La Dolce Vita: The Italian Riviera & Lake Como.

​

Embark on a captivating journey through two of Italy’s most enchanting regions - the sun-drenched shores of the Italian Riviera and the serene elegance of Lake Como. This immersive escape invites you to experience the heart and soul of Italy, from colorful seaside villages to elegant lakeside villas, with unforgettable food, culture, and scenery along the way.

​

Sun-Kissed Splendor on the Italian Riviera

​

Your adventure begins in Santa Margherita Ligure, a glamorous yet charming resort town nestled between the sea and the hills, where palm-lined promenades meet the deep blue of the Mediterranean. For three nights, you’ll call this jewel of the Ligurian coast home - waking each morning to sea breezes, pastel-colored buildings, and the aroma of fresh-baked focaccia.

​

From here, we’ll explore the fabled Cinque Terre, five centuries-old fishing villages perched along the rugged cliffs of the Ligurian coast. Connected by scenic trails, terraced vineyards, and, if weather allows, a panoramic ferry ride across turquoise waters, each village offers its own character - from the lemon-scented alleys of Vernazza to the candy-colored harbor of Riomaggiore.

​

We'll also take a delightful day trip to the exclusive seaside town of Portofino, known for its luxe boutiques, vibrant harbor, and romantic cliffside vistas - an ideal spot for an aperitivo by the water as yachts drift by.

 

The Romance of Lake Como

​

Midweek, the landscape changes as we travel north by train to the serene and sophisticated world of Lake Como - a place beloved by poets, aristocrats, and modern travelers alike. Our destination: the storybook village of Bellagio, perched at the point where the lake’s arms meet, offering cinematic views in every direction.

 

Here, we’ll stay in an elegant boutique hotel with lake views, full of character and intimacy.

 

We’ll glide across the water on a private lake boat to visit Villa Balbianello, a romantic 18th-century estate made famous in films like Star Wars and James Bond, and take a classic ferries to Villa Carlotta, renowned for its art collections and botanical gardens in full bloom.

 

Savor Italy’s Culinary Heart

 

Indulge in Italy’s culinary treasures with a hands-on cooking class led by a celebrated Lake Como chef - knead fresh pasta, stir fragrant sauces, and sit down to a delicious meal you've prepared yourself... experience an Italian wine tasting session with a region expert.

​

Each day concludes with memorable Italian meals enjoyed in carefully selected restaurants - from seaside trattorias to elegant dining rooms overlooking the lake.

​

Morning Serenity, Optional Adventure

​

For those who love a peaceful start, optional early morning walks are offered - stroll along scenic waterfront paths as the sun rises over the Mediterranean or mist lifts from the lake, offering a tranquil and rejuvenating beginning to your day.

​

For Every Kind of Traveler

​

Whether you're a solo traveler seeking inspiration, a couple in search of romance, friends ready for an unforgettable escape, or a family wanting to create lifelong memories - this small group journey blends exploration, relaxation, and cultural richness in equal measure.

​

Experience the true essence of la dolce vita on the Italian Riviera and Lake Como - a dream week in one of the most beautiful corners of the world.

 

What Awaits You on the Cinque Terre & Lake Como Discovery Trip:

• This thoughtfully curated journey is designed to offer you an unforgettable vacation through two of Italy’s most scenic and beloved regions: the sun-drenched Italian Riviera and the tranquil elegance of Lake Como.

• A Beautiful Blend of Exploration and Relaxation

• Experience the best of both worlds - immersive cultural adventures and peaceful moments of rest - all set against stunning natural backdrops. From the colorful cliffside villages of Cinque Terre to the serene waters and grand villas of Lake Como, each destination brings its own unique charm and inspiration.

• Intimate Small-Group Atmosphere - Travel in a warm, welcoming environment with no more than 12 guests, creating space for genuine connections and lasting friendships. Share stories, laughter, and unforgettable memories with fellow travelers who appreciate the art of slow, meaningful travel.

• A Rich Variety of Activities - Each day offers engaging experiences tailored for cultural discovery and joy:

  • Guided morning walks through scenic coastline villages.

  • Visits to iconic villas and botanical gardens, such as Villa Balbianello and Villa Carlotta

  • A hands-on cooking class and lunch with a celebrated Lake Como chef

  • A local wine tasting session with a regional expert

  • Opportunities for boutique shopping, ferry rides, and sightseeing in postcard-perfect villages

• Ample Time for Personal Enjoyment - Savor your own moments of joy - whether it's sipping espresso at a waterfront café, wandering through fragrant garden paths, visiting local museums, or indulging in a bit of Italian retail therapy. The pace is relaxed, with built-in free time to explore at your leisure.

• Group Meals & Culinary Freedom - Each evening, you’re invited to join the group for memorable local-cuisine dinners at specially selected restaurants. Prefer to dine independently? You’ll receive personalized restaurant recommendations to help you discover hidden gems on your own.

• Optional Morning Walks with Our Founder - Start your day with gentle morning pleasure walks, led by WalkEurope’s founder and trip leader, Tom Harter. These informal strolls offer a peaceful way to ease into the day with scenic views and thoughtful conversation.

• Personalized Service & Seamless Travel - Enjoy concierge-level support throughout the journey. This is a fully escorted and worry-free tour, with customized touches to meet your needs. From logistics to leisure, everything is taken care of - so you can simply relax and enjoy Italy at its finest.

​

What's Included:

• Six nights in a personally-selected signature boutique hotels.

  • Italian Riviera (3 Nights) - Stay in lovely boutique hotel located in the heart of Santa Margherita Ligure. The hotel overlooks the Mediterranean Sea... is a short walk to the town center.

  • Lake Como (3 Nights) - Stay in a Bellagio family-owned luxury boutique hotel with stunning views overlooking  the lake.

• Daily buffet breakfasts at the hotels.

• Welcome Dinner – featuring local Italian cuisine and wines.

• Farewell Dinner – with provincial Italian cuisine and wines.

• Italian Cooking Class – cooking lesson and lunch with celebrated Lake Como chef.

• Italian Wine Tasting Session - with region expert

• Day trip to all five Cinque Terre villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola & Riomaggiore. Take an early morning ferry along the Italian Riviera coastline (weather permitting) from Santa Margherita to Cinque Terre... travel village-to-village by ferry (weather permitting).

• Day trip to Portofino.

• Private lake boat and ferry rides on Lake Como and tours of the region’s magnificent villas and enchanting gardens: Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello.

• Optional before breakfast pleasure walks along Santa Margherita's seaside promenade and along Lake Como shoreline.

• Entrance fees for villas, gardens and parks for all group activities and day trips.

• Ground transportation, ferry and train tickets and group transfers between Santa Margherita Ligure and Bellagio.

• 1st-class train travel from Santa Margherita to Lake Como.

• Concierge service & support.

 

​Arrival & Departure Cities:

Arrival City: Santa Margherita Ligure,, Italy (Nearest Airports - Genoa or Milan)

Departure City: Bellagio, Italy (Nearest Airport - Milan)

​

Trip Cost:

Cost includes 1st-class train travel from Santa Margherita to Lake Como.

• $9,995 – 7 days / 6 nights per person in double occupancy shared hotel room with sea & lake views.

• Added cost for private single room hotel accommodation option - $2,575

     

Space Is Limited -- Reserve Early!

Small Group Tour. Limited to 12 Persons.