Italy’s Northern Jewels: Venice & the Dolomites 2026

With its wealth, trade, and power; Venice has always been bold. Trust us, you’ll need at least a full day in Venice. We wish we could give you more, and, as there will be so much for you to choose from, we recommend making a list before you go. You enjoy an included two-hour guided walking tour of the city and then it’s up to you what you explore next. From people-watching in Piazza San Marco to frequenting the famous galleries, you have the whole day and night in Venice.

177 canals, 350 gondoliers, and the most idiosyncratic cityscapes in the world: Venice, ‘the Floating City’, is your home for the day. It’s been built on over 118 islands and hosts one of the most famous festivals in the world. Why not try a gondola ride yourself, gliding along the serene canals as you take in the stunning views of the Grand Canal and picturesque bridges?

The labyrinth of Venice is part of its charm. Never knowing where you might end up or how many bridges are between you and your destination, but what’s certain is that every turn, every nook and cranny, every cracked facade holds surprises and stories and memories you will remember for a long time. The magic of Venice lies in the surprises that wait around every corner. Maybe you’ll stumble into a restaurant for one of the best Italian meals you’ve had. Perhaps you’ll step back in the refurbished 17th century pharmacy that now sells luxury perfumes. Maybe you’ll stand quietly in the crypt of a humble Venetian church, hugged by the cool air as you ponder its history.

As the day comes to an end, the day travellers depart the city, clearing out its streets and restaurants, leaving you to savour the eerie beauty of The Floating City.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3* Hotel La Fenice et Des Artistes (or similar), Venice. (B)

Say goodbye to Venice because it’s the traditional flavours of Italy for you to explore today. First stop, Valdobbiadene.

Visiting Valdobbiadene is like stepping into a living postcard, where the rolling hills and vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. This land is home to the best prosecco and belongs to a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, recognized for its centuries-old winemaking tradition. You have the option of an exclusive tasting here.

Alternatively, you can explore the town and wander through charming streets and quaint squares.

After the sweet indulgence of Valdobbiadene, now it’s time for your first taste of the Dolomites – the beautiful village of Mel. Nestled in the foothills of the mountains, Mel’s historic centre is a maze of charming, cobbled streets and quaint squares. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to sample authentic Venetian cuisine for lunch, but don’t fill up too much as you’ll want to save some room for dessert at your next stop.

Your guide will show you their favourite spot for gelato in the Belluno province.

Your final stop for the day is the charming mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as “the Queen of the Dolomites”. Famous for winter sports, scenic hiking trails and glamourous town centre, Cortina d’Ampezzo will host the Winter Olympics in 2026.

As you arrive, the crisp alpine air invigorates your senses, and the panoramic vistas of rugged mountains stir a profound sense of awe. Now it’s up to you how you decide to spend your evening here.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3/4* hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo (or similar). (B)

Cameras ready because today, you’ll be treated to some breath-taking views of the Dolomites, a mountain range that captivates with its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural tapestry.

Our first stop is Tofana-Freccia nel Cielo where you’ll have the chance to take a cable car ride up the Tofane mountains known for their sheer cliffs, dramatic spires, and deep valleys. Here you can either enjoy a short hike or simply relax and take in the views on the terrace.

After lunch at a spot recommended by your guide, we continue our journey deeper into the Dolomites along the scenic Cortina d’Ampezzo circular drive. We’ll start at the Tre Cine di Lavaredo, a viewpoint where you can admire a trio of towering peaks that have become symbols of the Dolomites.

Then we’ll head to the ‘Pearl of the Dolomites’ – Misurina, where you can take a walk along the stunning alpine lake shimmering with reflections of the surrounding peaks.

Hopefully you won’t be too worn out after breathing in all that fresh mountain air, as this is your second free evening in Cortina d’Ampezzo to explore the glamorours mountain resort.

As the sun sets behind the towering peaks, wander the streets in search of restaurants serving local cuisine or try star gazing at a local observatory.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3/4* hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo (or similar). (B)

This morning takes us to the heart of the Dolomites – the Pordoi Pass – nestled between two mountain ranges and offering unrivalled views.

You’ll venture on the Sass Pordoi cable car, taking you an impressive 2,950 metres above sea level to the summit of the Sass Pordoi mountain as you admire the lush green valleys and rocky ridges of the Dolomites from above. Once you reach the top you can enjoy a short hike, or enjoy breath-taking views of Piz Boe – the highest mountain of the Sella group – from the terrace.

From the highs of the mountains to the depths of the valleys, you’ll journey to Val di Fiemme this afternoon – an area famed for its eco-certified spruce forests. Wood from these forests is used to craft string instruments and legend has it that Stardivari himself used to wander the forests in search of the perfect wood for his instruments. Your guide will show you the area’s picturesque towns and can recommend even more hiking routes.

Next it’s on to our final overnight stop, Trento, a lively city with plenty of Alpine charm.

When you arrive, the first place to visit is Piazza Duomo, the heart of the city. As soon as you are there, stop beneath the fountain of Neptune, and take a look around: on one side the mountains, with the small Sardagna waterfall, on the other towers and castellated palaces, which whisk you back to the times of the famous Council of Trent in the blink of an eye. This is the best way to introduce you, in one sweeping gaze, to the two souls of the city.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3/4* hotel in Trento (or similar). (B)

It’s time to say goodbye to the Dolomites, but don’t worry, there are still plenty of Italian treasures to uncover before we arrive back in Milan. First stop, the magnificent Castello del Buonconsiglio.

This imposing castle began life as a fortress in the mid-13th century before becoming the residence of the Prince-bishops of Trento until the Napoleonic era and even later being used as a barracks. Today it is an important museum housing numerous collections of art and archaeology.

After exploring the castle, we travel to Bardolino for a last glance at Lake Garda.

We’ll make one last stop at Lake Garda, visiting the picturesque village of Bardolino. Famous for its olive oil, you can enjoy an olive oil experience here or enjoy a lakeside walk and lunch on the waterfront.

Our final stop is the charming hilltop city of Bergamo – one of Lombardy’s hidden gems! The city’s impressive old town is located at the top of a very steep hill offering stunning views across the city. Our tip: take the funicular to the top! There’s plenty of ways to spend an afternoon in Bergamo from admiring the 15th Century Renaissance Cappella Colleoni, exploring the ornate Bergamo Cathedral or simply people-watching in one of the city’s many lively squares.

After six memorable days, you return back to Milan. (B)