Follow Us:
Italy’s Lake Como & The French Riviera
July 6 - 14, 2026
Join Michael Russo and Anthony LaPanta on an unforgettable journey through Italy and the French Riviera. From the sparkling waters of Lake Como to the elegance of Portofino, the charm of Nice, and the glamour of Monte Carlo and Monaco, this 2026 tour blends breathtaking scenery, world-class cuisine, and the magic of Europe’s most iconic coastlines.
Highlights & Inclusions:
-
Optional Airfare included from Minneapolis
-
Daily Breakfast
-
Welcome & Farewell Dinners
-
Hosted by Michael Russo & Anthony LaPanta
-
Professional Tour Director throughout the journey
-
Local Italian & French city guides
-
Boat excursion on Lake Como to Bellagio & Varenna
-
Italian Winery tour & tasting with light lunch
-
Seaside stay in Santa Margherita Ligure with excursion to Portofino
-
Scenic stop in the hilltop village of Eze
-
Guided touring in Nice, Monaco & see Monte Carlo
-
French vineyard visit with wine tasting
-
Centrally located 4-star hotels throughout
-
Leisure time for your own experiences
Why choose to travel to Italy & France with us!
Walk the shores of Lake Como, discover the colorful charm of Portofino, and experience the elegance of Nice, Monaco, and the French Riviera—all in one unforgettable journey. Every detail of this tour has been carefully planned, combining iconic highlights with authentic local experiences.
You’ll enjoy well-located hotels, expert local guides, and a seamless itinerary that balances sightseeing with time to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
With Michael Russo and Anthony LaPanta as your hosts, the trip will be filled with not only remarkable destinations but also laughter, camaraderie, and memories to last a lifetime. Space is limited—don’t miss your chance to be part of this special experience.
Day 1: July 6
Fly To Italy
Your adventure begins as you board your overnight transatlantic flight from Minneapolis to Italy. Relax and get ready for a week filled with lakeside beauty, coastal charm, and Riviera glamour.
Board your overnight flight from MSP on July 6, arriving Italy early on July 7. The trip officially begins at the hotel in Como at 5:00 PM on July 7.
Airport transfers are included for guests traveling on the group flight, as well as for those arriving earlier in the day who can join that same transfer from Milan’s Malpensa Airport (approximately 45 minutes from Como).
If your flight arrives later than the group’s, you will need to make your own way to the hotel by train, taxi, or rideshare service. UPDATED GROUP FLIGHT INFO WILL BE AVAILABLE IN OCTOBER
Day 2: July 7
Arrive In Milan, Italy
Flights should be booked to arrive on 7th July. Arrive at Milan’s Malpensa Airport where you’ll be met by your Tour Director. From here, travel north to Lake Como, a jewel of northern Italy framed by the snow-capped Alps and lined with charming villages. Check into your hotel and take a little time to refresh after your travels. In the evening, gather with your hosts and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner—the perfect start to your journey together. The optional airfare package including the schedule with airport transfers will be noted when they become available. Interested in seeing Milan? If so, you will want to book land only and arrive a day or two earlier to explore Milan.
Included Meals: Welcome Dinner
Day 3: July 8
Lake Como - Bellagio & Varenna
After breakfast, embark on a scenic boat excursion across Lake Como, one of Europe’s most breathtaking settings. Cruise past elegant villas, terraced gardens, and dramatic mountain peaks as you make your way to two of the lake’s most celebrated towns. Stroll the narrow cobblestone lanes of Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of the Lake,” with its boutiques, cafés, and spectacular lake views. Continue to Varenna, a charming fishing village with pastel houses, flower-lined walkways, and a peaceful waterfront. Return to Como in the late afternoon, with the evening free to dine or explore at your leisure.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: July 9
Piedmont & The Riviera
This morning, leave Lake Como and travel by private coach through the rolling vineyards of Piedmont, a region renowned for its world-class wines. Stop at a family-run winery for a guided tour of the cellars, followed by a tasting of their vintages and a light lunch paired with local specialties. Continue south to the beautiful seaside resort of Santa Margherita Ligure on the Italian Riviera. Nestled between hills and the sea, this elegant town offers palm-lined promenades and lively piazzas. Enjoy the evening at leisure to discover its coastal charm.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: July 10
Santa Margherita Ligure & Portofino
This morning, set out on a short boat ride to Portofino, one of the most iconic towns on the Italian Riviera. Known for its colorful harbor, elegant boutiques, and lively cafés, Portofino has long been a favorite retreat for artists, celebrities, and travelers alike. Stroll the charming piazzetta, browse the shops, or climb up to the castle for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline.
In the afternoon, return to Santa Margherita Ligure with free time to relax by the sea, savor a gelato, or simply enjoy the lively Riviera atmosphere. For those seeking more adventure, an optional train excursion to the Cinque Terre will be available, offering the chance to explore the picturesque villages that cling to the cliffs along this famous stretch of coastline. Dinner is on your own this evening, with plenty of inviting restaurants to choose from in Santa Margherita.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: July 11
French Riviera & Nice
This morning, bid farewell to Italy as you journey west along the spectacular Ligurian coastline and cross into France. The scenery along this route is nothing short of breathtaking, with rugged cliffs, sparkling blue waters, and charming villages tucked into the hillsides.
