, multi-country travel but prefer to manage every part of your trip on your own, this option is for you! 

For just  $150 per hour , our destination expert can answer any questions you might have as you plan and book your dream trip. From assisting with route planning, and destination selection, recommending the best areas or places to stay, the best transportation options, things to do and see, saving tips and so much more! 

Ready to plan your trip with our help? Book your private coaching session with our destination expert now and we’ll confirm your appointment within 24 hours!

More Travel Inspiration & Guides

7 of the Most Amazing Day Trips from Brussels

10 of the Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

7 of the Best Spanish Islands You Will Love

2 Days in Barcelona Itinerary & The Best Way to Explore The City You Love

9 Incredible Hidden Gems in Iceland You’ll Love

7 of the Most Amazing Day Trips from Amsterdam

10 of The Best Things to Do in Normandy You Will Love

7 of the Best Day Trips from Milan by Train You’ll Love

Travel resources for planning your own trip.

To make planning your European trip on your own easier, in addition to what already mentioned in our travel guide, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do in any destination using these travel resources:

European River Cruises:

Uniworld River Cruises : The world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line—offers itineraries in spectacular destinations throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, Asia, and Peru. The company’s European fleet features luxurious ships with an average capacity of 120 guests, the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry, enticing shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, impeccable hospitality, and numerous other all-inclusive benefits.

Pre- and Post-cruise/Tour Extensions:  Uniworld curated pre-and post-cruise/tour extensions make it easy to add a few days to the front or back end of your trip while leaving the planning to them

The packages include a variety of hotel options, transfers, and a dedicated destination expert to escort you along the way.

Airport Transfers & Transportations:  

Airport Transfers: GetTransfer offers both airport transfers & car rentals with a personal driver. Other airport transfer options are KiwiTaxi and Viator.

Train :  EuroRail ,  Trainline ,  or  RailEurope are all great sites for train tickets as well as Rail Passes if you would like to add more flexibility to your trip. They are good for most trains throughout Europe. For trains in Italy, we like and recommend ItaliaRail . As for Portugal, you will need to go to the official website for Comboios de Portugal (the Portuguese train company) to book your train tickets when traveling in Portugal.

CarRentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking is a great site for bikes & scooter rentals

Viator : The largest one. It has everything from tours, attractions, shore excursions, and private guides in over 2,700 destinations worldwide. It also has many transportations and transfers options and some unique experiences we didn’t find anywhere else.

Travel Insurance:

Travel Guard :  Their comprehensive travel insurance programs, starting at $30, include per-trip & annual plans, coverage for trip cancellation , trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, baggage loss & more! Travel Guard provides 24/7-customer service with a personal touch through its World Service Center.

DISCLAIMER : Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links, MultiCityTrips may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Trip by Travel Experts

Need help planning a trip and find the best vacation package for your multi-city trip to Europe? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!

At  MultiCityTrips , multi-city, multi-country European vacations, and complicated itineraries are our specialties. Contact us today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can personalize an amazing multi-city trip to your dream destinations in Europe.

Ready for a trip? Check out our planning options and get in touch with us today!

Featured Pre-Designed Packages

These air-inclusive, pre-designed multi-city European vacation packages can be personalized to suit your needs!

6 Nights/7 Days Signature Escape to Amsterdam and Copenhagen

6 Nights/ 7 Days Signature Escape to Lisbon and Barcelona

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Schedule a FREE Consultation

Not sure or can’t decide which planning option is right for you? Schedule a free 30-minute call with one of our travel experts to discuss your travel needs today!

6-8 Day Itinerary for Northern Italy & Switzerleand

This incredible Italy and Switzerland itinerary can accommodate trips around a week long, from 6 to 8 days in total.

Northern Italy and Switzerland offer a captivating road trip experience with their stunning alpine landscapes, picturesque villages, and a wealth of cultural treasures. Travelers can enjoy the perfect blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and culinary delights while exploring these two enchanting regions.

Switzerland has been hovering at the top of my Travel Wish List for several years now. I’ve flown through, and over, it a number of times but have never stopped off to appreciate it’s unique beauty. When friends from the USA suggested that they might want to spend a vacation traveling through Switzerland and the Alps I was immediately on board.

I cannot take credit for this beautifully constructed Itinerary. For one of the first times in my travel career I left the planning and details up to my American friends. We traveled at a very different pace than what I’m used to but it was enjoyable for all the right reasons – company, scenes, sites and experiences.

While covering a lot of ground it (should) be at a much slower pace than the Itineraries I’ve shared in the past (or future).

6-8 Day Itinerary for Northern Italy & Switzerland

Day 1 – lake como.

We stayed in Bellagio, but the driving in that area was very challenging, and we might have considered staying in Como if we had known this in advance. Bellagio was fantastic and I would recommend it, but be prepared for tight roads, sharp cliffs, and very anxious driving for several hours in and several hours out of Bellagio.

• Flew to Milan and hire a car
• Drove to Lake Como
• Stopped at Grocery Store en route (stock up on food and wine)
• Relaxed at Air B&B
• Drove to waterfront in Bellagio
• Wandered Bellagio’s quaint streets
• Visited Apertivo et al wine bar (try “Saten”, a sparkling Chardonnay)
• Ate dinner at San Giacomo

Day 2 – Lake Como

The best part of staying on Lake Como was the ability to get around the lake via Ferry and/or Water Taxi. Regrettably we did not make it out to Villa Balbianello (to do so you need to take the Ferry to a close port, and then a water taxi across), but did have an excellent tour of the middle part of Lake Como.

• Breakfast at the Air B&B
• Drove to waterfront and park in Bellagio
• Meant to take the People Ferry closer to Balbianello, to catch a water taxi
• Walked to Villa Carlotta from Ferry Stop
• Visited Villa Carlotta and the Gardens
• Took the People Ferry from Bellagio to Varenna (with a few stops)
• Ate lunch at Nilus Bar, on the waterfront
• Walked through the streets of Varenna
• Took the People Ferry from Varenna to Bellagio
• Returned to the Air B&B to rest, before returning to Bellagio
• Ate Dinner at Hotel du Lac, on the waterfront
• Drinks at Aperitivo et al

Day 3 – Lucerne

• Ate breakfast at the Apartment
• This was a challenging portion of the drive, for fair warning.
• When driving a non-Swiss car into Switzerland a car tax sticker needs to be acquired, cost was about €40.
• Drove to Lucerne
• Crossed the Chapel Bridge and wandered through Old Town
• Ate lunch in Old Town
• Walked around Old Town and then to the Lion Monument
• Climbed hill for view of Lucerne and Lake Lucerne
• Continued wandering through Old Town, along the River, etc.

Day 4 – Bern

• Ended up driving up the side of another Mountain (Hergiswil) – whoops.
• Gave up on this detour and continued on to our next destination
• Drove to Lauterbrunnen
• Took Cable Car from Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp
• Took Train from Grütschalp through Winteregg to Murren
• Ate lunch in Murren at the Eidleweiss Hotel
• Explored the town of Murren
• Returned to Lauterbrunnen via Train and Cable Car
• Drove to Bern Hotel (Hotel Aplenblick)
• Walked to visit the Bears of Bern
• Explored Old Town and counted (and photographed) Fountains
• Ate Dinner at Lötschberg

Day 5 – Zermatt

• Ate breakfast at the Hotel (Alpenbick)
• Drove to Chillon Castle (Chateau Chillon)
• Visited Chillon Castle
• Ate lunch nearby and visited Coop Grocery Store
• Drove to Tasch and Parked Car
• Took Glacier Express from Tasch to Zermatt
• Checked in at Hotel Fleurs de Zermatt
• Explored Zermatt and caught first view of the Matterhorn
• Swam in Indoor/Outdoor Pool at Hotel
• Ate dinner at Brown Cow

Day 6 – Zermatt

• Breakfast at the Hotel (Fleurs de Zermatt)
• Taxi to Cable Car station to ascend Mountain
• Cable Car from Zermatt to Furi
• Cable Car from Furi to Trocknet-Steg
• Brief tour around Trocknet-Steg
• Cable Car from Trocknet-Steg to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
• Brief tour around Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
• Cable Car back to Zermatt via Trocknet-Steg and Furi
• Taxi back to the Hotel (Fleurs de Zermatt)
• Train back to Tasch
• Drive from Tasch to Coop Restaurant (down the mountain)
• Lunch at Coop Restaurant
• While I returned to London the next morning from Milan, it would have been easy to spend a few days visiting the city.
• My friends stayed on in Milan for another 2 days, and spent 1 touring Milan and 1 taking a day trip to tour Bologna.

The trip was all I could have hoped for. I spent plenty of time in the Alps, and saw the famous Lake Como as well. The cities of Switzerland, while small, had beautiful old towns to visit. The drives through Switzerland were captivating with every turn, every dip and every climb. I would highly recommend the Itinerary, as is or adjusted, to anyone looking for a similar holiday.

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Comments (2).

Hello Jamie,

Nicely written article. I like the way you have put an itinerary for each of your stops. Bern and Lucerne brought back my college days memories 🙂

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• Switzerland

Northern Italy & Switzerland

• 11 Days , 2 Countries , 4 Cities
• From $4,027

The city of Lucerne’s hidden corners, vibrant alleys, and ancient buildings form the perfect backdrop for a tour. A trip around Lucerne is unforgettable! Experience the diversity of the Lake Lucerne Region on a guided excursion.

Welcome to Milan, Italy

Arrive at the airport and transfer to your hotel. Private transfer to the hotel by car.

Milan - City tour

After breakfast, meeting with your guide and departure for a half-day guided tour in Milan city center.

You will visit the famous Duomo, located in the most central point of the city: this grand Gothic cathedral took almost six centuries to complete and is the fifth largest cathedral in the world. You’ll continue to the impressive Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping centers, with two glass-vaulted arcades intersecting in a spectacular glazed octagon. Passing through the Gallery you will arrive at Piazza della Scala, the square which houses the world-renowned Scala Theatre – Milan’s Opera House. Some of the greatest musicians and singers the world has ever known have performed here. The great finale of the tour is none other than Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper, hidden away in the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Free time in the afternoon for shopping and explore the rest of the city.

Milan - Admire Lago di Como

Free day to enjoy Milan city center and the shopping.

You’ll start your tour of Como visiting the historic center and enjoy some free time to get to know the town and shop in the many local boutiques. The mild Mediterranean climate ensures an abundance of exotic and rare plants thrive year-round. In Bellagio, one of the most famous towns on the lake, you can follow the steep alleys running up from the lake and stop for a coffee or gelato at one of the lively cafes housed in grand historic buildings.

Return to the hotel in Milan and overnight.

Milan - Visit the city of Turin

After breakfast, departure to Turin by car. Today a metropolis that regards its past by looking toward the future, Turin carries an aspect of youth and vitality, given its numerous locals – from bars to wineries – proliferating in all points, beginning with its center, Piazza Castello. Meeting with your guide and start of the tour from Piazza Castello, where you will see the majestic façade of Palazzo Madama and the Royal Palace, a harmonical all-in-one with Chiablese Gallery and the Library’s Wing (that jealously hosts Leonardo da Vinci’s self-portrait). You will then enter the church of San Lorenzo, the royal chapel of the Savoy family, considered one of the most beautiful churches in the world. You will continue our walk to Piazza Carignano. There we will see its homonym Palace that leads one of the most elegant corners of the city with its wavy façade, where the count of Cavour, one of the “fathers” of Italy, getting out every day of the Parliament went for lunch to the well-known Ristorante del Cambio. Following you will admire the Galleria Subalpina, a peculiar Italian Art Nouveau style gallery, to tell the story of Bicerin, the famous hot drink with cream, coffee, and Piedmont’s chestnuts chocolate, which you’ll have the chance to taste in one of the charming restaurants of the city center.

