Let Italy do the decision-making as it takes you on an endless Mediterranean reverie from Venice to Porto Cervo, revealing its boundless allure and exquisite Belmond properties at every stop. From seeing the colors of Cinque Terre glisten in the sun and sailing crystal clear waters around Capri, to sampling volcanic wines in the vicinity of Mount Etna, every item on this exquisite itinerary guarantees to be a choice well-made.

• 2 Nights in Venice
• 3 Nights in Portofino
• 3 Nights in Castello di Casole
• 3 Nights in Ravello
• 3 Nights in Taormina
• 2 Nights in Porto Cervo

Day 1 – Arrival in Venice

Begin your Italian voyage along the canals of the Floating City, where upon arrival, the legendary Cipriani awaits tucked away on the tip of Giudecca Island. Resonating with rich Venetian charm, this celebrated 5-star retreat will be ready to spoil you with unrivaled lagoon views, lush gardens and one of the finest swimming pools in Europe. Once settled in, enjoy a signature Bellini as gondolas drift past, and indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine before retiring for some refined relaxation amid bespoke antiques and serene surroundings.

Hotel Cipriani Opening/Closing Dates: 27^th May – 5^th October 2025

Day 2 – A Contemporary Art Affair in Venice

Complement Venice’s picturesque charms with a dive into its vibrant contemporary art scene. Accompanied by your private guide, explore the cutting-edge works housed in the iconic Peggy Guggenheim Collection and one of two dynamic venues under the esteemed Pinault Collection (Punta della Dogana or Palazzo Grassi). Step into the stirring world of Secession and European avant-garde as you wander through centuries-old palazzos reimagined as modern galleries and uncover a creative pulse that makes Venice as forward-thinking as it is timeless.

Day 3 – Journey to Portofino

Bid farewell to the canals of Venice as your voyage drifts towards the Italian Riviera, where Portofino shall welcome you with colorful shores, sun-kissed glamor, and a riveting choice of two amazing Belmond properties. Whether you find yourself taking in stunning views of Tigullio from the bougainvillea-draped terraces of Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, or basking in the seaside charms of Portofino’s harbor at the Splendido Mare, your stay will be colored with the timeless allure and luxury of a destination that has captivated artists, royalty, and jetsetters for generations.

Opening/Closing Dates:

Splendido, Portofino 7^th June – 2^nd November 2025

Splendido Mare, Portofino 21^st March 2025 – 6^th January 2026

Day 4 – Genova & Camogli Discovery

Embrace a seafaring welcome in Genoa, Liguria’s storied capital. Once a proud maritime republic, this quaint port city is now a treasure trove of palaces, hidden courtyards, and medieval alleyways that buzz with cosmopolitan allure. Explore its UNESCO-listed historic center and discover Christopher Columbus’ house before continuing to Camogli, a postcard-worthy fishing village where pastel façades and painted trompe-l’oeils spring into life above pebbled shores. From the grandeur of Porto Antico to the genuine essence of coastal life, this day is a true slice of Ligurian life.

Day 5 – Cinque Terre in all its Glory

Unveil the kaleidoscopic grace and vibrant soul of Cinque Terre, where five unique cliffside villages paint the Riviera coastline in vivid hues of Ligurian beauty. From the colorful houses of Manarola to the sun-drenched beaches of Monterosso, venture through a living fresco of Italian charm as you traverse the region by train, soaking in its dramatic sea views, and discovering a way of life carved between mountain and sea. This is Italian essence at its purest, one village at a time.

Day 6 – Onward to Castello di Casole

Say goodbye to the sea and head inland to the golden hills of Tuscany, where centuries of tradition and tranquility converge. There, nestled among cypress trees and rolling vineyards lies Castello di Casole, a 10th-century estate turned dreamlike retreat where unadulterated natural beauty spreads across 4,000 acres of boundless Tuscan plains. Once checked in, relax with a glass of wine by the infinity pool, unwind at the Essere SPA, or just let this storied haven wrap you in rustic elegance, noble charm, and a Belmond welcome.

Castello di Casole Opening/Closing Dates:14^th March 2025 – 7^th January 2026

Day 7 – Siena, San Gimignano & Wine

Uncover a portal through time as you explore the terracotta streets of Siena, a medieval masterpiece where gothic spires and shell-shaped piazzas bring Italy’s past to life. Take in the architectural splendor of Piazza del Campo and marvel at the legendary mosaic floors of the Duomo Cathedral, then celebrate the region’s enduring flavors at a boutique wine estate near San Gimignano. After a delicious farm-to-table lunch and wine tasting, enjoy some free time among San Gimignano’s medieval towers, where every corner turns a page of history.

