Tour
START PLANNING

Your Italian Minimoon

Start off in the cosmopolitan city of Milan before venturing over to the serene shores of Lake Como. Enjoy boat trips, cooking classes and taste the most renowned wines of the region. There is an undeniable charm to Italy that renders it perfect for a short honeymoon!

Ioanna Yiasemi
Scenset travel curator

Everyone is more or less familiar with Italian culture, from watching movies, learning about the Roman Empire, or simply eating pizza. But not until you arrive in the country do you realize that everything you thought you knew is really just the tip of an enormous iceberg. Every region—every town even—has a unique personality, so no matter how many times you visit Italy, you’re always left with the craving for more.

Saturday, 07 – Thursday, 12 October, 2023 · 5 nights
Journey to Italy

Start off in the cosmopolitan city of Milan before venturing over to the serene shores of Lake Como. Enjoy boat trips, city tours and the dolce vita of the region. There is an undeniable charm to Italy that renders it perfect for a short honeymoon!

🇮🇹
Trip Overview

Oct 7 – 9, 2023: Milan (2 nights)

Oct 9 – 12, 2023: Menaggio (3 nights)

☀️
Weather

October makes for great weather in Italy with sunny days and cool evenings. It’s a good idea to bring along a jumper or light jacket for the evenings.

You can expect temperatures of between 50-75°F with an average daily maximum of 70°F and an average daily minimum of 55°F.

✈️️
Travel Requirements

US passport holders are allowed to fly into Italy for Business or Tourism without visa requirements.

Official entry requirements can be sourced here.

🧳️

These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.

🇮🇹
Destination Guide for Italy

We have put together for you a Destination Guide specifically for traveling to Italy. In here you will find ample information from tipping guidelines to plugs and voltage and even our favorite movies and playlists for your journey!!

Saturday, 07 October, 2023
Day 1: Arriving to Italy!

Your mini- adventure of a lifetime is about to begin!

✈️
Arrival Flight

Your international flight to Milan arrives today!!

Booked Independently

Milan

Whereas most parts of Italy feel like stepping into ancient history, Milan is emphatically modern. You’ll still find landmarks like Italy’s biggest cathedral and frescos painted by a well-known artist, but the high fashion, skyscrapers, and trendsetting restaurants give the city a 21st-century undertone. Designer shopping is just as much a part of Milanese culture as aperitivo, the local version of happy hour where drinks are usually accompanied by a buffet of Italian snacks.

🚗
13:15 - Private Transfer

Your private English speaking driver will greet you at the arrivals hall of the airport and transfer you to your hotel in a luxury vehicle. They will hold a sign with your name on it.

Pickup time: Upon exit of the terminal
Meeting location Arrivals Hall, inside the airport
Local Contact Number: Our local partners will be happy to assist with anything regarding this transfer. A contact number will be provided.

Booked By scenset

Get to your hotel and unwind before you venture out and enjoy the city of Milan!

🍋
Restaurant Recommendations

Enjoy wood-fired Neapolitan style pizza - rosse, bianche and specialty pizzas - crafted from the finest local ingredients, including homemade mozzarella.

A place with a unique atmosphere reminiscent of the old Milanese trattorias of the early 1900s, where you can find traditional Italian dishes and top-quality fresh produce. A classic for over 30 years.

This open-kitchen eatery influenced by Asian, Scandinavian and Italian flavors. Serves a fixed five-course menu that changes weekly. The environment is laid back and the food a culinary journey.

A local trattoria; but not just your typical trattoria. If you are an adventurous eater who loves to try local foods, join chef will be provided in his journey to honour offal, creating unfussy renditions of tripe, kidneys, liver, heart, lung and sweetbreads. And if you air more on the traditional side, or even a vegetarian diet; no worries here - the chef also caters to the traditional and celebrated comfort dishes of Italy.

Offers contemporary cuisine where traditional Italian recipes are reinterpreted and innovated by stepping away from tradition. The food experience is completely rethought and made of courses that can be shared at the table, as well as by a full a-la-carte menu and by the iconic fried chicken and stuffed bombe.

🛍️
Recommendation: Go Shopping in Milano

Gleaming flagship designer shops, bustling arcaded shopping areas, exquisite boutiques. Home to two of Italy’s most important yearly fashion events, the spring and autumn shows, Milan is the kingdom of style, supermodels, world-acclaimed luxury brands, and… the aperitivo.