En route, pause to explore the enchanting medieval village of Èze, dramatically perched high on a cliff above the Côte d’Azur. Wander its winding cobblestone streets, discover artisan boutiques and perfumeries, and perhaps climb up to the exotic garden for sweeping, picture-perfect views of the Riviera stretching far below. With its timeless atmosphere and dramatic setting, Èze is often considered one of the most beautiful hilltop villages in all of France.
Continue on to Nice, the sun-soaked capital of the French Riviera. Here, wide boulevards, lively markets, and the famous Promenade des Anglais set the scene for your stay. After checking in, gather with your fellow travelers for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating your arrival on the glittering French coast.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: July 12
Monaco & French Winery
Today’s excursion takes you into the tiny Principality of Monaco, a country that measures barely one square mile yet offers a fascinating mix of history, elegance, and glamour. Begin in the Old Town of Monaco-Ville, where narrow medieval lanes lead to the Prince’s Palace, official residence of the Grimaldi family. Nearby stands the cathedral, where Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace were married and later laid to rest—an evocative stop that connects past and present.
From here, continue through the modern quarter, where Monaco’s reputation for luxury comes alive. Admire the beautiful gardens, sleek yachts moored in the harbor, and the polished boulevards that are lined with designer shops and luxury cars. While you’ll pass by the famous Monte Carlo Casino, the highlight is the chic atmosphere of this glamorous district, best enjoyed from the lively square just outside.
In the afternoon, leave the city behind and travel into the French countryside to visit a local vineyard. Learn about the traditions of winemaking in this sun-kissed region and sample wines produced from the surrounding hills. It’s the perfect contrast to the bustling Riviera—an opportunity to slow down, savor, and soak in the beauty of Provence.
Return to Nice in the late afternoon, with the evening free to enjoy the city at your own pace—whether that means a seaside stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, a visit to the Old Town markets, or a relaxed dinner in one of Nice’s many inviting restaurants.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: July 13
Nice & Leisure Day
Enjoy a leisurely final day in Nice, with the morning free to experience the charm of this Riviera capital. Stroll the palm-lined Promenade des Anglais, wander through the colorful flower and food markets in the Old Town, or relax in a seaside café as you soak in the atmosphere of the Côte d’Azur.
For those eager to explore further, optional excursions will be available to nearby Cannes or Antibes, each offering its own unique character—Cannes with its film festival flair and Antibes with its historic walls and lively marina.
In the evening, gather with your hosts and fellow travelers for a festive farewell dinner. Raise a glass to new friendships and to the unforgettable memories made along the shores of Lake Como and the sun-drenched coasts of Italy and France—a journey filled with beauty, culture, and shared memories.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Day 9: July 14
Fly Home or Extend your stay
After breakfast, transfer to Nice Airport for your flight home. You’ll return with wonderful memories of glittering lakes, Riviera sunshine, and the experiences that made this journey unforgettable.
For those wishing to extend their adventure, Nice is the perfect gateway to continue exploring Europe—whether discovering more of France, returning to Italy, or setting out for a new destination.
(Please refer to the group flights for the return home schedule).
Included Meals: Breakfast
Important Information About Group Flights
If you choose to book a group flight, please be aware that seat assignments are not provided by the airline until the day of check-in. This is standard airline policy for group reservations.
If you require a specific seat type, such as an aisle, window, or an upgraded seat, we recommend not purchasing a group ticket. Instead, we’d be happy to provide you with a separate quote that allows for specific seat selection.
While airlines will make every effort to seat you next to your traveling companion, this cannot be guaranteed.
Thank you for your understanding, and we appreciate your flexibility when booking group flights!
.png)
.png)
Tour Price:
LAND ONLY RATE
$5999
PER PERSON
(Based on 2 people in a room) INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED
AIRFARE INCLUDED RATE
$7799
PER PERSON
(Based on 2 people in a room) AIRFARE INCLUDED OUT OF MSP
LAND ONLY - SINGLE RATE
$7799
PER PERSON
(Based on 1 person in a room) LAND ONLY - AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED
AIRFARE INCLUDED RATE
$9599
SINGLE RATE
(Based on 1 person in a room) AIRFARE INCLUDED OUT OF MSP
Trip Deposit
A $500 non-refundable per person deposit is due at the time of registration. When you book a trip, your deposit secures your seat and allows us to confirm hotels and services on your behalf. These deposits are paid directly to our hotel partners, who require them to hold space for our group. For this reason, deposits are non-refundable if you cancel. We appreciate your understanding, as this policy ensures that every guest has guaranteed accommodations and a smooth travel experience.
Final Payment
March 8, 2026
