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Lakes & Peaks of Northern Italy

12 Days / 11 Nights

Venice, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Sirmione, Como

as seen in
Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue

Italy is full of surprises, and some of its best-kept secrets await in the country's splendid north. Your itinerary starts in not-so-secret Venice, one of the world's most spectacular cities and a place you need to see at least once in your lifetime. From enjoying a private gondola ride to visiting the smaller islands of the Venice Lagoon, like Murano and Burano, to stepping inside some of the most famed museums, Venice will fascinate you before you continue to the mighty Dolomites and their stunning landscapes. Your next stop is Sirmione, a gorgeous town built on the shore of Lake Garda. Using Sirmione as a base allows you to take in the slow rhythm of a compact Italian town without missing out on day trips to nearby legends, like Verona. Your trip ends in another Italian classic. Lake Como provides the perfect setting for romantic strolls and the most precious memories of your time in Northern Italy.

One of our team members in Italy will be available to answer any questions and arrange local services leading up to and during your trip. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best Italy has to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (whom you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.

Route for Venice, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Sirmione, Como tour
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What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Venice

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Venice Marco Polo Airport Transfer
Venice Land and Water Private Tour
Venice Private Water Taxi Piazzale Roma Transfer
Venice - Cortina d'Ampezzo Private Transfer

Cortina d'Ampezzo

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Full Day Private Tour Heart of the Dolomites from Cortina d'Ampezzo
Cortina d'Ampezzo - Sirmione Private Transfer

Sirmione

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Sirmione Peninsula Private Boat Tour
Sirmione - Como Private Transfer

Como

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Best of Como Lakeside Private Driving Tour (from Como Town)
1-Hour Lake Como Private Boat Tour
Como - Milan Malpensa Airport Private Transfer

package excludes:


  • Flights from and to your home country.
  • Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
  • Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
  • Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
  • Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by  an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your destination-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.

3 Nights in Venice

3 Nights in Venice

4 days in Venice

3 Nights in Venice

Venice is a legendary city with a charm and atmosphere all its own. The city was constructed on more than 100 islands connected by a series of canals, most of which are lined with gorgeous palaces, beautiful churches, and all sorts of impressive architecture. While the city isn’t huge, it is packed with pedestrian-only streets and quaint, winding alleys that will keep you exploring for days. The city is very popular with tourists year-round, so you certainly won’t be the only travelers walking through the streets with camera in hand. This being Italy, the cuisine in Venice is delicious, and we can especially recommend the Cicchetti of Venice tour. Cicchetti are Venetian tapas, and this tour will introduce you to some of the city’s most iconic eateries and its most delicious recipes. If it’s your first time in Venice, we can organize a tour to show you all the most important sites. And since no trip to the city of canals is complete without a boat ride, we offer a number of ways for you to get a new point of view of the city and its magnificent architecture. It’s easy to while away your time in Venice, discovering new secrets around every corner.

Venice is a legendary city with a charm and atmosphere all its own. The city was constructed on more than 100 islands connected by a series of canals, most of which are lined with gorgeous palaces, beautiful churches, and all sorts of impressive architecture. While the city isn’t huge, it is packed with pedestrian-only streets and quaint, winding alleys that will keep you exploring for days. The city is very popular with tourists year-round, so you certainly won’t be the only travelers walking through the streets with camera in hand. This being Italy, the cuisine in Venice is delicious, and we can especially recommend the Cicchetti of Venice tour. Cicchetti are Venetian tapas, and this tour will introduce you to some of the city’s most iconic eateries and its most delicious recipes. If it’s your first time in Venice, we can organize a tour to show you all the most important sites. And since no trip to the city of canals is complete without a boat ride, we offer a number of ways for you to get a new point of view of the city and its magnificent architecture. It’s easy to while away your time in Venice, discovering new secrets around every corner.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Venice

Start your Venetian experience off in style by arriving in a private water taxi. We'll arrange a transfer by boat from Venice Marco Polo airport to the closest possible point to your hotel in Venice. Please note that porter assistance from the water taxi to the hotel is not included but can be arranged at extra charge.

