Lake Como Christmas Markets & Bernina Express
Celebrate the festive season with a straightforward and well-organised 4-night Escorted Tour to one of Italy’s most beloved destinations. This holiday is designed for travellers who appreciate a blend of guided exploration and free time to soak up the local atmosphere. Based in the historic heart of Como, you will stay at the Hotel Firenze, a comfortable 3-star hotel perfectly positioned for exploring the city’s pedestrianised centre and the famous Lake Como Christmas Markets.
The highlight for many on this trip is the guided walking tour of Como. Led by a local expert, you will discover the rich history of this elegant city, from its Roman origins to its medieval glory. A visit to the Piazza Cavour is a must, as it transforms into a winter wonderland during the Lake Como Christmas Markets. Here, you can wander between traditional wooden stalls selling handcrafted decorations, local woollens, and delicious Italian treats like panettone and cured meats. As evening falls, the city becomes truly magical with the ‘Magic Light Festival’ projecting vibrant, colourful scenes onto the Cathedral and the Broletto Palace.
Beyond the city, this tour includes an unforgettable journey on the Bernina Express. This is not just a train ride; it is an experience that takes you through the high-altitude landscapes of the Swiss Alps, crossing dramatic viaducts and passing through winding tunnels. You will visit the lovely town of Tirano and the picturesque Swiss villages of Poschiavo and St. Moritz. Seeing the snow-dusted Alpine peaks from the comfort of your panoramic carriage offers a unique perspective on this stunning region.
We understand the importance of having time to yourself, which is why we have included plenty of leisure time in the itinerary. You might choose to take a local ferry across the calm waters of the lake to see the villas that line the shore, or take the short train journey into Milan for a day of sightseeing and high-street shopping. Throughout your stay, you will have the support of your local guide, who can provide tips on the best places to eat or where to find the most authentic souvenirs. This is a great value break that combines the peace of the Italian lakes with the excitement of the festive season, ensuring a memorable and stress-free getaway for every traveller.
Where is the hotel located for this tour?
What should I expect on the Bernina Express journey?
Is there free time to visit Milan?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- 4 nights in the Lake Como region at the 3-star Hotel Firenze
- Breakfast each morning of your stay
- Guided walking tour of Como city with an expert local guide
- Full day excursion through the Swiss Alps on the Bernina Express panoramic train
- Visits to the Alpine towns of Tirano, Poschiavo, and St. Moritz
- Return flights and airport transfers
- Plenty of free time for shopping at the festive markets
Itinerary
1Arrival in Lake Como+
Upon arrival in Italy, you will be met at the airport and transferred to the city of Como at the southern end of the lake. After checking into the Hotel Firenze, located in the heart of the pedestrianised centre, you can begin to familiarise yourself with your surroundings. The evening is yours to relax or start exploring the local area, which is beautifully decorated for the festive season.
2Exploring the Lake Como Christmas Markets+
Today, join an expert guide for a walking tour of Como. You will see the city's most famous landmarks, including the impressive Gothic Cathedral and the historic Broletto Palace. The tour concludes at Piazza Cavour, the city's main square, which hosts the vibrant Lake Como Christmas Markets. In the afternoon, you are free to browse the stalls for unique gifts and local Italian delicacies or enjoy the magical atmosphere as the city’s historic buildings are illuminated with festive light projections.
3Crossing the Alps on the Bernina Express+
Prepare for a spectacular journey aboard the iconic Bernina Express. This panoramic train ride takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Italian and Swiss Alps. You will visit the charming town of Tirano before crossing into Switzerland to see the lakeside village of Poschiavo. The journey continues to the world-renowned Alpine resort of St. Moritz, where you can admire the snow-capped peaks and elegant chalets before returning to Como.
4This day is yours to spend exactly as you wish. You might choose to revisit the Lake Como Christmas Markets to pick up last-minute souvenirs or enjoy a coffee in one of the city's many charming cafes. For those who want to see more of Italy, the city of Milan is easily accessible by a short train journey. Here, you can explore the historic Duomo di Milano, walk through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, or do some Christmas shopping in one of the world's fashion capitals.+
5Return to Ireland+
After breakfast, you will have some final moments to enjoy the crisp morning air by the lake. Your holiday concludes as you are transferred back to the airport for your return flight to Ireland, carrying fond memories of the Alpine scenery and festive celebrations.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Dec 2026 | Twin | €1,099 | Enquire Now |
| 10 Dec 2026 | Single | €1,248 | 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: TDA
