Lombardy is a region that offers more than just its famous cities like Milan. Its landscapes — from shimmering lakes to rolling vineyards — provide an ideal backdrop for a variety of authentic tours and experiences. Whether you’re into adventure sports like canyoning, eager to explore historic villas by boat, or craving delicious local food and wine, Lombardy has something special for you. We especially love the canyoning adventure at Vione for its stunning views and adrenaline rush, and the private boat tours on Lake Como for their exclusivity and comfort. In this guide, we’ll explore eight of the best options so you can pick what suits your style.
Quick Overview
Our list includes outdoor adventures such as Canyoning “Vione”, which combines physical challenge with breathtaking scenery, and relaxing lake explorations like Lake Como boat trips, perfect for those wanting a private, scenic experience. Food lovers can indulge in olive oil tastings or wine tastings, offering a taste of authentic local flavors. There’s also a cultural side with a Mantova tour that combines history, art, and local cuisine. Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.
1. Canyoning “Vione” – advanced Canyoningtour also for sportive beginner
At number one, this canyoning adventure on Lake Garda promises spectacular scenery and a physical challenge. Designed for those aged 14 and up, it combines jumps, slides, climbs, and swimming in wild gorges around Piovere di Tignale. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of adrenaline and breathtaking views that are rarely seen by the typical tourist.
The experience includes all necessary equipment—neoprene suits, harnesses, helmets—and a thorough safety briefing. The small group size ensures personalized attention from your guide, which is ideal for those who want an active but safe adventure. The reviews are glowing, with many praising the professionalism of the guides and the fun challenges suitable for both sporty beginners and more experienced thrill-seekers. One traveler called it “a great experience” and appreciated how manageable the jumps and slides felt with proper guidance.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a physically engaging outdoor activity that combines the beauty of Lake Garda with adventure, this canyoning tour is hard to beat.
2. Lake Garda: Tour with 4 Olive Oil Tasting & Local Food
For lovers of good food, the Lake Garda olive oil tour offers an authentic taste of Italy’s culinary traditions. Visiting a family-run estate, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of award-winning extra virgin olive oils, pâtés, and infused specialties, all while soaking up panoramic views of Lake Garda.
The tour begins with a 30-minute guided walk through the estate, followed by a tasting session where you’ll learn about the production process and the estate’s history. The highlight is the sensory game that both adults and children can enjoy, making it a fun, interactive experience. The estate’s focus on quality and tradition shines through, and the official tasting glasses deepen the flavor experience.
Guests praise the friendly atmosphere and the depth of information shared about olive oil production. Priced affordably at just $46 per person, this tour offers excellent value for those wanting a tasty, educational experience amid Italy’s beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies and families alike, this olive oil tasting combines scenic beauty with a genuine taste of local Italy.
3. Lake Como Boat Tour – Bellagio – Varenna – Menaggio – Tremezzo
At number three, this luxury boat tour on Lake Como offers a relaxed way to see some of the most famous towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. It’s a private Venetian taxi-style boat that caters to groups up to 11, providing both comfort and intimacy. The boat features a panoramic cabin and ample seating, making it ideal for a leisurely exploration of the lake’s highlights.
The tour includes stops at villas like Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello, where you can admire exquisite gardens and architecture. The boat’s flexibility allows for personalized itineraries, making it suitable for special occasions or families seeking a stress-free day on the water. Guests have raved about the knowledgeable guide, Fabio, who shared insights into the area’s history and architecture, making the experience more enriching.
For around $956.49, this private tour offers exceptional value for those wanting a tailored, scenic experience with privacy and comfort. The only consideration is that it’s a full 2-hour experience, so it’s best suited for those with limited time or who want a relaxed, exclusive outing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or small groups wanting a personalized, scenic day on Lake Como.
4. A private boat tour of Isola Bella with guide Micaela
Number four takes you to Italy’s famous Lake Maggiore, with a private boat trip to the stunning Isola Bella. This exclusive tour allows you to explore the palace and gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage Site without the crowds, thanks to a late-afternoon schedule when most travelers have left.
Your guide, Micaela, will meet you at your hotel or pier in Stresa and whisk you away on a private boat. You’ll visit the richly decorated rooms of the palace and stroll through the beautifully maintained gardens — all at your own pace. The private transportation and guided tour make this experience feel extremely intimate and luxurious.