Dinner at your leisure, return to Milan.

Milan - Discover Brescia and The Remarkable Wine Region of Franciacorta

Today after breakfast, depart to discover Brescia and the remarkable wine region of Franciacorta, with its vineyards and its stunning scenery. You will taste gorgeous award-winning wines, like the world-famous Bollicine and Satin, while meeting some of the numerous characters that produce these wines.

Zurich - Reach St.Moritz by Bernina Express Red Train

In the morning after breakfast, we depart by car to Tirano, from where you’ll get on the “Bernina express red train” between Italy and Switzerland, arriving in St. Moritz. The railway is unique, blending ideally with the alpine landscapes around the Albula and Bernina Passes. The train goes through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, while the highest point is 1.4 miles (2,253 m) above sea level.

Arrive in St Moritz and transfer by car to Zurich.

Zurich - City tour and surrounding area

Breakfast at the hotel, and departure to an HD SIC tour by car in Zurich, Switzerland’s business and cultural center, and surroundings. Heading out to the beautiful surrounding area, you cross Lake Zurich by ferry and ride a cable car to Felsenegg with stunning views of the town, the lake, and the snow-capped Alps.

Free time and dinner at your leisure

Zurich - Iconic Excursion to Jungfraujoch

Breakfast at the hotel, and departure to an iconic excursion (SIC FD) to Jungfraujoch. This will be a scenic coach journey through splendid countryside that takes you to the Bernese Oberland. After a break in Interlaken, a picturesque village nestled idyllically between Lakes Brienz and Thun, board the cogwheel train in Grindelwald for a spectacular ride via Kleine Scheidegg up to Jungfraujoch. Stunning views of the world-famous triple peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau accompany you on the way and the imposing Eiger North Face seems to be within one’s grasp. Once on the top, immerse yourself in the fascinating high alpine wonderland of eternal ice, snow, and rock.

Return to your hotel in Zurich and overnight.

Zurich - Trip to city of Lucerne and Mount Titlis

Today, after breakfast departure to a SIC FD excursion to Lucerne first and then to Mt. Titlis at 3.000 m.!

The journey begins through the beautiful countryside and along the shores of the Lake of the Four Cantons to Lucerne, a charming town with its Chapel Bridge, the Town Hall, the Jesuit Church, and the Culture and Congress Centre. Enjoy some time at leisure to explore the Old Town before continuing. At Engelberg, at the valley station, the breathtaking journey continues with the different aerial cable cars to the top of Mt. Titlis, located 3000 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level. You’ll enjoy the spectacular sight of the glacier’s deep crevasses and gigantic ice boulders from the cable car. At the top of Mt. Titlis, a high alpine panorama awaits you: enjoy magnificent views of the Alps from the restaurants or the sun terrace.

Zurich - Enjoy the Lindt Chocolate Museum

Free day for shopping and for enjoying the city center. During the day, you’ll visit the Lindt chocolate museum, experiencing this fascinating world!

Goodbye to Zurich...

Today is the final day of our journey. Morning is yours to relax and rest. After buffet breakfast at our hotel, transfer to Zurich International Airport for your flight.

Starting from $4,027 per person

Price per person in double occupancy The rate is based on deluxe accommodation Price excluding international flights This trip is customizable for your private travel.

Please inquire to request a quote for your custom trip!

Request a quote for a trip fully customized to your preferences.

What’s included.

• 5-Night in Milan
• 5-Night in Zurich
• Private driven car from on day 1, day 4 to day 6 and day 11
• Guided tour in Milan HD
• Guided tour in Turin HD and Bicerin tasting
• Guided tour in Brescia and Franciacorta FD
• Panoramic Bernina Express train 1st class
• Guided tour in Zurich and surroundings SIC HD
• Guided SIC FD tour to Jungfraujoch (coach, guide, cogwheel train, included)
• Guided SIC FD tour to Lucerne/Mt. Titlis (coach, guide, cable car included)
• Lindt chocolate museum

Sightseeing Highlights Included

• Half-day guided tour in Milan city center
• Admire Lago di Como
• Visit The City of Turin
• Discover Brescia and the remarkable wine region of Franciacorta
• Reach St. Moritz by Bernina Express Red Train
• Zurich City Tour and Surrounding Area
• Iconic excursion to Jungfraujoch
• Trip to city of Lucerne and Mount Titlis
• Enjoy the Lindt Chocolate Museum

Let us plan your tailor-made trip

• Tell us your needs Destination, dates and other details.
• We connect you to our local experts Communicate with 2 top specialists to plan your trip directly through Zitango’s secure portal
• Get customized proposals Our specialists will work hard to win your approval
• Choose one and go Book your trip. Have a wonderful journey with in-destination support from your Zitango specialist.

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One-Week Scenic Trip to Stunning Switzerland and Sublime Northern Italy

7 day tour of milan, interlaken and milan.

• Ponder the enigmatic expressions of Jesus and his disciples in Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper.
• Milan's Gothic Cathedral and Sforzesco Castle offer a journey through the city's epic past.
• On a day trip to Lake Como, cruise the lake to the picturesque villages nestled along its shore.
• Journey by rail to Interlaken, tracing the edge of Lake Maggiore & cutting through mountain ranges.
• See awe-inspiring landscapes in the Swiss Alps, from crystal clear lakes to the majestic Aare Gorge.

Starting from

Secure Your Customizable Trip Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.

Trip map & itinerary.

Click To Make Map Interactive

Train: 2.5h

Train: 0.5h

Switzerland

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Arrive Milan

To Be Determined

Arrival in Milan Airport and Transfer by Taxi

There are three main airports in Milan. The largest and most frequently used is Milan Malpensa, although you could also arrive at Milan Bergamo or Milan Linate depending on where you are flying from. Taxis are available at all airports, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Milan from Milan Malpensa is by train. The Malpensa Express train delivers you to Milan's Centrale rail station in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi that will be much less expensive than from the airport. From Milano Bergamo Airport the best option is bus. There are a few bus services that can be found outside arrivals that deliver you to Milan's Centrale station. From Milan Linate, we recommend taking a taxi directly as the airport is only 10km from the city center.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

• Best of Milan Private Walking Tour

Milan is the center of business and the capital of Italian fashion, but it also has an ancient heritage and a fascinating history; here you find some of the greatest masterpieces of Italian art! Together with your guide, you’ll explore the magnificent Duomo, Galleria, Scala opera house, merchant square, financial district, food street, and Sforza Castle.

Take a tour or experience an opera or ballet in this world-famous opera house.

A huge Medieval-Renaissance fortress with a number of interesting history and art museums

Take a stroll through this ornate covered shopping mall that was completed in 1877.

La Scala Opera House

Considered one of the most important and famous theatres in the world, known as the ‘Temple of Opera’, La Scala has hosted the most revered names in the world of music and theatre. Many famous operas have had their first production in La Scala, such as Othello, Nabucco by Verdi or Madame Butterfly by Giacomo Puccini. While seeing a performance is the best way to experience the theater, visiting the Theatre Museum or taking a guided tour which includes the museum are also great options. In addition to a large collection of paintings, busts, costumes, and other objects related to the world of opera and theater, you will get to see parts of La Scala which are otherwise off limits, like the boxes. Unless a rehearsal or show is in progress, visitors can even watch the set-moving machinery in action. 

Sforza Castle

The Sforzesco Castle, one of the most popular monuments in Milan, has undergone various and complex transformations over the centuries; it has been defense fortress, military barracks, private residence and now a center of cultural institutions with several specialized museums and galleries that hold important fragments of Milan's cultural and civic history.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Known as the "drawing room" of Milan, due to its numerous shops and importance as a common Milanese meeting and dining place, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy's oldest active shopping mall and a major landmark in the city. It is one of the most magnificent shopping arcades in the world, home to some of the most luxurious boutiques and brands including Prada, Armani, Gucci.

Early Morning to Mid-Day

Excursion to Lake Como

Often cited as the most picturesque lake in Europe, Lake Como has enchanted artists and travelers for centuries and it's easy to see why. Tucked away in the foothills of the northern Italian Alps, Lake Como is the perfect day trip destination from Milan, offering the perfect chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Discover some of the picturesque lakeside villages, take a thrilling boat ride across the lake, or explore the many grand villas and beautiful gardens.

Explore the lush gardens surrounding this villa and enjoy stunning lake views from its terraces.

Ride a 19th Century funicular up the mountainside above Como to enjoy beautiful views over Lake Como.

Take a liesurely private sail, enjoy a lake cruise, or villa hop by ferry.

Visit Lake Como's most famously beautiful lakeside town.

Admire the wonderful details of this grand Duomo which incorporates architectural styles from across five centuries.

Wander through the magnificent lakeside gardens which surround this beautiful white villa in Bellagio.

Visit a villa that began as a peaceful lakeside convent and was later transformed into a luxurious residence.

Villa Cipressi

Just a short distance from Villa Monastero, you'll find the Villa Cirpressi, a grand villa built between the 15th and 19th century which offers great architectural elements of late Renaissance and fine Neoclassical features. Aside from the villa which is now a 4-star hotel, it is home to another manicured lakeside garden. Smaller in size, the centuries-old gardens are open to the public to visit, offering a journey of perfumes and magical sensations that go beyond a normal botanical garden. The terraced garden overlooking the lake deserves a visit, especially for anyone interested in nature. 

Lake Como Funicular

Lake Como is surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains, and while it’s definitely possible to hike up the steep incline on foot, most people opt to ride on the Brunate Funicular, which brings riders to the small town of Brunate in just 7 minutes. The Funicular Railway has linked Lake Como and Brunate since 1894 and is still the quickest way of travelling between these two towns. A trip on the railway offers stunning views and an opportunity to see panoramic views of rural Como, all whilst having an enjoyable jaunt on a train!

Cruise on Lake Como

One good way to combine a lake cruise with visits to the best villas and prettiest towns is to use the lake ferries. Just take the train from Milan to Varenna and then when you're done there, catch a ferry across the lake to Bellagio. From Bellagio you can take another ferry to Como, where you can catch a train back to Milan. If you go straight to Como, from April to October there are leisure boats offering 30-minute journeys along the nearby shoreline. With a high number of tourists, boats leave quite frequently and are very affordable at around 5 Euros per person. The better boats will point out sites of interest along the way, including spots where famous movies were filmed. If you want a truly special experience, you can also hire a private tour on a sail boat or small motor yacht. You'll feel like a real movie star as the you glide across the blue waters of the lake and wave to your fellow celebrities in the passing boats.

It is impossible not to be smitten by Bellagio's picturesque waterfront, bobbing boats and its maze of stone staircases, alleys, and cypress tree groves, and you may want to spend the most time during your day trip here. Bellagio has been a favored summertime resort since the Roman Times, and very little has changed, with Italians and tourists heading to the lakes for a cooler (but still incredibly warm) climate, away from the sweltering heat of the cities.

Cathedral of Como

The imposing cathedral (Duomo) is located in the heart of Como's medieval walled city. Built between 1300 and 1744, the cathedral brings together elements of several architectural styles, including the late Gothic structure, the Renaissance facade, and the imposing Baroque dome. The front façade boasts an abundance of ornate stonework and stone statues, and is topped with a series of small decorative towers. The interior is also lavishly decorated. The standout feature is a central dome covered with gold artwork and other beautiful decor.

Villa Melzi

The town of Bellagio was fought over in wars between Como and Milan, but most of the time, it has been a destination of pleasure and leisure since late Roman times. For this reason, Napoleon decided to reward one of his generals, Francesco Melzi, with the white neo-Classical Villa Melzi. Located to the south of the Bellagio, it is visited primarily for its spectacular gardens, embellished with ancient artefacts such as an Etruscan urn that dates back to the 3rd Century BC and two ancient Egyptian sculptures.

