Italy and the French Riviera and Bernina Express Tour

Arrival and Milan's landmarks

We meet at the Turkish Airlines counter in the International Departures Terminal at Istanbul Airport 3 hours before departure. After completing baggage, ticket and passport procedures, we depart for Milan at 06.55 on Turkish Airlines flight TK1873. Following our arrival at 10.25 local time, we begin a panoramic city tour in the vehicle waiting for us at the airport. Sights along the route include Piazza Maggiore Square, San Petronio Basilica, Podesta Palace and the City Hall.

After the city tour, we set off for Milan. In Milan, a city with a rich 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. At the end of 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 may join the optional Lakes Tour (Como & Lugano) and Outlet Center tour. (80 Euro) The first stop is Como. Named after Lake Como, the city attracts visitors from around the world with its natural surroundings. Como is known for its architecture reflecting Gothic and Renaissance styles, as well as the homes of world-famous figures such as Madonna and George Clooney. After our visit to Como, our second stop is 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 tour of the city, known for its scenery and shopping streets, we stop for shopping at the outlet, which features world-famous brands. At the end of the tour, we transfer to our hotel. 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, taking in the scenery of Lombardy along the way. Upon arrival in Tirano, we board the Bernina Train (Bernina Express), which travels on one of the world's steepest railway lines, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the journey, we have opportunities to enjoy the surrounding scenery and take photographs. When we reach St. Moritz, we walk through the streets of this Alpine town and breathe in the mountain air by the lake. After exploring the area and stopping for photographs, 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, named after its shape resembling a kneecap, is the capital of the Liguria region. Named European Capital of Culture in 2004, the city has a history dating back to the 5th century BC. Genoa is also known for being the capital of the Republic of Genoa and 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 depart for Nice in France. Known as the Pearl of the French Riviera, Nice is known for its history, beaches and lively city life. On our tour of this Mediterranean coastal city, sights include the promenade La Promenade des Anglais, Old Nice and its narrow streets, Massena Square, the Flower Market and Jean Medecin Boulevard. At the end of the tour, we transfer to our hotel, followed by 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 ramparts, the town has many art galleries and workshops. Popular with art and culture enthusiasts, it is among the favourite places of artists such as Picasso, Renoir, Yves Montand and Simone Signoret. Marc Chagall’s grave is also here.

After exploring the town, we will depart for Antibes. This historic port city in southeastern France lies on the Mediterranean coast along the French Riviera. Antibes is known for its narrow medieval streets, old harbour and Provence market. Grimaldi Castle, on the seafront, now houses the Picasso Museum.

The final stop on the tour will be Cannes. Located in southeastern France, Cannes is one of the French Riviera’s well-known holiday destinations. It is known worldwide for its festivals, especially the Cannes Film Festival. After our visit to the city, which is also known for its beaches, luxury shopping and lively nightlife, 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, it is known for its luxury lifestyle, casinos, marinas and coastal views. Despite its small area, it is known for its wealth. Monte Carlo, one of Monaco’s 5 districts, is the wealthiest district in the country. 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 maritime 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 can join the optional France’s Hidden Paradise (Aix En Provence) tour at an extra cost. (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 historic character and lively city life attract visitors. On the city tour, we see 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 10.25 on Turkish Airlines flight TK1366. The tour will end upon arrival at 14.45 local time.