ITALY BETWEEN THE LAKES AND THE SKY

Discover Verona with a guided walking tour enhanced by local tastings. Stroll through the historic center, admiring Piazza delle Erbe, the Gothic Scaliger tombs, Juliet’s famous balcony, and the grand Roman Arena. Along the way, pause at select spots to enjoy traditional flavors of the region, from sweet treats to savory specialties, perfectly paired with local wine. (B)

Spend a day in enchanting Sirmione, a jewel of Lake Garda perched on a slender peninsula and long admired for its charm and tranquility — even opera diva Maria Callas once made it her retreat. Wander through storybook alleys and explore the fairytale Castello Scaligero before stepping into history at the Roman Grotte di Catullo, where ancient ruins overlook sweeping lake views. Glide across the sparkling waters on a boat tour, then pause at Punta San Vigilio for a leisurely stroll or aperitif, surrounded by one of the most romantic settings on Lake Garda. (B)

Journey into Lombardy’s Franciacorta region, the cradle of Italy’s most elegant sparkling wines. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and Alpine vistas, visit two prestigious estates where tradition and innovation meet. Learn the secrets of Franciacorta’s méthode champenoise, then savor guided tastings of exquisite vintages paired with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and fresh focaccia. Conclude your day in the charming lakeside village of Clusane on Lake Iseo, where a leisurely stroll along the waterfront offers serene views of the Alps reflected in the water. (B)

Transfer to Cortina d’Ampezzo, the “Pearl of the Dolomites.” This chic alpine resort town is framed by dramatic peaks and renowned for its beauty, elegance, and world-class mountain atmosphere. (B)

Ascend Mount Lagazuoi, one of the Dolomites’ most accessible yet breathtaking peaks. Meet your guide and ride the cable car — a swift three-minute journey that carries you into the heart of alpine majesty. From here, choose from a network of scenic trails offering panoramic views of jagged peaks and sweeping valleys. This dramatic landscape also holds poignant history: during World War I, Italian and Austrian soldiers carved tunnels, bunkers, and fortifications into the mountainside, many of which can still be explored along today’s paths. With routes tailored to your pace and interests, Lagazuoi promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and living history. (B) 

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo, with their dramatic three peaks, are among the most iconic landmarks of the Dolomites — celebrated for their outstanding natural beauty, geological significance, and poignant history as a WWI battlefield. From the Auronzo refuge, set out on a ring itinerary along gravel paths and former military tracks, where each turn reveals sweeping alpine vistas and striking rock formations. Narrower trails open onto breathtaking panoramas before guiding you back to your starting point. (B)

Say “arrivederci” to Italy or extend your stay. (B)