Villa Monastero

Built-in various styles (Baroque, Classic and Moresque), the origins of the Villa Monastero in the town of Varenna stretch back to the 12th century, when it was founded as a Cistercian convent. The estate was purchased by Paolo Mornico in 1569, using his fortune amassed through iron mining. He then transformed it into a very elaborate aristocratic residence, while retaining some beautiful elements from the convent. These days the villa is now used as an international conference center and wedding venue. Luckily for visitors, the gardens are open to the public and there is also a House Museum, which features 14 lavish rooms filled with period furniture, refined decorations, and luxurious furnishings.

Milan to Interlaken

Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport

Most trains depart from Milano Centrale station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also, consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option since the station has its own metro stop. If you are staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi for you and give you an estimate on cost. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app. Information on finding your departure platform is provided in the itinerary mobile app.

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

• Lakes, Waterfalls & Gorge Private Tour

During this 8-hour tour, you will have a chance to discover the beauty of Swiss nature. Your personal driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning and together you'll discover the most spectacular places in the Interlaken neighborhood. The tour includes the Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, Iseltwald and Brienz villages, the Giessbach waterfalls and the famous Aare Gorge.

Small village located on the southern shore of Lake Brienz

Interlaken to Milan

Early Morning to Afternoon

Self-Guided Excursion to Schilthorn

Discover the evil Blofeld's mountain top hideaway, Piz Gloria, from the film location for the James Bond film, On Her Majesty's Secret Service, by traveling to the Schilthorn summit on a jaw-dropping cable car ride via the winter resort of Mürren. Stop off at the Birg gondola station along the way to try out the hair-raising, glass-floored "thrill walk".

Picturesque Swiss town

Revolving restaurant

Lauterbrunnen

The revolving restaurant on the peak of Schilthorn that was featured in the James Bond film 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service'

Depart Milan

Morning/Mid-Day

Visit Milan's Monumental Cemetery

Visiting a cemetery is not usually perceived of as a typical tourist activity unless it's the final resting place of a famous celebrity, but like the cemetery in Prague's Jewish Quarter, or Paris's Père Lachaise Cemetery, Milan Monumentalale Cemetery (or Cimitero Monumentale in Italian) is an exception to the rule. The cemetery is, in fact, the second most visited place in the city after the Duomo. While the cemetery is important as the resting place of thousands of past Milanese residents, both noble and common, it is also a collection of beautiful sculptures, fascinating architecture, and famous graves, including that of the great Italian poet, Manzoni. Set just a short distance from the heart of the city, this grand oasis of peace and silence is a truly important place both for locals and tourists to visit.

What's Included In Your Trip

Pre-Paid Tours and Activities:

• City Card for Switzerland, including discounts to many popular attractions

Pre-Paid Transportation:

• 2nd Class Train Tickets from Milan to Spiez
• 2nd Class Train Tickets from Spiez to Interlaken
• 2nd Class Train Tickets from Interlaken to Spiez
• 2nd Class Train Tickets from Spiez to Milan
• Swiss Travel Pass

Accommodation:

• 6 nights at a hotel of your choice in Milan
• 3 nights at a hotel of your choice in Interlaken

Go Real Travel Mobile App:

• Itinerary Plan & Reservations Info
• Points of Interest
• Detailed Travel Information
• Maps & Directions

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Explore cities in more detail

Venice is a city with no equal. Built on a series of islands on a lagoon, it was once a powerful city-state. Echoes of that old magnificence can be seen everywhere here, from the stunning buildings that rise out of the canals, to the bridges that arc across them.   Take a Gondola ride through the canals that form the city’s veins, or wander through the winding streets drinking in the sights. You’ll see Venice attracts tourists in huge numbers, and that’s with good reason. It’s home to a seemingly limitless amount of art, culture, history, and architecture. St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Campanile di San Marco just barely scratch the surface. There’s a 700-year-old market, Rialto, which is still open today. The Ponte di Rialto bridge connects the neighborhoods of San Marco and San Polo, stretching across the Grand Canal.   Venice has weathered the last several centuries with elegance and pride, a place that will surpass even your highest expectations.

Culture and history are thick in the air in Florence. Located on the banks of the Arno River in Tuscany, Florence’s past is deeply compelling. The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is where innovators like Dante, Machiavelli, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci made their fortunes. Centuries of art, politics, and commerce have left their mark on every stone in this Northern Italian city.  In the 15th and 16th centuries, Florentine banks funded new enterprises that went on to change the history of the world. Powerful families like the Medici’s financed some of the finest art in history and pioneered new ways of doing statecraft and politics. As you stand in the Piazzale Michelangelo and gaze upon the city below it’s hard to take it all in at once. It feels like behind every door in Florence might hide a work of genius. Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Primavera can be found just a short walk away. After a long day wandering the streets and gazing at art, fueled by exquisite coffee and gelato, relax like the locals do: with a glass of some of the best wine in the world.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, a string of five fishing villages in the Liguria region of Italy, is a rare snapshot of a traditional way of life. Rustic and charming, these clusters of pastel houses clinging to steep Mediterranean cliffs hold a special allure.   Hiking between the five villages is a popular way to experience the rugged Mediterranean landscape close up. There are no roads here — the only other way to get between the villages is by boat or train.   Seafood, hauled in from the azure waters of the sea that laps against the rocky shore, is abundant and delicious here. It pairs well with the local wine, and perhaps a plate of olives. Cinque Terre is a place to take it slow, to breathe in the fresh sea air and bask in the balmy climate, many miles from the chaos and frenzy of the modern world.

Gritty and chaotic Naples calls to travelers who want to experience the real Italy. Pressed along the coast of Campania, hilly Naples is jammed with maze-like streets, strung with outdoor clotheslines, descending toward the sea below. A much deserved UNESCO World Heritage site, Naples is famous for its churches, museums, castles, and catacombs. As you navigate the city, you’ll find yourself immersed by its culture and history.  You can easily occupy a full day gazing at churches like the Naples Cathedral, San Francesco di Paola, and Cappella Sansevero.   If you cast your eyes toward the Gulf of Naples, you’ll see Mount Vesuvius looming over the harbor. This foreboding volcano erupted in AD 79. Not far from the inner city — less than an hour by train — you’ll find the ancient town of Pompeii, its dramatic ruins still preserved in ash from the eruption. One of the best things you can do in Naples is to eat. This is the city where pizza was born. Propped up by its ripe tomatoes, local cheeses, and fresh fish, food from Naples has come to define what many see as the height of Italian cuisine. Everything you taste in Naples seems like a delicacy. Authentic and vivid, Naples is a true Italian city where the ancient world meets the modern-day with a bang.

Milan is Italy’s most forward-looking city. An international center for fashion, fine dining, and design, it seems as though Milanese people breathe style. From the gleam on your wine glass to the twists of its cathedral’s spires, everything in Milan is finished to perfection. Home to the Italian stock exchange, a world-famous fashion industry, and a frantic business district, Milan is fast-paced and commercially minded. The shopping in Milan is second to none. At the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, a glass-iron ceiling soars over brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Massimo Dutti, and Amani. Along with the fashion, Milan’s cathedral, castle, and canals are also must-sees. But to view the city’s most prized possession - Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, you must make an appointment. Tickets to view this mural sell out weeks in advance. It is truly a bucket-list worthy work of art. After a day taking in all the glamor and culture, take a seat in one of Milan’s well-appointed eateries. The Navigli Quarter is packed with restaurants, bars, and cafes, perfect for a relaxed Aperol spritz or pizza along the city’s canals. 

Located between two bodies of water — Lake Brienz and Lake Thun — Interlaken is the perfect place to explore the serene natural beauty at Switzerland’s heart. Interlaken is a place for those who seek adventure amid spectacular natural surrounds. Rock climbing, canyoning, bungee jumping, and paragliding are just some of the ways to fill a day here, and countless backpackers descend on the town every summer to do all of these and more. Less intense, but no less rewarding, are the many opportunities for hiking, sailing, and swimming. Or, take to the rails. At the nearby Kleine Scheidegg pass, a train runs through the snowy Swiss Alps to the highest train station on the continent. The fun here doesn’t stop at night. After a hard day of adventure, backpackers flock to the town’s many pubs and bars to soothe their aches and pains with steins of beer. Interlaken is a place where fun and excitement reign supreme and somewhere to experience Switzerland’s striking nature in the most thrilling way.

Highlights of Italy & Switzerland 13 day tour

Discover the cities of love and art, the deep greens of Swiss valleys, and the glitz and glamour of the north Italian Lakes.

Tour Highlights

Bologna - A beautiful city boasting the western world’s oldest university whose alumni have changed the world

Venice - Discover the winding canals, striking architecture, and beautiful bridges in the ‘City of Water’

Verona - There's a lot to love about Verona, the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet

Zermatt - A glamorous resort adorned with the hypnotically-beautiful Matterhorn

Lauterbrunnen - Stare in awe at this postcard-perfect village nestled deep in a valley of 72 waterfalls with views of the Eiger

Chillon Castle - Located on a little island with the Alps in the background, this iconic Medieval castle looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale

Lake Como and Lake Maggiore - Prestigious villas, lush nature, and charming villages. Fall in love with the beguiling beauty of the azure blue lakes

Gruyères - This little quaint Swiss village has it all: lush green fields, charming houses coverd in flowers, a medieval castle, and legendary cheese and chocolate

Milan - From Da Vinci's Last Supper to luxurious brands. Milan revolves around art, fashion, and delicious cuisine

Your journey

Nature, love, and art are never far apart on this scenic tour through the North of Italy .

You experience the eternally beautiful architecture of Venice, Bologna, and the Renaissance. You travel into valleys adorned with waterfalls, cliffs, and fondue-loving locals. And you see the scenes that inspired Shakespeare, Da Vinci, and all your favourite fairy tales.

Join this tour and experience the highlights of Italy and Switzerland .

Tour Details

• This journey combines two of our tours and a free day in Milan. This means you may swap your bus and guide during the journey
• Pack comfortable shoes for walks up to beautiful views
• Transport in a luxury mini-coach with a local driver
• Air conditioning as standard
• The stories and services of an English-speaking guide
• 12 nights in 3-4 star hotels with continental breakfast
• Two-hour guided walking tour of Venice
• Entrance to Villa Pisani
• Boat trip across Lake Como
• Return train tickets from Täsch to Zermatt
• Meals, unless listed above
• Attractions, unless specified above
• Admire the sculptures, tunnels, and culture of Orvieto
• Inspire your creativity at the landscape da Vinci loved, Le Balze Natural Park

You leave the hustle and bustle of the Eternal City and travel to Orvieto. Virtually traffic-free, perfectly preserved, and awash with delicious wine: it’s the idyllic Italian village. You can choose to visit the colourful cathedral here and explore at your own pace.

Your journey leads you through the Parco Naturale Le Balze, a landscape studded with balze rock peaks, sulphite streams, and gorgeous vistas that inspired Leonardo da Vinci.

Your lunch stop is in the tiny hamlet of Piantravigne, the perfect spot to sample some truly authentic Italian cuisine.

With your belly full and your senses satisfied, you travel to beautiful Bologna, your overnight destination.

Accommodation

Hotel Una Centro Bologna, or similar, Bologna

* In 2024 you'll stay in Zanhotel Tre Vecchi, or similar, Bologna

• Stroll through the endless porticos of Bologna
• Gaze into the detailed mosaics of Ravenna

Today, you can join a half day trip to Ravenna in the morning. Ravenna is a maze of mosaic masterpieces, a unique blend of early Christian and Byzantine architecture with eight sites on the UNESCO list. This unforgettable North Italian destination is also the town where Dante Alighieri is buried.

