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Lakes of Italy and Switzerland

Discover Italy and Switzerland through iconic lakes, scenic trains and charming towns, featuring Lake Maggiore, Lake Lugano and Lake Como experiences!

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Price From
$2199
Price Per Day
$245
Duration
9 Days
Ratings
5/5
Comfort Level
EASY Icon Easy Tours are accessible for all travelers. There will be limited periods of standing or walking during sightseeing excursions as pre-booked transportation will take passengers between destinations.

ABOUT THIS TRIP

This immersive Italy and Switzerland journey is designed for travellers who love scenic lakes, elegant towns and unforgettable landscapes. Beginning in Milan and explore historic landmarks before travelling north to the stunning lake regions. Experience the beauty of Lake Maggiore, cruising across its calm waters to the Borromean Islands, where the Baroque splendour of Isola Bella and the elegant villas and botanical gardens of Isola Madre rise gracefully from the lake. Continue through dramatic alpine scenery on panoramic train routes, including the famous Centovalli line, seamlessly linking Italy and Switzerland. In Lugano, enjoy a blend of Swiss refinement and Mediterranean charm along its scenic lakeside promenades. The journey concludes at world-famous Lake Como, where peaceful waterfronts, charming villages and majestic mountain backdrops create postcard-perfect moments, offering a relaxed yet enriching lakes-focused travel experience.

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07 NIGHTS
Superior Accommodation
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07 MEALS
Daily Breakfast
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TRANSPORT
Deluxe AC Vehicles
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TRAIN
Second Class Train Ticket between cities
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FLIGHT
International Flights Included

  • Overview
  • Price & Dates
  • Itinerary
  • Accommodation
  • Before You Book
  • FAQ
  • Similar Packages
  • Videos
  • Book Now!

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STYLE
Independent Tour | Train
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
  • Experience scenic train journeys through deep gorges, forests and alpine villages
  • Visit grand cathedrals, historic castles and vibrant city streets while exploring Milan
  • Stroll along Lake Maggiore’s scenic shores, charming lakeside towns & alpine mountains
  • Explore Baroque palaces, beautiful gardens on Isola Bella & elegant villas on Isola Madre
  • Enjoy lakeside promenades, scenic funicular rides and vibrant city streets in Lugano
  • Cruise Lake Como along peaceful waterfronts with stunning alpine lake views
INCLUSIONS
  • 07 Night accommodation on twin sharing basis at a listed Superior hotel or similar
  • Daily breakfast
  • Arrival airport transfer in Milan
  • Train Transfer from Hotel in Stresa to Domodossola
  • All sightseeing as per detailed itinerary
  • One day ticket on the public boat on Lake Como       
  • Return ticket for public boat to the Borromean Islands
  • Skip the line entrance to Isola Bella and Isola Madre              
  • 2nd class high speed train ticket from Milan to Stresa
  • 2nd class high speed train ticket from Domodossola to Locarno
  • 2nd class high speed train ticket from Locarno to Lugano
  • 2nd class high speed train tickets from Lugano to Como
  • International roundtrip airfare from various gateways
  • All air taxes
  • All currently applicable taxes
EXCLUSIONS
  • Items of personal nature, tips & gratuities
  • Baggage fees may apply and vary by carrier
  • All train station and airport transfer not mentioned in inclusions
  • Tourist city tax not included, to be paid on the spot
  • Items not mentioned as included

Lakes of Italy and Switzerland

Prices for this tour are per person, based on a twin/double room sharing basis.

Single supplement is available starting at USD 1149  per person.

Lakes of Italy and Switzerland Book Now!

DAY 1 - USA/CANADA DEPARTURE

Make your own way to your selected gateway Airport for your international flight. Enjoy inflight meals and services.
Overnight Onboard Flight

DAY 2 - MILAN ARRIVAL (-/-/-)

Welcome to Italy! Upon arrival at Milan International Airport, you will be met by our representatives and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore Milan at your own pace. Discover the highlights of the “Capital of Northern Italy,” including the magnificent Duomo with its terraces, the historic Castello Sforzesco, the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the city’s famous fashion and shopping streets. Return to the hotel in the evening. In the evening, we recommend enjoying dinner at a local trattoria or along the Navigli, where you can experience authentic Milanese cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
Overnight in Milan

DAY 3 - MILAN - STRESA (LAKE MAGGIORE) (TRAIN) (B/-/-)

