Itinerary:

• 3 nights in Cortina 
• 3 nights in Val Gardena or Alta Badia
• 2 nights in Verona
• Bernina Express
• 2 nights in St. Moritz
• Glacier Express
• 3 nights in Zermatt

Day 1 – Arrival

Arrive at the Venice or Innsbruck Airport, where a private driver will be waiting to transfer you to a hotel of your choice in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Day 2 – Hiking Experience Around Cortina with Hot Tub Aperitivo on Panoramic Terrace

Get to know the mighty peaks around you as an experienced Mountain Guide takes you on an enchanting hike around Cortina, showcasing the Queen of the Dolomites in all her glory. Finish your day with an Italian aperitivo in hand on the panoramic terrace of Rifugio Mietres, as you enjoy a relaxing soak in a hot-tub and admire what have often been called “the most beautiful mountains in the world”.

Day 3 – Skiing in the Dolomites Superski

Enjoy a day of skiing with your Ikon Pass at the legendary Cortina d’Ampezzo Dolomiti Superski, home to Italy’s first Olympic Games. Admire the majestic peaks that crown Queen Cortina as you explore 75 miles of slopes and embrace the resorts’ blend of sporting heritage and dolce vita essence.

Day 4 – Transfer to Val Gardena or Alta Badia

A private car will transfer you from your hotel in Cortina to your hotel of choice in Val Gardena or Alta Badia, where your adventure through the Dolomites shall continue.

Day 5 – Lake Braies & Prato Piazza Plateau Tour

Witness some of the most captivating scenery in existence as you stroll along the shores of Lake Lage di Braies and view the monumental reflection of the overlooking Dolomites in its pristine waters. Next, venture to the endless plateaus of Prato Piazza – Platzwiesen, and revel in some of nature’s finest landscapes as you walk beneath the majestic Mount Croda Rossa. End this picturesque experience with a delightful lunch at one of the charming rifugi in the area.

Day 6 – Skiing in the Dolomites Superski

Enjoy another day of skiing with your Ikon Pass in the Dolomites Superski. Whether you find yourself in the vast winter wonderland of Val Gardena or in the picturesque Alta Badia, you are guaranteed to be spoiled with bountiful natural beauty, crisp Alpine air, and the most scenic skiing experiences that you’ve ever had.

Day 7 – Transfer to Verona with stop in Lake Garda

Hop on a private car transfer and make your way to Verona, taking in the awe-inspiring sights of the Dolomites and the Italian Lakes’ Region along the way. Once you reach Lake Garda, enjoy some time at leisure in Sirmione or Riva del Garda before moving on to Verona, where you will check-in at your hotel of choice.

Day 8 – Verona Walk & Taste Tour

Savour Verona’s charm and culinary delights — as well as some Shakespeare — as you venture through its historical center and visit the Piazza delle Erbe, get operatic at the Arena, and recite some lines from Romeo and Juliet under Juliet’s balcony; all before sampling biscuits inspired by the “pair of star-crossed lovers” and enjoying a board with polenta, cheese, salami and a glass of wine. After finishing you tasting session with some sweet “risino pastry”, you will have a chance to visit St. Anastasia’s Basilica, one of Italy’s hidden Gothic gems.

Day 9 – Transfer to Tirano Train Station and Bernina Express to St. Moritz (Long transfer)

Your private driver will transfer you from your hotel in Verona to the train station of Tirano, where you will board the Bernina Express to St. Moritz. Connecting Italy and Switzerland, the Bernina Express invites passengers to enjoy the varied sights of natural beauty that grace both countries, as well as cross a UNESCO World Heritage as you pass through the Abula/Bernina part of the Rhaetian Railway. Once in St. Moritz, check into your hotel of choice.

Day 10 – Skiing in St. Moritz

Enjoy another day of skiing with your Ikon Pass at Corviglia in the sunny St. Moritz, whose winter sports legacy speaks for itself. Home to the iconic 1928 and 1948 winter Olympics, as well as one of the first ski lifts in Switzerland, this location is a must-have on your skiing/snowboarding resume.

Day 11 – Glacier Express to Zermatt

Hop on board of the Glacier Express, the slowest express train of the world and the most famous panoramic train in Europe. Revel in the 8-hour journey and become a part of the country’s scenery as you traverse areas that are as high as 6,670 feet above sea level and etch detailed vistas of the Matterhorn, the Rhone Glacier, and the Engadine Valley forever into your memories. Once in Zermatt, check into your hotel of choice.

Day 12 – Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with Matterhorn Crossing

Spend a day as an independent Alpine explorer and discover the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Use the summit lift to ascend 3,883 meters to the highest mountain station in Europe for a 360º panoramic view of 38 magnificent Alpine peaks — something that is guaranteed to take your breath away; and not just because of the altitude. Find your way into the icy Glacier Palace and take a ride on the Matterhorn Glacier Ride’s brand-new Crystal Ride cabins, and if the season allows, use Matterhorn Crossing gondola and complete the world’s highest border crossing for a visit to the Italian Alpine village of Cervinia.