After lunch, you return from your half-day trip and have the rest of the day to explore Bologna your way. During the Renaissance, this fascinating city was blooming with art and was a centre for intellectual innovation. Its famous university is the oldest in the western world and saw great minds like Petrarch, Dante Alighieri, and Copernicus.

There’s plenty to do here. You can stroll through the beautiful, kilometres-long UNESCO porticos, unravel the mysteries of the university, or tantalise your taste buds with Ragu alla Bolognese.

• Discover the wonderful wildlife of the Po Delta
• Take in the Gothic and Baroque architecture of Este

It’s time to slap on some sunscreen, charge up your camera, and head deep into nature. Your first stop is Porto Tolle, where you can join an optional boat trip along the Po Delta. This is the longest river in Italy, and its wetlands give you a chance to spot rare migratory birds. There’s also a lunch box for you to enjoy.

Once you’re back on dry land, you travel to Este, a picture-perfect town with a history that spans over 3000 years. Here you have free time to amble along the city walls or visit the town’s moated Medieval castle.

You then venture to Padua, allegedly the oldest city in Italy and your home for the next three nights. This fascinating place sits at the crossroads of science and religion. This is where venerated St Anthony is buried, and where the ground-breaking scientific discoveries were made at the height of the Renaissance.

Optional Activities

• Boat trip with a lunch box along the Po Delta

Hotel Al Prato or similar - Padua

• Lose yourself in the canal-lined vistas of Venice

177 canals, 350 gondoliers, and the most idiosyncratic cityscapes in the world: Venice, ‘the Floating City', is your destination today.

With its wealth, trade, and power; Venice has always been bold.

It’s been built on over 118 islands, hosts one of the most famous festivals in the world, and its unique painting style and architecture classifies Venice as one of the great centres of the Renaissance, equal to Rome and Florence.

Once you arrive, you enjoy an included two-hour guided walking tour of the city. From people-watching in Piazza San Marco to frequenting the famous galleries, it’s up to you how you spend the rest of your day in Venice.

In the early evening, you head back to Padua in time for dinner.

Included Activities

• Two hour guided walking tour of Venice

Optional Activities:

• Gondola ride

Hotel Al Prato or similar – Padua

• Explore Villa Pisani, an exuberant 18th-century palazzo
• Sip on Prosecco and Grappa at the foothills of the Dolomites

The traditional flavours of Italy are yours to explore today.

First, you go to Villa Pisani. This included attraction boasts awesome art exhibitions and is the epitome of late baroque architecture. Napoleon once owned this huge holiday home and presented it to his stepson as a gift.

You say goodbye to the excesses of the aristocracy and venture to Valdobbiadene for a chance to indulge in something a little sweeter. This rolling landscape is home to the best prosecco, and you have the option to enjoy an exclusive tasting. We promise it’ll be the freshest prosecco you’ve ever tasted.

The indulgence continues as you travel to Bassano del Grappa, where you have the chance to sample sweet and intoxicating Grappa. If you’ve had enough tipple for the day, you can spend your time admiring the castle and the town’s famous old bridge instead.

You then travel to Padua for your final evening in the historic town.

• Prosecco tasting at Valdobbiadene
• Grappa tasting in Bassano del Grappa
• Weep for the romance of Romeo and Juliet in the play’s setting, Verona
• Get inspired by the fresh views of Lake Garda

Say ‘ciao!’ to the romance of Italy, because your first stop today is the setting of Romeo and Juliet , Verona. You have time here to reminisce about past lovers at the famous balcony, admire a grand Roman Colosseum, and amble through the ancient piazzas at your own pace.

You then travel to Lake Garda. This lake’s crystal-clear waters and views of the Dolomites have made the place a favourite destination for artists, poets, and travellers since the Roman ages. You'll adore exploring the stunning town of Peschiera del Garda.

You arrive in Milan in the evening.

Business Palace Milan or similar, Milan

• Stand face to face with Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper
• Get your fashion fix in one of many designer shops

In Milan, life revolves around art, fashion, and delicious cuisine, so make sure to indulge in them on your free day.

When it comes to art, seeing da Vinci’s Last Supper is a must. This enigmatic piece of work attracts many visitors, so book your tickets in advance.

Next, there’s the Duomo, the Cathedral of Milan. This tremendous tribute to Gothic architecture is one of the biggest churches in Italy and will mesmerize you with its intricate design.

In a city obsessed with fashion, even window shopping feels like a unique experience. Visit the flamboyant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II or Quadrilatero della Moda, the home of the most luxurious brands.

Then, follow in the footsteps of Milanese and partake in aperitivo, the pre-dinner ritual. Savour that moment of relaxation after the day and get ready for the next stage of your journey.

• Ticket for a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus
• Experience Lake Como from the water on an included boat trip
• Marvel at the Mediterranean feel of Lugano

You travel directly from the metropolis of Milan to Lake Como, the most stunning lake in the region. Framed by the Rhaetian Alps, this Italian slice of heaven’s crystal-clear waters seduced the most famous writers of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Admire the mountainous vistas and colourful villas from the unique perspective of the water, as you hop on an included boat trip across to Lenno.

Once you’re on dry land, you can grab lunch in Lenno. The town boasts an 11th-century octagonal baptistry, a Romanesque-style crypt, and enough lovely lakeside views to last a lifetime.

You then cross the border into Switzerland and visit Lugano. You have a couple of hours here to explore however you please. People watch over a coffee in Piazza della Riforma, pour over the frescos at the Church of S. Maria degli Angioli, or feast your eyes on more waterside scenes on the shores of Lake Lugano.

You travel to the quaint and cultural town of Locarno for your evening and overnight stay.

Home Hotel Locarno or similar, Locarno

• Admire Lake Maggiore from the promenade in Stresa
• Stroll through the old town of Varese

Wake up, eat a scrumptious breakfast, and get ready for more lakeside adventures.

You first travel to elegant Stresa. Here you have the option to take a boat ride to Isola Bella. This island sits in Lake Maggiore and offers visitors a chance to wander through gorgeous gardens and admire the exuberant extravagancies of a wealthy 17th-century family in Palazzo Borromeo.

In the afternoon, you venture to Varese, also known as the ‘Garden City’. Grab a snack here and enjoy a guided stroll through the old town centre to find out how this town earned such a nickname.

You travel via the lush Campo dei Fiori landscapes back to Locarno for your second night on the shores of Lake Maggiore.

• Boat ride out to Isola Bella and admission to Palazzo Borromeo
• Feel like an age-old smuggler as you go over the Simplon Pass
• Be awed by up-close views of the Matterhorn in Zermatt

You leave Locarno and head deep into the Alps.

Your first stop of the day is Santa Maria Maggiore. You have time to grab a coffee and snap a few pictures of this stunning town before taking the winding roads up to the Simplon Pass. This is a historic location that’s been used as a key route through the Alps by Stone Age dwellers, Romans, and smugglers of the Middle Ages.

Now, it’s time to discover one of the most admired peaks in all of Europe, the Matterhorn. You arrive in Täsch and take a round trip on a train to car-free Zermatt, a “base camp” for aspiring mountaineers, to enjoy the views and grab lunch.

Back on our coach, you travel to Lausanne. Overlooking Lake Geneva, this town is home to the Olympic Museum, grand mountain views, and your bed for the next two nights.

Hotel Des Patients or similar, Lausanne

• Savour the quintessential flavours of Gruyères
• Go celebrity-spotting in glamorous Gstaad
• Admire the iconic Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva

We hope you have an appetite, because your first stop of the day is the home of Gruyère cheese, Gruyères. You have time here to go beyond the dairy delights and discover the Medieval town and its views of the Saane Valley.

You then travel alongside Alpine peaks to Gstaad. This glamourous Alpine village is a favourite hangout spot for ski-loving celebrities; see who you can spot.

Near Montreux, you have the option to visit Chillon Castle, an unbelievably idyllic stronghold that deserves its claim as Switzerland’s most visited castle.

You arrive back in Lausanne in time for dinner.

• Chillon Castle
• Experience Switzerland’s most inspirational views
• Walk the trail of waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen

The valley of 72 waterfalls, an outdoor pursuits paradise, and your first stop today.

You spend time in Lauterbrunnen any way you choose today. There are lovely walks, trains to mountain peaks, and more. You’re spoilt for choice, so ask your guide for advice on what you should do.

Once you’ve gratified your senses with Lauterbrunnen’s imposing mountain views and pastoral Swiss splendours, you travel to Interlaken. This small resort town, nestled snug between the mountains, is your home for the evening.

Hotel Weisses Kreuz or similar, Interlaken

• Meet William Tell
• Enjoy the typical Swiss landscape of Biosphere Entlebuch
• Be impressed by the defences of Bellinzona

You leave Interlaken and head through the bucolic landscape of the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch. Stroll through typical sound-of-music style scenes of cows chomping through fields of green grass and admire sublime views.

Nature may rejuvenate the senses, but it doesn’t fill your belly; so your guide will find you a great place for a lunch break, possibly in Altdorf. This historic town is famous for being the place where William Tell shot an apple off his son’s head. Or perhaps your guide will take you to eat and explore in another great spot - we like to stay flexible.

You then descend from the heights of the Alps to Bellinzona. Since Roman times, grand castles, now UNESCO heritage sites, have stoically guarded the access to northern Italy. You have the choice here to visit the castles or relax in the town.

You arrive back in Milan in the evening.

• The castles of Bellinzona

Where does this tour stay overnight?

You stay two nights in Bologna, three nights in Padua, two nights in Milan, two nights in Locarno, two nights in Lausanne, and one night in Interlaken.

For examples of the accommodation, please see the tour itinerary.

How does the accommodation work?

A good night’s sleep is often needed for a good day of travel.

So we’ve hand-picked three-star to four-star hotels in remote coastal villages, bustling towns, and mountain valleys.

Your accommodation is included in the tour price; and when you book your trip, you can choose whether you want a double room, a twin room, or a single room.

Are there any extra accommodation costs?

The price you see is for all your tour accommodation and for the tour itself. It also includes a tourist tax. This figure is based on shared accommodation. When you're booking your tour and select a single room, an additional single room supplement will be added to the price.

Do I need a visa to take this tour?

You may need a Schengen Visa to travel throughout Europe. Check the official tourism website of the country you’re visiting for up-to-date and reliable information. Travel between countries is easy because there are no passport checks at the borders.

Are the tours suitable for people with mobility issues?

Most people can comfortably enjoy our tours, but it's worth bearing in mind that we often include optional short walks in scenic locations. Please also be aware that many of the old European towns are built on steep hills with cobbled lanes, and you may have to carry your own luggage at times.

So that we can ensure you're comfortable travelling with us, please let us know about any special requirements or needs at the time of booking. If you have any more questions, simply email [email protected] .

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

Europe's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure and avoid contributing to congestion issues, we start our trip from hotels located conveniently on the edge of cities. We choose hotels with good public transport connections to the city centre, so you can enjoy your evening explorations.

To make your tour more convenient, you can add an optional pre and post-departure accommodation in the hotel we use as a pick up or a drop off point.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive at the hotel lobby 15 minutes before your departure time. Unfortunately, we’re unable to wait for you if you’re late due to vehicle restrictions. But depending on your situation, we may be able to help you catch up with your tour.

What are your cancellation policies?

We have a cancellation period of 42 days for our Europe tours. If you cancel your trip before this period, we give you a full refund minus a 10% admin charge. If you cancel inside this time frame, you’re liable for the cost of the tour package.

We understand how disappointing it is when you have to cancel a trip with us, so please contact our friendly team who will try their best to resell your ticket and refund you.

Click here to view full terms and conditions.

What is a guaranteed departure?

It's simple: you book, you go. This means we'll never cancel your tour because of a minimum numbers policy.

Can routes change?

