Italy and the French Riviera and Bernina Express Tour

Arrival and Milan's landmarks

We meet in front of the Turkish Airlines counter at the Istanbul Airport International Departures Terminal 3 hours before departure. After completing baggage, ticket and passport procedures, we depart for Milan at 08.10 on Turkish Airlines flight TK1873. Upon arrival at 09.05 local time, we begin a panoramic city tour in the vehicle waiting for us at the airport. Sights on the tour include Piazza Maggiore Square, San Petronio Basilica, Podesta Palace and the City Hall. After the city tour, we set off for Milan. In Milan, known for its historical and cultural heritage, sights include Castello Sforzesco (Milan Castle), Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, one of the world's oldest shopping centres, Duomu Cathedral and La Scala, one of the world's largest theatre buildings. After the tour, we transfer to our hotel. We spend the night at the hotel.

Lake Como and Lugano

After breakfast at the hotel, guests who wish can join the optional Lakes Tour (Como & Lugano) and Outlet Center tour. (80 Euro) The first stop on the tour will be Como. Named after Lake Como, the city attracts many visitors from around the world with its natural surroundings. Como is known for its architecture reflecting Gothic and Renaissance styles, as well as homes owned here by world-famous figures such as Madonna and George Clooney. After visiting Como, our second stop will be Lugano. Located in southern Switzerland at the foot of the Alps, Lake Lugano brings together the cultural and natural features of Switzerland and Italy. After our visit to the city, known for its scenery and shopping streets, we will stop for shopping at the outlet, which features world-famous brands. At the end of the tour, a transfer to the hotel will be provided. Overnight at the hotel.

The Bernina Express

After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the historic town of Tirano on the Italy-Switzerland border, passing through the scenery of Lombardy. Upon arrival in Tirano, we board the Bernina Train (Bernina Express), which travels along one of the world’s steepest railway lines, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the journey, we have opportunities to enjoy the views and take photographs. Upon arrival in St. Moritz, we walk through the streets of this Alpine town and breathe in the mountain air by the lake. After completing our tour of the area and our photo stops, we leave the Alps and begin our return journey. In the evening, we return to our hotel in Milan and spend the night there.

Genoa to Nice

After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for a city tour of Genoa. The port city of Genoa, whose name is said to come from its resemblance to a kneecap, is the capital of the Liguria region. Named European Capital of Culture in 2004, the city's history dates back to the 5th century BC, when it began to appear in historical records. Genoa is also known for having served as the capital of the Republic of Genoa and as the hometown of navigator Christopher Columbus. Sights on our city tour include Piazza de Ferrari Square, San Lorenzo Cathedral and Torre Della Lanterna Tower.

After the tour, we set off for Nice in France. Known as the Pearl of the French Riviera, Nice is noted for its history, beaches and lively city life. Our tour of this Mediterranean coastal city includes La Promenade des Anglais, Old Nice and its narrow streets, Massena Square, the Flower Market and Jean Medecin Boulevard. After the tour, we transfer to our hotel for free time. Overnight at the hotel.

Riviera towns and Monaco

After breakfast at the hotel, guests who wish may join the optional Towns and Cities (Paul De Vence & Antibes & Cannes) tour at an extra charge. (80 Euro) The first stop will be the town of Paul De Vence. Known for its medieval streets, stone houses and walls, the town has many art galleries and studios. Popular with art and culture enthusiasts and loved by artists such as Picasso, Renoir, Yves Montand and Simone Signoret, the town is also home to Marc Chagall’s grave.

After our visit here, we will continue to Antibes. This historic port city in southeastern France, on the French Riviera, is known for its Mediterranean coastal setting and historic character. Its narrow medieval streets, old port and Provence market are among the city’s highlights. Grimaldi Castle, on the seafront, now houses the Picasso Museum.

The final stop on the tour will be Cannes. This resort city in southeastern France, on the French Riviera, is known worldwide, particularly for the Cannes Film Festival. The city is also known for its beaches, luxury shopping and lively nightlife. After our visit to Cannes, we will transfer to our hotel.

In the evening, guests who wish may join the optional Principality of Monaco/Monte Carlo tour at an extra charge. (80 Euro) Monaco is a small principality on the French Riviera in the south of France. Located on the Mediterranean coast, the country is known for its luxury lifestyle, casinos, marinas and wealth. Monte Carlo, one of Monaco’s 5 districts, is the country’s wealthiest district. The James Bond films Never Say Never Again, Golden Eye and Casino Royale were filmed at the Monte Carlo Casino in the centre of Monte Carlo. After the tour, we will transfer to our hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Marseille and Aix-en-Provence

After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for Marseille. Located on the Mediterranean coast in southern France, Marseille is a large, busy port city. One of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean, it has a long history of culture and seaside tourism. It was the European Capital of Culture in 2013. Upon arrival, we see Notre Dame de la Gadre Basilica, the Old Port and Marseille Cathedral. After the city tour, there is free time.

Guests who wish may join the optional France’s Hidden Paradise (Aix En Provence) tour at an extra charge. (55 Euro) Aix-en-Provence is a historic city in the Provence region of southern France. Aix is known for the wide avenues and squares in its centre, its historic buildings, and its arts and cultural events. Its rich history and lively city life attract visitors. Sights on the city tour include the Four Dolphins Fountain, the Priests’ Fountain, Albertas and Cardeurs Squares, Saint Sauveur Cathedral and Cours Mirabeau. After the tour, we transfer to our hotel in Marseille. We spend the night at the hotel.

Return to Istanbul

After breakfast at the hotel, you will have free time. You will then be transferred to the airport at the time specified by the guide. After baggage and ticket procedures are completed, you will depart for Istanbul at 18.05 on Turkish Airlines flight TK1368. The tour will end upon arrival at 23.20 local time.