In the morning post breakfast at the hotel, you will make your own way to Milan Central Station to board your train to Lake Maggiore, one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes, shared between Italy and Switzerland. Known as the second-largest lake in Italy after Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore is celebrated for its alpine scenery, elegant resorts and tranquil waterfronts. Arrive in Stresa, the most famous resort town on the lake’s western shore and a popular base for exploring the Borromean Islands. You’re your way to the hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, wandering through Stresa’s picturesque streets, lakeside promenades and charming cafés while taking in stunning views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear waters. Return to your hotel in the evening, relaxed and immersed in the serene atmosphere of Lake Maggiore.
Overnight in Stresa

DAY 4 - STRESA (LAKE MAGGIORE) (B/-/-)

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a full day exploring the famous Borromean Islands, a stunning archipelago on Lake Maggiore renowned for its beauty and history. Visit Isola Madre, the largest island, home to a 16th-century palace surrounded by exquisite English-style botanical gardens. Continue to Isola dei Pescatori, the only permanently inhabited island, known for its traditional fishing village and charming waterfront atmosphere. Conclude the tour at Isola Bella, celebrated for its spectacular Italian gardens centred around the Teatro Massimo, featuring ten terraced levels adorned with statues and fountains. Commissioned by Count Vitaliano Borromeo in 1650, the palace and gardens represent one of the finest examples of Baroque landscape design in Italy. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon, enriched by a day of art, history and scenic lake views.
Overnight in Stresa

DAY 5 - STRESA - DOMODOSSOLA – LOCARNO - LUGANO (TRAIN) (B/-/-)

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel, start your journey as you get transfered from Stresa to Domodossola, a picturesque town nestled in the Italian Alps, enjoying the scenic mountain landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, board the famous Centovalli Train, celebrated for its breathtaking route through the “Hundred Valleys,” winding through lush forests, deep gorges and charming alpine villages with panoramic views of Switzerland’s stunning countryside. Arrive in Locarno, a beautiful town on the shores of Lake Maggiore and continue by train to Lugano, passing more of Switzerland’s picturesque landscapes. On reaching Lugano, spend the afternoon at leisure exploring this vibrant city, known for its Mediterranean flair, elegant shopping streets and serene lakeside setting. Visit Parco Ciani, stroll along the lakeside promenade, or wander through the historic old town with its lively piazzas. In the evening, check in to your hotel in Lugano and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, soaking in the atmosphere of this beautiful Swiss city. 
Overnight in Lugano

DAY 6 - LUGANO (B/-/-)

Start your day in Lugano with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, this day can be spent enjoying a blend of Lugano sightseeing, lake cruises, mountain adventures, cultural exploration and fine dining experiences, making for a truly memorable experience in one of Switzerland’s most beautiful destinations. We suggest taking a boat tour on Lake Lugano, a wonderful way to admire the sparkling waters, surrounding mountains and charming lakeside villages, consider stopping at picturesque towns you may have missed yesterday for a leisurely stroll or a coffee by the lake. In the afternoon, we suggest an exciting mountain adventure by taking the funicular to Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore, both offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lugano, the lake and the surrounding Alps. On Monte Brè, you can enjoy a peaceful walk along scenic trails, capture stunning photographs, or relax at a mountaintop restaurant with panoramic views. You may decide having lunch at a scenic restaurant on the mountain or returning to the city for a cozy meal at a local café. Later, explore Lugano’s vibrant streets, browse unique boutiques and immerse yourself in Swiss culture. If time permits, you may visit the Museo d’Arte della Svizzera Italiana (MASI) to admire a remarkable collection of Swiss and Italian art. Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner by the lakeside, enjoying the serene reflection of lights on the water and the calm ambiance of this enchanting Swiss city. 
Overnight in Lugano

DAY 7 - LUGANO – COMO (TRAIN) (B/-/-)

Today after breakfast, this morning you will make your own way to the train station and board your train from Lugano to Como, a scenic 30-minute journey offering stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. In Como, you will have the opportunity to explore the Gothic-style cathedral, stroll along the pedestrian lakeside promenade, or ride the panoramic funicular railway for breathtaking views of the town and lake. History and culture enthusiasts can visit the Educational Silk Museum, showcasing Como's silk industry, or the Tempio Voltiano, dedicated to the famous physicist Alessandro Volta. To the north, discover the elegant lakeside gardens of Villa Olmo and other historic villas. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to wander the charming streets, shop at local boutiques, or take another ride on the funicular to soak in the spectacular views from above. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon, completing a day filled with culture, history and scenic beauty.
Overnight in Como

