04 Days - Italian Lakes

Why stop at one adventure when you can experience more of Europe?

 

Make your European holiday even more unforgettable by combining this tour with our 09 Days Swiss & Paris experience! Enjoy the best of this itinerary, then seamlessly join Day 1 of the 09 Days - Swiss & Paris tour to continue your journey through breathtaking Swiss landscapes and the romantic streets of Paris. More destinations, more discoveries, more unforgettable memories — all in one incredible European getaway!

 

Discover general information about our tours by clicking here . Additionally, should you have any questions, our Frequently Asked Questions page may already contain the answers to your questions.

Country Details

Country	Capital	Currency	Visa Required	Time Zone	Electricity	Country Code
Switzerland	Berne	CHF (Euro is accepted at many places*)	Schengen	UTC + 1	230V, 50Hz	+41
Italy	Rome	Euro	Schengen	UTC + 1	230V, 50Hz	+39
Austria	Vienna	Euro	Schengen	UTC + 1	230V, 50Hz	+43

*Change will be given back in local currency

Front Seats – Limited Availability

Enjoy the journey from one of the best positions on the coach, with excellent forward-facing panoramic views and more of the beautiful scenery along the way. Whether you're travelling through stunning countryside, passing historic towns and cities, or discovering exciting new destinations, a front seat lets you enjoy the journey from a prime position.

• Make More of Your Journey

  – Enjoy a prime position on the coach and make the journey itself a memorable part of your holiday.

• Extra Luggage Allowance

  – Every Front Seat booking includes 2 pieces of luggage, each weighing up to 23kg.

• A Complimentary Data eSIM

  – The first 100 passengers to book a front seat will receive a complimentary data eSIM for the duration of their tour!

The eSIM offer is subject to device compatibility and network coverage.

Please ensure your luggage complies with the applicable size and weight restrictions.

To keep our Front Seat option exclusive, we limit availability to 4 front seats per departure date, per coach.

• Seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Once all 2 front seats have been purchased, no further front seats will be available for that departure.

Booking is simple! When you make your reservation online, add the Front Seat option to your basket. Alternatively, let our team know you'd like a front seat when booking with one of our agents.

If securing a front-row view is important to you, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

Front Seats from £60 per seat

Currency

In most of Western Europe, the currency you will require will be Euros. When travelling in Switzerland, you will need Swiss Francs (CHF). It is possible to purchase items in Euros whilst in Switzerland (selected establishments) however it should be noted that the change will be given back in CHF.

 

Passengers should exchange any spending money for their holiday before they actually travel. Whilst on tour it is very inconvenient and not all places you will visit will have ATM machines or accept credit/debit cards.

 

We also advise our passengers to keep some change in coins on them whilst on tour as using toilets in many parts of Europe is not free.

 

USD, GBP or travellers’ cheques are not widely accepted at locations in this tour.

Distances

An important point to note whilst on a touring holiday is that some long journeys are unavoidable especially when travelling from city to city.

 

It is advisable passengers carry necessities that they may need for the day such as water, dry snacks, cameras etc. with them in their hand luggage.

 

For this tour, it should be noted that the travel times are extensive on this tour.

 

Please see a summary of the distances you will be covering below:

From	To	Distance in kms (Approx)	Travelling time (Approx)
Milan	Lake Como	50	1 hr
Lake Como	Lake Lugano	35	45 mins
Lake Lugano	Milan	80	1 hr 30 mins
Milan	Lake Maggiore (Stresa)	90	1 hr 30 mins
Lake Maggiore	Sirmione (Lake Garda)	210	2 hrs 30 mins
Sirmione	Verona	40	45 mins
Verona	Venice Area (Padova)	120	1 hr 30 mins
Venice Area (Padova)	Innsbruck	385	5 hrs 30 mins
Innsbruck	Swarovski Crystal Worlds (Wattens)	18	25 mins
Wattens	Vaduz (Liechtenstein)	180	2 hrs 30 mins
Vaduz	Zurich	110	1 hr 30 mins

Above is for indication purposes only

Major Attractions

Lake Como (Italy)

Surrounded by dramatic mountains and elegant villas, Lake Como is one of Italy’s most picturesque destinations. The lakeside towns of Como and Bellagio offer charming streets, waterfront promenades, and opportunities for scenic boat rides across the glistening waters.

