A Journey through the Peaks and Shores of Lake Como
Extend your stay in Italy when attending the Lake Como 2026 conference. Experience the beauty and culture of the area surrounding Lake Como, explore Tuscany, Cinque Terre, and the Italian countryside with these options for pre- and post-conference adventures.
Lake Como offers the perfect base for exploring a range of incredible destinations, each just a short journey away. Start with Milan, just an hour from the lake, where you can visit the iconic Duomo di Milano, see Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, and shop at the glamorous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. For a scenic adventure, ride the Bernina Express, a UNESCO-listed train that winds through the breathtaking Swiss Alps. If you’re seeking a mix of Swiss charm and Italian elegance, head to Lugano, Switzerland, a nearby gem where you can stroll along the picturesque waterfront, relax in Parco Ciani, and savor authentic Swiss chocolate. And of course a visit to Venice, just a few hours by train, where romantic canals, iconic bridges, and the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica await. Each of these options offers a unique experience close to Lake Como.
If you want to explore Italy further consider the Tuscany, Cinque Terre & the Portofino Coast 8 day tour to explore Florence’s Renaissance treasures, such as a private tour of the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Uffizi Galleries. After Florence, unwind along the Italian Riviera at a boutique hotel that offers access to the Cinque Terre’s scenic coastal villages and vibrant landscapes, along with tastings in the vineyards.
Last but not least, take a look at Classic Journey’s Walking Tours, which combines the highlights of Tuscany and the Cinque Terre, from vineyard walks and olive grove strolls to an immersive experience in the colourful cliffside villages.
Pre-Conference
Looking for a great start or end to your time in Florence with CPE? This exclusive 8-day experience, curated for a small group of 22-26 guests, offers intimate and immersive encounters with some of Italy’s most iconic settings.
Begin in Florence, where the city’s Renaissance legacy reveals itself in a private, early-morning tour of the Basilica di Santa Croce, one of Italy’s most treasured historic sites. Delve deeper into the art world with a guided visit to the Uffizi Galleries, home to masterpieces that epitomise Italian creativity and passion.
Next, you’ll explore Lucca, a medieval gem, and venture into the culinary heart of Italy. Here, local chefs guide you through a hands-on cooking experience, bringing Tuscan flavours and time-honored techniques to life.
Continue to the Italian Riviera, where you’ll stay in a serene retreat, it’s your gateway to Cinque Terre National Park, where trails wind through cliffside villages and vibrant coastal landscapes.
Visit renowned vineyards and olive groves for tastings that celebrate the diverse flavours of the region. This tour is the perfect way to extend your time in beautiful Italy.
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Tuscany, Cinque Terre & the Portofino Coast 8 Day Land Tour
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Inclusions:
Small groups from 22 – 26 guests for a more personal travel experience
Private, early-opening visit to Florence's Basilica di Santa Croce, final resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo, Rossini and more
In Florence, explore the fabulous Uffizi Galleries on a guided visit
Learn to cook Italian style when you join local chefs in Lucca for a hands-on lesson in pasta making with a wine and olive oil tasting
Spend two nights along the Italian Riviera at an elegant hotel that was once a private villa, a perfect setting to enjoy the magnificent scenery in the region.
Explore Cinque Terre National Park's coastal paths amidst breathtaking views
If you wish, join us for a bicycling tour atop Lucca's well-preserved walls
Enjoy a docent-led visit at La Cervara, a 14th-century abbey renowned for its stunning gardens overlooking the sea.
Attend a wine and olive oil tasting in Tuscany
Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
15 meals; service charges, gratuities to local guides, admission fees, taxes and porterage
Post-Conference
7 day Walking Tour through Italy- Classic Journey
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Interested in heading to Italy before the Lake Como conference? Consider this Walking Tour with Classic Journey. This exclusive walking tour allows you to experience the best of Italian culture, food, and landscapes, from Florence to the Ligurian Sea.
The journey starts in Florence, where you’ll travel into the Chianti countryside to visit a renowned winery. Here, a private tour and tasting set the stage before you take a scenic walk to the hotel, a centuries-old villa owned by a count and countess. The Tuscan days are filled with walks past olive groves, encounters with local artisans, and stops to taste traditional sheep’s-milk cheese. A highlight includes a vineyard walk leading to a home-cooked lunch and private wine tasting in the historic cellars of Castello della Paneretta.
Walking along rustic paths, you’ll catch sight of the towers of San Gimignano, rising in the distance like a medieval dream. After experiencing Tuscany’s art and flavours, your route heads toward the coast, where you’ll settle in Santa Margherita overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
The coastal adventure begins with the enchanting villages of the Cinque Terre - Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Follow the ancient footpaths connecting these colourful, cliffside villages or take the coastal train. A boat or footpath will lead you to the secluded monastery of San Fruttuoso, where you’ll also visit nearby Portofino. Evenings bring lively trattoria dinners, where you savour the full tapestry of Tuscan cuisine.
Returning to Florence before the conference, you’ll dive into Renaissance art with a guided tour featuring Michelangelo's David, Brunelleschi's dome, and the bustling San Lorenzo market. Explore the timeless streets, sample traditional foods, and immerse yourself in the artistic legacy of this renowned city.
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Milan, Lugano, Swizterland and Venice - close by destinations
Our top recommendations close by to Lake Como.
Milan – The City of Art, Fashion, and History
A visit to Milan is a journey into the heart of Italian culture. Known as a global fashion capital, the city also boasts some of the world's most iconic landmarks. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Duomo di Milano, a Gothic masterpiece with panoramic rooftop views, and Leonardo da Vinci’s legendary fresco, The Last Supper. For shopping enthusiasts, the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers luxury boutiques in a stunning 19th-century arcade. Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or fashion aficionado, Milan is a dynamic destination just an hour from Lake Como.
Bernina Express – A Scenic Adventure Through the Alps
The Bernina Express is more than a train ride—it’s an unforgettable experience through some of Europe’s most dramatic landscapes. This UNESCO World Heritage route takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the Swiss Alps, offering stunning views of snow-dusted peaks, turquoise lakes, and verdant valleys. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers, the trip provides a relaxing escape into one of Europe’s most pristine environments. Whether you’re traveling in summer or winter, the Bernina Express promises breathtaking scenery at every turn.
Lugano, Switzerland – Where Swiss Precision Meets Italian Elegance
A short drive from Lake Como, Lugano is a hidden gem that blends Swiss efficiency with Italian flair. Nestled along the shores of Lake Lugano, this charming city offers a tranquil escape. Stroll through the idyllic Parco Ciani, explore the city’s museums and galleries, or simply relax by the picturesque waterfront. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in Swiss chocolate and other culinary delights. With its laid-back atmosphere and cultural richness, Lugano is an ideal destination for a day trip or an overnight stay.
Venice – The Romantic Finale
There’s no better way to conclude your Italian adventure than with a trip to Venice, the City of Canals. Renowned for its unique waterways, this magical city invites you to wander its narrow streets, cross its iconic bridges, and glide along its canals in a gondola. Visit the awe-inspiring St. Mark’s Basilica and the grand Doge’s Palace, then relax with a spritz at a café in Piazza San Marco. With its rich history, world-class art, and enchanting atmosphere, Venice offers a perfect blend of romance and discovery.
Request a tailored quote about these pre and post conference options.
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