DAY 8 - COMO (B/-/-)

Post breakfast, the day is dedicated to explore the stunning Lake Como, traveling along the western shore from Como to Bellagio. Your boat ticket allows you to hop off at various stops to discover charming lakeside villages along the way. Upon arriving in Bellagio, take time to wander through this romantic town, perfectly situated between the two arms of the lake. Enjoy its cobbled streets, elegant buildings and the terraced gardens of Villa Serbelloni, an 18th-century park offering breathtaking views over Lake Como. While soaking in the beauty, keep an eye on ferry schedules to ensure a smooth return to Como. On the way back, enjoy the changing colours of the lake as the late afternoon sun casts a magical glow, making for a memorable day of sightseeing, lakeside exploration and picturesque moments.
Overnight in Como

DAY 9 - COMO – MILAN (TRAIN) - USA / CANADA (B/-/-)

After breakfast at the hotel, make your own way to Como train station and board your regional train to Milan. Upon arrival in Milan, proceed to the airport for your onward flights back home (transfer not included).

The train from Como to Milan takes about 45 minutes. We recommend booking your onward flight accordingly, or consider an additional night in Milan

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NYX Hotel Milan Leonardo (Milan)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

Featuring an inner garden, NYX Hotel Milan by Leonardo Hotels is located in Milan, a 3-minute walk from Stazione Centrale Train Station and 1.5 km from Milan Fashion District. All air-conditioned, rooms are equipped with 40" HD flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries. Towels and linen are provided. Guests can enjoy the onsite Clash restaurant and the lounge bar. Free WiFi and a business centre are also at guests disposal. Castello Sforzesco castle and Milan Cathedral are 3 km from NYX Hotel Milan by Leonardo Hotels, while Milan Linate Airport is a 20-minute drive from the property.

Hotel la Palma (stresa)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

Overlooking the scenic shores of Lake Maggiore in the heart of Stresa, Hotel La Palma enjoys a prime lakefront setting surrounded by a charming private garden and complimentary parking facilities. Elegantly designed with classic décor and wooden flooring, the rooms feature free Wi-Fi, LCD satellite TV, and private balconies, with many offering enchanting views of the lake and the picturesque Borromean Islands. Select rooms are equipped with multi-functional showers for added comfort.

The hotel’s highlight is its stunning lakeside swimming pool, complemented by a panoramic rooftop terrace with a stylish Sky Bar and a spacious hot tub—perfect for soaking in breathtaking sunset views. On the sixth floor, you will find a well-equipped fitness area along with a complimentary wellness centre featuring a sauna, Turkish bath, salt cave, sensory showers, and a tranquil relaxation zone. Conveniently located, the hotel is just a short walk from the train station and the nearby embarkation point, offering easy access to local attractions and golf facilities.

Hotel City Lugano (Lugano)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

Hotel City Lugano is a contemporary hotel ideally located just 800 metres from the Lugano Exhibition Centre and around 1 km from the scenic lakefront. Designed for comfort and convenience, the hotel offers stylish, soundproofed, air-conditioned rooms equipped with LED TVs, modern lighting, universal sockets, a minibar with complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Guests benefit from free Wi-Fi throughout the property, along with practical touches such as printers and coffee machines on every floor. Private bathrooms feature modern showers, hairdryers and complimentary toiletries. Underground parking for small to medium cars is available at an additional charge.

Hotel Barchetta Excelsior (Como)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

Hotel Barchetta Excelsior enjoys a privileged position in Como’s main square, just a five-minute walk from Como Lago Nord Train Station with direct links to Milan and surrounded by shops, cafés, and restaurants. A member of the Villa d'Este Hotels collection, the hotel offers air-conditioned rooms equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, minibar, and satellite TV, with select rooms featuring private balconies overlooking the lake. Italian and international cuisine is served at the ground-floor Bistro Restaurant, while light meals are available on the outdoor terrace during summer, and breakfast is presented on the first floor with panoramic lake views and an extensive buffet selection. Guests are advised to share personal or payment details only through the hotel’s official communication channels to ensure security and prevent fraud.

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Your Destination Guide: Visas & Helpful Tips

Please refer to the following link(s) for important information about your specific destination.
Germany | Italy | Switzerland

SHOULD I GET TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Click here to check our recommended travel protection plan.