Day 13 – Skiing in Zermatt

Enjoy another day of skiing with your Ikon Pass in Zermatt and take in the colossal sight of the world-renowned Matterhorn as you explore over 220 miles of the highest lift-served terrain in Europe. Featuring one of the longest trails in the world (16 miles), this ski paradise is as glorious as the mountain that overlooks it. Once you have conquered the slopes beneath it, head over to the top of Rothorn to capture a panoramic view of the Matterhorn in all its glory.

Day 14 – Departure

A private transfer will take you to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your memorable journey through Italy and Switzerland.

The post Iconic Winter Escape in the Swiss Alps & Italian Dolomites appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Athens, Venice, Verona, Lake Como

Why settle for ordinary when you can cruise in style with a private tour? At Travelive, we’re all about crafting adventures tailored to you even during a cruise! Picture yourself diving into each destination like a local, uncovering historic gems and secret spots along the way. With our private tours, you’re not just sightseeing, you’re living the dream, making every shore excursion a memory to treasure forever!

• 3 Nights Luxury Accommodation in Athens
• 1 Night Luxury Accommodation in Venice
• 4 Nights Luxury Accommodation in Verona
• 4 Nights Luxury Accommodation in Lake Como
• Athens walking discovery tour
• Sunset tour of Cape Sounio and Athens Riviera
• Single-day cruise – Boat tour to Murano and San Francesco del Deserto Islands
• Verona walking tour with Arena visit
• Tour to Villa Avreadi and olive oil tasting
• Day trip to Lake Garda
• Walking tour of Como
• Single-day cruise – Boat tour of Lake Como
• Tour to Lugano
• Transfers
• Breakfast Daily

Itinerary

Day 1 -Welcome to Athens

Welcome to Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. Athens is a vibrant city that’s at once ancient and modern, classic, and constantly evolving. From its rich historical heritage along with the landmark Acropolis to hip and trendy bars to high-end boutiques and multicultural cuisine, Athens has it all. You will be picked up from Athens International Airport by your private driver and transferred to your luxury hotel. Enjoy your afternoon and evening exploring the historic neighborhood of Plaka or enjoying a leisurely stroll along Dionysiou Aeropagitou, a pedestrianized street that is the longest walkway in Athens and is akin to walking along a living open-air museum. Ask your Travelive expert for recommendations of their favorite restaurants, cafes, and entertainment.

Day 2- Athens walking discovery tour

Begin your journey at the renowned Acropolis Museum, showcasing almost 4,000 artifacts that offer a vivid glimpse into Ancient Greece’s daily life. Enjoy a breathtaking Acropolis view from the museum’s terrace. Ascend to the Acropolis hill via the iconic gates of Propylaea, a classical antiquity symbol. Uncover the Parthenon’s magnificence and its influence on contemporary history. Conclude with a leisurely walk through Plaka’s historic streets and a visit to Syntagma Square’s Parliament Building, appreciating Athens’ rich history and architectural wonders.

Day 3 – Sunset tour of Cape Sounio and Athens Riviera

Experience the breathtaking allure of Athens’ magnificent coastline and an exquisite Greek temple that is nothing short of splendid! This adventure revolves around Athens’ profound connection with the sea, guiding you through the illustrious Athens Riviera. Your journey culminates at the mesmerizing Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea. As the day transitions into the evening, relish the dramatic sunset over Cape Sounion, a sight to behold. Explore the wonders of Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural spa with perpetually warm waters, and delve into the architectural marvel of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. Enjoy beachfront bliss along the city’s favored coastline and encounter an ancient temple that weaves tales of history and grandeur.

Day 4- Athens City to Piraeus Port transfer

Today you will meet your driver and enjoy a relaxing drive to Piraeus port to continue your cruise.

Day 5- Venice

Venice is one of the most romantic destinations, not only in Italy but throughout Europe. Gondola rides down the Grand Canal passing through palaces, waterfront palazzos, and churches define the romantic ambiance the city is known for. Complete your top destination in Italy with a visit to an art gallery or a performance at the Opera.

Day 6 -Boat tour to Murano and San Francesco del Deserto Islands

Discover the picturesque islands in the Venice Lagoon during this exciting tour. Board the Bora cruiser to reach the island of Murano passing by the Arsenale or Cannaregio district. Once you arrive in Murano, you will experience the island’s renowned art of glass blowing. The master craftsmen will show you how to create incredible masterpieces made from glass right in front of your eyes. You will then continue to San Francesco del Deserto island. It is recognizable by a line of cypress trees and is located in the middle of the lagoon between Burano and Sant’Erasmo. Since 1227 it has housed a friary founded by San Francesco d’Assisi on his way back from the Holy Land. It is here that the “Miracle of the Birds” took place. The tour starts from the little church and small cloister and finishes with a stroll in the beautiful garden where you can see Burano, a little island world-famous for pillow laces and colored houses.

