Lake Maggiore, Centovalli Train, Lake Orta & Turin
This seven-night Escorted Tour invites you to experience the serene beauty of Northern Italy and the majestic Swiss Alps. Your journey begins with a direct flight from Dublin to Milan, followed by a comfortable transfer to the lakeside resort of Stresa. Here, you will stay at the four-star Hotel Milan Speranza au Lac, ideally located right on the waterfront and close to the ferry pier. Staying on a half-board basis, you can enjoy traditional Italian hospitality while being perfectly placed to explore the region’s most famous landmarks. This Lake Maggiore Turin tour is designed to provide a rich variety of experiences, from quiet lakeside strolls to dramatic mountain train rides through deep valleys.
One of the early highlights is a boat trip across Lake Maggiore to the Borromean Islands. You will explore Isola Bella, home to a magnificent baroque palace and terraced gardens that have drawn visitors for centuries. You will also visit the peaceful Isola dei Pescatori, where narrow lanes and a traditional fishing village atmosphere offer a glimpse into local life. Another standout day involves crossing into Switzerland to board the Centovalli Train. This narrow-gauge railway provides a spectacular journey over bridges and through lush forests, eventually arriving in Locarno on the northern shores of the lake.
The tour also takes you to Lake Orta, a quieter but equally stunning body of water often described as one of Italy’s most romantic spots. Here, you will visit the island of San Giulio and wander the cobbled streets of Orta San Giulio. To round off the experience, a full-day guided excursion to Turin is included. As the former capital of Italy, Turin is a city of grand boulevards and royal history. A local guide will lead a walking tour of its historic heart, and you will have the chance to taste a ‘Bicerin’, the city’s famous chocolate and coffee drink. With days at leisure built into the schedule, you will have plenty of time to relax in Stresa, perhaps taking a dip in the pool or visiting the local shops. This holiday is an excellent choice for those seeking a well-organised, factual, and rewarding exploration of Northern Italy’s most beautiful corners, all while enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a planned itinerary.
Where will I stay during the tour?
Are flights and transfers included?
What kind of activities are involved?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return direct flights from Dublin
- All Airport taxes and charges
- 20kg check-in bag per person
- Return airport transfers
- 7 Nights accommodation at the 4 star Hotel Milan Speranza au Lac Stresa, Lake Maggiore
- Half Board
- Cruise to the stunning Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore
- Ride the scenic Centovalli Train through the Swiss Alps to Locarno
- Visit picturesque Lake Orta and enjoy a boat trip across its still waters
- Enjoy a full-day guided excursion to elegant and historic Turin
- Relax in the lakeside resort of Stresa with days at leisure built in
- The assistance of our tour leader
- The assistance of our tour guide
Itinerary
1Arrival in Milan and Transfer to Stresa+
Upon arrival at Milan Malpensa Airport, you will be met by your tour manager and transferred to the lakeside town of Stresa. You will check into the Hotel Milan Speranza au Lac, situated on the promenade, which will be your base for the next seven nights. Enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel and settle into your surroundings.
2Exploring Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands+
Today features a boat trip across Lake Maggiore to visit two iconic islands. You will enjoy a guided tour of the Baroque palace and ornamental gardens on Isola Bella, followed by a visit to the charming fishing village on Isola dei Pescatori. There is time to enjoy a lakeside lunch at your own pace before returning to Stresa in the afternoon.
3Swiss Alps Adventure on the Centovalli Train+
You will travel by coach to Domodossola to board the famous Centovalli Train for a scenic journey into Switzerland. The narrow-gauge railway crosses dramatic bridges and deep valleys, offering views of waterfalls and mountain villages. After arriving in the lakeside town of Locarno, you will have free time to explore the old town before returning to Italy by coach.
4A Day of Leisure in Stresa+
Enjoy a full day to explore Stresa at your own pace. You might choose to walk along the lakefront, browse the local boutiques, or relax at a café and take in the views of the Borromean Islands. It is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this famous lakeside resort.
5Discovering Lake Orta and San Giulio Island+
Today’s excursion takes you to the peaceful shores of Lake Orta. You will take a boat ride to the small island of San Giulio to explore its quiet lanes and historic buildings. Back on the mainland, you can wander through the cobbled streets of Orta San Giulio and enjoy lunch in this picturesque setting before returning to your hotel.
6Further Free Time by the Lake+
Another day is built in for you to spend as you wish. You may decide to relax by the hotel pool or perhaps visit nearby attractions like the gardens of Villa Taranto. Your tour leader will be on hand to offer suggestions for local walks or independent exploration.
7Guided Lake Maggiore Turin tour+
Travel by coach to Turin, the elegant former capital of Italy. A local guide will lead a walking tour through the heart of the city, showcasing its grand boulevards and royal palaces. After some free time for shopping or a museum visit, you will enjoy a tasting of the city’s traditional Bicerin drink—a blend of coffee, chocolate, and cream—before returning to Stresa.
8Departure for Dublin+
After a final breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred back to Milan Malpensa Airport for your direct return flight to Dublin, bringing your Northern Italian adventure to a close.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 Aug 2026 | Twin | €1,529 | Enquire Now |
| 01 Sep 2026 | Twin | €1,529 | Enquire Now |
| 06 Oct 2026 | Twin | €1,479 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: TF