Welcome to Venice!

Suggestion to explore on your own

Enjoy Venice from the very start! Depending on your preference, this can be a relaxing or active time. After that, enjoy an aperitif with a view of the Grand Canal at Erbaria (Rialto), where there are many bars with outdoor seating. Finally, dinner in one of the many restaurants in the Rialto area will definitely make your first evening in Venice a perfect one. If you arrive full of energy and ready to explore, head to the Zattere area and enjoy a stroll along the canal up to Punta della Dogana, where you can admire the view of San Marco and the Grand Canal. The walk to Santa Maria della Salute church is pleasant, and you can take the traghetto (a big gondola) to cross the canal.

Welcome to Venice!

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Venice

Venice Land and Water Private Tour

Venice Land and Water Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Venice is unique city, an entangled urban texture crossed by canals and located at the center of a huge expanse of shallow water. Venice has a double transit network, as you can walk or take a boat, resulting in two different ways of perceiving the city, its amazing architecture and daily life. This tour takes advantage of both. You'll start with a walk through the world famous locations of San Marco square and Rialto Bridge and market area. Then you'll board a boat to cruise through the canals with an expert local guide.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 3 hours

Private Gondola Ride

Private Gondola Ride

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

A gondola ride is a classic part of the Venetian experience. Your experienced gondolier will give you a new perspective on the city, coasting along the narrow canals that are synonymous with this magical place.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 30 minutes

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Venice

Murano & Burano Private Tour

Murano & Burano Private Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

This tour has the best experience to learn about the old arts of Venice and the lagoon islands Murano and Burano. It starts with a private water taxi boat ride from Venice directly to the oldest original Murano glass factory, where a master glassblower and his team work daily, following the tradition of centuries ago. From Murano, crossing the lagoon, you'll reach Burano island, famous for its lace work and colorful atmosphere. Walking by picturesque houses, enjoying the typical “bussolai” (famous cookies of the island), feeling like a resident. Last but not least, there is an insightful guided visit to a historical hand-made lace workshop. ​Then, it's back to Venice by private boat taxi for an outstanding view of the lagoon.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4 hours

Beyond Canals: Discover the Finest Museums

Suggestion to explore on your own

From ancient artworks to contemporary masterpieces, Venice's museums offer a captivating experience that can keep you engaged for hours. La Biennale, one of the world's oldest and most esteemed art festivals, takes place biennially from May to November. Throughout the year, Venice's museums and galleries are vibrant with cultural experiences. Here are our top recommendations: 1. Peggy Guggenheim Collection, 2. Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), 3. Ca’ Pesaro, 4. Gallerie dell’Accademia, 5. Scuola Grande di San Rocco, 6. François Pinault Collection (Palazzo Grassi and Punta Della Dogana), 7. Palazzo Fortuny, 8. Museo della Fondazione Querini Stampalia, 9. Museo Correr, 10. Venice Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro).

Beyond Canals - Discover Venice's Finest Museums

Day 4

Day 4 - Traveling to Cortina d'Ampezzo by Private Transfer

Based on your preferred departure time, we'll arrange for a water taxi to pick you up from your accommodations in Venice and take you to Piazzale Roma. Our driver will be waiting for you and will take you directly to Cortina d'Ampezzo. The total journey will take approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.

