Discover Italy and Switzerland: A 10-Day Adventure

Start your journey in Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital. Check in at Rosa Grand Milano, located in the fashion district overlooking the historic Piazza Fontana. Spend the morning exploring iconic Duomo cathedral and its rooftop terraces, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. Continue your day by wandering through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century architectural masterpiece. Pause for coffee at Camparino in Galleria, where the espresso is as stylish as the surroundings.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the local cuisine with dinner at Trattoria Milanese. Try the traditional risotto with ossobuco. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the bustling streets of Brera, a charming arts district filled with quaint bars and shops.

On day two, leave the city behind for the tranquility of Lake Como. Check into Hotel Du Lac, a charming boutique property in Bellagio. Spend the day on the water with a private boat tour of Lake Como, stopping to explore the picturesque villages of Varenna and Bellagio. In Varenna, stroll through the terraced gardens of Villa Monastero, and in Bellagio, visit Villa Melzi for stunning lakeside views. End the day with a candlelit dinner at La Punta Ristorante, savoring homemade pasta and a glass of local wine as you overlook the shimmering lake.

Travel by train to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Upon arrival, check-in at the centrally located Hotel Brunelleschi, which offers elegant rooms and historic charm. Begin your Florence experience with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli and Michelangelo. Afterward, enjoy a classic Italian lunch of truffle pasta and a glass of Chianti at Trattoria ZaZa.

In the afternoon, explore Florence’s artisanal side by wandering across the Ponte Vecchio, where you’ll find handcrafted jewelry and art studios. For coffee, stop at Caffè Scudieri, where you can sip espresso while watching the world go by in Piazza del Duomo. End the day with a romantic dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori, a cozy spot with authentic Tuscan dishes like pappa al pomodoro.

On day four, explore Tuscan countryside. Visit Fattoria di Montemaggio, a family-run vineyard in Chianti. You’ll tour the cellars, learn about the winemaking process and taste bold reds paired with various snacks. For a scenic detour, visit the medieval town of San Gimignano, famous for its 14 towers and artisanal gelato at Gelateria Dondoli. Return to Florence for a casual dinner at Trattoria Mario, where the Bistecca Alla Fiorentina is a must-try.

On your fifth day, head to Venice, where you’ll stay at Hotel Antiche Figure, located on the Grand Canal. Spend the afternoon gliding through Venice’s narrow canals on a gondola ride. Visit Piazza San Marco, the Basilica di San Marco and the opulent Doge’s Palace. Savor a seafood feast at Osteria alle Testiere, a small but highly regarded restaurant known for its fresh, seasonal dishes like grilled scallops and risotto al nero di seppia.

Cross into Switzerland and arrive in Lugano, a charming town on the shores of Lake Lugano. Check-in at Hotel Federale Lugano, a mid-range option with stunning views. Spend your day exploring Parco Ciani, a serene park offering picturesque lake views. For lunch, try the risotto alla ticinese at Ristorante Grand Café al Porto, paired with a glass of local Merlot. In the afternoon, wander through Lugano’s old town, stopping at local boutiques for Swiss chocolates and souvenirs.

On day seven, board the world-famous Glacier Express train to Zermatt. This eight-hour journey through the Alps is a highlight itself, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and charming villages. Once in Zermatt, check in at CERVO Mountain Resort, an alpine-style boutique resort. End your day dining at one of the many options on the property.

Start your day in Zermatt by riding the Gornergrat Railway to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Alps. Admire the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks before hiking along the Five Lakes Walk, a trail that takes you past crystal-clear alpine lakes reflecting the mountains. Return to Zermatt for lunch at Chez Vrony, a mountain hut serving gourmet dishes with panoramic views.

On day nine, travel to Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Stay at Hotel Interlaken, a charming property with historic character. Explore the Lauterbrunnen Valley, known for its 72 waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls. For the adventurous, try paragliding over the valley or hiking the Eiger Trail. Treat yourself to coffee and pastries at Café Schuh, a local institution specializing in Swiss desserts like Nusstorte.

Your final day takes you to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe.” Board a train that climbs to 3,454 meters, where you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped peaks and sweeping glaciers. Visit the Ice Palace, walk through tunnels carved into the glacier and take in the views from the Sphinx Observatory.

After descending, travel to Zurich for your departing flight. Reflect on your adventure as you savor one last cup of Swiss coffee, a perfect end to a perfect trip.