7-Days Italian Lakes and Riviera Tour from Milan

The 7-Day Italian Lakes and Riviera Tour from Milan offers a comprehensive journey through some of Italy’s most captivating landscapes and historic cities. Priced at $3,308.50 per person, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking an immersive experience with expert guides, scenic boat rides, and charming towns. With a rating of 5.0 from 2 reviews, it clearly appeals to those who value well-planned itineraries and genuine cultural highlights. The tour departs from Milan’s Starhotels Ritz at 8:30 am, and over 7 days, visitors explore lakes, ancient towns, and iconic Riviera villages, all with included accommodation, meals, transportation, and guided walks.

While the tour covers a broad area with many stops, it is best suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and a full schedule. The inclusion of private boat trips at key lakes and walking tours makes this especially attractive for travelers who enjoy scenic exploration and cultural insights.

Key Points

• 7-day journey through northern Italy featuring lakes, cities, and Riviera villages
• All logistics managed, including private transport, boat trips, and accommodation
• Guided walking tours in Como, Bergamo, and Verona provide local insights
• Boat excursions on Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda, and Cinque Terre enhance scenic experience
• Includes breakfasts and special tastings like focaccia and cheese in Liguria
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and an interest in scenic, cultural travel

Discovering the Lakes: Lake Orta, Maggiore, Como, Garda, Iseo

This tour begins in the stunning setting of San Giulio Island, accessible by boat, where a 45-minute visit introduces the serene atmosphere of this small island near Orta village. The Isola Borromeo follows, with visits to Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella, giving travelers a taste of the Borromeo family’s historic islands over 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Next, the focus shifts to Lake Como, where a 2-hour cruise reveals the lake’s deep, peaceful waters and scenic lakeside towns. The day ends exploring Bergamo’s old town, with its remarkable monuments, during a 1-hour guided walk in the historic center.

Exploring Lake Como’s Charm and Old Towns

On Day 2, travelers enjoy a 1.5-hour walk through Como’s historic center, soaking in the medieval architecture and lively streets. The 2-hour boat cruise on Lake Como highlights the lake’s beauty, with views of luxurious villas and picturesque villages.

Later, the tour visits Bergamo’s upper town, with a guided 1-hour walk through its impressive monuments, showcasing its medieval roots and panoramic vistas. This day combines scenic boat rides with cultural explorations, providing a well-rounded experience of this iconic lake region.

Visiting the Charm of Lake Garda and Verona

Day 3 centers on Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, with a 5-hour exploration from Sirmione to Lazise. In Sirmione, a 1.5-hour visit includes the charming village famed for its thermal baths and medieval castle. The tour then continues along Lake Garda’s lakeside towns, offering opportunities for relaxation and sightseeing.

In the afternoon, the group arrives in Verona, with a 2-hour visit to Piazza Bra, home to the Roman Arena and lively cafes. Visitors have time to stroll, shop, or dine in this historic square. The tour balances scenic lakeside views with vibrant city life.

The Allure of Juliet’s Balcony and Lake Iseo

Day 4 begins at Casa di Giulietta, the famous residence with its balcony, a highlight for those interested in Shakespearean romance. The tour then proceeds to Lake Iseo, a smaller, tranquil lake where a 2-hour stop provides opportunities to relax and enjoy the views before heading to Genoa.

Exploring Genoa and Its Riviera Villages

Day 5 is dedicated to Genoa’s heart, with a morning walk through the city’s historic center. The tour includes visits to Rapallo, known for its promenade and focaccia tasting, the charming Santa Margherita Ligure, and a 1.5-hour exploration of Portofino, famous for its colorful harbor and luxury atmosphere.

This day emphasizes the Riviera’s blend of scenic beauty, local flavors, and glamorous villages, perfect for those who appreciate coastal charm.

Visiting Cinque Terre’s Iconic Villages

Day 6 focuses on Cinque Terre, starting with a boat trip from Portovenere at 11:00 am. The stops in Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare offer the chance to stroll through villages famed for pastel houses, narrow streets, and stunning sea views. The 2.5-hour visit to Monterosso, the largest of the five villages, allows ample time for photos and local exploration.

Exploring Small Villages on Italy’s Western Riviera

On the final day, the tour visits Laigueglia, a peaceful fishing village, and Finalborgo, a medieval town near Finale. Both stops, each lasting around 1-2 hours, provide relaxed atmospheres and authentic local sights, perfect for winding down the trip.

Logistics, Inclusions, and Practical Details

This tour departs from Starhotels Anderson in Milan at 8:30 am, with pickup and drop-off included from the designated meeting point. Over 6 nights, travelers stay in comfortable accommodations, with breakfasts included each morning. The tour also offers guided walking tours in Como, Bergamo, and Verona, along with boat trips at Lake Orta, Maggiore, Garda, and Cinque Terre.

A welcome glass of Prosecco and tastings of focaccia and cheese in Liguria add culinary flavor, while WiFi onboard helps stay connected during travel. The tour is operated by Europeando Europa srl and is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.

Strengths and Unique Features of the Tour

The tour’s combination of lakes, historic towns, and Riviera villages makes it a comprehensive introduction to northern Italy’s diverse beauty. The private boat trips at key lakes offer scenic highlights, and the guided walks provide insight into each location’s history and culture.

Included meals and tastings add value, especially the Ligurian focaccia and cheese sampling, appreciated for its authentic flavors. The small group size (up to 30 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, and free WiFi keeps travelers connected during long drives.

Limitations and Considerations

While the itinerary covers many highlights, some stops like Lake Como and Portofino are noted in reviews as places where longer stays would be desirable. The tour’s 7-day duration may feel packed for those wanting more time in each location, especially in popular spots like Portofino and Lake Como.

Travelers should be prepared for moderate physical activity during walking tours and boat rides. No extensive free time is built into the schedule, so those seeking a more relaxed pace might find it a bit full.

The Sum Up of the Italian Lakes and Riviera Tour

This 7-day journey offers a balanced mix of scenic boat cruises, historic city walks, and charming Riviera villages. Its all-inclusive package of transportation, guided tours, accommodations, and tastings provides a solid value for travelers eager to see northern Italy’s best sights.

The tour’s expert-guided approach ensures deep insights into each location, making it suitable for culture and scenery enthusiasts alike. While some stops might benefit from longer visits, the overall experience highlights Italy’s lakes, medieval towns, and glamorous Riviera villages in a well-organized package.

Ideal for those who enjoy scenic cruising, cultural explorations, and charming villages, this tour delivers a comprehensive taste of northern Italy’s diverse landscapes and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers 6 nights of accommodation, guided walking tours, boat trips at lakes, private transport, breakfasts, meals as specified, and tastings of focaccia and cheese in Liguria.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Starhotels Anderson in Milan with pickup at 8:30 am and ends back at the same meeting point after 7 days.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included on all 6 mornings. Some special tastings, such as focaccia in Liguria, are included, but other meals and drinks are not included unless specified.

What kind of boat trips are part of the itinerary?
The tour includes private boat tours at Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore, a 2-hour cruise at Lake Como, and a 2-hour cruise at Cinque Terre (from April to October and in good weather).

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness due to walking and boat excursions, so it may not be ideal for travelers with significant mobility limitations.

How far in advance should I book?
This tour is typically booked around 156 days in advance but can fill quickly given its popularity.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour operates with up to 30 travelers, ensuring a manageable group size for sightseeing and guide interaction.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations closer to the departure date may incur fees or no refund.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Europeando Europa srl, known for organizing guided European tours.