Disclaimer: Please note that the mosaic floor at the Duomo Cathedral is usually displayed to visitors only in July, and then once again from the end of August to mid-October.

Day 8 – Tuscany at Leisure

Let Tuscany and Castello di Casole set the pace today. Enjoy a quiet morning with coffee on your private terrace, take a leisurely stroll through sun-drenched fields, or indulge in a spa ritual inspired by ancient remedies. With Castello di Casole as your backdrop, every moment of carefree leisure is guaranteed to feel sublime. This is your invitation to pause, breathe, and soak in la dolce vita, one serene Tuscan moment at a time.

Day 9 – Ravello via Pompeii’s Lost World

As your Tuscan reverie winds down, you will set your sights south, toward the glamorous cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. En route, walk the haunting ruins of Pompeii, frozen in time beneath the ashes of memory. Then, ascend the winding roads to Ravello, where Belmond Hotel Caruso sits overlooking the city from beneath the skies. Check in and step into a symphony of serenity, as frescoed ceilings, sweeping terraces, and a cliffside infinity pool compose a song of elevated luxury. At sunset, why not toast to your arrival with a sparkling aperitivo and views that defy reality, before diving into Campanian culinary delights at Ristorante Belvedere.

Caruso Opening/Closing Dates: 27^th March – 26^th October 2025

Day 10 – Capri by Sea

Discover yacht life at its finest as you board the sleek Princess V50 and set off across sapphire waters toward the legendary isle of Capri. Cruise past the dramatic Faraglioni rocks, dive into crystalline waters, swim in secret coves, and drop anchor in hidden bays that feel like they’ve sprung from a fantasy. Whether sunbathing on deck or savoring a seaside lunch, today’s adventure wraps you in the effortless elegance of a Mediterranean dream.

Day 11 – Minori’s Hidden Treasures

Leave the tourist trails behind as you venture to Minori, the artisanal heart of the Amalfi Coast. Meet a master ceramicist and watch timeless techniques tell stories of generations, before raising a glass of limoncello to their craft at a local family-run distillery. Stroll through quiet streets scented with citrus on your way to indulging in a farm-to-table lunch nestled in the hills, experience Amalfi life at its most layered, intimate, and enchanting.

Day 12 – Touchdown in Taormina

The time has come to take your journey to Sicily’s effervescent Ionian coast, where Taormina awaits your arrival. There, perched above the Bay of Mazzarò, Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea blends aristocratic heritage with effortless coastal elegance; a place where aquamarine waters meet the shore on a private beach and palm-shaded terraces unveil a boundless sea. Alternatively, infuse your stay with some dramatic revelry at Belmond’s Grand Hotel Timeo, where you can stroll through lush, emerald gardens as the nearby Greek Theatre echoes with centuries of standing ovations. Regardless of your selection, prepare to experience Taormina at its most refined!

Opening/Closing Dates:

Grand Hotel Timeo 2^nd May – 30^th November 2025

Villa Sant’Andrea 20^th March – 2^nd November 2025

Day 13 – Baroque Beauty & Chocolate Traditions

Open a Sicilian treasure chest as you discover the Baroque gems of Noto, Modica, and Ragusa Ibla. Wander through Noto’s theatrical architecture and Modica’s cobbled lanes, where chocolate is still made the ancient Aztec way. Sample this sweet heritage at one of the region’s oldest confectioners before visiting Ragusa Ibla, where palazzi and churches soar over one of Sicily’s most cinematic settings. From delicious bites to glorious sights, today is a poetic ode to flavor, design, and timeless southern charm.

Day 14 – Mount Etna & Volcanic Vintages

Ascend one of the world’s most storied volcanoes as you venture on an exhilarating 4WD expedition across the mighty slopes of Mount Etna and discover the natural wonders of its lunar landscapes. With Etna conquered, toast to your expedition at the historic Barone di Villagrande estate, where fertile volcanic soil gives rise to extraordinary wines. Tour the vineyards and cellar, before indulging in a tasting menu where each pairing offers a flavorful glimpse into the raw power of nature and Sicily’s celebrated winemaking finesse.

