Italy, Switzerland & The Centovalli Scenic Train

Day 1

We meet at Malta International Airport at 10:30 for flight KM624, departing at 12:45 and arriving in Milan at 14:45. Transfer by coach to Arona, where we will be accommodated at the 4-star Hotel Concorde. After room allocation, we go for a walk to the city centre with the tour leader. Dinner at the hotel.

Day 2

We begin our excursion to Mottarone, a mountain offering spectacular views over seven different lakes and the majestic Alps.  We observe green forests, deep valleys, and the shores of Lake Maggiore beneath us. At the summit we enjoy the breathtaking panorama. Afterwards we continue to Stresa, an elegant lakeside town known for its flower-filled villages, aristocratic buildings, and beautiful promenade. Return to the hotel and dinner.

Day 3

We travel to Switzerland to visit the city of Lugano, capital of the canton of Ticino, and Ascona on Lake Maggiore. In Lugano we enjoy a guided walk exploring the historic centre, the Church of Santa Maria degli Angioli, and the lakefront promenade surrounded by mountains. Free time is given. We then continue to Ascona, where we explore the old centre and stroll through its picturesque streets full of restaurants and cafés leading to the promenade. Free time and return to the hotel.

Day 4

We enjoy an excursion to Como and Brunate, combining an elegant city with impressive panoramic views. In Como we walk through its historic centre, seeing the majestic Cathedral with its Gothic–Renaissance façade, charming squares with shops and cafés, and the lakeside promenade offering wonderful photo spots. From there we take the funicular to Brunate (extra), a village on a hill offering spectacular views over Lake Como, the surrounding mountains, and neighbouring towns. Return to the hotel afterwards.

Day 5

After breakfast we visit the picturesque village of Santa Maria Maggiore in the Vigezzo Valley, known for its artisanal heritage and fresco-decorated houses. Free time to explore its narrow scenic streets. Later we take the Centovalli train (extra ticket) and enjoy around an hour of spectacular views of valleys, forests, and bridges. The train brings us to Locarno in Switzerland, where we have free time to explore its elegant squares, lakefront streets, and shops. Those interested may take the funicular to Madonna del Sasso (extra), a sanctuary and pilgrimage site with impressive views of the lake and mountains. Return to the hotel for dinner and an evening walk with the tour leader.

Day 6

After a buffet breakfast we enjoy a free morning in Arona as it is market day, offering a wide variety of items. Around 12:30 we depart for Lake Orta, one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes. A short journey brings us to Orta, where a guided walk includes a visit to Sacro Monte, dedicated to Saint Francis, featuring 20 chapels depicting episodes from his life and miracles. We then explore Orta’s narrow, picturesque streets, visit the Town Hall, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and San Giulio Island. Free time is given, during which you may visit San Giulio Island (extra boat). Return to the hotel for dinner.

Day 7

Today we visit the Borromean Islands. We depart for Stresa and board a boat to visit the islands (boat and entrance fees extra). We first visit Isola Bella, touring the Renaissance palace of the Borromeo family and its botanical gardens including the Hall of Honour, Hall of Columns, Music Room, Tapestry Gallery, and Artificial Grottos. We then visit Isola dei Pescatori, a medieval island with narrow streets and beautiful views, where we enjoy free time for souvenir shopping or a fish lunch (extra). Before returning, we take a boat tour around Isola Madre. Afterwards we transfer to Linate Airport for flight KM627, departing at 20:45 and arriving in Malta at 22:45.