Milan & Switzerland - Fly & Drive Tour

About the destination: With an almost Northern European feel, yet radiating Italian style, Milan is Italy's most cosmopolitan city. The capital of Lombardy is both industrious and glamorous - influential in industries from finance to fashion and, of course, football. But what gives Milan its unique charm is its status as the epicentre of Italian fashion and interior design. International fashion enthusiasts, designers, supermodels and paparazzi flock to the city twice a year for its spring and autumn fairs: Milan, which has meticulously maintained its reputation for flair, drama and creativity, is Italy's natural stage. This is undoubtedly one of the best places in Italy to shop, or simply window shop. Milan is the primary industrial, commercial and financial hub of Italy and as such, it unsurprisingly has a business-like appearance. At first glance, it may lack the wow factor, but if you take the time and are determined to explore Milan’s streets, you’ll discover its aesthetically pleasing treasures – and they do exist. Navigate through the modern metropolitan hustle and bustle, and you will stumble upon impressive churches and palaces, the charming Navigli area, the stylish Brera district and vibrant university quarter, and it goes without saying that the city is home to landmarks such as the Duomo, and Leonardo da Vinci's 15th century masterpiece The Last Supper. Milan cannot be criticised when it comes to having a good time. The Milanese know how to celebrate – and they don’t waste time getting started. Nightlife tends to kick off at 6pm; enjoying an aperitivo in which locals unwind with post-work drinks and snacks before heading home is more the norm than the exception. So whether you’re looking for affordable fashion, an alternative city break or a chance to paint the town red, Milan has undoubtedly got it covered.

About the destination: The wee town of Stresa is part of the province of Verbano - Cusio - Ossola, in the Piedmont region, and has a modest population of 5,155. The town showcases its tourist appeal through the natural beauty that surrounds it. Being only a half-hour from the Alps and the Lake, the town is an ideal destination for families, relaxation, enjoying nature and escaping the hectic pace of the big city.

About the destination: Courmayeur is situated at the 4,016 feet-marker of Mont Blanc, nestled within a lush basin surrounded by firs, spruces and larches, and of course, mountain peaks, glaciers and other stunning and traditional towns along the Dora Baltea River that crosses the entirety of Valle d'Aosta. The warm welcome that locals extend to their visitors and their attention to detail is evident in the numerous accommodation options – from luxury hotels to typical Alpine baitas, from the historic cafes in the town centre to the mountain huts near the slopes. And it was in Courmayeur that the story of the ski-lift began: in 1908 the Donzelli, Gilberti and Lora Totino families commissioned the first cable transport. Then, in 1939, this pioneering idea led to the Mont Blanc Society, which worked to realise the funicular running from La Palud to Punta Helbronner. Thus access to the mountains was expanded to include everyone, not just professional mountaineers. Today, with more than 62 miles of pistes, Courmayeur has established itself at the top of its winter sports offering, not only in Italy but on a European level, as well. Indeed, its alpine ski zone is frequented by skiers from all over the world. For Nordic skiers, there's nothing better than days filled with fun in Val Ferret, where slopes abound for both experts and beginners. These run in part next to a pedestrian path on the snow, allowing for pleasant nature walks just a few miles short of the town centre. Not only that, but backcountry skiing is also an option, with a descent over the Toula Glacier and over those of the Vallée Blanche; from here one can reach Chamonix – on Mont Blanc's French slope – by way of the the Mer de Glace Glacier. If you happen to be in Courmayeur, don’t pass up crossing Mont Blanc, Europe's highest mountaintop. With the Funivia Monte Bianco or Mont Blanc Funicular, visitors can ascend to over 6,562 ft in just a few minutes. During this trip - that begins in La Palud (at the heights of 4,347 ft) and arrives to Le Pavillon (at 7,129 ft a.s.l.) - expect to be rewarded with a magnificent view of the glaciers and grand peaks of the Alps. You can even visit an Alpine botanical garden and look out upon awe-inspiring glaciers, Alpine peaks, and the icicles of Mont Blanc. Not only that, but Courmayeur is one of Alpine mountaineering's historic capitals, a topic on which tourists can learn more at the Museo Alpino Duca degli Abruzzi, located in the town centre's Casa delle Guide and displaying a collection of documents, heirlooms and climbing apparatus. Easy to get to in any season of the year (from France and the rest of Europe by way of the Mont Blanc tunnel, and from other Italian Regions via the Autostrada connecting Turin to Mont Blanc), Courmayeur is an excellent holiday choice even in summer. What matters is its year-round natural beauty and its cosmopolitan atmosphere, both cosy and intimate yet social at the same time!

