Northern Italy Grand Tour

Experience the heart of Northern Italy through its art, history, and timeless charm. Explore Venice’s canals, Bologna’s lively streets, and Turin’s royal landmarks before relaxing along Lake Como’s serene shores. Guided visits to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and Ravenna’s UNESCO mosaics pair beautifully with authentic cuisine and leisure time. This immersive itinerary lets you experience Northern Italy’s art, history, and elegance at every turn.

  • June 21 – June 30, 2026
  • 10 Days | 15 Meals
  • From $5,200 per person 
  • Explore Venice’s St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, stroll Bologna’s medieval streets, admire Ravenna’s glittering mosaics, uncover Turin’s  Egyptian Museum, and cruise Lake Como to Bellagio and Villa Carlotta — and so much more!

Itinerary

Day 1 | Starhotel Splendid, Venice

Arrive in Venice

Arrive in the enchanting city of Venice, where your tour manager will greet you and accompany you by private water taxi to your elegant hotel in the heart of the historic center. After settling in, enjoy a guided afternoon tour through the city’s most iconic landmarks, including St. Mark’s Square, the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Doge’s Palace. This evening, savor a warm welcome dinner at Le Maschere, your hotel’s renowned restaurant, and toast to the start of your Northern Italy adventure. D

Day 2 | Starhotel Splendid, Venice

Venice at Leisure

Enjoy a full day to explore Venice at your own pace. Wander through its winding alleys, cross graceful bridges, and take in the charm of the city’s canals. You may also choose to join an optional boat excursion to the colorful islands of Murano and Burano—famous for their glassblowing and lace-making traditions. The evening is yours to dine independently and experience Venice’s romantic atmosphere. B

Day 3 | Art Hotel Dei Commercianti, Bologna

Journey Through Ferrara and Bologna

Depart Venice this morning by private water taxi and coach, heading toward the Renaissance city of Ferrara. Enjoy a guided walking tour through its beautifully preserved historic center, where elegant palaces and medieval streets tell the story of its noble past. Savor lunch at a traditional local restaurant before continuing on to Bologna. After checking into your charming hotel, set out on a guided tour of the city’s highlights, including its arcaded streets and grand piazzas. The evening is yours to relax and discover Bologna’s celebrated culinary scene. B, L

Day 4 | Art Hotel Dei Commercianti, Bologna

Discover Ravenna’s Dazzling Mosaics

After breakfast, travel by private coach to the historic city of Ravenna, famed for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Enjoy a guided tour of landmarks such as the Basilica di San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, along with a visit to the area dedicated to Dante Alighieri. Take time for lunch and a leisurely stroll through the charming city center before returning to Bologna. This evening, savor dinner at a traditional local restaurant. B, L, D

Day 5 | Hotel Genoa, Turin

Milan’s Icons and Arrival in Turin

Depart Bologna this morning by private coach, traveling north toward Turin. Along the way, stop in the dynamic city of Milan for a guided tour of its historic center, where architectural landmarks like the grand Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II showcase the city’s elegance and style. Enjoy free time for lunch and independent exploration before continuing on to Turin. Settle into your hotel and cap off the day with dinner at a traditional local restaurant. B, D

Day 6 | Hotel Genoa, Turin

Turin’s Royal Heritage & Ancient Treasures

This morning, enjoy a guided tour of Turin’s elegant historic center, including Piazza Castello, Piazza San Carlo, and the arcaded streets of Via Po and Via Roma. Visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and the chapel of the Holy Shroud before exploring the Museo della Sindone for added insight into this sacred relic. After lunch at leisure, discover the renowned Egyptian Museum, home to one of the world’s finest collections of ancient artifacts. Later, unwind with a bicerin, Turin’s signature chocolate-coffee drink, or enjoy the evening at your own pace. B

Day 7 | Hotel Como, Como

Arrival at Lake Como

After breakfast, depart Turin and travel to the serene beauty of Lake Como. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour of Como’s charming historic center, set against a stunning alpine backdrop. The afternoon is yours to relax, browse local boutiques, or stroll along the lakeside promenade. In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner at a traditional lakeside restaurant, celebrating the start of your stay in one of Italy’s most picturesque regions.B, D

Day 8 | Hotel Como, Como

Cruise Lake Como & Villa Carlotta & Bellagio

Begin the day with a private boat cruise along Lake Como’s scenic western shore. Disembark at Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo to explore its magnificent botanical gardens and elegant 18th-century residence. Continue across the lake to Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of the Lake,” where you’ll have free time for lunch and a leisurely stroll through its charming lanes and waterfront promenade. Return to Como by boat in the afternoon and enjoy the evening at your leisure. B

Day 9 | Hotel Como, Como

Leisure on Lake Como

Enjoy a full day at leisure to soak in the beauty of Lake Como. Relax along the waterfront, browse the local shops, or take an optional excursion to explore nearby villages. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating the experiences and friendships made throughout your Northern Italy journey. B

Day 10

Depart for Home

After breakfast, bid farewell to Lake Como as you transfer by private coach to Milan Malpensa Airport for your departing flight. Take with you unforgettable memories of Northern Italy’s art, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. B

Dates and Prices

Tour Dates:
June 21 – June 30, 2026

Pricing:*
Double: $5,200 per person
Single: $6,600 per person

Tour Deposit: $250 per person
To reserve your place please follow the link below to signup. The tour manager will then contact you to complete your reservation and tour deposit.