Day 15 – The Emerald Coast Beckons

Today, your grand escape continues to Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, where azure waters and Mediterranean glamor shall define your stay at the renowned Belmond Hotel Romazzino. Radiating among pristine beaches and lush gardens, this retreat is the embodiment of barefoot elegance and island serenity. Whether you’re lounging in a secluded cabana, indulging in wellness rituals inspired by Sardinian botanicals, or savoring coastal flavors beneath starlit skies, Romazzino offers an exquisite finale to your journey; one kissed by sun, sea, and exclusivity.

Romazzino Opening/Closing Dates: 28^th May – 30^th September 2025

Day 16 – Glamour on the Open Sea

Step aboard your private Cayman 58 for an exquisite voyage across the shimmering jewels of the Maddalena Archipelago. Accompanied by the warm glow of the sun and gentle caresses of sea breeze, glide across crystalline waters to the secluded coves of Caprera and La Maddalena, where ivory sands rest amid lush, jade flora and azure waves. Dive into hidden lagoons, bask on deck beneath the sky, or anchor for a gourmet seaside lunch at an exclusive island trattoria. This is Sardinia at its most elegant, effortless, and entirely yours.

Day 17 – Departure from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport

As your Belmond voyage draws to a close, a private transfer will carry you off to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport. Take one final moment to reflect on how every destination was curated to perfection and every moment steeped in luxury. For today, you’ll depart not with farewells, but with the feeling that by choosing this journey, you’ve experienced Italy in the most perfect way imaginable.

Bellini Club Amenities Include:

• Complimentary Breakfast: Enjoy a full daily breakfast for two, whether served in-room or at the hotel’s restaurant.
• Upgrade on Arrival: Gain access to the next room category, subject to availability.
• Hotel/Property Credit: Receive up to $200 per stay to use on dining, spa services, or unique excursions.
• Early Check-In/Late Check-Out – subject to availability
• VIP Welcome Amenities: Delight in curated gifts or treats awaiting your arrival

The post The Perfect Choice: An Italian Journey with Belmond appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Discover the best of both worlds on the most picturesque shopping spree in history, as you journey through Northern Italy and the South of Switzerland! Find inspiration amid the iconic charms of the Ligurian Coast, uncover the renowned allure the French Riviera, and journey in time through the castles of Ticino — all while indulging in your love of high fashion. From browsing the perfumed interiors of boutiques in Milan to savoring a fresh breeze on the waters of Lake Lugano, this itinerary sees nature and glamor come together in a symphony of pure elegance.

• 3 Nights on the Ligurian Coast
• 3 Nights in Milan
• 4 Nights in Lugano
• Private Airport Transfers & Door-to-Door Transfers

Day 1 — Arrival

Welcome to the Italian Riviera! Upon arrival in Nice or Genoa, a private driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel in one of the region’s colorful coastal towns, such as Sanremo, South Genoa, or Garlenda. Once settled in, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, strolling along picturesque waterfronts, sipping a spritz in a lively piazza, or simply relaxing and taking in the Ligurian Coast’s effortless blend of Italian flair and scenic elegance.

Day 2 — Hanbury Gardens & Dolceacqua Castle Tour with Wine Tasting

Step inside the masterpieces of renowned impressionist painter Claude Monet, as you uncover the enchanting medieval village of Dolceacqua, whose iconic arched bridge and glorious luminescence had once been his cherished source of inspiration. Stroll through atmospheric stone alleyways and visit the historic castle, before heading back via a special route filled with fragrant olive groves, Mediterranean scrub, and charming palm trees. Make a stop at the vibrant town of Bordighera, whose vivid hues filled the artist’s palette, and explore the stunning Hanbury Gardens, home to exotic plants and breathtaking views, before ending the day with a wine tasting among the vineyards of a local estate.

Day 3 — French Riviera Tour

After a delightful breakfast, you will make a quick leap across the border and find yourself amid the glamor of the Côte d’Azur. Watch the French Riviera reveal its quainter side as you venture to Menton, a pastel-hued haven known for its citrus trees and lush gardens, before discovering the hilltop village of Èze, where winding cobblestone streets and artisan boutiques reveal that some places are resistant to sands of time. End your day in the vibrant city of Nice, where Belle Époque architecture, the famous Promenade des Anglais, and seaside cafés will beckon you to linger and indulge in luxury.

