Festive season holidays
Friday, December 8th:
We will assemble at Malta's international airport at 09:45 for Airmalta's direct flight, KM624, to Milan, departing at 12:45 and arriving at Linate Airport at 14:35. Afterward, we will be transferred by coach to the 3-star+ Hotel Concorde in Arona. En route, we will stop to visit the renowned statue of San Carlo Borromeo, the former archbishop of Milan. Room assignments will be arranged upon our arrival at the hotel, and dinner will be provided at the hotel.
Saturday, December 9th:
Following a buffet breakfast, we will embark on an exciting excursion to Switzerland. Our first destination is Lugano, the capital of the Canton of Ticino. Accompanied by our tour leader, we will explore the historic centre, Via Nassa, with its elegant shops, Piazza Della Reformation, and a picturesque lakeside promenade offering stunning views of Lake Lugano surrounded by mountains. You will have some free time to visit the Christmas Market. Continuing our excursion, we will reach Ascona, situated in the upper part of Lake Maggiore. A stroll along its charming streets, lined with restaurants and cafes, will lead us to a promenade boasting natural beauty.
Sunday, December 10th:
Prepare for a fantastic excursion to Macugnaga, a journey through the spectacular Anzasca Valley, surrounded by mountains. Macugnaga, nestled beneath Monte Rosa, is a traditional Alpine-style village. For those interested, a chairlift ride (extra) to Monte Rosa, where you can witness breathtaking views of the Alps and glaciers, is an option. You will also have free time to enjoy the festive decorations in the village before returning to the hotel for dinner.
Monday, December 11th:
After a buffet breakfast, we will explore the beautiful cities of Milan and Como. Our first stop is Como, where, alongside our tour leader, we will visit Piazza Cavour, Piazza Volta, Citta Vecchia, and the gothic-style Duomo, constructed with white marble. A lakeside stroll will grant you free time. We will then continue to Milan, the capital of Lombardy, where we will see Castello Sforzesco, Piazza Duomo, the iconic Duomo, Teatro Alla Scala, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, among others. You will have free time to revel in the festive atmosphere and explore the Christmas Market in Piazza Duomo, featuring numerous stalls, food, mulled wine, and more. You'll have the chance to witness Milan illuminated at night. Dinner will be provided at the hotel.
Tuesday, December 12th:
After enjoying a buffet breakfast, you will have some free time until 10:30, when the coach will transfer us to Linate Airport for our return flight, KM625, departing at 15:00 and arriving back in Malta at 17:05.