Italian Winter Wonderland: A Christmas Journey Through Northern Italy
-
Tour Code: TUR-02024
-
Type: Private
-
Duration: 12 days -
Departs from: Milan
-
Meeting Place: Milan Malpensa Airport
Overview
Experience the magic of Italy this holiday season with a luxurious 12-day private tour through its most iconic cities. From the fashion hub of Milan to the romantic canals of Venice, you'll explore festive Christmas markets, enjoy guided tours of historic landmarks, and indulge in regional delicacies. This exclusive journey takes you through the scenic beauty of Lake Como, the Alpine charm of Bolzano, and the romance of Verona, all while staying in luxury accommodations and enjoying personalized experiences. Celebrate the season in style with Italy’s rich culture, history, and holiday cheer.
Itinerary
Where we Visit : Milan, | Meeting Location : Milan Malpensa Airport
Your Italian holiday begins with a warm welcome in Milan. Upon arrival, a private transfer will whisk you away to your luxurious, centrally located hotel. After settling in, step out to explore the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, where world-class shopping awaits amidst the stunning 19th-century architecture. As evening falls, stroll through the vibrant Christmas market at Piazza Duomo. The square, glowing under festive lights, features stalls brimming with local crafts, food, and holiday gifts, setting the tone for your magical journey ahead.
Where we Visit : Milan,
This morning, embark on a private guided tour of Milan, discovering its most iconic landmarks, including the majestic Duomo Cathedral, the famed La Scala opera house, and the historic Sforza Castle. After a leisurely lunch at a traditional Milanese restaurant, continue your festive exploration at the Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Christmas market near Sforza Castle, one of the city’s oldest and most beloved markets. Here, artisans display handmade goods, while the air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and festive delights. Wrap up your day with an aperitivo in the charming Brera district, a perfect way to embrace Milan's local lifestyle.
Where we Visit : Lake Como,
Today, enjoy a scenic drive to the idyllic shores of Lake Como, where you'll explore Como’s enchanting Christmas market. Set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, the market offers wooden stalls filled with seasonal treats and local delicacies. Enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant with stunning views of the water before wandering through the historic Villa Olmo’s gardens. As evening approaches, return to Milan for a relaxing night in this stylish city.
Where we Visit : Bolzano,
Depart Milan this morning for the picturesque town of Bolzano, nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps. Your scenic private transfer will take you through breathtaking mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your luxury hotel before venturing out to explore Bolzano’s famous Christmas market in Piazza Walther. Sample Tyrolean specialties such as speck and mulled wine as you wander among the twinkling stalls showcasing handcrafted ornaments and festive treats. Dine at a traditional South Tyrolean restaurant to savor the unique flavors of the region.
Where we Visit : Bolzano,
Begin the day with a private guided walking tour of Bolzano’s charming historic center, where you'll visit the Museo Archeologico dell'Alto Adige, home to the famous Ötzi the Iceman. Afterward, participate in an intimate cooking class at a local home, where you'll learn to prepare traditional South Tyrolean dishes and enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch. Spend the afternoon leisurely exploring Bolzano’s boutique shops and festive markets before relaxing at your hotel or enjoying the sparkling Christmas lights around the city.
Where we Visit : Merano,
Today, you’ll take a short transfer to the spa town of Merano, known for its charming riverside Christmas market. Wander through festive stalls, savoring local specialties like apfelstrudel as the crisp mountain air surrounds you. Afterward, unwind in the famous Therme Merano, where you can soak in the warm, rejuvenating thermal baths – a perfect winter escape. Return to Bolzano in the evening, feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Where we Visit : Verona,
Depart Bolzano and head to Verona, the city of romance and Shakespeare’s famous Romeo and Juliet. Upon arrival, check into your luxurious hotel before exploring the Verona Christmas market in Piazza dei Signori, where wooden stalls offer German-style crafts, holiday treats, and local gifts. In the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Verona’s cozy restaurants, where you can savor regional dishes and soak in the holiday ambiance.