Become a part of the glittering local lifestyle, have “a bite” of this fast-paced, creative, cosmopolitan metropolis and shop to your heart’s content escorted by the charisma and insider’s knowledge of a local expert fashionista!

Explore the fashionable Quadrilatero d’Oro retail district, discovering glossy Via Monte Napoleone, home to some of the most exclusive shoemakers and designers from Italy and across the world. See the beckoning elegant boutiques, among which Armani, Versace, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci and many more, feel the city’s throbbing soul strolling down Via Sant’Andrea, Via della Spiga and Via Manzoni with the posh style-conscious locals.

  • We recommend checking opening times for each store and making appointments if you would like to visit


Recommended activity, this is not included in your itinerary

Your Stay: Radisson Collection Hotel, Palazzo Touring Club Milan

Why we love it for you: Nestled in the heart of Milan, the Radisson Collection Hotel, Palazzo Touring Club, embodies timeless elegance and modern luxury. Housed in a meticulously restored historic palace, the hotel seamlessly blends rich heritage with contemporary design. Guests are greeted with opulent interiors, exquisite dining, and impeccable service. With its prime location near iconic attractions, this hotel offers a sophisticated haven for discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable Milanese experience.

🛏️

Radisson Collection Hotel, Palazzo Touring Club Milan
Premium Room

  • Breakfast included


Confirmation Number: will be provided

Booked By scenset

Sunday, 08 October, 2023
Day 2: Landmarks of Milan

Today enjoy your cappuccino at leisure before you meet your guide to walk the most important parts of the city of Milan, Italy's main industrial hub and a captivating futuristic metropolis. Experience its glamorous atmosphere, during an enlightening visit led by a knowledgeable local guide.

🕍
10:00 - Milan City Tour, La Scala Theatre and the Duomo Skywalk

Founded in 400 B.C., ruled by the Visconti family and cultivated Sforza lords, who bedecked it with their grandiose namesake castle, the city boasts a refined atmosphere and brilliant contemporary art scenset, as well as unique artistic masterpieces.

Unveil its diverse cultural value, fascinating heritage and eventful history strolling down the elegant shopping streets and wide avenues, discover the city's grandeur viewing its fine landmarks and palaces, among which the Royal Palace. Peek into the stylish bars, hotels, galleries and restaurants, and learn about the city's rich centuries-old legacy and inventive vision.

Marvel at the richness of its most iconic sight, the Duomo, Milan's flamboyant Cathedral: featuring an elaborate pearly white facade adorned with 135 spires and 3400 statues this imposing building looks like a magical fairytale crown!

  • Enjoy hassle-free priority access to the elevators, journey up the steepest portion of the church and walk up the last 50 steps to the rooftop terrace.

Admire sweeping views of the bustling city as you walk surrounded by a forest of delicately forged marble pinnacles. Learn about the secrets which lie behind the beautiful statues and marvel at how mesmerizing the carvings and flying buttresses appear from so close up.

Continue your day by visiting La Scala Theatre Museum. La Scala Theatre museum is a gem dedicated to the history of the Teatro La Scala opera house in Milan, located in the Palazzo Marino, in the city center, was opened in 2004, and it is housed in the former Teatro alla Scala library. Over the years, the Museum has stored the traces of the presence of immortal artistes, great composers, unforgettable singers and dancers. For all of them, La Scala has been a home. The museum's collection includes documents, photographs, costumes, and stage sets from the theater's history.

Last, if there is time your guide will walk you to the majestic Castello Sforzesco.

Your guide will be happy to give you directions for how to reach the Navigli district, which has a very popular for its bohemian and artistic vibe. We recommend the riding the historical tram while you are there!

Pickup time: Mid-morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Duration: 3 hours
Local Contact Number: will be provided


Included:

  • Private professional licensed English-speaking guide for 3 hours
  • Entrance Fees to the La Scala theatre
  • Entrance Fees and priority skip-the-line access to the Duomo and Duomo Terrace Elevator
  • Tour continues to Castello Sforzesco


We have informed the guide that within the 3 hours of the tour you would like to cover Duomo, La Scala, and Castello Sforzesco and that you are ok with a faster pace of the tour.

