Food and Wine tour on Como Lake – small group tour

Explore Lake Como’s Gastronomic and Scenic Treasures in One Day

This small-group Food and Wine tour on Lake Como offers a compelling blend of delectable tastings, breathtaking scenery, and cultural insights, all within about 7 hours. Priced at $329.59 per person, this tour is designed for those eager to indulge in Italian cuisine while enjoying iconic views, making it ideal for food lovers and scenery seekers alike.

Departing from Milan, the tour guides you through a full day of gastronomic experiences, from sampling local cheeses, prosciutto, and focaccia to savoring homemade pasta. The highlight is a scenic boat cruise around Lake Como, showcasing its famous villas and historic towns. The small group size—max 10 travelers—ensures a personalized and relaxed atmosphere, with all tickets, tastings, and transportation included.

While the tour boasts stellar reviews, including a perfect 5.0 rating, it’s worth noting that train issues at the start have occurred, but guides handle such situations professionally. This experience suits those with moderate physical fitness who want a comprehensive yet manageable exploration of Lake Como.

Key Points

• Full-day experience combining food tastings, wine, and scenic lake cruise
• Departs from Milan at 8:45 am and lasts approximately 7 hours
• Includes all tickets, tastings, boat cruise, professional guide, and coffee
• Stops in Como, Torno, and Piazzale Luigi Cadorna with cultural and culinary highlights
• Small-group setting with up to 10 travelers for a more intimate experience

Departure and Meeting Point at Milan’s Piazzale Luigi Cadorna

The tour starts at Piazzale Luigi Cadorna in Milan at 8:45 am. This location is near public transportation, making it easy to access from the city. The round-trip transfer is included, so you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics once the tour begins.

The small-group size ensures a more personalized experience, with a professional guide leading the way. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, providing convenience for travelers planning their day afterward.

Scenic Train Ride from Milan to Lake Como

The journey begins with a train ride from Milan to Como that offers picturesque views of the Italian landscape. While train issues can occasionally happen, guides are well-prepared to handle any disruptions, helping everyone stay on track.

This train ride sets the tone for the day, offering a relaxed start with sights of rolling hills and quaint towns. The about 2-hour trip provides plenty of opportunity to take in the scenery and get excited for the adventures ahead.

Visiting Como’s Historic Neighborhoods and Local Wineries

The first stop is Como, where the tour explores historic neighborhoods and visits a local winery. Here, participants sample focaccia, cheeses, prosciutto, and salami, paired with a glass of wine. The guide shares insights about the region’s culinary traditions, making this a delightful introduction.

Following the tasting, the group continues with a homemade pasta or ravioli dish, featuring sauces like Pesto, Bolognese, or Cheese. This two-hour segment highlights local flavors and traditions in a relaxed setting.

Scenic Boat Cruise to Torno and Villa Highlights

The tour’s crown jewel is a one-hour panoramic cruise on Lake Como, which offers stunning views of the lakeside towns and historic villas. From the boat, you’ll see Villa Pliniana, Villa Taverna with its magnificent gardens, and Villa Mia, owned by the royal family of Saudi Arabia.

Torno is the first stop on the boat cruise, known for its famous villas and historical significance. Hermann Hesse once visited here in 1913, and today, the site remains a favorite with visitors for its splendid scenery and famous estates.

The boat ride provides ample opportunities for photos and to appreciate the tranquil beauty of Lake Como’s shoreline. Afterward, the boat returns to Como, completing the scenic exploration.

Visiting Como’s Key Monuments: Duomo, Broletto, and San Fedele

Back on land, the tour continues with a cultural walk through Como’s principal monuments in Piazzale Luigi Cadorna. The first stop is the Duomo, with its impressive architecture and religious significance.

Next, the group visits the Broletto, the historic Town Hall, and the church of San Fedele, which offers a glimpse into the area’s architectural heritage. The guide provides insights into the history and importance of these landmarks.

Plus, the experience begins with a home-made espresso or cappuccino and an Italian pastry, setting a cozy tone for the cultural exploration. This segment lasts about two hours and is included in the tour fee.

All-Inclusive Tasting Experience: Food, Wine, and Coffee

Throughout the day, all food and wine tastings are included, ensuring a relaxed and hassle-free experience. The local cheeses, prosciutto, focaccia, and homemade pasta showcase regional culinary craftsmanship, while the wine enhances the tasting experience.

Participants also enjoy coffee and/or tea, adding to the authentic Italian flavor. The guide helps explain each tasting, enriching the understanding of local culinary traditions.

Logistics, Group Size, and Additional Details

The tour operates with a maximum of 10 travelers, which helps foster an engaging, intimate atmosphere. The round-trip transfer from Milan is shared, saving travelers the stress of coordinating transport.

Travelers are advised that moderate physical fitness is recommended, as the tour involves walking and boat rides. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 18 years.

The tour is flexible regarding special dietary requirements if advised at booking, ensuring comfort for all participants. It also features a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Remarks: A Well-Balanced Blend of Food, Culture, and Scenery

This full-day experience of Lake Como from Milan offers a rich blend of culinary delights, historic sights, and scenic views. The professional guide ensures a smooth, informative journey, while the small-group size makes it easy to ask questions and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

The scenic boat cruise, local tastings, and visits to iconic villa estates create a memorable day suited for foodies and scenery lovers alike. Its all-inclusive nature simplifies planning, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking a comprehensive taste of Lake Como.

However, travelers should be prepared for potential train delays and a moderate physical pace. This tour delivers excellent value for those wanting to experience the best of Lake Como’s landscape and cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
All tickets, food tastings, wine tastings, the boat cruise, a professional guide, and coffee/tea are included.

How long does the full tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:45 am and ending at the original meeting point.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Piazzale Luigi Cadorna in Milan and ends back at the same location after the day’s activities.

Is transportation between Milan and Lake Como included?
Yes, round-trip shared transfer is part of the package.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Como, Torno, and Piazzale Luigi Cadorna, covering scenic views, historic sites, and lakeside villas.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children are permitted if accompanied by an adult, but the minimum drinking age of 18 applies.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and suitable clothing for outdoor and boat activities are recommended. Dietary requirements can be discussed at booking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
Moderate physical fitness is advised, as the tour involves walking and boat rides, but accessibility details are not specified.

Who is the provider of this experience?
The tour is operated by YOUR TRAVEL DIARY, with contact at +39 339 8558730 and email [email protected].