What's Included

  • Full-time services of expert tour host Jack Baumann with over 15 years of travel experience.
  • 9 nights premium accommodation
  • All of your tours and activities as listed in the itinerary
  • Private transportation by luxury motor coach
  • Personal Guidester travel guide that will help you explore in your free time
  • Airport transfers to and from hotel on arrival and departure
  • 15 meals (9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners)
  • Welcome dinner in Venice
  • Guided tour of Venice including St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace
  • Guided tour of Ferrara’s historic center
  • Guided walking tour of Bologna
  • Guided tour of Ravenna’s UNESCO mosaics
  • Guided visit of Milan’s historic center
  • Guided city tour of Turin including the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and the Holy Shroud Chapel
  • Curated visit of the Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio) in Turin
  • Private boat excursion on Lake Como with stops at Villa Carlotta and Bellagio
  • Guided walking tour of Como
  • Farewell dinner on Lake Como

St. Mark's Square, Venice

Hotels - 4* Centrally Located, Premium Accommodations

Starhotel Splendid, Venice (or similar)

Tucked between St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, this luxury canal-side hotel features elegantly appointed rooms, a private water entrance, and the acclaimed Le Maschere restaurant—making it the perfect retreat after a day exploring the city’s iconic sights.

Art Hotel Commercianti, Bologna (or similar)

This boutique 4-star hotel blends old-world charm with refined comfort. Elegant interiors, frescoed ceilings, and warm hospitality create an inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bologna’s historic center—just steps from Piazza Maggiore and the city’s iconic porticoes.

Hotel Genova, Turin (or similar)

Located near Porta Nuova Station, this stylish 4-star hotel combines classic elegance with modern amenities. Its beautifully restored interiors and welcoming ambiance provide the perfect base for exploring Turin’s grand boulevards, historic piazzas, and vibrant café culture. Relax in comfortable rooms or unwind in the hotel’s wellness area after a day of discovery.

Hotel Como, Como (or similar)

Modern and inviting, this 4-star hotel offers a tranquil escape just a short stroll from Como’s historic center and lakeside promenade. Guests can enjoy spacious contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, and easy access to the region’s scenic boat excursions—an ideal setting for relaxing amid the beauty of Lake Como.

Palazzo della Mercanzia in Bologna
Byzantine Mosaic in Ravenna
Santo Stefano in Bologna
Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna
Egyptian Museum in Turin
Palazzo Madama in Turin
Lake Como
Narrow streets of Como
Sforzesco Castle in Milan

Spots are Limited...
Reserve Yours Today!

What Our Guests Say

We take pride in giving our tour guests the best experience. Read what they have to say.

WOW! I just returned from the Wild Wales tour and it was amazing! It had everything! Beautiful beaches, charming castles, astounding cathedrals, quaint villages, and fantastic food. It was a small group of travelers so I got to know everyone. I was most impressed by Jack's willingness to share his vast knowledge of Wales and his love of travel. He is a special person. If you are looking for a fantastic tour company, give Guidester a call.
Teresa W.
Our second trip with Jack was the Wild Wales Tour. We wouldn't go with anyone else! He spoils us with his knowledge, kindness, and care. Our trip to Wales was wonderful!
Linda F.
Had a great trip to Italy. The group was small, 17 people, and we were able to get the full experience of the major attractions as well as off the beaten path places. The restaurants Jack selected were outstanding. And going to places that tourist don't normally go to was great. Jack is very knowledgeable about history and secured local tour guides that were also knowledgeable as well as entertaining. The tour had both busy days as well as down time. The tour was very well planned. We are definitely look at booking another guidester tour for next year.
Bob K.
Having taken 3 trips with Jack, I always appreciate the attention to detail and quality that Jack has for the trips he leads. Time is balanced between scheduled, group events and free time to explore the city, using the guide we’re provided before the trip begins. It’s clear that Jack has a love of all things Europe, which he works to impart onto those on the trip.
Adam B.
I just returned from Guidester’s Classic Germany trip, and what an incredible experience it was! A small group of friendly fellow travelers, excellent accommodations, knowledgeable and personable local guides, comfortable transportation, excellent food in authentic and historic venues, and Jack’s extensive knowledge of European history, which he shares freely. The trip was well-planned to include the main sights you shouldn’t miss, and the unique experiences that most tour companies can’t provide, like a farmhouse cheese dinner, wine tastings and a table at Oktoberfest Jack makes his trips easy and fun, taking excellent care of his travelers from start to finish. I can’t wait for my next trip!
Margie O.
There is no way I could have put together the adventure that Jack organized for us on the taste of Italy tour. To pack so much in, not feel rushed, have amazing place to stay just would not have happened I have always been a do it yourself person no matter what it is on this occasion at a friends advice joined Jacks tour. The experience exceeded my expectations fro the first hotel to the last day of departure. The advice on what to see when to see where to eat what sights to prioritize was invaluable in using my vacation time in the best way possible. Jack I also appreciated the personal time you were able to give everyone and the individual attention to their interest. Well done and thank you!
Jim F.
This was our 2nd trip to Europe. We definitely didn't want a cookie cutter trip, on a tour bus, that took us past 7 cities in 8 days. Jack plans his tours very carefully and he is very knowledgeable regarding the sites we visited. The groups are small so you have a chance to get to know your fellow travelers. And, Jack is a lot of fun, he makes everyone feel at ease.
Elaine K.
Scroll to Top