 

Lake Lugano (Switzerland)

Straddling the Swiss–Italian border, Lake Lugano combines Mediterranean flair with Alpine beauty. The lakeside city of Lugano features elegant squares, palm-lined promenades, and breathtaking mountain views.

 

Lake Maggiore (Italy)

The second-largest lake in Italy, Lake Maggiore is known for its stunning islands and lush gardens. Highlights include the Borromean Islands with ornate palaces and beautifully landscaped terraces. The lakeside town of Stresa is a favorite stop for travelers seeking a tranquil yet elegant atmosphere.

 

Sirmione (Lake Garda, Italy)

Perched on a narrow peninsula, Sirmione is famous for its thermal waters and the striking Scaliger Castle a 13th-century fortress surrounded by a moat. The town’s charming alleys, lakefront views, and Roman ruins at the Grottoes of Catullus make it one of Lake Garda’s highlights.

 

Venice (Italy)

The floating city of Venice is a masterpiece of art and architecture. A visit to St. Mark’s Square reveals the splendor of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace Winding canals, graceful bridges, and gondola rides make Venice one of the most enchanting cities in the world.

 

Venice Gondola Ride (Italy)

A gondola ride through Venice’s romantic canals is an unforgettable experience. Glide past historic palaces and under picturesque bridges as your gondolier navigates the waterways. Each gondola can seat up to five passengers and is shared among guests.

 

Innsbruck (Austria)

Nestled in the heart of the Alps, Innsbruck combines imperial heritage with alpine charm. The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl and the Hofburg Palace showcase the city’s history, while the surrounding mountains provide stunning views and outdoor adventures.

 

Swarovski Crystal Worlds (Wattens, Austria)

Just outside Innsbruck, Swarovski Crystal Worlds is a dazzling attraction featuring art installations and exhibits inspired by crystal. Visitors can explore the magical Chambers of Wonder and the glittering outdoor Crystal Cloud and Mirror Pool.

 

Vaduz (Liechtenstein)

The capital of tiny Liechtenstein - Vaduz offers a charming blend of modern culture and alpine scenery. Visitors can see Vaduz Castle (the royal residence) from below.

 

Zurich (Switzerland)

Zurich Switzerland’s largest city, perfectly balances natural beauty and urban sophistication.

Hotels

Please note that not all hotels on this tour will have air conditioning or kettles. If you require warm milk for a baby, we recommend bringing your bottle warmer and milk supply. Passengers may also want to carry a small travel iron and hairdryer, as these amenities may not be available in all hotel rooms. 

 

In some European hotels, double occupancy rooms may consist of two single beds pushed together. We work with such hotels, so please be prepared for this arrangement. 

 

If you use additional services such as the phone, minibar, or pay-per-view TV in your room, these costs are not included in the tour package and must be settled directly with the hotel upon checkout. 

 

The maximum occupancy per room on this tour is three people. However, from March to May, some hotels may only accommodate a maximum of two people per room. 

Meals

 

Passengers can choose from various meal options, including vegetarian, Jain, or non-vegetarian. Please note that Jain and Halal meals may not always be available. We ask that passengers inform the tour manager of their preferred diet on the first day of the tour. Meals are served as pre-set buffets, and menu choices are not available. Only tap water will be provided with meals. On some days, a pre-set continental meal may be served. 

 

Breakfast will be provided at the hotels, usually in a designated dining area, and typically consists of a continental selection including tea, coffee, bread, cereals, fruit, and yoghurt. 

 

Lunches are generally vegetarian, though there may be occasions when a non-vegetarian dish is offered. Dinners are typically served in a separate dining area within the hotel or at a restaurant. If you have any concerns about the ingredients in a dish, please consult your tour manager. 