Private Experience
Booked By: will be provided

🛏️

Radisson Collection Hotel, Palazzo Touring Club Milan
Premium Room

  • Breakfast included


Booked By scenset

Monday, 09 October, 2023
Day 3: Lake Como Beckons you

Italy’s most famous lake is best known for its celebrity residents, but these shores have been home to the glitterati since Ancient Roman times. Just a short train ride away from Milan, Como mixes the scenery of an alpine lake with the climate of a Mediterranean beach, perfect for boating on summer afternoons. Meanwhile, the waterfront villas peppered around the lake are some of the most sought-after accommodations in all of Italy.

🚗
09:00 - Private Transfer

Your private English speaking driver will greet you at the hotel lobby this morning and transfer you to the shores of Lake Como, making a stop in Como for your tour.

Pickup time: Morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Local Contact Number: will be provided

Booked By scenset

👣
Guided tour of Como Village

Evocative, graceful and innately elegant. Explore charming Como, admire its historic landmarks and picturesque city center and unveil the fascinating local heritage led by a knowledgeable local English-speaking guide. Rising on the shimmering banks of gorgeous Lake Como, one of Italy's largest and most beloved lakes, framed by gentle mountains and crowned by the tree-fringed Brunate hill, the town boasts remarkable examples of many diverse artistic periods, an exquisite authentic atmosphere and stunning views of the lake.

Follow your guide through the neat streets of the dainty city center, see the main landmarks - amongst which the Duomo and lovely Basilica di San Fedele - learn about the history and admire the diverse architectural vestiges from the middle ages, Renaissance and Baroque eras, and rationalist period. Crown your visit with a memorable stroll along the spectacular lake-front promenade and marvel at the landscape: shimmering peaceful waters on a background of verdant countryside studded by gorgeous classical villas.

Duration: 6 hours, including transfer time

Included:

  • Private driver service from your hotel in Milan to Como and drop off at Grand Hotel Victoria in Menaggio (driver at disposal up to 6 hours), by Mercedes Sedan
  • Private professional licensed English-speaking guide for 2 hours in Como.


Excluded:

  • Lunch
  • Entrances to museums, churches and monuments



Private Experience
Booked by scenset

Arrival at the lake and check into your hotel! Once you have settled in, the afternoon will be yours to enjoy the lake!

🍷
Dinner Recommendations

At Tremezzo:

  • Al Veluu, a local chic restaurant with a family touch, in a quiet mountain setting up on the hill above the hotel.
  • La Fagurida, housed in a typical stone farmhouse you will feel that the time has come to a standstill.
  • Aqua Dulza, located a few steps from the hotel, this informal restaurant featuring retro furniture offers a lovely selection of their very own artisan beers. These craft beers are available to enjoy while you’re there or to take away with you.
  • La Darsena, a beautiful terrace overlooking the waters and the mountains beyond, it is the perfect place to enjoy a seasonal menu that is constantly changing, and features creatively reinterpreted local dishes.
  • Cantina Follie, situated in the cellar of an old house in the historic center of Tremezzo, Cantina Follie wine bar is perfect for enjoying delicious wine and sampling local cold cuts and cheeses. Choose to sit either in the cellar or on the alfresco terrace under a picturesque grapevine.
  • Rusall, this is one of our favorite refuges, because of the family welcome and the typical cuisine. It is located up on the hill above the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, it boasts an astonishing view over Bellagio and the lake.


At your hotel:

Your Stay: Grand Hotel Victoria concept & spa

Why we love it for you: The Grand Hotel Victoria is located in Menaggio, a paradise corner on Lake Como, with its enchanting promenades and the breathtaking views. Its central position makes it the ideal departure point to discover the most picturesque villages of the lake and the natural beauties of the surroundings.

🛏️

Grand Hotel Victoria concept & spa
Prestige Park View room

  • Breakfast included


Confirmation number: will be provided

Booked By scenset

🎁
Your booking package
  • Relaxing 60’ body massage (1 per person, per stay)
  • Cooking Class followed by lunch
  • Apron and Toque
  • Buffet breakfast "Buongiorno Sul Lago" or Continental breakfast in the room
  • Access to the Wellness area of the ERRE SPA, indoor and outdoor swimming pools
🧡
Origin VIP Perks!

By booking through us you get some amazing perks at the hotel!

  • Room upgrade upon availability
  • Early Check-in / Late Check-out, based on availability on the day of arrival / departure.
  • Welcome Gift in the room
  • Complimentary resort credit per stay to be spent on Spa or Food & Beverage.
🌿
Spa Menu

You can find the Spa Menu here.

Tuesday, 10 October, 2023
Day 4: Boating on the Lake!

