Milan: Brescia & Franciacorta with Wine Tasting Small Group

Traveling through Italy often means indulging in the country’s world-famous wine, historic towns, and scenic countryside. This small-group tour from Milan offers a tantalizing combination of all three, set against the lush backdrop of Lombardy’s rolling hills. While it’s not a full-blown wine pilgrimage, it provides a well-balanced taste of the region’s cultural and vinicultural highlights.

What we love about this experience is how it combines educational wine tastings, a guided walk through historic Brescia, and stunning views of the Franciacorta vineyards. The intimacy of a small group makes for a more relaxed, engaging atmosphere, perfect for lovers of authentic Italy. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite packed — with a full day of sightseeing and tasting, you’ll want to be ready for a busy schedule.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Italian culture beyond the big cities. If you’re looking for a manageable day trip that balances learning, tasting, and sightseeing, this could be just the ticket. Let’s explore what makes this experience worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic wine experience with visits to Franciacorta wineries and tastings of traditional sparkling wines.
• Guided tour of Brescia offers insights into its historic sites and local culture.
• Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth journey through scenic vineyards and charming city streets.
• Flexible options include private groups and hotel pickups for added convenience.
• Full-day itinerary packed with sightseeing, wine tasting, and free time for shopping.
• Rain or shine, the tour operates, making it a reliable option for all weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transport

Your journey begins at the very convenient Excelsior Hotel Gallia in Milan, with multiple options for pickup, including private transport if booked in advance. The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, making the long drive between Milan, Brescia, and Franciacorta comfortable and stress-free. Traveling by coach or minibus means you get to relax, enjoy the countryside views, and settle in while the guide takes care of the logistics.

The drive from Milan to Brescia takes about 1.5 hours. During this time, many find it a perfect chance to review the day’s plan, chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the changing landscape outside the window. The scenery of Lombardy’s hills, dotted with vineyards and small towns, begins to reveal itself the closer you get to Franciacorta.

Exploring Brescia: A City Full of Charm

Once in Brescia, a local guide takes you on a tour of this charming city, often described as a hidden gem. Expect to visit notable sites like the Loggia Square, Victoria Square, the stately Duomo, and the Foro Romano. These spots highlight Brescia’s rich history, from ancient Roman times to more recent eras.

Travelers have commented on how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are. From one review: “The tour in Brescia was very educational, with lots of culture!” We loved the way guides sprinkled in stories and historical facts that make the city’s ancient ruins and picturesque streets come alive. You’ll also get some free time to explore on your own, whether it’s grabbing a coffee, shopping, or just soaking in the local atmosphere.

Transition to the Vineyards of Franciacorta

After about 3.5 hours in Brescia, the group departs for the Franciacorta wine region, about a 30-minute scenic drive away. This is where Italy’s celebrated sparkling wines are made using traditional methods, and the landscape changes to rolling vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see.

The highlight of this part of the trip is the visit to a local winery. Here, you’ll get a guided tour of the facility, learning how Franciacorta wines are produced. A big plus is that the tour emphasizes traditional production methods, giving you a genuine insight into what makes these sparkling wines so special.

Wine Tasting and Regional Snacks

The actual tasting experience is often praised for its authenticity and quality. You’ll sample two traditional Franciacorta wines — generally sparkling versions that showcase Italy’s impressive winemaking craftsmanship. Reviewers like Ellen highlighted how the tasting was paired with delicious charcuterie and regional cheeses, turning the session into a feast for both the palate and the eyes.

The scenic views on the way to and from the vineyard add to the charm, with many visitors noting how the landscape creates a perfect backdrop for tasting some of Italy’s finest bubbles. The guide’s explanations help you understand why Franciacorta is regarded as Italy’s answer to Champagne, but with a uniquely Italian twist.

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Free Time and Return to Milan

After the vineyard visit, there’s about an hour’ drive back to Milan. The total tour duration is around 10 hours, so you’ll return in the early evening, feeling satisfied and full of new knowledge about the region’s culture, wine, and history.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced to reflect the comprehensive experience it offers — including private transportation, a guided city tour, wine tastings, and free time in Brescia. It does not include lunch, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy a meal during your exploration of Brescia or at the vineyards.

The tour’s flexibility is a plus: full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve with the option to pay later. The small-group setting means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with the guides, making it a more personal experience.

This trip caters well to travelers interested in authentic Italian culture and history, especially those who appreciate good wine and scenic countryside. The guided city tour of Brescia appeals to history lovers, while the vineyard visits delight wine enthusiasts eager to learn about sparkling wine production.

If you prefer a relaxed pace balanced with plenty of sightseeing and tasting, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a fantastic way to see a lesser-known Italian city and enjoy top-quality wines without the hassle of planning.

However, be prepared for a full day of activity, and note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Weather can be rainy, so bring appropriate clothing.

This Milan to Brescia and Franciacorta tour combines sightseeing, culture, and wine tasting into a well-rounded day. The guided visits and scenic drives make it easy to relax and focus on enjoying your experience, rather than worrying about logistics.

You’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides who bring Brescia’s history to life and the chance to sip authentic Franciacorta sparkling wines in a beautiful setting. The small-group format fosters friendly interactions and a more intimate experience, which many travelers find makes the day more memorable.

If you’re a traveler who loves uncovering Italy’s hidden treasures, appreciates quality wine, and enjoys cultural stories, this tour offers a compelling, value-packed day out from Milan.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup is not included by default, but there is an option to arrange pickup from your accommodation in the Milan area.

How long is the drive between Milan and Brescia?
The trip typically takes about 1.5 hours by coach or minibus, depending on traffic.

How much free time do I get in Brescia?
You will have around 3.5 hours for sightseeing, shopping, or grabbing a bite after the guided tour.

Are the wine tastings suitable for non-drinkers?
The tour includes tastings of two Franciacorta wines, but non-drinkers can often opt out or enjoy the other parts of the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to walk around Brescia or the vineyards.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, so bring appropriate clothing and umbrellas if needed.

This experience offers a lively taste of Lombardy’s culture, history, and wine — perfect for curious travelers eager to experience Italy beyond the usual tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: