Curator’s statement
Both Italy and Switzerland offer a perfect blend of culture, history and natural beauty. To ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience, I recommend focusing on just 3-4 key destinations. This approach allows you to truly immerse yourself in each location while still getting a taste of both countries' best experiences.
For this 10-day itinerary, we'll explore Florence, Milan, Lucerne and Bern. These cities will serve as your bases, offering luxury accommodations and easy access to authentic local experiences.
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Where to stay
Hotel Savoy Firenze
In a prized location next to the Duomo, Florence’s grande dame is a bucket-list treat of designer interiors, world-class cuisine and exceptional service.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Bulgari Hotel Milano
A chic oasis in the heart of the city’s shopping district, home to a see-and-be-seen aperitivi bar and rare treat indoor swimming pool.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Burgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa
Immerse yourself in a world of indulgence, with breathtaking views, exquisite accommodations and a serene spa retreat that will rejuvenate your body and soul.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Bellevue Palace
A historic luxury hotel nestled in the heart of Bern, Switzerland, offering refined elegance, impeccable service, and stunning views of the Swiss Alps.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Rileigh to book your trip.
Day 1-3: Florence
Your journey begins in the heart of Tuscany - Florence. This city is a living museum of Renaissance art and architecture, with a side of delicious Italian cuisine.
After settling into the luxurious Hotel Savoy Firenze, start your exploration with a guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery. Here, you'll see masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. In the afternoon, climb to the top of the Duomo for panoramic views of the city.
On your second day, visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo's David up close. Then, stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge and explore the charming Oltrarno neighborhood. End your day with a hands-on cooking class, learning to make authentic Tuscan dishes.
Use your third day for a day trip to the Tuscan countryside. Visit a family-run vineyard in Chianti for wine tasting or explore the medieval towers of San Gimignano. Return to Florence for a farewell dinner at a local trattoria, savoring regional specialties and world-class wines.
Day 4-5: Milan
Next, we'll arrange a first-class train ride to Milan, Italy's fashion capital and your gateway to Switzerland.
Check into the sophisticated Bulgari Hotel Milano. Start your Milan adventure with a visit to the stunning Duomo Cathedral. Take the elevator to the roof for incredible city views. In the afternoon, secure your pre-booked tickets to see Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" at Santa Maria delle Grazie church.
On your second day in Milan, indulge in a private shopping tour of the Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan's famous fashion district. For a change of pace, take an afternoon trip to Lake Como. Enjoy a private boat tour of the lake, admiring the stunning villas and picturesque towns that dot its shores.
Day 6-8: Lucerne
Now it's time to cross into Switzerland. We'll arrange a scenic train journey from Milan to Lucerne, traveling through the breathtaking Alps.
Arrive in Lucerne and check into the luxurious Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa, offering panoramic views of Lake Lucerne. Spend your first afternoon exploring Lucerne's well-preserved medieval old town. Don't miss the iconic Chapel Bridge and the moving Lion Monument.
On your second day, take a boat cruise on Lake Lucerne to soak in the surrounding alpine scenery. In the afternoon, ascend Mount Pilatus via the world's steepest cogwheel railway. Enjoy dinner at your hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, savoring innovative Swiss cuisine with a view.
Use your third day for a day trip to Interlaken, the adventure capital of Switzerland. Choose from activities like paragliding over the lakes, hiking in the Jungfrau region or simply enjoying the mountain views from a charming café. Return to Lucerne for a traditional Swiss fondue dinner.
Day 9-10: Bern
For your final day in Switzerland, we'll arrange a short train ride to the capital city, Bern.
Check into the elegant Bellevue Palace Bern, located in the heart of the Old Town. Spend your day exploring Bern's UNESCO-listed city center. Visit the Zytglogge (Clock Tower), climb the Münster cathedral tower for panoramic views and stroll through the covered shopping arcades.
On your last morning, relax at the hotel's spa or do some last-minute shopping for Swiss chocolates and watches. We'll arrange for a comfortable transfer to Bern Airport for your departure flight.
Need to know
By focusing on 4 main destinations - Florence, Milan, Lucerne, and Bern - you'll have time to truly appreciate each destination's unique character while enjoying luxurious accommodations and authentic local experiences. Remember, this itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you're interested in more art and history, outdoor adventures or culinary experiences, we can tailor the trip to create your ideal Italian-Swiss getaway.
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Italy. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Lizz Callaway's guide, Romantic Splendor: A 7-Day Luxury Honeymoon in Cinque Terre, Italy.