Northern Italy Lakes & Mountains

Next, your trip to Italy continues in the Dolomite Mountains, located in the eastern portion of the Italian Alps. But first, stop along the way among the Prosecco Hills of Trentino's Alto Adige. Tour the area and taste the bubbly served at a local wine estate.

Your first stop in the Dolomites is Val Badia, part of the Parco Naturale di Fanes-Sennes-Braies. From your family-owned, culinary-forward hotel, explore the region on a guided hiking tour to Santa Croce Sanctuary. Also visit charming San Cassiano, where classy hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants sit alongside farms and traditional shops.

Next, spend two nights in Val Gardena. This region epitomizes all the charm and appeal the Dolomites. Plus, it offers activities for everyone year-round, from skiing to hiking, walking, cycling, climbing and via ferrata routes. You will also find age-old traditions here, such as woodcarving.

From your base in Ortisei, explore the lively pedestrian zone at the center of town. Also enjoy a wood carving class to learn more about the local culture.

You will also spend a day hiking at the base of the Puez-Odle Group of mountains. Along the way, stop at a lovely rifugio for a taste of apple strudel. Of course, you can alter the hike based on your personal interests and activity level. 

The highlight of your Northern Italian luxury travel experience undoubtedly rests along the shores of Lake Garda. The largest of the Italian lakes, Lake Garda boasts picturesque villages, medieval castles, and lakeside promenades. As such, it offers a more hidden gem alternative to Lake Como.

En route to your luxury hotel perched on the lake's western shore, stop along the Wine Roads of Alto Adige. Here you will visit a couple of famous wineries, including the Ferrari Winery, for tours and wine tastings.

On one day, you will discover Sirmione, a picturesque peninsula with a charming old town, panoramic views, and thermal baths. Then enjoy a boat ride back to the hotel for dramatic views of the lake.

On another day, choose between a special olive oil experience in Bardolino or a day tour to Lake Iseo. Indeed, Lake Garda is renowned for its centuries-old olive trees and traditions. And Lake Iseo features Monte Isola, Europe's biggest lake island, as well as fishermen's villages seemingly frozen in time.

Finally, set out on a day trip to nearby Verona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a private guide, see Juliet's famous balcony and uncover several remnants of the Roman Empire.

Finally, your Italy vacation package wraps up in Milan, located just two hours from Lake Garda.

After settling in to your final hotel, meet a personal shopper for an evening of shopping. The personal shopper can design a tailor-made walking tour based on your specific interests among the best shops in town.