6-Day Italian Lakes, Milan With Bernina Express Experience

Enjoy the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Northern Italy. This 6-day adventure blends the vibrant city of Milan with the serene beauty of the Italian Lakes. Witness the grandeur of the Duomo, ride the iconic Bernina Express, and discover charming lakeside towns. From the historical charms of Bergamo to the renowned wineries of Franciacorta, this itinerary promises an unforgettable exploration of Italy’s alluring wonder.

Contents show

Key Points

Explore Milan’s top landmarks, including the iconic Duomo, Castello Sforzesco, and Teatro alla Scala, along with fashion shopping and culinary experiences.
Set out on a scenic train journey on the Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps, transitioning from lush meadows to snow-capped peaks.
Discover the picturesque towns of Lake Como and Bellagio, known for their tranquil ambiance and historic charm.
Visit the medieval city of Bergamo and explore the renowned Franciacorta wine region for a tasting of exceptional sparkling wines.
Enjoy a well-rounded 6-day itinerary that combines Milan’s urban attractions with the natural beauty of the Italian Lakes and the Bernina Express experience.

Itinerary Overview

The tour begins in the vibrant city of Milan, where travelers will explore iconic landmarks like the grand Duomo di Milano cathedral, the imposing Castello Sforzesco, and the prestigious Teatro Alla Scala opera house.

The next day, guests embark on the scenic Bernina Express, traveling from Milan to the enchanting town of Tirano and the glamorous Swiss resort of St. Moritz.

The itinerary continues with visits to the picturesque Lake Como and the charming town of Bellagio, before heading to the historic city of Bergamo.

The tour then explores the stunning Lake Garda, the romantic city of Verona, and the renowned Franciacorta wine region.

Looking for more options in Ferno? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring Milan

Milan, the vibrant fashion and financial capital of Italy, offers visitors a wealth of cultural and architectural treasures to explore.

On the first day, the tour will take visitors to the iconic Duomo di Milano, the city’s stunning Gothic cathedral. Nearby, the Castello Sforzesco stands as a reminder of Milan’s rich history.

The group will also visit the legendary Teatro alla Scala, one of the world’s most renowned opera houses.

With ample free time, travelers can discover Milan’s chic shopping districts, fashion boutiques, and lively piazzas at their own pace.

Journey on the Bernina Express

On the second day, travelers embark on a scenic train ride aboard the renowned Bernina Express. This engineering marvel climbs through the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking vistas of glaciers, valleys, and quaint villages.

The journey takes them from Milan to Tirano, Italy, and then onward to St. Moritz, Switzerland, before returning to Tirano. Along the way, they witness the spectacular landscape transform from lush meadows to snow-capped peaks.

The train’s panoramic windows and open-air cars allow for unobstructed views, creating an unforgettable experience.

Travelers return to Milan with a newfound appreciation for the region’s natural beauty and engineering prowess.

Discovering Lake Como and Bellagio

After exploring the majestic Swiss Alps aboard the Bernina Express, the tour moves to the captivating landscapes of Lake Como.

Travelers will visit the charming town of Como and the picturesque village of Bellagio. In Como, they’ll admire the iconic Duomo, a Gothic masterpiece, and stroll through the historic center.

The boat trip to Bellagio provides stunning vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains. In Bellagio, known as the "Pearl of the Lake," visitors can wander the narrow streets, browse boutiques, and savor the tranquil ambiance before transferring to the medieval city of Bergamo.

Visiting Lake Garda and Sirmione

Though the tour leaves the serene shores of Lake Como, the next stop promises equally breathtaking scenery at Lake Garda. The group boards the bus and travels to the southern tip of the lake, arriving in the charming town of Sirmione. Here, they explore the ancient Roman ruins, the medieval castle, and the picturesque promenade along the shore. The afternoon includes free time to wander the narrow streets, sample local cuisine, and soak in the stunning vistas across the vast expanse of Lake Garda.

Sights Visited	Highlights	Duration
Roman Ruins	Explore ancient excavations	1 hour
Scaliger Castle	Climb the medieval fortress	45 mins
Lake Promenade	Scenic stroll along the water	1 hour
Free Time	Opportunity to discover local culture	2 hours
Riva del Garda	Visit charming town on lake’s north end	1 hour

There's plenty more to explore in Ferno

Exploring Historic Verona

The tour then ventures to the historic city of Verona, where travelers discover the iconic landmarks and captivating atmosphere that inspired Shakespeare’s classic tale of star-crossed lovers.

Highlights include:

Exploring the UNESCO-listed city center, with its medieval architecture, piazzas, and charming streets.
Visiting Juliet’s House, where visitors can see the famous balcony and learn about the legend of Romeo and Juliet.
Indulging in a wine tasting in the renowned Franciacorta region, known for its sparkling wines.

The day concludes with a return to Milan, leaving travelers with a deeper appreciation for Italy’s rich cultural heritage.

Wine Tasting in Franciacorta

As the tour ventures into the renowned Franciacorta region, travelers are in for a treat. This area is known for its exceptional sparkling wines, produced using the same method as Champagne.

The tour includes a wine tasting, allowing participants to sample the crisp, elegant flavors that have earned Franciacorta its reputation. Guests will learn about the local winemaking process and terroir while sipping the bubbly.

This experience provides a delightful complement to the scenic vistas and historic sites explored earlier in the tour. Travelers can savor the local flavors while enjoying the picturesque Italian countryside.

Logistics and Travel Information

How do the logistics work for this tour? Travelers are picked up from Malpensa Airport for a private transfer to their hotel in Milan. Each person is allowed one suitcase and one carry-on, with restrictions on oversized luggage. The maximum group size is 50 travelers.

Additionally:

City taxes aren’t included in the tour rates and must be paid at the hotel reception.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, unless the travel date is within 7 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation Between Cities Included in the Tour Package?

Yes, the tour package includes transportation between cities. It covers all air-conditioned vehicle transfers and scenic train rides, such as the Bernina Express, to enable travelers to explore the region comfortably.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated During the Included Meals?

According to the tour details, dietary restrictions can be accommodated for the included meals. Travelers should notify the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure proper arrangements are made.

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Tour Experience?

The tour typically accommodates a maximum group size of 50 travelers. The operator give you a personalized experience while ensuring efficient logistics and transportation for the group.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Solo Travelers or Seniors?

This tour does not offer any discounts specifically for solo travelers or seniors. The maximum group size is 50, and the base price starts at $1,979.31 per person, without any advertised reduced rates for individual bookings.

Can the Order of Activities and Destinations Be Customized Upon Request?

The tour itinerary can be customized upon request, though flexibility may be limited. Travelers should consult the tour operator to discuss any desired changes to the order of activities and destinations prior to booking.

The Sum Up

This 6-day Italian Lakes and Milan adventure offers a captivating blend of historic sites, stunning natural beauty, and rich culinary experiences. Travelers will marvel at the iconic Duomo di Milano, ride the Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps, and discover the charming towns of Lake Como and Lake Garda. The journey culminates with a delightful wine tasting in the Franciacorta region, providing a perfect finale to this enchanting Italian getaway.