Day 4 — Private Transfer to Milan with Stop in Genoa

Today, you will bid farewell to the Riviera as a private driver whisks you off to Milan, the beating heart of Italian fashion. En route, stop and explore the grand facades, tangled alleyways, and culinary brilliance of Genoa, uncovering fragrant bakeries amid its charming old town and sampling legendary pesto Genovese or warm focaccia fresh from the oven. After this sensory interlude, continue to Milan and settle into a hotel of your choice. Enjoy you evening at leisure — dining on exquisite Italian cuisine or simply basking in the cosmopolitan glow of this stylish and sophisticated city.

Day 5 — Milan Fashion & Opera Tour

Speaking of style and sophistication, today you will experience a crescendo of both as you head on a journey through Milan’s fashion and opera heritage. Take note of the city’s musical history at the La Scale Museum, where a vibrant display of art and musical instruments pays homage to the city’s renowned operatic legacy. Waltz on into Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan’s high-fashion quarter, and peek through lavish boutique fronts that brim with passion and desire. Then, visit Palazzo Morando, a treasure trove of historic garments and accessories, before stepping behind the scenes at an exclusive haute couture atelier — where you’ll witness firsthand the craftsmanship and creativity that define Milanese elegance.

Day 6 — Day Trip to Serravalle Designer Outlet

Take this day to indulge in some fashion therapy with an escape to the Serravalle Designer Outlet, a true paradise of sought after brands. With more than 200 boutiques to explore, this open-air center is a sartorial haven for those who appreciate fine tailoring and timeless style. Enjoy the pleasure of shopping at its finest as you stroll through its open-air streets, find that perfect outfit, or take a well-deserved break at one of its gourmet cafés. Return to Milan in the evening, your treasures in hand and ready to be shown off at an exquisite dinner in the heart of the city.

Day 7 — Private Transfer to Lugano

Today, you will say goodbye to the chic allure of Milan, as a private driver carries you off through Italy’s mesmerizing lake district on your way to Switzerland. Savor a double dose of remarkable beauty while traversing the rolling hills, charming villages, and shimmering waters of these two bordering countries, before arriving in Lugano, Ticino’s main city, and the jewel of Switzerland’s Italian region. Once checked into a hotel of your choice, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, wandering through the elegant streets, delighting in a lakeside aperitivo, or taking a leisurely stroll along Parco Ciani.

Day 8 — Lugano Walking Tour with Boating Experience on Lake Lugano

Following a leisurely breakfast, dive in Lugano’s unique blend of Swiss charm and Italian elegance with an immersive, guided walking tour of its enchanting streets, lush parks, and picturesque lakeside promenade. Uncover the roots of this city’s unmistakable essence though its stunning architectural gems and fascinating stories about its sophisticated culture, before revealing the true extent of its allure with a private cruise across the glistening waters of its eponymous lake. A chilled aperitivo in hand, revel in scenic delight as you glide past forested hills and Belle Époque villas, all while having the soft breeze and glimmering light infuse your experience with effortless serenity.

Day 9 — Ticino Tour with Bellinzona Castles

Witness fairytale scenes come to life, as you venture on a quest to storm the UNESCO-listed castles of Bellinzona, Ticino’s fortified heart. Travel back in time while exploring Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, three soaring medieval fortresses who have stood watch over the region’s valleys for centuries. Walk in the shadows of ancient stone walls, take in sweeping views of mountainous plains, and learn about the region’s fascinating history, before discovering the charming town of Bellinzona, a living glimpse into Ticino’s cultural heritage. With ramparts conquered, return to Lugano and enjoy an evening at leisure, reveling in the imaginative gifts of your adventure.

Day 10 — Cross-Border Shopping at Vicolungo Outlet

Seize the final day of your journey by crossing back into Italy for one last celebration of style at the Vicolungo Designer Outlet. Complimented by a relaxed, open-air setting, unleash your inner fashion icon as you browse coveted collections from top international brands, try on exquisite items, and fill your wardrobe with statement pieces that will make you the talk of the town upon return. With shopping bags full, head back to Lugano for one final night in Switzerland, where you can reflect upon on your unique adventure over a gourmet Swiss-Italian dinner with stunning lake views.

Day 11 — Departure

With suitcases full of couture and scenic memories, it’s time to bid your trendy adventure goodbye. Following a relaxing breakfast, your private driver will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to Milan Malpensa Airport, where you will catch your departure flight home.

The post A Journey of Luxury Shopping and Natural Beauty: Ticino & Northern Italy appeared first on Blog | Travelive.