Calm waters gently ruffled by soft breezes, an enchanting verdant shoreline studded by gorgeous monumental villas, exquisite lakefront towns, a rich heritage and lively traditions… Lake Como is one of Italy’s most idyllic spots, and there is so much to see!

💶

We recommend bringing some cash with you today!

💦
11:00 - Boating on Lake Como

On this half-day Lake Como Cruise, you will experience the lake’s poetic atmosphere in great style: cruising the lake’s peaceful waters aboard a sleek motorboat, escorted by a dedicated local English-speaking guide. Take in extraordinary views and discover the sights, docking along the shoreline to explore a charming lakeside village and one of the gorgeous monumental period villas.

Your tour is highly personalized, and you can speak with your captain on the day. Starting from a location, you are heading to Villa Blabianello, where you will do a guided tour at around 11:30 AM.

Then, stop in Varenna, where you may visit Castle Vezio, Villa Cipressi, and Villa Monastero on your own.

Following Varenna, head to beautiful and famous Bellagio. You may go as far as Villa Lucertola in the San Giovanni and Lenno area (Golfo di Venere). At the end, if time permits, your Captain will be more than happy to show you the Tremezzo area with Villa Carlotta, Villa Giuseppina, and Castello Meresi. And should you wish, visit Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni on your own. The tour ends in Menaggio.

With this tour, you will have the chance to stop at Villa Balbianello, Varenna, and Bellagio; and spend time having lunch in a local restaurant—we will be delighted to give you some recommendations about it.

During the 6 hours of your tour, you will have the chance to decide with the captain when and where to stop as you prefer.


Start time: Around 11:00 AM
Meeting Location: Call in at the concierge desk 10 minutes prior to your activity; the staff will guide you.
Duration: 6 hours
Boat: Erre Boat
Stops: Varenna, Bellagio, Villa del Balbianello
Villa Balbianello Tour: Around 11:30 AM

Inclusions:

  • Private motorboat for the 6-hour tour as described
  • Private professional captain for 6 hours
  • Tickets to visit Villa Balbianello and a private guide for the internal areas of the villa.

Exclusions:

  • Entry fee for the rest of the villas of your choice.


Notes:

  • If you would like to visit Castle Vezio in Varenna, it is reachable walking from the pier in 20 minutes.
  • It is not possible to visit inside some villas (such as Villa Lucertola, Villa Giuseppina, and Castello Meresi).


Private Experience
Booked By scenset

🥘
Lunch Recommendations
🛏️

Grand Hotel Victoria concept & spa
Prestige Park View room

  • Breakfast included
Wednesday, 11 October, 2023
Day 5: A Culinary Journey

Today, it's time to roll up your sleeves and lace on your apron. It's time to get to work!

🍅
12:00 - Cooking Class

On this cooking class you will be guided by an Executive Chef who will help you prepare a traditional Italian four course menu!

  • Antipasto / Entree
  • Primo / First course
  • Secondo / Main course
  • Dolce / Dessert


At the end of the class enjoy the fruits of your labor, as you savor the dishes you have prepared!

Start time: midday
Meeting location: Call in at the concierge desk 10 minutes prior to your activity, the staff will guide you.
Duration: 2 hours

Private Experience
Booked by scenset.

17:45 - Massages

Enjoy two relaxing body massages of 60 minutes each at the spa.

  • If you would like to modify your appointment, please allow the spa 24 hours' notice. A 100% charge will be incurred for any treatment not cancelled at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled time or in case of no-show.
  • We kindly recommend arriving 10 minutes before the treatment to complete the Consultation Form and change comfortably. Please be advised that late arrivals will result in a reduction of treatment time.


Massage time: Evening

  • We recommend arriving at the spa 15 minutes before your treatment.


Reserved by scenset

🛏️

Grand Hotel Victoria concept & spa
Prestige Park View room

  • Breakfast included
Thursday, 12 October, 2023
Day 6: Departure Day

Sadly all good things must come to an end.. Today we left Italy and took a flight back home.

🍱
Breakfast Box

We have requested breakfast boxes for you on this early departure. They will be available at the reception at the time of your shuttle.
Please kindly check in with the reception about this the day before your departure.

Requested by scenset.

🚗
07:00 - Private Transfer

Your private English speaking driver will greet you at the lobby of your hotel and transport you to the airport for your departure flight.

Pick up time: Morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby

Booked By scenset

✈️
11:10 - International flight

This morning, board your flight to JFK.

Booked Independently