Cortina d'Ampezzo by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Venice

Ancient Crafts & Artisans' Workshops Tour
Light3 hours
Authentic Murano Glass Factory Private Tour
Light2 hours
Create Your Own Carnival Mask Private Experience
Easy3 hours
Discover Venice's Hidden Gems Private Walking Tour
Light2 hours
Doge's Palace Group Tour
Light1 hour 15 minutes
Dolomites and Cortina Private Day Tour
Moderate10 hours

2 Nights in Cortina d'Ampezzo

2 Nights in Cortina d'Ampezzo

3 days in Cortina d'Ampezzo

2 Nights in Cortina d'Ampezzo

One of the best ski resorts in the world, Cortina d' Ampezzo is a picturesque town nestled in the embrace of the Dolomites. Cortina d' Ampezzo may attract skiing and snowboarding lovers during the winter months, but it's also very popular in the summer when weather conditions are ideal for hiking along the area's trails, savoring spectacular views along the way. No matter the season, what draws people to Cortina d' Ampezzo is the great outdoors. Yet, this doesn't mean that an active vacation is the only reason to visit Cortina d' Ampezzo. Home to fascinating local museums, family-run restaurants serving hearty local dishes, and a fair share of shops, Cortina d' Ampezzo appeals to all sorts of travelers.

One of the best ski resorts in the world, Cortina d' Ampezzo is a picturesque town nestled in the embrace of the Dolomites. Cortina d' Ampezzo may attract skiing and snowboarding lovers during the winter months, but it's also very popular in the summer when weather conditions are ideal for hiking along the area's trails, savoring spectacular views along the way. No matter the season, what draws people to Cortina d' Ampezzo is the great outdoors. Yet, this doesn't mean that an active vacation is the only reason to visit Cortina d' Ampezzo. Home to fascinating local museums, family-run restaurants serving hearty local dishes, and a fair share of shops, Cortina d' Ampezzo appeals to all sorts of travelers.

Day 4

Day 4 - Arrival in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Your driver will take you directly to your accommodation upon arrival in Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Alpine-Style Aperitif

Suggestion to explore on your own

Spend your first evening in Cortina soaking up the vibrant atmosphere at one of its lively bars, where locals and fellow travelers come together. The pre-dinner aperitif is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a refreshing Spritz, a glass of local wine, or a craft beer. For an elegant setting, head to The Roof or the terrace at Ciasa Lorenzi, while La Suite offers a relaxed ambiance in the heart of the historic center. If you're in the mood for creative cocktails, Faro di Cortina is a must-visit. Many of these spots also serve light, informal dining, but if you’re looking for a full meal, you’ll find plenty of excellent restaurants steps away.

Day 5

Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Full Day Private Tour Heart of the Dolomites from Cortina d'Ampezzo

Full Day Private Tour Heart of the Dolomites from Cortina d'Ampezzo

Included in your vacation package price.

If you're seeking an immersive day tour that encapsulates the essence of the Dolomites, this itinerary is perfect for you. It traverses Cortina, Passo Falzarego, Passo Valparola, San Cassiano, Passo Gardena, Selva di Val Gardena, Passo Sella, Passo Pordoi, Arabba, and Passo Giau, offering a comprehensive exploration of the region's stunning landscapes.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 7 - 8 hours

Day 6

Day 6 - Traveling to Sirmione by Private Transfer

Say goodbye to the majestic Dolomites and head south toward the sparkling shores of Lake Garda! Today you’ll travel from Cortina d’Ampezzo to Sirmione in comfort with your private transfer. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive as you descend from the alpine peaks through charming northern Italian landscapes to the tranquil beauty of Sirmione, renowned for its thermal springs, medieval castle, and lakeside views. Your private driver will pick you up directly from your accommodations in Cortina d’Ampezzo and take you safely to your accommodations in Sirmione. The journey takes approximately 3 hours 30 minutes.

Sirmione by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Full Day Private Tour to Lakes of the Dolomites: Misurina, Antorno, Landro, Dobbiaco and Braies From Cortina
Moderate6 hours
Full Day Route of Prosecco Private Drive from Cortina d'Ampezzo
Light8 - 9 hours
Half Day Private Tour to Lake Misurina and Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Light4 hours

3 Nights in Sirmione

3 Nights in Sirmione

4 days in Sirmione

3 Nights in Sirmione

What do the Roman poet Catullus, James Joyce, Maria Callas, and several other notable people have in common? They all fell in love with Sirmione, this bijou town of unfathomable charm, built on a peninsula caressed by the waters of Lake Garda. Home to one of the best-preserved castles in Italy, the 14th-century Scaligero Castle, and a historic center that's almost unbearably idyllic with its narrow alleys and quintessentially Italian architecture, Sirmione is the perfect place to stay on Lake Garda if you want to make the most of your vacation on this unique setting but also explore beyond the lake.