Day 7 – Venice to Verona transfer and Walking tour with Arena visit

A relaxing scenic drive will take you to the beautiful city of Verona. In the afternoon you will enjoy a walking tour of the city.

Explore Verona beyond Romeo and Juliet on a guided tour revealing its rich history and architectural marvels. From the ancient Arena, a Roman relic hosting operatic performances, to the grand Scaliger Tombs exemplifying Gothic architecture, each landmark captivates you with its history. Wander through Piazza delle Erbe, where a fountain constructed from Roman ruins stands as a testament to the city’s past. Discover the hidden gem of St. Anastasia’s Basilica, a Gothic masterpiece, before concluding your journey at the Grand Arena, a majestic Roman amphitheater echoing centuries of history.

Day 8 – Tour to Villa Avreadi and Olive oil tasting

Nestled amidst Verona’s picturesque vineyards and olive groves lies Villa Arvedi, a stunning example of Venetian architecture that flourished during the Republic of Venice’s reign in the 14th century. Originally built in the 12th century, the villa underwent extensive renovations in the 17th century, transforming it into the elegant residence you see today, adorned with frescoes and graced by a Baroque church in its courtyard. After exploring the villa, enjoy a tasting of local olive oil at a nearby farm.

Villa Arvedi is situated in the surroundings of Verona, in a splendid area of vineyards and olive trees, and is a fine example of Venetian Villa, that is a kind of building that spread in the area controlled by the Republic of Venice from the 14th century. At the time, noble families from Venice, longing for the countryside that their city lacked, started to settle on the mainland and build villas around which flourishing estates and gorgeous gardens developed. The core of Villa Arvedi dates to the 12th century, but huge refurbishments in the 17th made it the exquisite residence that you will visit today, with interiors bedecked with frescoes and the courtyard featuring a Baroque church. Once the visit to the villa is over, you will reach a nearby farm for a tasting of local olive oil.

Day 9 – Day trip to Lake Garda

The quaint town of Sirmione is situated on a little peninsula, renowned for its thermal waters. The area offers a unique tranquility, and an impressive number of interesting things to see. Not even the famous Maria Callas could resist Sirmione. During the fifties, she frequently visited the town and was enchanted by the beauty and quietness of the place as well as the discretion of its inhabitants and she elected Sirmione as her retreat. Follow your experienced guide for a relaxing stroll along the tiny alleys of the center, and then further on, where shops and bustle give way to residential neighborhoods surrounded by parks and gardens. Your walk will take you to the Grotte di Catullo, the remains of a Roman villa the visit of which will give you a good insight into the history of the area and some gorgeous views of the lake. A boat tour along the shore, the island of Garda, and the evocative Romantic Coast will give you the chance to enjoy some gorgeous views. You can also disembark at Punta San Vigilio and have a little stroll in the park or enjoy an aperitif, before meeting there your driver for a ride back to the hotel.

Day 10 – Verona to Lake Como transfer and Walking tour of Como

After breakfast, you will meet your experienced driver and enjoy a scenic drive to Lake Como. Once you arrive, you will meet your experienced guide for a relaxing tour.

Renowned for the spectacular scenery it offers on its namesake lake, Como is also rich in history and vestiges of the past. Your guide will show you Como’s peculiarity: despite being a small city, it hosts buildings belonging to all historical periods: you will see a medieval portico, Renaissance buildings, Baroque churches, examples of Fascist architecture, and a contemporary sculpture dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery, born in Como in the 18th century. You will have some time to stroll around on your own, before meeting your guide again and reaching Brunate. From this quaint village on the hilltop, you will enjoy an amazing view of the lake and the Alps beyond it.

Day 11 – Boat your of Lake Como

Discover Lake Como the best way possible – on board a private boat accompanied by an English-speaking skipper and a professional guide at your disposal. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the western side of the lake, known as the “noble wing”, because of the presence of many grand Villas of the Italian nobility, most of which have now been bought by wealthy industrialists or movie stars. Arrive in Bellagio for a one-hour stop and return to Como.

Day 12 – Tour to Lugano

Embarking from picturesque Lake Como, a short drive brings you to Ticino, the Italian Canton. Amidst its charming streets, indulge in Swiss delights—world-famous chocolates and duty-free perfumes await. Explore boutiques showcasing high-end watch brands, offering a chance to acquire a timeless treasure. In Ticino, beauty and luxury intertwine, promising a day of sophisticated indulgence amidst scenic splendor.

Day 13- Departure

As your adventure comes to an end, filled with cherished memories and numerous photographs, it’s time to bid farewell. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and ensure you reach the airport in time for your flight back home.

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