Immerse yourself in northern Italy’s most enchanting scenery on an extraordinary eight-day escorted escape to the shores of Lake Como, paired with the alpine grandeur of the Swiss Engadin. Framed by towering Alpine peaks and lined with neoclassical villas and vibrant sub-tropical gardens, Lake Como has captivated travellers, artists and romantics for centuries.

Your base for the week places you within easy reach of the lake’s celebrated sights. Glide across sparkling waters by boat to explore Bellagio—frequently hailed as Italy’s most beautiful lakeside village—with its cobbled stairways and artisan boutiques. Stroll through the romantic terraced promontory gardens of Villa del Balbianello, famed as a backdrop for international cinema and renowned for its sweeping lake vistas. In postcard-perfect Varenna, wander pastel-hued waterfront promenades beneath historic fortress ruins.

A crown jewel of your holiday awaits as you journey into the mountains to board the world-famous Bernina Express. Ascend along steep alpine valleys and spiralling viaducts to reach the glamorous Swiss alpine resort of St Moritz, experiencing one of Europe’s finest high-altitude rail journeys. With thoughtful free days to unwind beside the water or join optional excursions to cosmopolitan Milan, historic Bergamo, or scenic Como town, this tour strikes an ideal balance between guided discovery and personal relaxation.

Designed for lovers of breathtaking scenery, classic rail travel, and Italian culture, this fully escorted holiday delivers outstanding value. With direct return flights from Bristol, comfortable coach travel throughout, seven nights of quality accommodation, and an experienced tour manager handling every practical detail, you can relax and savour every memorable moment.

Alternative UK departure airports are available from April to October 2027, including Birmingham, Edinburgh, Humberside, Leeds Bradford, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich, and Teesside International, as well as Tour Only options.

Holiday Highlights

• Iconic Alpine Rail Journey: Ride the world-renowned Bernina Express across dramatic alpine passes and spiralling viaducts to glitzy St Moritz in Switzerland.

• Lake Como Sightseeing Cruises: Enjoy two scenic boat trips taking in panoramic waterfront views of opulent villas and mountain backdrops.

• Picturesque Lakeside Towns: Discover the cobbled lanes and elegant cafes of Bellagio and colourful, romantic Varenna.

• Villa del Balbianello Gardens: Included entry to the world-famous lakeside gardens perched on the wooded Lavedo peninsula.

• Direct Regional Flights: Convenient departures from Bristol Airport, with 11 alternative UK departure airports and dates available.

• Fully Escorted & Stress-Free: Seven nights’ handpicked accommodation, return coach transfers, and the dedicated services of an experienced tour manager.

Itinerary

Wednesday, 14 July 2027 – Arrival in Milan & Lake Como

Fly direct from Bristol Airport to Milan. On arrival, meet your friendly tour manager and transfer by comfortable coach through the Lombardy countryside to your chosen hotel on or near the shores of Lake Como. Settle in, unpack, and enjoy your first evening relaxing by the water.

Thursday, 15 July 2027 – Varenna

Following breakfast, embark on an included excursion to Varenna, widely considered one of Lake Como’s most captivating gems. Wander along the scenic Passerella dell’Amore (Lover’s Walk) hugging the water’s edge, explore steep stone staircases lined with cafés and gelaterias, or admire the peaceful mountain reflections across the lake.

Friday, 16 July 2027 – Lake Como Cruise, Bellagio & Villa del Balbianello

Take to the water today on an included cruise across Lake Como. Step ashore at Bellagio, the “Pearl of the Lake”, located at the junction of the lake’s three branches. Enjoy free time to discover its artisan silk boutiques, lively piazzas, and waterside dining. Continue by boat to the wooded tip of the peninsula to explore the immaculate terraced gardens of Villa del Balbianello, admiring century-old plane trees, clipped holm oaks, and spectacular panoramas.

Saturday, 17 July 2027 – At Leisure or Optional Como Excursion

Spend a leisurely day relaxing at your hotel, soaking up the lakeside atmosphere at your own pace, or join an optional excursion to the historic town of Como. Explore its imposing Gothic-Renaissance cathedral, wander medieval squares, and discover the town’s famous silk-making heritage.

