The Varied Charms of Italy and Switzerland

Go out for an "Aperitivo"!

If you want to experience a quintessential Italian past time, well, it's time for an "aperitivo"! This is the equivalent of "happy hour", and locals commonly meet with friends and family before dinner, anywhere from 6:30 - 8 PM, to enjoy a spritz, prosecco, bear or wine, along with some munchies, before dinner (some people opt for one before lunch, though!). The food offerings vary from buffets to "à la carte" menus to the establishment bringing something scarce, such as potato chips and olives, to a complete meal of small pizzas, sandwich bites, rice and pasta salads, and more! Some great places to go for an aperitivo are: Freni e Frizioni (Trastevere), Doppiozeroo (Ostiense), and Rec23 (Testaccio - a few steps from Circo Massimo), but all bars (cafes) offer them as well. From June to September, along the Tiber River (Lungo Il Tevere), there are many stands and places where you can go right next to the water on the sidewalk.

Gladiator's Gate Special Access Colosseum Group Tour

On this tour, you will enter the Colosseum like a gladiator, venturing through its ancient corridors and entering via the Gladiator’s Gate. You will hear captivating tales of emperors and ruthless crowds, then ascend to explore the Colosseum's first and second levels with your guide. You will conclude your adventure with a captivating tour of Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, where history comes alive amidst the ancient ruins.

Small Group Food Tour - Campo de' Fiori, Jewish Ghetto, Trastevere

Food lovers, here's your chance to experience Rome’s enchanting squares and neighborhoods while tasting your way through some of the city’s best shops, restaurants, and markets, discovering the secrets of Italian cuisine. Meet your friendly, local expert food connoisseur in the city center, and get ready to stroll through a number of neighborhoods to visit the most famous food markets, groceries, coffee shops, ice cream shops, and restaurants. Taste some of the delicious food and wines the city is famous for, including pizza bianca, mortadella, gelato, and supplì. From fried artichokes or zucchini flowers in the Jewish ghetto to spices and vegetables in Campo de Fiori, you'll ignite your senses and burn some calories while you enjoy walking amongst the beauty around you.

Pristine Sistine Early Entrance Small Group Vatican Tour

Gazing upon Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel creates an enduring memory, and the optimal way to savor this experience is by gaining exclusive access to the Vatican an entire hour ahead of the general public. Although it entails an early start for this VIP small group tour, the rewards are boundless. Your guide will immerse you in the chapel's narrative before guiding you through a comprehensive exploration of the Vatican Museums.

Rome City Center Highlights Group E-bike Tour

This tour offers an exceptional introduction to Rome's central treasures, encompassing the city's must-see attractions like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps. It also delves into the lesser-known yet captivating corners of Rome, including the hidden gems of Villa Borghese Park and the mesmerizing view of the Roman Forum from the Capitoline Hill.

E-bike Along the Appian Way Private Tour

Uniquely discover Rome with this bike tour along the ancient Appian Way on a comfortable electric bike. Pass through Porta Appia with your English-speaking guide and explore landmarks like the Caracalla Baths, ancient tombs, and important churches. Ride past the Catacombs and the Circus of Maxentius while learning fascinating stories of Roman history. This e-bike adventure combines ease, history, and priceless relics for an unforgettable experience.

Florence City Private Walking Tour

Sometimes Florence feels like an outdoor museum. There's so much to see in every direction, it can be a little overwhelming. That's why this three-hour city walking tour is so great: in a short time you'll explore the most important bridges, alleys, medieval markets and Renaissance palaces, so you can appreciate the best of this unique city. You'll be picked up from you accommodation and your guide will lead you through the city streets.

Wine Experience - Chianti Countryside Small Group Tour

Enjoy a half-day small group tour delving into the beauty of Tuscany's wine country. Drive through vineyards, olive groves, and cypress trees, then visit two wineries to discover the secrets of wine making and taste wines and olive oil paired with local specialties.

Evening in Florence

Here some suggestions for what to do in the evenings and at night in Florence:

Shop in the Fashion Quarter

Milan is home to the most prestigious designers and renowned fashion labels in the world. If you like shopping, you've come to the right place. The "Quadrilatero della moda" is the heart of the shopping area and consists of four streets: Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Manzoni, and Corso Venezia. Your local Destination Expert can recommend several places to visit in this area, both shops and eateries, and can also recommend places in another area known for its vintage fashion.

Milan Private Half-Day Tour

Indulge in a comprehensive understanding of Milan's layout and uncover its paramount landmarks with this three-hour walking tour. Led by a seasoned local guide, you'll delve into the city's rich history, gaining profound insights that shape its unique essence. Discover Milan's pivotal monuments and depart with enriched knowledge and a deepened appreciation for the historical tapestry that has sculpted its present identity.