Your friendly driver and guide are passionate about the places they visit and know all the local gossip. This means your tour itinerary can change a little due to festivities, attraction opening hour changes, and spontaneous photo opportunities.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable mini-coaches offer a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

We like to keep our coaches small, nimble, and odour free. This means we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you frequently stop in local towns and villages for comfort breaks.

Do you take children on your tours?

We're unable to permit children under 16 years old on our Europe tours due to the nature of the activities that are included.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy your trip to Europe. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of stops to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

What are 'included activities' and 'optional activities'?

We've arranged experiences for you on your tour. The 'included activities' are already booked and paid for as part of your trip, whereas you can purchase 'optional activities' while on your tour. You also have free time in many destinations to pick and choose which attractions you visit.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to pack or bring along food on the mini-coach. We stop in small European towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

What should I do if I have too much luggage?

It’s more enjoyable to travel with light luggage. You can take less by cleaning clothes along the way. Most hotels provide affordable laundry service.

But if you're travelling with more than 20kg, don't worry! There are left luggage facilities close to the majority of our departure points, and courier companies who could ship your excess luggage on to your chosen destination. Our team are happy to help if you need any suggestions or recommendations.

Should I tip the driver and the guide?

Let's be honest, our drivers and guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We highly recommend you take out travel insurance, so you can enjoy a stress-free journey.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you book a tour with us. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we run into any issues. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

Our packages are covered by the Package Travel Regulations. For full details of your key rights please click here.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email [email protected] , or check out our full FAQs .

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7 Day Italy and Switzerland Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 7 day Italy and Switzerland tour with TourRadar. Choose from 23 trips with 92 customer reviews, that range from 4 up to 7 days.

23 Italy And Switzerland 7 day tour packages with 92 reviews

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

Milan and the Northern Lakes with Bernina Express

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Classical Italy and Switzerland

It was an amazing experience. Very organized tour. Our tour guide Eva was very good. I strongly recommend this tour .

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

Mont Blanc Rambler

What a great introduction to the Mont Blanc circuit! We covered Northern half of the 170km circuit anticlockwise from Camoyeur, Italy to Chamonix in France The trip would have been perfect with hikers better vetted! There is a 15 min gap between the front and back of group sometimes! The guide was refreshing! I appreciate his introducing us the main food of each country everyday, different cheeses from each country, different meals,... the lunches were delicious! I put on weight despite the hike! The accommodation was a shock to me though! Unless you don’t mind bunking in with ten others, once with ten mattresses in the room! Better to get a twin room if you can . Apart from the two suggestions, the trip is perfect!

Three Lakes and More-Luxury Bike Tour

Mary and I signed up for the 3 Lakes and more tour and we loved our time with Luca and Michela. Even before we started the tour the communications with Luca were prompt and useful. Luca and Michela met us at Milano Centrale Station and from then till they dropped us off there a week later we had a superb week of cycling, dining, sight seeing, being exposed to the most wonderful sights, laughing, communicating and generally having a great time together. We finished our week feeling that we had become the best if friends and had been successfully challenged to ride in ways not previously thought possible. We highly recommend Luca and Michela's enterprise.

7-Day Classical Italy and Switzerland

7 Days in Italy and Switzerland from Rome end in Zurich

I simply cannot find the right words to express how happy and satisfied I am for the amazing tour experience I had with you. It went beyond my expectations - from the airport transfer service to the hotel; to the itinerary which was religiously followed; to the very good hotels where we were billeted; to the beautiful, kind, helpful, sweet but strict as to time compliance so as to avoid delays, and knowledgeable tour guide Gabbie; and the very cool headed, patient, helpful, pleasant and good looking driver Stefano. All the elements of an outstanding tour operator are rolled into one in Europa Monda. Will definitely avail of your services again in the future and will recommend you to my friends. Till then. Keep up your very good services and strive for excellence for I know that there is always room for improvement all for the sake of your valued clients. Again, my big thanks.

Fall/Spring Swiss Alps Drive in a Porsche: Pre-set sat-nav guided

Where to begin?! When I discovered EpikDrives, I knew this would be the perfect surprise trip for my husband. Initially the packages and trip seemed “to good to be true” but Stephan was quick to respond to my 1,000 questions. We didn’t find many reviews which made me nervous but booked regardless and ARE WE GLAD WE DID! This turned out to be one of the best trips we have ever taken. Planning of the trip and booking was seamless. Stephan was so helpful and prompt with responses throughout the entire process from start to finish. Once we arrived in Switzerland, Stephan was waiting at the hotel with our supercar on arrival. We were impressed with the ease of everything! We would get into the car each morning and essentially hit “go” on the GPS. Easy GPS guidance to follow along with designated stops for sightseeing, coffee if needed, and re-fueling. We also enjoyed the binder that accompanied with printed out information of the itinerary for each day and description of the different sites or mountain passes. I would certainly give EpikDrives and Stephan a 10+ if I could and we will definitely be taking another trip with them in the near future. Thank you, Stephan, for such an incredible experience!

Great Alps- Luxury/Small Group Bike Tour

Beautiful Tours on the Alps, demanding, but with Luca and the van assiatance i could deal with these passes serenely. We had delicious dinner and a confortable accommodation

Swiss and Italian Spotlight

Amazing sites, great guides. The itinerary is very aggressive, understandably so considering the sites we were afforded. Some of the sites were extremely crowded and made for difficulty hearing the local guide. Overall very positive experience though.

Grand Combin Traverse

Lake Como & the Swiss Alps - 6 days

• Train & Rail

Glacier Express & Porsche 911 Rail & Drive Experience

Milan, Lakes & Alps by Train - 6 days

Wonders of Northern Italy with Bernina Train from Milan

6-Day The Italian Lakes & Swiss Alps Explorer Small-Group Tour from Milan

The value of a Rabbie's tour did not disappoint. The driver, Juan Carlos, and the guide, Christina, were invaluable. We are seasoned travelers and have always traveled on our own, making our own plans and travelled with the help of guide books. We will never go back to doing that again. Juan Carlos easily navigated the windy, hilly roads of Italy and Switzerland, and knew the traffic patterns of the countries. Christina, the guide, was great in giving us information about the culture and customs of the people and countries. This tour is perfect for the traveler who wants to have hotel arrangements made, transportation provided yet wants to explore the designated cities and towns on their own without having to follow a guide around. This style of travel really is not for the faint of heart. We were up and gone by 8 or 9 am and returned to the hotel each night around 7:00 or 7:30 each day. Hotels were adequate to good, a variety of accommodations. A 6 day trip was the perfect amount of time to see so many wonderful things. We loved each stop, each city or village had something unique to offer. Each day offered something different, it is hard to say which one was our favorite, although, Lauterbrunnen stood out as a very memorable day. we will not hesitate to recommend Rabbies to friends, and to sign up for another tour.

What people love about 7 Day Italy And Switzerland Tours

Best tour I have ever done. Luca and Rici were outstanding. I will book with them in the future. Great value. Impeccable service.

International Versions

• Deutsch: 7 Tage Italien-Schweiz Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits Italie et Suisse de 7 Jours
• Español: Circuitos por Italia y Suiza de 7 Días
• Nederlands: 7-Daagse rondreis Italië en Zwitserland

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A Scenic Northern Italy Itinerary with a Swiss Twist (Four Lakes, Five Towns, Two Countries)

by Violeta Matei

Last Updated on: 11th March 2024, 09:11 am

#1 top pick guided tour

• 7 Days Italian Lakes and Riviera Tour from Milan
• ⦿ Discover the best of northern Italy on a 7-day tour of the lakes and Riviera
• ⦿ Visit Lake Como, Lake Garda, Verona, Cinque Terre, Portofino and more
• ⦿ All lodging, guide, private transport, tours, and breakfast are included
• ⦿ This tour starts and ends in Milan
• ⦿ Duration: 7 days
• ⦿ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Check availability and price

Main Topics of A Scenic Northern Italy Itinerary with a Swiss Twist (Four Lakes, Five Towns, Two Countries)

Best Time of Year To Visit Northern Italy

Best way to see the north of italy, venice – days 1-2, verona – day 3, sirmione – lago di garda – days 3-4, bergamo – days 5-6, sarnico – lago d’iseo – day 5 or 6, milan – days 7-9, lugano – days 10-11, bellagio – lake como – day 11, stresa – lago maggiore – days 12-14, conclusions on choosing the best northern italy itinerary.

My first encounter with this area took place in Lugano, Switzerland . Although Swiss, the city felt Italian. People were speaking Italian everywhere around me, the names of places were Italian, and risotto was one of the most popular foods.

Based in Lugano, I visited the lakes district of Italy.

On my other trips to Lombardy, I’ve set my base camp in Bergamo and I visited Milan , Lago di Guarda, Lago D’Iseo and many other places in North Italy.

While there are at least six day trips from Milan worth taking, you can also choose to spend two weeks on a scenic Northern Italy itinerary that will take you to four lakes, five towns and two countries.

You’ll see some of the most beautiful places in Italy, you’ll taste delicious Northern Italy food specialties, and you’ll have a chance to experience the hospitality of Northern Italians first hand.

The best time to go is by the end of September – beginning of October. The weather is still mild and there are less tourist crowds.

The beginning of June is also a good time to visit Northern Italy. The weather starts to be nice and warm, flowers are blooming, and prices are still lower than in high season.

Funny enough, almost all my trips across these cities in Northern Italy took place in November and December.

If you choose this time of year to travel, make sure you dress in layers, so that you can adjust to sudden temperature changes.

Winter in Italy has a special charm, thanks to mulled wine stalls, Christmas markets and trade fairs. If you happen to be in Bergamo around Christmas, go to Citta Alta and spend some time there in the afternoon, as there are lots of musicians and various performances happening right there, on the cobblestone streets, in the freezing air of Northern Italian winters.

There won’t be too much snow, but you can expect temperatures below the freezing point. This is one more reason to love hot chocolate, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.

The train is probably the best option for this trip across Lombardy. Italian trains are comfortable, they come on time, and they can take you even to smaller towns and villages along this itinerary. It is also possible to see more of the country this way. Check out this 10 day Italy itinerary by train to see if it suits you.

Renting a car is not a bad option, either. A car will also save you from having to carry your luggage with you whenever you move to the next place. Beware, though, if you travel with a laptop or other expensive electronic devices and gadgets, avoid leaving them in the car, unattended. There are burglars who can detect the presence of such equipment even if you don’t leave it in sight. They don’t need more than half an hour to break into your car and steal your stuff.

Feel free to adjust the following itinerary to match your personal preferences. If you don’t travel light, you may want to move as little as possible between cities and hotels. If you rely on trains and buses to move from one place to the next, you’ll want to sleep in those cities where the train or bus stations are. If you drive, you may want to choose some lakefront accommodations, regardless of the public transport connections.

Grab a map of Northern Italy and let’s plan your next European adventure!

Most probably, you’ll spend the first day of your Northern Italy trip getting from Treviso Airport to Venice, finding your accommodation and wandering through the Old City.

Take advantage of the sunset to capture some amazing shots of the canals, buildings and city lights. Check out some travel guides and blogs to make your plan on the best things to see in Venice. You won’t be able to explore the whole city in one or two days, but you’ll get a gist of this romantic city in Northern Italy.

You’ll sleep two nights in Venice, in order to have one full day to enjoy some sightseeing. You might even be able to take a 5-hour trip to Murano and Burano , the two islands in the Venetian Lagoon.

On the third day of your Northern Italy itinerary, you’ll visit Verona. Stroll around the Medieval City, enjoy some good food and fine wine, and see the famous balcony of Shakespeare’s Juliet.

Next, move on to Sirmione, a neat resort town on Lake Garda, your home for the next two nights. There’s no need to spend one night in Verona, if you don’t want to take advantage of the photo opportunities offered by the sunset.