What do the Roman poet Catullus, James Joyce, Maria Callas, and several other notable people have in common? They all fell in love with Sirmione, this bijou town of unfathomable charm, built on a peninsula caressed by the waters of Lake Garda. Home to one of the best-preserved castles in Italy, the 14th-century Scaligero Castle, and a historic center that's almost unbearably idyllic with its narrow alleys and quintessentially Italian architecture, Sirmione is the perfect place to stay on Lake Garda if you want to make the most of your vacation on this unique setting but also explore beyond the lake.

Day 6

Day 6 - Arrival in Sirmione

Once you arrive in Sirmione, a driver will leave you in front of your accommodation.

Chill at the Beach

Suggestion to explore on your own

Who would have thought that a lake has beaches? Turquoise waters surround Sirmione, and at the northern end of the peninsula near the Roman ruins, you will find an angle of paradise at Jamaica Beach. If you want to relax under the sun and take a refreshing dip in the lake, this is the place to go! This is a beautiful and unusual beach with flat slabs of rock extending out into the water where you can enjoy a swim in the shallow waters or rent kayaks from nearby for more active exploration of the peninsula.

Jamaica Beach - A Hidden Gem in Sirmione

Day 7

Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Sirmione

Sirmione Peninsula Private Boat Tour

Sirmione Peninsula Private Boat Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

The best way to take in Sirmione's beauty is from the water surrounding it. Departing from the small harbor in front of Sirmione Castle, this private boat tour will take you around Sirmione's peninsula. You'll admire Maria Callas' former villa, the Aquaria Spa, northern Italy's largest Roman ruins (the Grotte di Catullo), and Sirmione's sulfur springs. Along the way, you'll pass under the Castle's two bridges, and enjoy scenic views of the place from new angles.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 25 minutes

Day 8

Day 8 - Your Second Full Day in Sirmione

Verona Half Day Private Tour from Sirmione

Verona Half Day Private Tour from Sirmione

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Take a day off from the beaches and the Lake to explore the beautiful Verona. This fully private walking tour will give you an in-depth look at Verona as you explore its highlights, including the world-wide famous Arena (where they still hold concerts and representations) and Juliet's house with its famous balcony. Have a chance to make a wish and touch Juliet's statue's breast for good luck and leave a note to someone you love on the house wall. Stroll in this charming medieval city and find out everything you need to know about Romeo and Juliet's story, as well as some of the history of a city that is more than 2000 years old.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 4 Hours

Day 9

Day 9 - Traveling to Como by Private Transfer

Leave the serene beauty of Lake Garda behind and embark on a scenic journey toward the iconic shores of Lake Como! Today you’ll travel from Sirmione to Como in comfort with your private transfer. Sit back and relax as you pass through rolling hills, charming towns, and vineyards before arriving in Como, renowned for its stunning lakeside views, historic center, and sophisticated atmosphere. Your private driver will pick you up directly from your accommodations in Sirmione and take you safely to your accommodations in Como. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Como by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Sirmione

Isola del Garda Private Boat Tour
Easy2 hours
Mantova City Private Excursion from Sirmione
Moderate8 hours
Sirmione Private Walking Tour and Boat Tour
Light3 hours and 30 minutes
Sirmione Sunset Private Boat Tour
Easy45 minutes
Verona City Half Day Private Tour from Sirmione
Moderate5 hours

3 Nights in Como

3 Nights in Como

4 days in Como

3 Nights in Como

Surrounded by stunning green hills, Como is the famous lake's main town. Dotted with charming squares, imposing churches, and gorgeous historical buildings, Como's Old Town overlooks the mesmerizingly beautiful Lake Como. For theater lovers, the Teatro Sociale di Como, the town's opera house, has hosted world-renowned musicians, such as Liszt and Paganini. Combining the magic of a typically Italian town with the utter beauty of the scenery that engulfs it, Como serves as the perfect base to explore the extended area of Lake Como and its charms.

