Lake Como and the Pearls of Po Valley
Overview
Fall in love with Northern Italy over 9 days in Milan and Mantua, with stops to Lake Como and Sabbioneta: Little Athens of the Renaissance.
With a country as beautiful as Italy, traveling by train is a great way to cover as much ground as possible while also taking in the breathtaking sights. Let the smooth ride, great service, and amazing vistas transport you from city to city.
The train tickets and hotel stays are included in the package, along with some meals and many other travel essentials that will help make this trip easy, fun, and unforgettable.
Format
Locations
- Milan
- Mantua
Inclusions
- Round-trip flight to Milan (if the Flight & Hotel package option is chosen)
- Private airport transfers in Milan
- 7 nights of accommodation
- 7 breakfasts
- Round-trip train in second class between Milan and Mantua
- More Moments activities included:
- Guided walking tour of Milan
- Full-day excursion to Lake Como and Bellagio
- Guided walking tour of Mantua
- Full-day excursion to the village of Sabbioneta
- Earn and redeem Aeroplan® points.
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Canada
Fly to Milan.
Day 2
Welcome to Milan
Upon arrival in Milan, take a private transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 3
Milan: Sightseeing
After breakfast, meet up with your guide and enjoy a walking tour of the city. The afternoon is yours to explore Milan. Browse the shops or enjoy lunch nearby.
More Moments Activities Included
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Guided Walk of Milan with Skip-the-Line Entrance to the Cathedral and La Scala Theatre
Start your journey at the impressive medieval "Castello Sforzesco," one of Europe's remarkable urban castles. Delve into its rich history with your guide. Proceed to the magnificent Cathedral of Milan, an outstanding example of Gothic art in Italy. Following the cathedral exploration, take a leisurely stroll through the fashionable Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, adorned with trendy cafes and shops. Conclude your tour at La Scala Theatre, a renowned venue where some of the world's most exceptional musicians and opera singers have graced the stage.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 4
Milan: At Leisure
Discover the charms of this delightful city at your leisure while savoring the renowned flavours of Italian cuisine.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 5
Milan: Visit
Board the train and head to Lake Como and Bellagio for your full-day self-guided excursion.
More Moments Activities Included
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Lake Como and Bellagio
Explore Como and Bellagio, embarking on a scenic lake cruise. Wander through the charming center of Como before indulging in a boat tour to admire lakeside villas and gardens. Cruise to the renowned Bellagio, the "Pearl of the Lake," for a tranquil experience. Finally, return to Milan and unwind at your hotel.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 6
Milan - Mantua: Sightseeing
After breakfast, take your train to Mantua. Make your way and check in at your hotel.
(Approximately 185 km)
More Moments Activities Included
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Discover Mantua Walking Tour
In the afternoon, take a private tour of this tiny medieval city today listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site, discovering its many jewels, such as the impressive San Giorgio Castle and Duke’s Palace, and of course the magnificent Palazzo Te. Do not overlook the opportunity to experience the enduring culinary legacy of the Gonzaga family, still prevalent in the rich heritage of their cuisine!
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 7
Mantua: Visit
Embark on a full-day journey to Sabbioneta as you board the train for your excursion.
More Moments Activities Included
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Full-day Excursion to the Village of Sabbioneta
Explore Sabbioneta, a prime example of a Renaissance city enclosed within remarkable walls. Commissioned by Vespasiano Gonzaga and constructed in just 30 years, Sabbioneta stands out as a fortified city that seamlessly combines military and residential elements. Notable attractions include the Teatro all’Antica, the first of its kind in Europe, and the extensive Gallery of the Ancients, the second-longest in Italy. Other significant structures, such as Palazzo Ducale and Palazzo Giardino, contribute to the city's charm. Nestled in the picturesque Po Valley, Sabbioneta offers a stunning natural backdrop near the convergence of the Po and Oglio rivers.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 8
Mantua - Milan
Following breakfast, head to the railway station, where you'll board the train to Milan. Upon arrival, proceed to your hotel and savour the remainder of the day at your leisure.
(Approximately 185 km)
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 9
Milan - Return to Canada
After breakfast, take a private transfer to the Milan airport and board your flight home.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
4-Star Accommodation
Location
Hotel
Room details
Type of bed(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 3 people (3 adults, or 2 adults and 1 child).
Unless otherwise specified, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Important Information
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Daily departures from January 6, 2025 to March 31, 2026
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Not Included:
- Meals, unless noted
- Transfers to/from rail stations and hotels
- Transfers to/from excursion meeting points
- Gratuities
- Porterage
- Local city taxes, payable to the hotel directly
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The More Moments activities/excursions mentioned in the itinerary are all included in the package but may be rescheduled to take place on an earlier or later day, depending on availability and operational day.
Details regarding excursion meeting points will be indicated on your documents prior to departure.
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- Round-trip train tickets in second class between Milan and Mantua
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City taxes are applicable for hotel stays in Italy and are payable in local currency upon checkout.
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The order visited may change due to operational restrictions. The itinerary above is for reference only.
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Itinerary modification as of February 21, 2025: Please note that due to construction on the rail line the direct route from Milan to Mantua is currently affected and requires a transfer in Verona.