While some people may prefer a longer stay in Verona with a day trip to Lake Garda, I’d say that Sirmione is the place to spend at least a couple of days in. This scenic town is partially located on a 4km peninsula in Lake Garda. Sirmione’s old center, with its narrow streets and colorful buildings, will steal your heart.

If you want to relax and unwind, spend two nights in Sirmione. The restaurants by the lakefront are welcoming and romantic and the pizza and pasta are delicious.

If you choose to take this trip in the winter, you’ll still be able to enjoy dinner on a lakefront terrace – there are tents and outdoor heaters to keep you warm. A good Italian wine would also help.

Bergamo isn’t a big town, but it is definitely worth a short stay. The old part of the town is called Citta Alta and it is located on the top of a hill. You can get there by funicular or by walking. There are also some hotels, should you want to spend your two nights in Bergamo in Citta Alta.

The modern Bergamo, Citta Bassa, is also worth a visit. Its cobblestone streets and romantic coffee shops have a special charm.

Spend two nights in Bergamo, and use one of these days to take a half day trip to Lago d’Iseo.

Sarnico is at about 30 km from Bergamo. You can get there by bus in almost one hour. If you choose a taxi, you can get to Sarnico in less than 30 minutes.

This can be a beautiful half day trip from Bergamo. There is accommodation, should you want to spend a night here. However, I think that Bergamo is a better place to spend your evenings in.

You can see most of the tourist objectives in this city in a full day, self-guided tour of Milan . However, taking into consideration that this itinerary doesn’t allow too much time to visit these objectives properly, you may want to spend two nights in Milan. This will allow you to see the Duomo and climb to its top the very first day of your stay here. Next, you’ll have one full day for the self-guided walking tour that also includes a visit to Santa Maria delle Grazie, the church where you’ll admire Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper mural painting. Here’s how to find it and how to buy tickets .

Sleeping two nights in Milan will leave room for a brief shopping session. Seeing that Milan is the European capital of fashion, you’ll find some amazing clothes and shoes in those little shops.

Lugano is in Switzerland, on the board of Lake Como. It is a neat town, with cobblestone streets, peaceful and smiling people, and impressive views. If you get here during winter, you’ll see palm trees with snow on them. According to Lugano locals, these palm trees belong to a cold-resistant species, so they don’t have problems with ice and snow.

By sleeping here two nights, you’ll be able to explore the town and its surroundings, as well as other villages and towns surrounding Lake Como. Here’s how to travel around Lake Como , in order to get to see as much as possible.

Out of all these lake-shore towns, I’d recommend you visit Bellagio. Located in Italy, Bellagio is at 23km distance from Lugano. If you have a car, you’ll be able to reach Bellagio in under one hour by driving and taking the car ferry. If you don’t have a car, you’ll have to take a bus and then the car ferry. In this case, the journey will take one hour and 40 minutes.

Built on a hill by the lake, Bellagio offers an impressive scenery. If time allows, you should consider spending one night here to see Lake Como by night, with the lit houses on the other side of the water.

Ending your Northern Italy itinerary in Stresa will enable you to reach Milan Malpensa airport with ease.

You can get to Stresa from Bellagio by taking the ferry to Varenna, and then the train. You can expect this journey to take about two hours, depending on your connections. Unfortunately, moving between Lake Como and Lake Maggiore isn’t that easy without a car. Here are a few ideas and some possibly useful details on how to use public transport to get to Stresa from Bellagio . I haven’t used any of these, as I was driving my own car (living in Europe pays off big time when it comes to such itineraries).

This two-week itinerary allows you to visit four lakes and two countries. All these lakes are special, hence my decision to include all for them in this tour.

If you don’t have this much time available, I’d say give up Sarnico and Lago d’Iseo. If I were to give up any of the other three, I’d have a hard time at making a choice.

If you can only afford to spend one week in Italy, you can focus on the area between Venice and Milan and skip Como and Maggiore altogether. Alternatively, you can set your base camp in Milan and cover as much as you can by taking day trips to all these places.

In terms of transportation, my first option would be to rent a car. The second option would be the Italian railway system, which I found to be very comfortable and easy to figure out.

Last but not least, I’d consider an organized tour like these ones, here .

Pin this Northern Italy itinerary for later, here:

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Italy and Switzerland itinerary

If you are searching for an itinerary that combines Italy and Switzerland and includes a few cities full of cultural and historical heritage and some amazing natural landscapes, this trip is definitely for you! You’ll switch between the upper-class and elegant atmosphere of Milan and the beautiful Alpine sceneries of the Swiss mountains through many picturesque lakes and the medieval Old Towns of Zurich, Luzern, and Berne.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

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A comprehensive Italy and Switzerland itinerary

Best time to go: June to enjoy warm and sunny weather in the mountains and fully appreciate the lakes and the activities in the open-air.

Italy and Switzerland itinerary: Day 1 – Milan

Choose accommodation in the vibrant Brera district : it is close to the city center but way cheaper than the luxurious accommodations you’ll find in the Duomo area. Moreover, it is an artsy neighborhood and a modern cultural hub.

The first place you should visit is definitely the Cathedral : it is the symbol of Milan and it is located in the main square. To learn more about its long history and admire its many works of art it is best to save at least 1 hour of your time. Don’t miss the spectacular view from its terrace – check this skip the line tour of the duomo and terraces here. 

From here, you can easily reach another unmissable stop on your itinerary: the Cenacolo Vinciano . The dining room of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie houses “The Last Supper”, that is one of the masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci. You can reach it by subway (4 stops from Piazza Duomo) and you’d better check the availability because it only opens a few days per week. Book here your skip the line guided tour for the Last Supper. 

Spend your night out in the Navigli district which is the heart of local nightlife.

Italy and Switzerland itinerary: Day 2 – Milan

Spend your morning visiting the Sforza Castle . This impressive fortress was the residence of the Duke of Milan, and it was built in the XV century. Its huge artistic and historical heritage is worth a thorough visit and a guided tour like this one .

Milan is the Italian shopping capital, and the main fashion and luxury brands have their headquarters here. To immerse yourself in the glamorous atmosphere of high fashion head to via Montenapoleone, via della Spiga, and Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery. If you are a fashion addict, don’t miss a thematic tour leading you to discover the most popular brands.

Italy and Switzerland itinerary:  Day 3 – Como Lake

Como Lake offers one of the most beautiful natural sceneries in Northern Italy, and it is definitely worth a visit. It is really close to Milan, and there are many places you can visit in just one day.

Choose Varenna for a romantic day trip! You can reach it at 1h15 by train from Milan, and it offers one of the best views of the Lake thanks to its location.

What you cannot miss:

• Villa Monastero : its charming garden is one of the most visited places in Varenna
• Church of S. Giorgio: Varenna’s main church was founded in 1313, and it is full of works of art
• Vezio Castle: it is a medieval fortress located on top of a promontory overlooking the lake

Choose Bellagio to visit one of the most famous tourist areas of the Lombardia Region! The best way to get there is to rent a car in Milan since it’s not very well connected by train. The journey will take you about 1h30.

• Villa Serbelloni : it was built in the XV century, and its park offers a beautiful view
• Villa Melzi: it was the summer residence of the Duke of Lodi, and it was built in 1808 in a neo-classical style
• San Giacomo Basilica : it was built in the XI century in Lombard-Romanesque style

Choose a guided tour.  This one will take you to Como, Bellagio and to Varenna on the same day. This way, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a boat trip!

Italy and Switzerland itinerary:  Day 4 – Garda Lake

Another famous tourist spot that is easily reachable from Milan is Garda Lake. Its shores are shared by Lombardia, Veneto and Trentino Alto Adige Regions.

Visit the fortified town of Peschiera del Garda in Veneto. You can get there in 1h by train from Milan.

• Sanctuary of Madonna del Frassino : it was built in 1510 to celebrate a Marian apparition that took place there
• Fortress : it is not a single castle but an entire complex of walls and fortifications enclosing Peschiera and giving a picturesque atmosphere to the Old Town
• Porta Verona and Porta Brescia : they were the ancient gates of the city
• Fishing Museum : a small museum dedicated to the local fishing techniques and to local lake boats

Choose a guided tour taking you to Sirmione (in Lombardia) and Verona (in Veneto). 

Italy and Switzerland itinerary:  Day 5 – Bernina Express/St. Moritz/Tirano

Bernina Express is the name of a scenic train ride through the Swiss Alps offering some spectacular views that wouldn’t be accessible in other ways. There are several tour options starting from Milan so that it’s a good idea for a day trip. You’ll have the chance to see many towns along the way and the two places that are really worth a longer stop are St Moritz in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy. For more information about this train line visit its official website https://www.rhb.ch/en/panoramic-trains/bernina-express

One of the best day trips from Milan is this one: Bernina Train & St. Moritz Full-Day Tour

What you cannot miss in St. Moritz :

• Moritz Lake : it is beautiful both in summer to sunbathe on the beach and in winter when it’s almost entirely frozen
• Segantini Museum : a permanent exhibition dedicated to the painter Giovanni Segantini
• Schellen Ursli Path : a popular trail through the woods

What you cannot miss in Tirano:

• Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin : it was built in honor of a Marian apparition that took place there in 1504
• Ethnographic Museum : an interesting museum telling the story of the local peasant life throughout the centuries
• Salis Palace : the residence of Count Salis was built in Baroque and Renaissance style. It also has a beautiful Italian-style garden

Italy and Switzerland itinerary:  Day 6 – Zurich

Zurich is easily reachable from Lombardia and it will take you about 4 hours to get there by train from Milan. If you had decided to spend the night in St. Moritz, you’ll only need about 3 hours to get there by train.

Choose accommodation in the Altstadt district (Old Town): it is the most beautiful and picturesque area of the city and you can easily walk around and see plenty of monuments and spots of interest.

After lunch, take some time to walk along the Limmat River and reach the Zurich Lake : the waterfront is the main gathering point for locals and it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view.

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a boat trip : the most popular one takes about 2 hours and it’s a round-trip offered by the local ferry company. For more information visit https://www.zsg.ch/en/timetable-prices/timetable-assistant/round-trips-scheduled-cruises

Later on, you can visit the Kunsthaus (Art Museum), which is mainly dedicated to modern art with many important works by Munch and Giacometti.

Spend your night out in Langstrasse , the heart of local nightlife.

Italy and Switzerland itinerary: Day 7 – Zurich

Spend half a day visiting the Old Town : it is a medieval area perfectly preserved that will make you travel back in time! It is packed with monuments, palaces, churches, and picturesque views but the most important spots are:

• Lindenhof : the local belvedere offering a view of the Limmat River and the Niederdordf district.
• St Peter’s Church : it is the oldest church in town and the one with the largest clock in Europe
• Town Hall : it was built on the Limmat River close to where it flows into the Lake
• Grossm ü nster : the cathedral was built above the tombs of St. Felix and Regula who are also the patrons of the city

To be sure you don’t miss anything while visiting the city center, choose a walking tour like this one: a 2-hour walking tour of the Old Town. 

In the afternoon, you can visit the Swiss National Museum : its interactive exhibitions will teach you everything you need to know about Swiss culture and history.

Spend a few hours taking a gourmet tour to taste the local specialties and also explore the city further with your guide.

Italy and Switzerland itinerary:  Day 8 – Luzern

Just as Zurich, Luzern has a nice river flowing into a large lake and a historic city center with many monuments and pieces of heritage. It is an unmissable stop of every Swiss tour and it can be easily reached by train from the main cities of the Country.

Catch a train in Zurich and get to Luzern in just 45 minutes! Take your time and spend the whole day wandering through the beautiful Old Town.

Here are some amazing things to do in Lucerne .