IS THIS A CHILD FRIENDLY TOUR? ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS?

All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age for children on escorted tours is 8. Minimum age on Safaris is 8. Minimum age for game drives in Kruger National Park (South Africa) is 12. Minimum age for Uganda programs is 15.

Please note that many countries have adopted practices to prevent international abductions of children. If a person under the age of 18 years will be travelling with an adult other than his/her parents, or with only one parent, a notarized letter, granting authorization to travel, including the dates of travel should be carried.

I AM A SINGLE TRAVELER. SHOULD I PAY A SINGLE SUPPLEMENT?

We offer many Solo-Friendly trips with no mandatory single supplement. For all other tours, a single supplement will apply for solo travelers.

For the rates on these tours, please refer to the Price and Dates section on each tour page.

WHAT ARE THE IMPORTANT FACTORS TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO A DESTINATION?

Please refer to the following link(s) for important information about your specific destination.
Germany | Italy | Switzerland

Frequently Asked Questions Book Now!

PERSONAL ACCOUNTS

How do I book a tour with Indus Travels?

You can review How to Book a Tour page for more details.

How do I create an Indus Account?

Go to our website and click on the register button found on the upper right hand side to create your Indus Travel account and start booking tours! 

If I don't remember my password, how do I log in?

Click the Forgot Password? link in the login form and it will lead you to a form to change your password. Simply enter your registered email address and you will be emailed a link to reset your password. 

How do I view my invoice?

You will not be able to access your invoice immediately upon booking. You will be notified by email when it is available for you, normally within 48 business hours of booking. You can find your invoice and all other details of the tours you booked by logging on to your account and going to the Tour Booking History page.


PAYMENT PROCEDURE

How do I make payment online?

Simply login to your Indus Travel account, go to your tour of choice and click on Book Now. You will then confirm the details and your preferences about the tour and finally pay through our secure online payment platform. 

What forms of payment does Indus Travel accept?

We accept US & CA Dollar check, bank check, money order, direct deposits, wire transfer, Visa, and Master credit cards. Third-party credit cards are not acceptable. Payments made by wire transfer must include an additional $30 wire transfer fee. There is a $50 fee for returned checks.

Where do I mail a cheque?

Cheque payments should include your Reservation number in the memo section and be made payable to Indus Travels Ltd and mailed to:
233 - 11951 Hammersmith Way,
Richmond, BC, V7A 5H9,
Canada

When is my final payment due?

Your exact final payment date is indicated on your invoice which may be viewed by signing into your account. In general, final payment is due 75 days prior to departure with some exceptions where payment is due earlier.

How much is my final payment?

The amount of your final payment will be noted on your invoice and can be accessed by logging into your account online.

Can I send a bank cheque or money order?

Yes. Indus accepts US & CA Dollar cheque, bank cheque, money order, direct deposits, wire transfer, Visa & Master credit cards. Third-party credit cards are not acceptable. Payments made by wire transfer must include an additional $30 wire transfer fee. There is a $50 fee for returned cheques.

To whom should I write the cheque?

Cheque payments should include your Reservation number in the memo section and be made payable to Indus Travels Ltd.

Can I pay with a debit card?

No. Indus does not accept payments with Debit card.

How do I know if Indus received my payment?

You will be notified by email that your payment was received and applied to your reservation. You may also access your reservation by logging into your account online


TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

When will I receive my e-Documents?

Once final payment has been received and processed, documents will be sent via email approximately 21 days prior to the beginning of your tour services.

Can I get paper documents?

Paper documents may be sent upon passenger request. There is a shipping and handling fee of $30 for each set of paper documents: These paper documents will be delivered between 14-21 business days prior to the beginning of your tour. In some instances, a paper voucher/ticket is required by our vendor. In these instances, the costs for shipping and handling will be shouldered by Indus Travels.

How do I access and print my documents?

Your documents may be accessed by logging into your Indus Travel account and checking your Tour Booking History. 

Do I receive anything else with my e-documents?

Indus e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip. 

How do I know where to find my airline ticket?

With a few exceptions, international airline tickets are issued electronically. The airline confirmation number and ticket numbers stated in your documents represent your airline "ticket(s)." Some domestic Arline tickets which can only be issued at destination will be given to you upon your arrival in the local destination.


ENTRY VISAS

If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting. 

Please note: Passengers who are not U.S. or Canadian citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa.

How do I know if I need a visa?

