Start in Milan with coffee and pastries at Pavé; great for a quick, quality breakfast before pickup and departure. They typically open around 7:30am, but check for weekend hours.
Drive north (~3.5–4h depending on traffic) via A9/E35 (crossing into Switzerland). Plan for a toll/vignette and at least one rest stop; the drive is scenic through Lombardy and into the Swiss plateau.
Explore Zurich’s twin churches — Grossmünster typically opens around 10:00am and Fraumünster is generally open 10:00–17:00; see the Chagall windows at Fraumünster.
Take the funicular (if open; check schedule — typically first departures around 9:00–10:00) for panoramic views over Interlaken and the lakes — outstanding for photos.
Drop bags in La Spezia or a village hotel and take the short train/ferry to Riomaggiore for an afternoon stroll; village shops and harbors are open in the afternoon/evening.
Walk parts of the Sentiero Azzurro (check current trail status — some sections can be closed for maintenance) or use the local train for shorter hops; stunning coastal views reward the effort.
If weather allows, swim from the rocks in Manarola or book a short coastal boat to see the villages from the water; boat services may be seasonal and weather dependent.
Walk to the Prince’s Palace square for views over the harbor; palace tours typically run 10:00–18:00 in season (check current hours) and the exterior/old town is accessible anytime.
For a special night, Le Grill offers a rooftop dining experience (check availability), otherwise choose one of Monaco’s excellent mid-range restaurants close to the port.
Enjoy a morning stroll on Nice’s famous seafront and explore the colorful streets, markets and churches of the Old Town; most outdoor sights are accessible any time.