• Kapellbrücke (Chapel’s Bridge) and Spreuerbrücke (Mill’s Bridge): these iconic covered bridges are entirely made of wood and they span across the Reuss River
• The Lion Monument : it was built in 1820 to commemorate the massacre of the Swiss Guards during the French Revolution
• Nine Towers : Luzern is still enclosed by its ancient walls including nine fortified towers. Don’t miss the view from above!
• Hofkirche : the main church of the city is built in Renaissance style
• Jesuitenkirche: on the riverbank, you’ll see this Baroque church rich in decorations that was built by the Jesuits
• Vierwaldstättersee Lake: a nice tree-lined walk will let you enjoy the lake and its natural landscape

Choose a guided tour from Zurich and enjoy a yacht cruise too!

Italy and Switzerland itinerary:  Day 9 – Berne

It is the Swiss capital and it is very similar to Zurich and Luzern, especially in its medieval Old Town. The city center is relatively small and you can visit it in just a few hours.

Catch a train in Zurich and get to Berne in about 1 hour! Stroll along the picturesque streets of the Old Town and take your time to visit all its beautiful churches and buildings.

• Church of the Holy Ghosts: an important Reformed Church which is considered the most beautiful Baroque church in Switzerland
• Käfigturm (Prison Tower): the clock tower was once used as a prison and you can still see the graffiti of the prisoners on the walls of their cells
• Bundeshaus: the headquarter of the Swiss government and the center of local political life
• Allegoric Fountains: 11 fountains scattered throughout the city and representing some national heroes, some historical events or even some abstract concepts in an allegorical way. They were all built in the XVI century.
• Vincent Cathedral: this impressive gothic church also offers a great view from its top

Choose a guided tour from Zurich to visit Berne and discover the best gastronomic specialties of the Swiss Capital.

The main monuments of Berne can be seen in just a few hours and you can choose to take a half-day tour like this one and spend the rest of your day visiting another city nearby.

Head to Thun , a nice town that you can reach in about 30 minutes by train from Berne. Its castle overlooking the lake is definitely worth a visit! This medieval fortress is perfectly preserved and it looks like a fairytale castle. Today, it houses a history museum telling the story of this Alpine area.

Italy and Switzerland itinerary:  Day 10 – Zurich and return trip

Before going back home, take some time to visit the Beyer Clock and Watch Museum of Zurich : other than seeing a private collection of precious watches, you’ll have the chance to learn more about the history of timing equipment, which has always been Swiss excellence.

What should you taste in each city?

Milan: yellow rice (with saffron), Milanese veal (breaded and fried veal cutlet) and ossobuco (cross-cut  veal shank braised with white wine)

Como Lake: fried lake fish, soused lake fish and maltagliati con bottarga (local pasta shape with fish roe)

Garda Lake : sarde in saor (fried sardines with an onion and raisins sauce), alborelle (local type of fish) and risotto with tench

Zurich: rösti (shredded potato cake), zürcher geschnetzeltes (veal strips cooked in white wine and cream) and fondue

Luzern: bratwürst (sausage), fondue and lozärner chügelipastete (puff pastry stuffed with meat and mushrooms)

Berne: berner platte (a platter of various types of meat and sausages with sauerkraut and potatoes), fondue and älplermagronen (pasta with potatoes and cheese).

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Arzo Travels

Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

SWITZERLAND AND ITALY ITINERARY – PLACES TO SEE + TIPS

ITINERARY FOR SWITZERLAND AND ITALY IN 10 DAYS

Table of Contents

Are you looking for the perfect Switzerland and Italy itinerary ? Look no further, as this post is about an amazing trip that combines some of Switzerland’s most beautiful locations with one of Italy’s most idyllic regions.

As a self-proclaimed Switzerland addict, I love to talk about my favorite country. But do you know what? Italy is my second favorite country, so today I can tell you about my favorite travel destinations. This is also exciting for me! 

And there are a lot of things to see and do in both countries – but with only ten days (or a bit less or more) it is impossible to see all the top places in these countries. But with this Italy and Switzerland itinerary, you get to explore some of the extraordinarily stunning places.

Locarno, Valle Verzasca , St.Moritz, the Mortaratsch Glacier, Milan, and Lake Como – these are some of the incredible places you will see if you follow this itinerary. But this post is also important travel tips – e.g. how to get around, where to stay, and more.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product/service (at no extra cost to you) after clicking on my link. More about it  here .

FAQ: SWITZERLAND AND ITALY ITINERARY

So whether you want to explore these two places in 5, 7, or 10 days – this Switzerland and Italy itinerary is the perfect way to explore Switzerland’s alpine beauty and relax in an Italian paradise. Get ready for a trip of a lifetime!

Here are some important FAQs and answers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN SWITZERLAND – PUBLIC TRANSPORT & CAR

🚆 PUBLIC TRANSPORT

One of the best ways to get around Switzerland is by using its efficient public transportation system. It is reliable, punctual, clean, and gets you everywhere!

The Swiss Travel Pass is a great way to travel conveniently and cost-effectively, as it allows you unlimited access to trains, buses, boats, and trams. You can also use it for discounted fares or free admission at many museums.

TIP:   SWISS TRAVEL PASS

The Swiss Travel Pass is a pass you can get in Switzerland that allows you to use buses, trains, and boats without extra costs. Even some mountain excursions are included (like Mount Rigi), and for most others, you get a 50% discount. The Swiss Travel Pass also covers most museums and entrances to castles .

Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass is quite expensive but it will pay off. There are passes for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days available. I suggest, getting the pass for this itinerary, if you use public transportation.

➡️  GET YOUR SWISS TRAVEL PASS HERE

🚘 ROAD TRIP

Though I love road tripping Switzerland , I do not necessarily recommend renting a car for this trip, just because Swiss public transport is so great. Also, because of the destinations I recommend here, you should know that driving in these parts can be more stressful as (mountain) roads can be narrow and windy and it might not be the best for inexperienced drivers.

However, I cannot deny that driving in Switzerland has quite some benefits – including flexibility and if you travel with a couple of people, it might be even cheaper.

In case, you decide to rent a car, I suggest this site to find the best prices. I normally use my own car whenever I drive in Austria or Switzerland. I have used this site to find a rental car for other destinations, though (e.g. Albania ). 

If you want to use the car in both countries, make sure you are allowed to do so.

➡️ Find the best deals for rental cars here.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN ITALY – PUBLIC TRANSPORT & CAR

In Italy, public transport is also efficient and easy to use . You can take the train or bus to most places you’d like to visit. Around Lake Como, buses and boats are your best bet to get around. To travel between cities – like Como to Milan – trains are the most effective and fastest way.

TIP: If you buy a paper ticket, remember to validate your ticket BEFORE you get on a train, at the machines in the underground tunnels, or on the tracks. You must do this before riding, otherwise, the ticket inspector may fine you.

I do not necessarily see the need to rent a car in Italy, though it gives you more flexibility and freedom. Hiring a car can be a great option if flexibility is very important to you. However, driving in Italy is not for the fainthearted. Streets can be busy and drivers tend to be reckless. Also, petrol prices are quite high as are highway tolls.

➡️ Find the best deals for rental cars here if you want to rent a car.

HOW TO GET FROM SWITZERLAND TO ITALY

If you’re planning on doing a Switzerland and Italy itinerary, getting between these two countries is easy. 

Taking the “ Bernina Express ” from Milan to Chur includes a border crossing near Tirano – that should go smoothly. You might get asked for your IDs and though I have crossed the border several times this way, I never had any border controls.

If you plan to get back from Locarno to Milan, all you need to do is take the train from Locarno to Como Nord Station in Italy. The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and trains run up to 10 times per day.

If you want to travel by car between Switzerland and Italy, there are several border crossings that take less than an hour. The most popular route is the Great St Bernard Pass, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Martigny in Switzerland to Aosta in Italy.

VISA FOR A SWITZERLAND AND ITALY TRIP

If you’re an EU citizen, visiting Switzerland is as simple as a walk in the park! You don’t need any visa: just enjoy your vacation time. So go explore new lands without worrying about unnecessary paperwork – with so many great places to see, there’s no excuse for staying put at home! However, have your ID with you as there might be border controls.

If you are not an EU citizen but have a Schengen visa , you can also visit both countries without hassle.

ITALY AND SWITZERLAND ITINERARY – 10 DAYS

So, let´s get started with your trip to Italy and Switzerland.

 🇮🇹 DAY: 1 MILAN

Milan is a city located in northern Italy and is the capital of the Lombardy region. It is known as one of the fashion capitals of Europe (the people here are really the most beautifully dressed ever), as well as being an important financial center and home to numerous cultural attractions.

Some of the most famous sights in Milan include the Duomo di Milano , one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, and La Scala opera house, which is home to some of the world’s best operas. Other attractions include Sforza Castle and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Start with a visit to the Duomo di Milano at the heart of the city. After that, take a stroll around La Scala Opera House and admire its beauty. Then explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the oldest shopping malls in Europe. For lunch, have a traditional Italian meal at one of the city’s many restaurants.

In the afternoon, take a stroll around Sforza Castle and its beautiful gardens.

Though Milan is not my favorite Italian city, it is a great place to visit – even if it is just for the jaw-dropping cathedral. I would not stay longer than a day in Milan though – too many places nearby are waiting for you! 

ACTIVITIES/TOURS IN MILAN

➡️ Milan: Cathedral and Rooftop Ticket

➡️ Milan: Historical Walking Tour and The Last Supper Ticket

➡️ Milan: Sforza Castle Entry Ticket with Digital Audioguide

WHERE TO STAY IN MILAN

LUXURY: I once stayed at the beautiful Principe Di Savoia – Dorchester Collection . This 5-star hotel offered everything I needed for my 1-night stay. And because it is not directly located in the city center (but not too far away), a limo service will get you to the city center – free of charge.

➡️ Check out rates and availabilities here .

MID-RANGE: This 3-star hotel, Missori Suites , is centrally located and might be the perfect choice for your trip!

➡️ Check out rates and availabilities here.

FROM MILAN TO COMO

The train from Milan to Como takes between 40-75 minutes. Tickets start from only 5 € (depending on which connection etc.)

 🇮🇹 DAY 2 & 3: LAKE COMO

Spending two days in Lake Como is a perfect escape for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Italy.

Lake Como is a lake in northern Italy, located at the base of the Alps and about 40km north of Milan. The lake is shaped like an inverted Y, with two long branches that extend from the city of Como in the south to Colico in the northeast.

It is renowned for its scenic beauty, making it a popular tourist destination, and it is also home to some of the world’s most luxurious villas. The lake has several small towns located along its shoreline, including Bellagio , Menaggio, and Varenna.

There are numerous activities such as swimming, sailing, windsurfing and even skiing in the winter months. It is also possible to take boat trips around the lake, with regular ferry services connecting many of the towns and villages along its shoreline.

Additionally, Lake Como also boasts some excellent restaurants serving up delicious Italian cuisine.

WHERE TO STAY IN COMO

There are plenty of places to stay on Lake Como, ranging from luxury resorts to more modest accommodation options.

LUXURY : One of the most luxurious hotels in Como is this 4-star property Villa Flori .

➡️ Click here to find the best rates for Villa Flori.

MID-RANGE: If you want something more budget-friendly and decide to stay in Como, check out B&B Hotel Como City Center. It is an affordable but very well-rated hotel, where you get good value for money.

➡️ Click here to find the best rates at B&B Hotel Como City Center.

At the end of day 3, head back to Milan. Why? Because something very special is waiting for you.

FROM COMO TO MILAN: 

From Como, take the train back to Milan. – it takes between 40-75 minutes. Tickets start from only 5 € (depending on which connection etc.)

 🇮🇹 🇨🇭 DAY 4: MILAN – BERNINA EXPRESS

This day is about one of the most scenic train rides in the world. This day is about glaciers, tunnels, Alps, lakes. This day is about window views and relaxation. You could just sit back and enjoy an amazing ride from the comfort of a train.