Please check the Before You Book section found on every tour to access the country specific Know Before You Go document to know about Visa and other important information about the countries you will be visiting.

How do I obtain a visa?

A visa may be obtained by using a visa service or by contacting the embassy or consulate of the nation you are visiting prior to departing from your home country.

Please check the Before You Book section found on every tour to access the country specific Know Before You Go document to know about Visa and other important information about the countries you will be visiting.

How much does a visa cost?

There will be different costs that will be specific per embassy/consulate and whether you have used a visa service or not. These costs often change with little notice. We recommend that you contact the appropriate embassy or consulate directly for the most up to date information.

You may find the contact information for consulates/embassies in the Visa section of the Know Before You Go document available for the country you will be visiting.


OPTIONAL TOURS & ACTIVITIES

What are optional sightseeing tours?

Optional tours are offered to travelers interested in additional experiences, sightseeing, meals or activities to supplement the included components of our tours. You may choose to participate in some, all or none of the optional tours which are priced individually. Complete descriptions and prices for each optional tour are listed on the itinerary section of the tours on our website. 

When can I add optional tours?

Optional tours are available for purchase any time up to 45 days before departure.

Can I purchase optional tours locally?

Yes. When traveling on an escorted tour, optional tours may be purchased locally from the Tour Manager. However, Indus cannot guarantee the rate and availability of these services when purchased locally. Please note that tours purchased locally are subject to current exchange rates and may cost up to 10% more.

Can I add optional tours for only select individuals on my reservation?

Yes. For assistance on this matter, please contact Indus Travel sales and reservations staff.


TRAVEL INSURANCE & COVERAGE

What coverage does Travel Insurance provide?

For complete details on Travel Insurance, check our Travel protection page.

When can I purchase Travel Insurance?

American Residents can purchase Trawick Insurance with us at the time of booking or anytime prior to departure. After booking, Canadian Residents will receive an email with a referral to TuGo Insurance which can be purchased anytime prior to departure.

When is Travel Insurance active?

Travel Protection coverages will take effect on the later of 1) the date the plan payment has been received by the Policyholder; 2) the date and time you start your Covered Trip; or 3) 12:01 A.M. Standard Time on the Scheduled Departure Date of your Covered Trip.

I need to cancel my trip and have not purchased insurance, what do I do?

Penalties for cancellation will depend on the tour you have purchased and how close to departure you are at the time of cancellation. For more information, visit our terms and conditions.


INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

Why is it important that I give my name as it appears on my passport when booking a tour? 

Due to increased travel security and policies around the world, it is now a requirement that your airline ticket matches your first and last name exactly as it reads on your passport. Please note that any changes to the details of your air booking, could be subject to a change fee, penalties or cancellation.

Can I reserve a seat assignment?

For our packages that include flights, we do not usually assign seats. In most cases, you can request specific seats, but this may incur a small fee payable to the airline. For more information, contact our sales and reservations staff.

Once confirmed, are airlines seats always guaranteed?

In most cases, seat assignments are firm. However, airlines may sometimes reassign seats for operational reasons. This often happens at the last moment and is controlled by airline staff, with Indus Travel not being notified. Passengers are encouraged to reconfirm their seat assignments and any other special requests directly with their airline prior to departure.

Should I check-in online?

It always recommended and more convenient to check in online. It will shorten your waiting time at the airport, secure your seat assignments and other reservations.

Can I request a special meal on the flight?

Requests may be made for special meals. These requests will be sent on your behalf to the airline so long as Indus receives these request prior to your documents being issued. The availability of special meals will be based upon the specific airlines and will be at their discretion.

Can I use my frequent flier miles?

Accrued frequent flier miles cannot be used toward the purchase of Indus Travels’ airfare or used for class upgrades. However, airfare purchased through Indus Travels may qualify to earn you additional miles.


AIRPORT PROCEDURES

What is required when I check-in?

Ticketed passengers must show correct identification at check-in. Children must have a parent present at check-in and all tickets must be in each passenger's name.

What is required with International travel?

An international trip may require valid travel documents such as passport, visa, re-entry permit, health certificate, inoculation record, a ticket for the return journey or continuance of your trip, or ANY combination thereof. Passengers are responsible for the proper documentation. Concerns about the required travel documents may be resolved by contacting the appropriate consulate or embassy.

Lakes of Italy and Switzerland Book Now!

Lakes of Italy and Switzerland Book Now!

Como

Lakes of Italy and Switzerland Book Now!

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