If you require specific allergen information, please get in touch with us in advance so we can assist you accordingly.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Points & Timings

 

Passengers are advised to arrive at their designated pick-up point no later than 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Your invoice will clearly state the exact pick-up location, address, and time. If you have selected a pick-up point outside of Wembley, Southall, or East Ham, your precise pick-up time will be confirmed closer to your departure. 

 

On the return journey from the continent, we are scheduled to arrive at Dover or Folkestone between 20:00 and 21:00 hours, after which we will proceed to the original London pick-up points. The anticipated arrival time in London is between 22:30 and 00:30 hours (the following day). 

 

For passengers using our pick-up points services outside of London, transportation may be arranged via private car, minibus, or alternative coach for your journey to and from London. In rare cases, you may experience a wait of up to an hour for a connecting transfer upon your return. Passengers will receive a confirmation call from Star Tours the day before departure to finalise details. 

 

Please note that Star Tours reserves the right to adjust pick-up times up to 12 hours before departure if needed. 

 

For a comprehensive list of available pick-up points, please get in touch with us directly for more details.

Foreign Office Travel Advice

For the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office click on the link below to get Country specific details

 

For a full list of the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office click here

 

UK Residents	USA Residents
Switzerland	Switzerland
Italy	Italy
Liechtenstein	Liechtenstein
Austria	Austria

Visas & Passports

When travelling to Europe, it’s crucial to ensure your passport and visa requirements are in order before departure. 

 

Passport Requirements: 

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Europe. It should also have been issued within the last ten years and/have sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps. 

 

Visa Requirements: 

If you are a national of India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh, you must obtain a Schengen visa before travelling. This visa allows entry into any of the 27 Schengen countries for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days). 

Ensure you apply for your Schengen visa well in advance, as processing times may vary. 

 

Nationals of British, American, Australian, Canadian, and other visa-exempt countries currently do not require a Schengen visa for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days). However, starting in 2025, all visa-exempt travellers (including British and American citizens) must apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering the Schengen Area. 

The ETIAS application is a simple online process that requires travellers to provide personal information and pay a small fee (€7). Once approved, the authorisation will be valid for three years or until your passport expires. 

 

Entry/Exit System (EES): 

From Early 2025, the EES will be introduced across Schengen countries. This system will electronically record the entry and exit of all non-EU travellers, replacing manual passport stamping. Travelers’ biometric data (fingerprints and facial images) will be/recorded during their first entry into the Schengen Area. 

Schengen Visa Details

Visa Details & Document Required	Embassy to Apply	Reason	Port of Entry/Exit
Applying from the UK (Click Here)	Italian	Max Stay	Calais, France/Calais, France
Applying from India (Click Here)	Italian	Max Stay	Calais, France/Calais, France

Weather

The weather across much of Western and Central Europe, including France, Germany, Belgium and Italy can be variable and unpredictable, like in/England. Regardless of the time of year, carrying an umbrella and preparing for sudden weather changes is always advisable. 

 

Temperature Variations: 

 

France, Belgium and Germany: In these countries, the weather can fluctuate widely depending on the season. Summers can bring temperatures around 25-30°C, while winters are much colder, often dropping below 5°C. 

 

Italy: Southern European countries, particularly Italy, tend to have warmer temperatures, especially in summer, when temperatures can reach 30-40°C. Coastal areas tend to be more temperate. 

 

Switzerland: Temperatures can vary dramatically in alpine regions, particularly in Switzerland. During high-altitude excursions, temperatures can range between 0°C and 2°C on mountaintops, even in summer, while lowland areas could simultaneously experience temperatures exceeding 30°C. 

 

It’s a good idea to check the specific forecast for each destination before your trip, especially on a multi-destination tour, as you may encounter different weather conditions in each country. 

 

Preparation Tips: 

 

Layered Clothing: Bring a variety of clothing layers to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day. 

 

Winter Months: If travelling in winter, be aware that daylight hours are short, and sightseeing often happens in the dark. It gets dark in Northern Europe and the Alps, sometimes as early as 16:00 hrs. 