About the destination: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a parish in the Haute-Savoie department in the Rhône-Alpes region in south-eastern France. Located near the massive peaks of the Aiguilles Rouges and most notably the Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix is one of the oldest ski resorts in France and is known as the "gateway to the European Cascades." The north side of the summit of Mont Blanc, and therefore the summit itself are part of the village of Chamonix. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Mer de Glace. One of the biggest glaciers in continental Europe, accessible by the Montenvers rack railway. • Aiguille du Midi cable car. One of the highest cable cars in the world. • Brevent cable car. • Musée des cristaux. A museum exhibiting an impressive collection of crystals, mostly from Chamonix, but also from the rest of the Alps and worldwide.

About the destination: Annecy in the North of the French Alps, is known in the tourism world as the Venice of Savoie. The medieval town centre, built around a 14th Century Chateau, is crisscrossed by small canals and streams flowing from Lac Annecy, which is clean, fresh and a wonderful azure colour. Annecy is also the administrative centre of the department of Haute-Savoie. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS Annecy’s Castle This is a restored castle that towers over the old French town of Annecy in the Haute-Savoie department. It was purchased by the town, restored and converted into a museum. The castle is listed as a historic monument by the French Ministry of Culture. The castle was constructed between the 12th and 16th centuries. Palais de l’Isle This is the most iconic image of Annecy. Located on a triangular islet surrounded by the Canal du Thiou, the whimsically turreted, 12th-century Palais de l’Isle has served as a lordly residence, courthouse and prison over the centuries. Today, Annecy’s most visible landmark hosts exhibits on local architecture and history.

About the destination: The city of Geneva has a population of 200,000 inhabitants and is one of the largest in Switzerland, it's the capital of the canton and is located on Lac Leman, also known as Lake Geneva, it's divided by the Rhône River, which emerges from the lake. It's a lovely and charming city with numerous bridges. The Gothic Cathédrale de St-Pierre towers over the vieille ville, Geneva’s old section of narrow, winding streets and homes adorned with flowers. Climb the north tower for a spectacular view of the old town. Most of the city’s museums are in the vieille ville. The Musée d’Art et d’Histoire prides itself on its eclecticisms. Exhibits range from ancient Greek vases to Dadaism art. The Petit Palais houses a wonderful collection of modern art in an intimate 19th century palace. Geneva’s lakefront is beautiful. The audacious Jet d’Eau is one of the world’s tallest fountains. Don’t miss the well-kept Jardin Anglais with its famous Horloge Fleurie, a large clock adorned with flowers, erected in homage to Geneva’s clock industry. Geneva remains the international city it has been for centuries, epitomizing the Swiss neutrality which has welcomed such diverse visitors as Lenin and Borges. Today, diplomats and the executives of countless corporations fill Geneva’s offices, though seldom its spotless streets. Sedate and picturesque, Geneva is the most pleasant city in Switzerland.

