From Milan Full Day in Franciacorta 2 Wineries and Lunch

A full-day exploration of Franciacorta, Italy’s celebrated sparkling wine region, offers an engaging mix of wine tastings, scenic landscapes, and authentic local cuisine. Priced at $381.75 per person, this 8-hour tour is designed for those eager to discover the elegance of Franciacorta’s D.O.C.G. wines and its charming villages. The tour departs from Milano, with a private group limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, personalized experience.

The itinerary combines visits to two distinguished wineries, a traditional restaurant near Lake Iseo for a three-course lunch, and scenic drives along the Franciacorta wine route. Both wineries emphasize innovation and contemporary styles, offering a variety of elegant sparkling wines. This tour is ideal for wine lovers, fans of picturesque Italy, and anyone seeking a day of leisure, cultural discovery, and exceptional tastings.

As a notable strength, the private minivan transportation ensures smooth transitions and a relaxed pace. A potential consideration is the full day commitment, so travelers should prepare for a full schedule. This tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances wine education, scenic beauty, and authentic regional cuisine.

Key Points

• Includes visits to two top Franciacorta wineries showcasing different styles of sparkling wine
• Tastings of iconic Franciacorta D.O.C.G. wines in each cellar
• A three-course lunch at a highly-rated restaurant near Lake Iseo, with wine included
• Convenient private minivan transfer from and back to Milan
• Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

Scenic Vineyards and the Charm of Franciacorta’s Landscape

This tour starts with a transfer from Milan that takes approximately an hour, whisking travelers from urban Italy to the lush hills of Franciacorta. When the group arrives, the landscape immediately captures attention with vine-covered hills, dotted with small villages, villas, and castles surrounded by spectacular gardens. This setting underscores why Franciacorta remains a beloved destination for wine and nature lovers alike.

Driving along the Franciacorta wine route, travelers get a taste of the area’s visual charm, with picturesque views of vineyards stretching across rolling hills. The scenery is complemented by the area’s history and elegance, visible in its abbeys, towers, and castles—each telling stories of a region where viticulture has thrived for centuries.

The private minivan offers a comfortable way to enjoy the views without the hassle of driving, leaving guests free to relax and take in the scenery.

Visits to Two Distinct Franciacorta Wineries

The tour features two winery visits, each lasting around three hours, with a guided tour that highlights winemaking techniques, the history of the estate, and the unique styles of Franciacorta.

The first winery visited is one of the most renowned in the region. It has contributed significantly to the fame of Franciacorta and offers a deep dive into the area’s winemaking tradition. Guests learn how the wines are produced and get to taste some of the most iconic Franciacorta DOCG wines, crafted using the champagne method.

The second winery emphasizes innovation and modernity. Its focus on contemporary styles results in distinctive, elegant sparkling wines. Tasting here offers an opportunity to compare different expressions of Franciacorta, each reflecting the vintner’s unique approach.

Guides at both wineries provide informative commentary, making the experience educational as well as pleasurable. The wine selections are praised for their quality and diversity, with some reviews noting the deliciousness of the sparkling wines.

Authentic Lunch by Lake Iseo with Regional Specialties

After the first winery visit, the group travels to a traditional restaurant near Lake Iseo, situated just 15 minutes away. The lunch features a three-course menu, allowing guests to choose dishes from an à la carte selection. Water, a glass of wine, and coffee are included, enhancing the regional experience.

Guests can expect local specialties in a cozy, authentic setting with lake views. The lunch is highly praised for its quality and flavor, with some reviews mentioning it as a delightful highlight of the day. The combination of good food and good wine creates a truly immersive taste of Franciacorta’s culinary culture.

Exploring the Second Winery and Its Innovative Style

Post-lunch, the group visits a second winery, just 15 minutes away from the restaurant. This estate is particularly known for its innovative approach, producing different expressions of Franciacorta DOCG that are equally elegant and interesting.

The tasting session here is characterized by varieties that showcase modern techniques and contemporary styles of sparkling wine, offering a nice contrast to the first winery. Guests get to appreciate the nuance within Franciacorta wines, from classic to innovative.

Return Journey and Practical Details

The return transfer to Milan takes approximately one hour, allowing travelers to relax and reflect on their day. The group size is limited to 15 people, fostering a more intimate environment where questions and interaction are encouraged.

The meeting point is at Starhotels Tourist, located at Viale Fulvio Testi, 300 in Milan, with the tour departing promptly at 9:00 am. The flexibility of the itinerary means the order of winery visits may be reversed based on availability.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This tour’s strength lies in combining wine tastings, scenic drives, and regional cuisine, all within a full-day package. The private minivan provides a relaxed atmosphere, and the guided tours at wineries are both informative and engaging. The inclusion of a traditional lakeside lunch offers an authentic culinary experience that complements the wine tastings perfectly.

On top of that, reviews highlight the professionalism of guides, especially mentioning Nicolo and Anna, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The beautiful scenery and quality wines consistently earn positive feedback, making this a top choice for wine enthusiasts and those looking for a comprehensive day-trip from Milan.

Limitations and Considerations

While the full-day schedule ensures a complete experience, it may be intensive for some travelers. The full day duration and transportation time should be considered for those with limited mobility or tight schedules. Also, since alcohol is not served to minors, families with young children should plan accordingly, although the tour itself is suitable for most adults.

The availability of wineries might influence the exact order of visits, but this does not affect the overall quality of the experience.

Perfect for Wine Lovers and Scenic Seekers

This tour offers a balanced blend of wine tasting, scenic views, and regional cuisine, ideal for those wanting to explore Franciacorta’s sparkling wines and enjoy the beauty of the Italian countryside. The expert guides, comfortable transport, and carefully curated stops make it a reliable choice for a memorable day outside Milan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers two winery visits with tastings, a three-course lunch with water, wine, and coffee, and private transportation from and back to Milan.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Alcohol is not served to anyone under 18, making the tour unsuitable for young children. Non-drinkers can enjoy the scenery, lunch, and the overall experience, but the focus is on wine tastings.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 28 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure availability.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The tour’s combination of two distinct wineries, stunning vineyard landscapes, and a lakeside regional lunch offers a comprehensive, relaxed experience of Franciacorta’s best features.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full-day itinerary lasts approximately 8 hours, including transport, winery visits, and lunch.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the private minivan provides a relaxed and smooth ride, with scenic views along the way.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Starhotels Tourist in Milan and ends back at the same meeting point after approximately eight hours.

This From Milan Full Day in Franciacorta tour offers an excellent balance of wine, scenery, and culture, perfect for those wanting a comprehensive and enjoyable day exploring Italy’s sparkling wine capital.