Sunday, 18 July 2027 – At Leisure or Optional Milan City Tour

Enjoy a free day to lounge by the pool and enjoy Italian cafe culture, or join an optional guided day trip to stylish Milan. Highlights include the magnificent marble Duomo di Milano, the glass-domed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the world-renowned Teatro alla Scala opera house.

Monday, 19 July 2027 – Bernina Express Train Journey to St Moritz

Today brings one of the absolute highlights of your escape. Travel to Tirano on the Swiss-Italian border to board the celebrated Bernina Express. Marvel at engineering triumphs as your train ascends through lush valleys, negotiates the circular Brusio Viaduct, and climbs past glaciers and alpine lakes to the high Bernina Pass. Arrive in chic St Moritz, the legendary retreat of jet-setters, where you have free time to explore its designer boutiques and lakeside promenade before returning by coach to Lake Como.

Tuesday, 20 July 2027 – At Leisure or Optional Bergamo Tour

Take advantage of a final relaxing day along the water, or join an optional excursion to historic Bergamo. Ascend to the walled Città Alta (Upper Town) via funicular to discover cobblestone streets, the Piazza Vecchia, and grand Renaissance architecture set against alpine foothills.

Wednesday, 21 July 2027 – Return to the UK

After breakfast, bid farewell to Lake Como. Board your return transfer coach to Milan airport for your flight back to Bristol.

Accommodation

Your tour accommodation is carefully selected across established properties situated in picturesque towns along or near the shores of Lake Como. Hotels vary depending on your selected tour package and board basis (Bed & Breakfast or Half Board):

• Hotel Bazzoni, Tremezzo: Situated on the lakeside promenade in central Tremezzo, offering sweeping lake and mountain views from its terrace and public areas. Ideal for easy access to central ferry links and evening waterfront walks.

• Hotel Lario, Mezzegra-Tremezzina: A comfortable and welcoming three-star hotel located a short distance from the lake shore, boasting picturesque water views and classic hospitality.

• Hotel Griso Collection, Malgrate: A contemporary hotel set right at the water’s edge in Malgrate, framed by the dramatic backdrop of the Bergamo Alps with panoramic lake views.

• Hotel Promessi Sposi, Malgrate: A stylish and modern lakeside hotel positioned directly across from Lake Como, celebrated for its refined atmosphere and mountain vistas.

• Hotel NH Lecco Pontevecchio, Lecco: Contemporary and comfortable, overlooking the Adda River and situated within easy walking distance of Lecco city centre and rail links.

• Hotel Alberi, Lecco: A friendly, family-run hotel located opposite the lakeside gardens in Lecco, offering relaxed service close to local amenities.

Who This Holiday Is Perfect For

• Couples and Romantics: Seeking serene lakeside strolls, charming café terraces, and postcard-perfect Italian scenery.

• Rail and Scenic Travel Enthusiasts: Eager to experience the world-famous UNESCO-listed Bernina Express rail journey through high alpine valleys.

• Culture and Garden Admirers: Looking forward to exploring historic lakeside estates, grand villas, and vibrant botanical displays.

• Travellers Seeking Reassurance: Enjoying the convenience of direct regional flights, arranged transfers, and a knowledgeable tour manager on hand.

• Return flights from Bristol to Milan (alternative regional airports available)

• Seven nights’ accommodation on a Bed & Breakfast or Half-Board basis

• Seven included meals as specified in your booking option

• Ride on the Bernina Express panoramic railway to St Moritz

• Two boat trips on Lake Como

• Excursion to the lakeside village of Varenna

• Excursion to Bellagio

• Entrance ticket to the gardens of Villa del Balbianello

• Comfortable, air-conditioned coach travel and airport transfers throughout

• Dedicated services of a friendly, professional tour manager (with specialist local guides where applicable)

• All mandatory local taxes and charges included in the advertised price