About the destination: On the shores of Lac Léman at the foot of towering Alpine peaks, Lausanne is the seat of the International Olympic Committee. In summer, the Quai d’Ouchy becomes the equivalent of a Mediterranean resort with sailing, swimming, and waterskiing. But Lausanne was once the seat of bishops, and its old sections retain an ecclesiastic, medieval air. The rue Cité Devant and rue Cité Derrière comprise the heart of the old city. These medieval streets lead to the beautiful Gothic Cathédrale. Famed for its rose windows, it’s one of the outstanding monuments of Switzerland. The Château Saint-Maire is a short walk up from the cathedral and has a large and sunny terrace, which offers a good view of Lac Léman. Place de la Palud, nearby, has a large fountain where young people congregate. Place St-François, a small, quaint shopping district, is also a good spot for people-watching. The church of St-François has brilliantly coloured stained glass windows and a 15th century steeple. The Olympic Museum presents the philosophy of the Olympics and recounts their history. The quai de Belgique is a lakeside promenade flanked by flowers, immaculate gardens, small fountains and benches. Nature-lovers will also enjoy the statues and placid ponds of the Parc du Denantou at the end of quai d’Ouchy. Home to two highly regarded universities, Lausanne is a happening and dynamic city offering many attractions and activities. Lausanne is, as well, a city for active night owls, over the past decade Lausanne has transformed itself into the nightlife capital of French-speaking Switzerland: bars, nightclubs, pubs, discos, jazz clubs, theatres, etc. The city offers a wide range of establishments. If you happen to be in Lausanne in July, make sure you don't miss the Festival de la Cite. In the streets of the old town, this festival presents all types of performing arts, from dancing to theatre to rock concerts.

About the destination: Montreux is a municipality in the district of Riviera-Pays-d'Enhaut in the canton of Vaud in Switzerland. It is located on Lake Geneva at the foot of the Alps. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Château de Chillon. A historic castle and the country's most visited place, on a small island in Lake Geneva only a few meters from the shore. The Castle is more famous in modern times for having inspired Lord Byron's poem, The Prisoner of Chillon, based on the true story of François Bonivard, a political prisoner from Geneva who was released in 1536. • Marmots' Paradise. The mountains around Hauts-de-Montreux are threaded with forest trails, isolated villages, caves, grottos, and wildlife. • Casino Barrière de Montreux. Montreux is a municipality in the district of Riviera-Pays-d'Enhaut in the canton of Vaud in Switzerland. It is located on Lake Geneva at the foot of the Alps. PRÍOMHATTRACTIONS TURASÓIREACHTA • Château de Chillon. Caisleán stairiúil agus an áit is mó a thugann cuairteoirí ar an tír, ar oileán beag i Lake Geneva díreach cúpla méadar ón gcladach. Tá an Caisleán níos cáiliúla sa lá atá inniu ann mar gheall ar an dán a spreag sé ó Lord Byron, The Prisoner of Chillon, bunaithe ar an scéal fíor de François Bonivard, príosúnach polaitiúil ó Geneva a scaoileadh saor in 1536. • Paradís na Marmots. Tá na sléibhte timpeall Hauts-de-Montreux lán de chosáin foraoise, sráidbhailte iargúlta, uaimheanna, uaimheanna, agus fiadhúlra. • Casino Barrière de Montreux.

About the destination: Capital of Switzerland, Berne is a tranquil, stunning city, lined with 17th century arcades and speckled with vibrant fountains. A cultural hub, Berne is buzzing with activity, and its people are laid-back and friendly. The best introduction to Berne is to amble around its old town with its cobblestoned streets, marketplaces and vibrant 16th century fountains. At the entrance to Berne's Old Town there's the clock tower with its famous moving figures. The clock tower dates back to the early 13th century and the astronomical clock dates from the 15th century. From there continue to the Albert Einstein House. Albert Einstein rented this small flat during his years working at the Swiss patent office. Here are numerous photos and original documents from Einstein's life, work, and speeches. There's a look-alike of the genius selling postcards and books. A small alleyway a few blocks down leads to the cathedral, which has a 100m steeple, and is a fine example of Swiss Gothic architecture. The Rosengarten allows a magnificent view of the old city and the River Aare. Berne offers many fine museums, several of them grouped together at Helvetiaplatz. The renowned Bernisches Hiatoriche Museum exhibits collections related to the history of Berne from prehistory to the present. It includes the Einstein Museum. The Kunstmuseum is the oldest art museum in Switzerland with a permanent collection and houses works covering eight centuries. The Swiss Alpine Museum’s collection of maps and old hiking gear will interest visiting hillwalkers. Berne has got everything one needs: a great shopping mile where you don't get wet if it rains, a wonderful Cathedral, the river Aare to swim in, picturesque surrounding hills, good restaurants and bars with a dynamic atmosphere. So come explore this nice town, it won’t disappoint.