Surrounded by stunning green hills, Como is the famous lake's main town. Dotted with charming squares, imposing churches, and gorgeous historical buildings, Como's Old Town overlooks the mesmerizingly beautiful Lake Como. For theater lovers, the Teatro Sociale di Como, the town's opera house, has hosted world-renowned musicians, such as Liszt and Paganini. Combining the magic of a typically Italian town with the utter beauty of the scenery that engulfs it, Como serves as the perfect base to explore the extended area of Lake Como and its charms.

Day 9

Day 9 - Arrival in Como

The driver will take you to your accommodation by Lake Como.

From the Silk Road to World-Class Design

Suggestion to explore on your own

The Silk Road and its myth need no introduction, so don't miss the opportunity to visit the territory and enjoy some good shopping! This area offers excellent shops and places to buy unique pieces. Your local Destination Expert will recommend several places to visit, from shopping outlets to local showrooms and museums showcasing silk and wood, which symbolize the wide range of products traditionally produced in the region.

The Silk Road - A Shopper’s Paradise

Day 10

Day 10 - Your First Full Day in Como

Best of Como Lakeside Private Driving Tour (from Como Town)

Best of Como Lakeside Private Driving Tour (from Como Town)

Included in your vacation package price.

Exploring Lake Como with a local at the wheel ensures you don't miss any must-see sights. Beginning in Bellagio, the journey unveils treasures like the lakefront Villa d'Este, George Clooney's residence in Laglio, and the ancient port of Brenno, among other stunning spots. Your itinerary allows for a leisurely lunch break at a local gem chosen by your driver. While some enticing side trips may involve water taxis or ferries, their costs are separate from the day trip. Additionally, if you opt to step inside the villas and museums, entrance fees are to be paid on-site.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 8 hours

Day 11

Day 11 - Your Second Full Day in Como

1-Hour Lake Como Private Boat Tour

1-Hour Lake Como Private Boat Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Experience the beauty of Lake Como aboard a private boat on this 1-hour excursion, exploring iconic villas and charming villages along the shore. Visit picturesque spots like Blevio, Torno, and the renowned Villa Balbianello, famous for its appearances in Star Wars and James Bond films. Cruise past historic villas, including George Clooney's Villa Oleandra, and admire the elegant streets and gardens of Bellagio and Tremezzo, concluding with a view of the luxurious Villa d'Este in Cernobbio.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 1 hour

Brunate Funicular and Viewpoints

Suggestion to explore on your own

While Brunate is a separate village and not part of the city of Como, going there by funicular is one of the most popular attractions in the area. The locals describe this hilltop village sitting just above the city of Como as a "balcony in the Alps." At an altitude of around 800m (2624 feet), Brunate offers glorious panoramic views and breathtaking landscapes over Como and the lake.

Explore Brunate - A Scenic Escape from Como

Day 12

Day 12 - Departure Day

Sadly your Italian adventure is over and it's time to say arrivederci, for you'll sure be back! We will arrange for a driver to take you from your accommodation on Lake Como to Milan's Malpensa airport in plenty of time for your departing flight.

We also offer the following excursions in Como

3-Hour Lake Como Private Boat Tour
Easy3 hours
Bellagio and Varenna Small Group Tour
Moderate9 hours
Fresh Pasta Private Cooking Class
Easyup to 3 hours
Full-Day Lake Como Private Boat Tour
Light8 hours
Group Food Tour in Como
Light3 hours 30 minutes
Lake Como Sightseeing Private Hike
Moderate2 - 3 hours