Where we Visit : Verona,
Start your day with a private guided tour of Verona’s rich history, visiting iconic sites like Juliet’s House, where the famous balcony still stands, the ancient Arena di Verona, and the bustling Piazza delle Erbe. After a leisurely lunch at a local historic restaurant, spend the afternoon browsing Verona’s Christmas markets or artisanal shops known for leather goods and fine jewelry. As dusk falls, enjoy a magical evening walk through the illuminated streets, surrounded by Verona’s holiday charm.
Where we Visit : Lake Garda,
Today, head out for a serene day trip to Lake Garda, where you’ll visit the charming lakeside towns of Bardolino and Lazise. Both towns feature picturesque Christmas markets set along the water, offering stunning views and festive stalls filled with seasonal goodies. After enjoying a lakeside lunch, return to Verona for a quiet evening, perhaps indulging in a glass of wine at a local enoteca as you reflect on the day.
Where we Visit : Venice,
Travel from Verona to Venice, the city of canals, where holiday magic meets timeless beauty. After checking into your luxury hotel, explore Venice’s Christmas market in Campo Santo Stefano. Admire the exquisite craftsmanship of Murano glass, Venetian masks, and festive treats like pandoro and panettone. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Venetian restaurant, where seafood and local classics will delight your taste buds.
Where we Visit : Venice,
Immerse yourself in Venice’s rich history with a private guided tour, visiting the awe-inspiring St. Mark’s Basilica, the grand Doge’s Palace, and the famous Rialto Bridge. After lunch in Piazza San Marco, continue to explore the city’s enchanting Christmas markets or indulge in a private gondola ride through the canals, where the serene winter atmosphere adds an extra layer of magic. In the evening, enjoy an aperitivo at a cozy wine bar, savoring Venice’s lively but intimate holiday spirit.
Where we Visit : Venice,
On your final day, take the morning to wander through Venice’s winding streets at your leisure, or perhaps visit the colorful islands of Murano and Burano for some last-minute shopping. As your Italian holiday comes to an end, a private transfer will take you to Venice Marco Polo Airport for your departure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Italy’s Christmas charm.
This 12-day luxury tour blends festive charm, cultural exploration, and relaxation, all while taking you through Italy’s most iconic cities and scenic regions.
Inclusions/Exclusions
Tour Highlights and What's Included
Entrance fees to all sites and attractions included in the itinerary- Personalized wine or mulled wine tasting at a Christmas market (Bolzano)
- Concierge service and 24/7 support throughout the trip
- 11 nights at luxury, centrally-located hotels in Milan, Bolzano, Verona, and Venice
- Private transfers between all destinations
- Tours & Experiences
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary
What's Not Included
Meals not specified in the itinerary (lunches and dinners are mostly on your own)- Optional activities and personal expenses
- Gratuities for guides and drivers.
Pricing & Availability
Please contact us today by either phone or email for assistance with this booking.