About the destination: Interlaken is a town and municipality in the Interlaken-Oberhasli administrative district in the Swiss canton of Bern. It is an important and well-known tourist destination in the Bernese Oberland region of the Swiss Alps, and the main transport gateway to the mountains and lakes of that region. The town is located on the Bödeli, between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and alongside the Aare river that flows between the two lakes. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • The Höheweg is Interlaken's main street which runs between Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost Railway Stations. Have a look at the ""Japanese Garden"", the 150-year old Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel, and don't miss the beautiful view of the famous snow-covered Jungfrau mountain from ""Höhematte"". • Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn is a glaciated UNESCO World Heritage Site above Interlaken in the Bernese Alps. • Unterseen. Unterseen is a small old town near the Interlaken West train station.

About the destination: Lugano is a city by the lake in Ticino, the Italian-speaking part of southern Switzerland. Part of a temperate micro-climate, Lugano offers palm trees, picturesque boulevards, stunning views of the lake and the Alps, and plenty of opportunity for outdoor and indoor activities. Lugano also makes a good base for visiting other cities and sites in the area. The city is a pleasant place to relax in the summertime and is only half an hour away from Lake Como. The Santa Maria degli Angeli chapel, designed by the world famous architect Mario Botta, is a marvel of contemporary architecture, with paintings by Enzo Cucchi. The chapel, built from 1992 to 1994, is dedicated to Santa Maria degli Angeli, and boasts innovative features in terms of religious building design. You can also visit the Parco Civico-Ciani. This area has both the features of an Italian and an English garden: lush flower beds alternate with green spaces and trees and shrubs from all over the world. The Swiss Miniature in Melide, which was opened in 1959, is the only miniature park in Switzerland. The detailed and authentic models include well-known sites such as the Heidi Village in Maienfeld, the castles of Burgdorf and Chillon, the Federal Parliament in Bern, and the Cathedral of Milan, the only model that can also be viewed from inside. Eighteen model trains travel between the buildings on approximately 3.5 kilometers of tracks.

About the destination: Como is a city and comune in Lombardy, Italy. It is the administrative capital of the Province of Como. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Volta Lighthouse. Offering some of the best views on the lake, this very tall building allows you to look down on the lake some 2000 feet below. • Cathedral. • Tempio Voltiano. A pleasant stop on your walk along the waterfront, the temple to Volta is designed in neoclassical style. • War Memorial. • City Walls. The ruins of the 12th century city walls, which enclose the narrow, winding streets of the old town. • Isola Comacina. A small island with ruins of several Byzantine churches.

About the destination: With an almost Northern European feel, yet radiating Italian style, Milan is Italy's most cosmopolitan city. The capital of Lombardy is both industrious and glamorous - influential in industries from finance to fashion and, of course, football. But what gives Milan its unique charm is its status as the epicentre of Italian fashion and interior design. International fashion enthusiasts, designers, supermodels and paparazzi flock to the city twice a year for its spring and autumn fairs: Milan, which has meticulously maintained its reputation for flair, drama and creativity, is Italy's natural stage. This is undoubtedly one of the best places in Italy to shop, or simply window shop. Milan is the primary industrial, commercial and financial hub of Italy and as such, it unsurprisingly has a business-like appearance. At first glance, it may lack the wow factor, but if you take the time and are determined to explore Milan’s streets, you’ll discover its aesthetically pleasing treasures – and they do exist. Navigate through the modern metropolitan hustle and bustle, and you will stumble upon impressive churches and palaces, the charming Navigli area, the stylish Brera district and vibrant university quarter, and it goes without saying that the city is home to landmarks such as the Duomo, and Leonardo da Vinci's 15th century masterpiece The Last Supper. Milan cannot be criticised when it comes to having a good time. The Milanese know how to celebrate – and they don’t waste time getting started. Nightlife tends to kick off at 6pm; enjoying an aperitivo in which locals unwind with post-work drinks and snacks before heading home is more the norm than the exception. So whether you’re looking for affordable fashion, an alternative city break or a chance to paint the town red, Milan has undoubtedly got it covered.