Monumental Cemetery of Milan: An Extraordinary Outdoor Museum

A visit to Milan's Monumental Cemetery is not merely a tour of gravesites; it's an immersive experience in a unique outdoor museum that invites reflection on life, death, and the enduring beauty of human creativity. As you wander through the winding paths, you'll encounter a stunning array of sculptures and monuments that are not just markers of graves but masterpieces reflecting the diverse styles and emotions of the artists. Among the notable graves within this cemetery, you'll find the final resting places of influential figures who have left an indelible mark on Milan's history. The cemetery is a trove of stories, each gravestone revealing a unique narrative about the individual it commemorates.

Stretch Your Legs by the Lake

Lugano Private City Tour with Wine & Gelato Tasting

Discover Lugano by strolling around its beautiful streets and squares, while hearing charming stories from your guide. You'll make stops along the way to taste famous local wines, snacks, and gelato.

Ferries, Ferries, Everywhere

Lugano's region is serviced by frequent public ferries, which are free for those staying in the town's hotels with the Ticino Card (travel pass). Board a boat at Paradiso pier and cruise as far as Morcote, one of the most picturesque towns along the lake. Treat yourself to a good coffee and a local sweet, discover the historical and architectural highlights of the place, and continue to Gandria, the area's other pearl. Choose a grotto for your lunch, embrace the atmosphere, and enjoy fresh lake breeze.

Lucerne, Love, and Luxury

Lucerne's breathtaking beauty truly sets it apart as one of the world’s most enchanting cities. After checking into your accommodations, immerse yourself in its charm by taking a leisurely walk through the Old Town and across the picturesque Chapel Bridge. If you're up for a bit more adventure, climb the Musegg Wall for stunning views of the city and its scenic surroundings. To cap off your day, savor an aperitif or enjoy a traditional fondue, a local specialty. For an exceptional dining experience, consider the Schiff or Fondue House Du Pont restaurants.

Lucerne Private Walking Tour

Discover the fascinating abundant heritage of Lucerne. Simply being there gives the feeling of being trapped in time, but strolling the streets and hearing true medieval stories from a local guide will definitely take you back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Eager to hear some recent history, art and culture? Your private guide is on top of these topics as well.

Be Trendy, Go Local

Every iconic place has its intriguing past, and Lucerne's trendy Bruch neighborhood is no exception. Once the site of a bustling cattle market from 1912 to 1971, Bruchstrasse was known for its lively trading and less-than-pleasant conditions. The market's closure marked a transformation, and today, Bruch is celebrated for its chic shops, vibrant restaurants, cozy cafés, lively bars, and eclectic art galleries. Just 2 km (1.25 miles) from the city center, you'll also find the Neubad Cultural Center, a unique venue housed in a repurposed indoor pool. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM, Neubad offers a mix of bistro dining, a bar, and a concert and music hall within its original pool space.

Golden Mt. Pilatus

From May to October, embark on the Golden Round Trip to Mt. Pilatus, a spectacular journey that combines five different modes of transport in a single day. Begin with a boat ride from Lucerne, followed by a thrilling ascent on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. Once you reach the summit, take in breathtaking views and enjoy refreshments on the panoramic terrace or at one of the cozy restaurants. For the return trip, glide down with the "Dragon Ride" aerial cableway to Fräkmüntegg, then take a gondola to Kriens. Complete your adventure by riding the modern trolley bus back to Lucerne, making for a seamless and memorable circular journey. Be sure to check the availability dates for this incredible experience.

Just a Little Gambling

You don’t need to place a bet at the Grand Casino Lucerne to enjoy yourself, though a small wager on a spin or a hand of cards can certainly add a thrill. The Grand Casino also houses the elegant Olivo restaurant, a Neo-Baroque concert hall, a theater, and a vibrant club, offering plenty of ways to spend your evening. For those inclined to gamble, there are 250 slot machines with impressive jackpots, along with classic table games like American roulette, blackjack, punto banco, and poker, inviting you to dive into a world of excitement and entertainment.

Long Street, Long Night

Langstrasse in Zurich is a vibrant and eclectic district known for its lively atmosphere and diverse cultural scene. It's a hotspot for experiencing Zurich's nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines and entertainment options. The area also boasts a mix of trendy boutiques, street art, and historic architecture, making it an intriguing place to explore. Whether you're looking for a dynamic evening out or a glimpse into the city's multicultural fabric, Langstrasse is a must-visit.

Zurich and Surroundings Private eTukTuk Tour

Zurich, with its captivating situation along the Limmat is a city worth discovering on foot, but even better on an e-tuktuk. Get your bearings on the surrounding hills and sights on the small e-vehicle in a smart and faster way so the rest of the day / night will be yours to be filedl with more experiences!

A Market Under a Viaduct

Zurich has plenty of shopping to offer. From luxurious design and "haute couture" to locally made goods and vintage finds. For a truly local shopping experience, though, stroll down "Viaduktstrasse", literally the street of the viaduct, where you'll find some peculiar shops and bars under the giant arches of this enormous structure. This is the so-called "Viaduct Market," and this shopping spot has locally designed and produced clothing that is good for any outdoor activities you may be planning on. It also has a fashion workshop run by a community of designers devoted to supporting young talent. Beyond clothing, you can find excellent local and international cuisine and plenty of memorable ways to decorate your home.