Guests describe it as “impressively beautiful,” with the quiet time allowing for more meaningful exploration. Costing around $494.22 for up to five people, it’s best suited for those who want a personalized, exclusive experience of Lake Maggiore’s most iconic site.
Bottom Line: If you prefer private, relaxed sightseeing without the crowds, this tour offers a special way to enjoy Isola Bella.
5. Guided tour with wine tasting
Wine lovers will appreciate this guided tasting tour that offers a deep dive into the flavors and stories behind local wines. For around $118, you’ll explore the nuances of regional wines while learning about their production and history in a relaxed setting.
While the description highlights the educational aspect, the key appeal is pairing local wines with regional delicacies. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, making it an engaging yet manageable session. It’s suitable for those interested in oenology or simply seeking a flavorful way to enjoy Lombardy’s countryside.
Guests comment on the engaging guide and the opportunity to taste a variety of wines that truly reflect the area’s terroir. This experience is ideal for an evening activity, especially if you’re staying nearby or want to include a flavorful conclusion to a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A good choice for wine enthusiasts wanting to explore Lombardy’s wine culture in a friendly, informative atmosphere.
6. From Lake Garda: Mantova History & Nature
If you’re after a full-day experience, this Mantova tour provides a perfect mix of history, art, and local flavors. It lasts between 8.5 and 11.5 hours, depending on the schedule, and explores one of Italy’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.
You’ll visit the medieval castles and city walls, absorbing the charm of this Renaissance city. The tour includes tasting local specialties like sbrisolona and pumpkin tortelli, giving you a true taste of Mantova. The tour also features guided visits to historic sites, providing insights into the city’s artistic and architectural treasures.
Reviewers note that Mantova’s beautiful ambiance and welcoming atmosphere make it a worthwhile day trip. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and arrange pickup points.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history and culture lovers seeking a comprehensive day of exploration with authentic regional food.
7. Lake Garda: Picnic in the vineyard with wine tasting
This charming experience combines relaxation and culinary delights amid the lush vineyards of Lake Garda. You’ll unwind under a pergola with a curated basket of local delicacies, paired with wines produced on-site.
The guided tour of the winery gives insight into the passion and craftsmanship behind Garganega and Trebbianello grapes, while the picnic allows you to enjoy the peaceful countryside. It’s a perfect activity for couples or small groups who want to savor the moment and experience farm-to-table freshness.
Guests praise the tranquil setting and the high-quality food and wine pairing, making this a memorable, stress-free outing. The two-hour duration makes it manageable even for a busy itinerary.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a leisurely, scenic wine and food experience that feels authentic and personal.
8. Lake Garda: Wine Tasting with Panoramic View
Rounding out the list, this short but sweet wine tasting session offers a quick but flavorful introduction to the wines of Lake Garda. For just $34 per person and lasting about an hour, it’s a great way to add a tasting experience to your day without taking too much time.
Enjoy sampling fresh, young wines while taking in breathtaking vineyard views. Local cold cuts and cheeses complement the wines perfectly, creating a true taste of the region’s rural charm. It’s an ideal activity if you’re short on time but want to capture the essence of Lake Garda’s wine culture.
The reviews are mostly positive, emphasizing the intimate, relaxed atmosphere. This experience suits travelers looking for a quick, flavorful glimpse of local wines with stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect as a brief, scenic introduction to Lake Garda’s wine scene, especially if you want a relaxed, no-fuss experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When deciding which of these Lombardy experiences to book, consider your interests, fitness level, and schedule. If you crave adventure, the canyoning Vione tour offers an adrenaline rush with unmatched views. For a relaxing day on the water, the private boat tours on Lake Como or Lake Maggiore provide comfort and intimacy, perfect for couples or special occasions. Food and wine enthusiasts should not miss the olive oil or wine tastings, which combine flavor with scenery.
Budget-wise, the olive oil and wine tastings are very accessible, while private boat trips are more of an investment, but well worth it if you want exclusivity. The full-day Mantova tour is ideal if you want an immersive cultural experience.
Booking early, especially during peak seasons, guarantees availability and the best selection of times. Think about your travel style—are you after adventure, culinary pleasures, or cultural insights—and choose the tour that will make your Lombardy trip memorable.
Lombardy’s diverse landscapes and rich offerings mean there’s a perfect experience for everyone. Whether you opt for the thrill of canyoning, the serenity of private lake cruises, or the pleasure of tasting local wines and oils, each tour promises a genuine, enjoyable taste of Italy. Now is the time to plan ahead and secure your spot — these experiences fill quickly.