 

Footwear & Accessories: Comfortable shoes, waterproof jackets, and cold-weather gear (for alpine regions) are highly recommended. 

 

By preparing for various conditions, travellers can comfortably enjoy their time across these beautiful European destinations, regardless of season. 

Wheelchair Accessibility, Child Seats and Passenger Information

 

We welcome passengers using lightweight manual wheelchairs on our tours, provided the wheelchair can be stowed in the coach’s luggage hold. Passengers are encouraged to contact us in advance to ensure we can meet their specific mobility needs. Our staff will try to assist passengers with reduced mobility in compliance with the Regulations. Please note, however, that a family member or companion will need to be present to assist with pushing the wheelchair throughout the tour. 

 

We will request accessible hotel rooms for wheelchair users wherever possible, but this depends on availability and cannot be guaranteed. We advise passengers to inform us of their requirements in advance so we can make the necessary requests. 

 

Please be aware that specific destinations, such as Mt. Titlis and the Eiffel Tower, are inaccessible to wheelchair users. Additionally, locations like Brussels, Lucerne, Lion Monument, Pisa, Rome, Venice, and Florence have cobbled streets, which may make it difficult for wheelchairs to navigate. Passengers should take these factors into account when planning their trip. 

 

Child Seat Requirements: 

In most European countries, it is mandatory for children under the age of 12 years or shorter than 150 cm to use appropriate child restraints while travelling in a coach. 

 

Children under seven years old or under 125 cm tall must use a child seat with a harness or/appropriate restraint system. 

Children aged 7 to 12 years or between 125 cm and 150 cm tall must use a booster seat or a seat cushion. 

The parent or guardian is responsible for providing a suitable child seat for their child. Passengers should ensure they bring the appropriate child restraint system that complies with local laws in the visited countries, as there may be minor variations in regulations across European nations. 

Other Advisories

 

Baggage and Packing 

Due to limited storage space on coaches, checking the baggage allowance for your tour before departure is essential. Ensure your luggage meets the size and weight requirements in your tour documents. Excess baggage may not be permitted. 

Pack a small day bag for personal items, medications, snacks, and travel documents to keep with you during the journey, as accessing the main luggage may not be possible until designated stops. 

 

Punctuality 

Respect timings during stops; there will be scheduled comfort breaks and sightseeing stops throughout the tour. Be sure to return to the coach on time after each stop to avoid delays and respect the entire group's schedule. Coaches operate on a strict timetable to ensure that all scheduled visits and activities are completed on time. Passengers who arrive late at any point may risk missing the coach, as drivers cannot wait beyond the allocated time for each stop. 

The tour may sometimes involve changes in coaches or representatives, particularly when merging with other groups. Please adhere to the instructed times for these transitions to ensure smooth coordination.

 

Coach Facilities 

While most coaches are equipped with WC facilities, they may be limited in availability. Using restroom facilities during scheduled breaks at rest stops is recommended to avoid discomfort. 

Seating and Safety: 

By law, passengers must wear seat belts where fitted. Seats are pre-assigned and given to you on the departure date. Seat requests are not taken under any circumstance. 

 

Personal Health and Medication 

Bring any necessary medications with you in your day bag. If you are prone to motion sickness, carry appropriate remedies or medications to ensure a comfortable journey. 

If your tour includes high-altitude destinations, ensure you are medically fit to travel at such heights. Those with heart or lung conditions should consult a doctor beforehand. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and warm clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly at high altitudes. 

 

Cultural and Local Etiquette 

Be mindful of the local customs and etiquette, especially when visiting religious or historical sites. Dress modestly where required, and be respectful of local customs and traditions. 

 

Electronics and Connectivity 

Some coaches are equipped with USB charging ports, but this is not guaranteed. Ensure your devices are charged beforehand, and consider bringing a portable charger/power bank. 

WiFi is unavailable on the coach, so bring along books, headphones, or downloaded movies and music to enjoy during long journey stretches.

 

Environmental Awareness 

Be conscious of the environment during your tour. Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste, fill up at restaurants and hotels, and dispose of trash properly at rest stops.