Email : team@italyvacationspecialists.com
Toll Free : 1-866-779-2565
Map
Quick Enquiry Form
Search Your Tour
PRIVATE TOURS
Buy 2 And Get 50% Off Your 3rd Tour
Client Testimonials
-
I am a travel agent with All About Honeymoons and I would highly recommend Italy Vacation Specialists. Jessica was wonderful in helping us plan in a last minute anniversary vacation during high season without any issues. She even checked on our clients while on vacation to make sure things were going well. I plan on using them again soon for all my future bookings! ... [Read More]
- Tammy Joyce, All About Honeymoons -
We're home now from the most amazing trip to Italy! I can't thank you enough for your efforts and coordination of what was without question the finest vacations I've been on to date. ... [Read More]
- Carol Carson -
As a travel agent, but also a traveler to Italy, thee is no other company I would recommend than the Italy Vacation Specialists. Not only do they really care about what they are doing, they also really know Italy and try to educate many people about ways they can best see the country and not fall into tourist traps. I have been on 4 trips with the IVS team, firstly when they did my first 2 tri ... [Read More]
- Laura Chomiak, Travel Agent -
I am a travel agent from Lebanon and have organized several group tours as well as individual tours of Italy with Italy Vacation Specialists. I highly recommend them as one of the very best tour operators in Italy to work with, given their professionalism and work ethic which I feel is second-to-none in the travel industry. All of the staff, the guides, the coaches and even the meals we enjoyed we ... [Read More]
- Nicole Haddad, Lebanese Travel Agent -
Dear Guiseppe and Jesse, We just returned from our most wonderful vacation to Italy and wanted to first thank you for putting together such a wonderful trip, and second to provide some feedback for the future. Hotels 1. Hotel Sovestro in San Gimignano was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and helpful and made the first portion of our journey very stress free. They made us feel like we wer ... [Read More]
- Ron and Deb Crosby -
In August 2018, my family of four and myself travelled from Vancouver, BC to Rome Italy and spent 3 weeks touring Italy with IVS. This company had come highly recommended by many friends and associates of ours who had used them before and indeed to say they do an outstanding job is an understatement. You can tell while being in Italy that it is one complicated place to run tours in, just by the ... [Read More]
- Vijaya Sunil CPA, CGA -
I went to high school with the owner of the company who organized my honeymoon for myself and my now wife from Tokyo. We spent three short weeks seeing Piedmont and experiencing wine paradise there, then heading to Nice in France with our private driver and flying to Rome where honestly 4 days is NOT enough. They keep saying to spend more time and we could not agree more! You need to spend more ti ... [Read More]
- Robin and Kumi Bruun, Tokyo Japan -
I have traveled to Italy 2x with the IVS for my own pleasure trips and 2x for business with IVS. These guys really pay attention and make your trip go like clockwork. Italy is nuts, just saying! There are so many rules and restrictions now, so we did not want to drive ourselves. Having traveled with them many times and done business on several occasions, most definitely USE this company. They k ... [Read More]
- JoAnne Beaudoin, Retired Nurse -
I traveled with JoAnn West through your services, guided by Giuseppe, in July of this year. What a wonderful experience; your service is really top notch! If I return to Italy for a tour, I will absolutely use your services again and recommend you to my friends! ... [Read More]
- Lucretia Brower -
Jesse & Giuseppe,Sandy and I have been looking through my slides of our trip to Southern Italy. We had such a good time with you and Giuseppe that we wanted to let you know again. You were the best guides ever. ... [Read More]
- Bob & Sandy
Incredible Experiences in Italy for Exceptional Prices
Private Tour of Volterra and Her Incredible
Resources
Our Featured Properties
Our Recent Blog
Our Top Picks for Family Vacations to Italy
Discover Italy’s best family-friendly destinations, from Sorrento’s charming playgrounds to Minori’s scenic Lemon Trails. With breathtaking beaches, rich history, and welcoming towns, every stop promises unforgettable moments. Pack your bags and create lasting memories in Italy's most enchanting locales ...
View Post
Italy: The Ultimate Destination for a Magical Christmas Celebration
If you're looking for a Christmas experience that combines history, culture, delicious food, and a whole lot of holiday cheer, Italy is the place to be! Italy has a knack for making everything feel a little more magical during the holiday season. Picture yourself wandering through charming markets, sipping hot cocoa, and nibbling on festive treats ...
View Post
Top 10 reasons why Italy is a top Winter & Ski Destination
The crisp winter air fills your lungs as you glide down the pristine slopes of the Italian Alps, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas that seem to stretch into eternity. Each turn on the snow-laden trails reveals a new perspective of Italy’s enchanting winter landscape, where the charm of cozy mountain villages meets ...
View PostFor Customized Holidays or Expert Advice for travel in Italy or the Mediterranean, Please get in touc with your travel agent or have them
-
Direct In Italy: +39 375 823 5314
-
Toll Free: 1-866-779-2565