What makes the Bernina Express so special, I think it should be part of the Italy/Switzerland itinerary? Well, From Tirano, Italy to Chur via St.Moritz in Switzerland – this train ride is just a feast for the eyes.

Since you are in Milan, you can start from there, and snaking through the majestic Swiss Alps, this iconic railway route takes riders over breathtaking landscape views and across two towering passes. The train winds its way up to Tirano, Italy – and here the Bernina Express officially starts.

The Bernina Express is a spectacular ride through the Alps! You’ll glide over the stunning 65-meter-high Landwasser Viaduct, an architectural masterpiece, and UNESCO World Heritage site.

Along the winding route from Chur to Tirano, marvel at the engineering feats of 55 tunnels and 196 bridges. Witness breathtaking views of the Bernina massif at the Montebello curve, gaze upon the impressive Morteratsch glacier, and admire the pristine beauty of the lakes along the way.

Don’t miss the unique Alp Grüm and the mesmerizing Brusio Circular Viaduct on this truly remarkable Alpine adventure!

TIP 1: You end your journey to St.Moritz – my tip is not to get all the way to Chur. There are some parts after St.Moritz, which are actually pretty impressive, but you will get to see this later during this trip. 

TIP 1: There are some extra tickets for the Bernina Express from Milan to Chur. You could buy one of them and use the iconic Bernina Express. These trains run 1-3 a day, depending on the season. If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, then there is no need to buy a ticket for the Tirano to Chur route, as the Pass is valid for the route. But you have to pay a compulsory reservation fee which is up to 30 CHF in the summer months.

OR, you can take a “fake” Bernina Express. So, why do I call them fake Bernina Express? Well, there are local trains that do go the same route. There are no panoramic windows, and you might have to change trains once or twice.

However, there is no need for any reservation and thus, it would be completely covered by the Swiss Travel Pass. Also, there are a few more stops (in case you want to get out), and they run much more frequently (at least once every hour to be precise).

FROM MILAN TO ST.MORITZ

This train ride from Milan to St.Moritz takes about 4 hours – but it is a pretty ride, so buckle up (not literally as there are no seatbelts in Swiss trains) and enjoy!

🇨🇭DAY 5 & 6: ST. MORITZ

So, after this amazing train ride you had the day before, it is about going out and exploring the stunning Engadine Valley.

St. Moritz is a popular destination for tourists all year round as it offers something unique to each season, but it is especially beautiful during the summer months.

Located in the Swiss Alps of the Engadine Valley and surrounded by some of Europe’s most stunning mountain peaks, St. Moritz provides an idyllic natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

In the summer months, St. Moritz offers a variety of activities and attractions to keep you busy. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, boating, horseback riding, and more in the surrounding mountainous landscape – you can choose from a variety of activities.

But most of all, I am in love with St.Moritz for its amazing mountain views – whether you get up Corvatsch Mountain or Diavolezza, you have some of the best panoramas. And the lakes…ahhh, what should I tell you? Yes, Lake Como is a beauty and Lake Maggiore (which you will see later) is also a pretty lake. But Lake Silvaplana and Lake Sils are next-level stunning.

St. Moritz also makes for an ideal holiday destination as there is a wide range of accommodation options such as luxury hotels, apartments, and chalets to choose from. 

With its picturesque backdrop, St. Moritz is also the perfect place for a romantic getaway or family vacation.

TIP: You can use public transportation for free with your Swiss Travel Pass. However, the cable cars/funiculars do not offer any discounts with your Swiss Travel Pass. The reason I recommend visiting St.Moritz for two nights is the following: It is a stunning Swiss destination.

But there is also another reason: If you stay a minimum of 2 nights in one of the participating hotels, you get a pass – for free – that allows you to use public transportation and all 13 cable cars/funiculars in the valley for free!

This offer is only available in the warmer months (so from June to early October) and is known as the “Bergbahn Inklusive”. You can also buy mountain passes instead of single tickets, in case you do not stay 2 nights in St.Moritz.

WHERE TO STAY IN ST.MORITZ

These accommodations in St.Moritz all offer the Bergbahn Inklusive ticket (if you stay for at least two nights).

LUXURY: This hotel, Badrutt’s Palace ,  has everything you are looking for when booking a 5-star hotel in St. Moritz. From an extensive spa area to a lounge and bar area, luxurious hotel rooms and suites, and more.  

➡️ Check out prices here.

MID-RANGE: Hotel Corvatsch is a 3-star hotel located in the lower part of St. Moritz. and only a 3-minute walk from the lake and the Signal Cable Car.

➡️ Here are prices and availabilities .

BUDGET: The St. Moritz Youth Hoste l is situated at the edge of the forest in the lower part of St. Moritz. During the day, there is a bus that gets you to the St. Moritz train station. The rooms all have shared bathrooms, and breakfast is always included – you cannot find a better deal in all of St. Moritz.

➡️ Check out rates here.

FROM ST.MORITZ TO LOCARNO

The train ride is about 4 hours – but no reason to be upset about it. First, get to Thusis – this is part of the Bernina Express which is absolutely amazing and which you did not get to see if you got out at St.Moritz.

Then continue your journey to Bellinzona and then to Locarno – as you probably are well aware by now, train rides in Switzerland are more fun than just a necessary evil!

🇨🇭 DAY 7 & 8: LOCARNO / ASCONA 

So, after a few days in pretty St.Moritz, head to Ticino , the Italian-speaking canton.

Locarno is located on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore (Lago di Maggiore) and is a popular tourist destination. The town boasts beautiful scenery with views of both lake and mountains, including nearby Cardada Mountain .

Enjoy the stunning architecture of the old town, go for a boat ride on Lake Maggiore, take hikes in the nearby mountains and forests, or explore some of the cultural sights such as the International Film Festival held every August. Many restaurants and cafes line the waterfront promenade.

Lake Maggiore, also known as Verbano, is a large lake in northwestern Italy and southern Switzerland. It is the largest and deepest of all the pre-Alpine lakes in the region. The lake is partly Swiss and partly Italian – one could say, a perfect mix!

If you have time, walk towards Ascona (or hop on a bus) which is about 4 km from Locarno. Ascona is a small Swiss town located in the Ticino region of Switzerland, on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore.

Ascona is known for its warm climate, stunning scenery, and beautiful “lake” beaches, making it a great place to enjoy some rest and relaxation.

Ticino is actually a little peace of Italy in the heart of Switzerland – the best of two worlds!

TIP: The boat ride on Lago di Maggiore is free with a Swiss Travel Pass (pick the tour that is in the Swiss side of the lake).

WHERE TO STAY IN LOCARNO

Tip, though I recommend staying overnight in Locarno, I also understand if you do not like changing hotels too often. If that is the case with you, I suggest leaving your luggage at the train station (there are lockers which cost about 10 CFH for 12 hours but have a max. size).

Explore Locarno and then get your luggage and check in your accommodation in Valle Verzasca. But if you prefer staying in Locarno, here are some hotel tips.

LUXURY : I have stayed at a couple of very luxurious hotels, but this is probably one of my favorites:  Villa Orselina!  It is a top luxurious small boutique hotel in Orselina, just a few minutes from Locarno.

MID-RANGE: I did not stay at Hotel Garni Muralto , but it is one of the best-rated hotels in that price range. It is not directly in Locarno, but Muralto just borders Locarno and you can get there within minutes.

➡️ Find out prices here.

Do not expect bargains when traveling in Switzerland, so there are no real budget hotels. But here are some general money-saving tips,  check out my post for the best advice.

🇨🇭 DAY 9 & 10 VALLE VERZASCA AND DEPARTURE

Ohhhh, my! Today it is time to explore one of the most unique destinations in Switzerland : the impressive Valle Verzasca Valley.

Valle Verzasca is a spectacular valley located in the canton of Ticino . The entire region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. The valley is one of the most scenic parts of Switzerland, with lush green meadows and majestic mountains providing an unforgettable backdrop.

Enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, swimming, rock climbing, and kayaking. From ancient castles to small villages tucked away in secluded valleys and waterfalls , Valle Verzasca has something for everyone! 

One of the most popular attractions in Valle Verzasca is the Lavertezzo Bridge , an impressive stone arch bridge that crosses the river at Lavertezzo. Constructed in 1618, this historic structure has become a symbol of Valle Verzasca’s past and present.

Valle Verzasca is so pretty, it’s impossible to take a bad photograph here!

Tip: Most people just come here for a day – and while a day trip to Valle Verzasca is better than none, I recommend staying here overnight and seeing some places others do not see in one day.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON 10 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND AND ITALY ITINERARY

This Switzerland and Italy itinerary is the perfect combination of culture, nature, adventure, and relaxation. From the stunning architecture of Switzerland’s old towns to Italy’s breathtaking lakeside views and Switzerland’s majestic mountains and forests, this trip has something for everyone.

With plenty of opportunities for exploration, relaxation, or a little bit of both – Switzerland and Italy are sure to give you an unforgettable experience that will stay with you forever! So don’t forget your camera – because it would be a shame to miss out on capturing these amazing memories!

Happy travels!

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Spotlight on northern italy, about this tour.

Unpack once and take in the vineyards, villas, peaks, and prosecco of Veneto. Settle into a suburban villa nearby Treviso, the historic mainland outpost for the island-city of Venice. Savor the Venetian inspiration on terrafirma, solid ground, so you have the flexibility to explore on land and by water, with time to dive into Venice, Verona, and The Dolomites. Take in the artist haven of Asolo and get a taste of Italy’s Prosecco region. Immerse yourself in local culture at a historic villa near Bassano del Grappa, retracing the history of a noble family of Venice. Your opportunity to dive in and truly experience Northern Italy is here.

Your Tour Includes

• 1 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Tiramisu Cooking Class
• Choice on Tour: Verona Painted City or Verona and its Waters Walking Tours

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $75.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel spotlight on northern italy featuring venice, verona & the dolomites.

While just about any month is great to visit Italy, there are a few prime times of the year for the Spotlight on Northern Italy tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Winter: If you love the mountains, be sure to visit between January and March. Visiting the Dolomites snow-covered mountains is a magical sight! These months also avoid any scheduled maintenance closures for the Falzarego Pass cable cars.

Spring: Enjoy Italy in the spring season, with fewer tourists and comfortable temperatures. In March, the weather is warm, but not too hot. Just imagine exploring the towns’ cobblestone streets during this quieter time of year.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Get to know the romantic city of Verona.

Cruise the waters around Venice and dive into the island city.

Enjoy an up-close look at The Dolomites, one of the most beautiful mountain chains in the world.

Cultural Experiences:

Discover hilltop Asolo, awarded the title of Italy’s Most Beautiful Village.

Explore Bassano, the hometown Italy’s renowned schnapps called grappa.

Tour a countryside villa belonging to one of the most ancient families of the Venetian Republic.

Culinary Inclusions:

Master a few tips from a pastry chef and try your hand at making tiramisu according to the traditional recipe.

Tour a winery in the Prosecco hills and sample this delectable sparkling wine.

Step back in time at a festive farewell dinner in a Venetian villa.

• Murano Glass Blowing Demonstration
• Prosecco Winery Tour
• The Dolomites
• Bassano del Grappa
• Venetian Villa Visit

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

• Choice On Tour

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

Experience the romance that can only be found in Venice – La Serenìssima – while traveling on its famous waterways. Partake in one of Venice’s most famous pastimes – a gondola cruise. Take a pleasant stroll toward the Grand Canal to board your gondola. As you relax in your elegant watercraft, your gondolier navigates the Grand Canal as well as smaller side canals. Admire the scenery as you listen to the melodic voice serenading you in true Italian style – just like in those romantic Italian movies!

Accommodations

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