Lake Iseo - Italy's Hidden Lake by Rail

Discover the rich culture and landscapes of northern Italy on this immersive journey from Turin to the shores of Lake Iseo. Travel by rail through scenic countryside, explore elegant cities, and experience charming lakeside villages. From historic streets and local markets to private cruises and regional tastings, each day offers a blend of guided insight and free time. With opportunities to savour fine wines and authentic cuisine, this tour showcases the character and flavours of Piedmont and Lombardy.

ITINERARY

Day 1: London to Turin
Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris, continuing by rail through the picturesque French and Italian countryside to elegant Turin. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy a light plate.

Day 2: Turin to Lake Iseo
This morning, discover the grandeur of Turin on a guided tour. Stroll along its stately boulevards and arcaded streets, admire magnificent Baroque façades, and explore historic piazzas that reflect the city’s royal past as the former capital of the House of Savoy. Later, travel by train to Brescia, then transfer by coach (30–40 minutes) to our hotel near Lake Iseo. Welcome drink and dinner with wine this evening.

Day 3: Lake Iseo and Monte Isola
Discover the hidden beauty of Lake Iseo on a private morning cruise, passing the tiny islands of Loreto and San Paolo before docking at Monte Isola - one of the largest lake islands in Europe. Enjoy a guided visit of the charming fishing village of Peschiera Maraglio, followed by free time for lunch (own expense). Return by ferry and finish the day with a visit to a local olive mill, where we’ll sample fine, locally produced olive oil.

Day 4: Bergamo
Spend a full day exploring the captivating city of Bergamo. Ascend by funicular to the beautifully preserved Città Alta (Upper Town), for medieval streets, Renaissance buildings, and sweeping views. A guided walking tour reveals highlights including Piazza Vecchia, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, and a tasting of  Bergamo's famous stracciatella gelato. Free time for lunch (own expense) and afternoon at leisure.

Day 5: Lovere
Travel by ferry across Lake Iseo to the picturesque town of Lovere. Walk along the lakeside promenade and atmospheric old streets, and visit the impressive Basilica di Santa Maria in Valvendra. After free time for lunch and exploration, return to Sulzano by ferry, enjoying more glorious lake views along the way.

Day 6: Brescia
Discover historic Brescia on a guided walking tour this morning. Explore Roman remains, including the Capitoline Temple, alongside lively piazzas and elegant architecture that reflect its long and varied past. Following the tour, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 30 travellers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to travelling with luggage on trains, getting on and off ferries, and the amount of time spent walking and standing for viewing at attractions. For further information, please visit the mobility page on our website, or call our team if you have any questions prior to booking. 

INCLUDED

• Return rail from London St Pancras to Brescia
• Two nights’ accommodation on at the four-star Best Western Crystal Palace Hotel (or similar), Turin, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Six nights’ accommodation on at the four-star Rivalago Hotel, Sulzano, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome drink 
• 2 dinners
• 1 cold plate
• Breakfast daily
• All tours and entrance fees as detailed
• Station transfers and full coach touring itinerary
• Accompanied by a tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement - £799
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

PLEASE NOTE: As with most trains, passengers are responsible for carrying baggage onto and off the train. Baggage can be stored on overhead shelves or at the entrance to the carriages. Trollies are available at St Pancras and Paris, but bags do need to be carried on to the platform.

Travel Editions recommends a luggage delivery service called thebaggageman, where your suitcase can be picked up from your home before departure and delivered straight to your hotel; therefore removing the worry about carrying your cases onto and off the trains. Please click here for more information and we have arranged a 10% discount exclusive to Travel Editions clients off the thebaggageman service. Tel: 01844 264890

HOTEL

Best Western Crystal Palace Hotel (or similar), Turin
Located in the heart of Turin, this four-star hotel is close to Porta Nuova railway station and within easy reach of the city’s historic centre. The hotel’s contemporary rooms are well-appointed with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, and en-suite bathrooms with premium toiletries, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Hotel Website