Lombardy isn’t just about bustling cities like Milan; it’s also a region packed with stunning lakes, beautiful gardens, and delicious food experiences. If you’re after authentic, memorable day trips, this area delivers in spades. We particularly love the Lake Garda olive oil tasting, where you can see the countryside and learn how Italy’s best olive oils are made, and the private boat trips on Lake Maggiore, which offer a quiet, luxurious way to enjoy breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just a lover of beautiful water views, Lombardy has something to offer.
To help you plan your visit, here’s a quick overview of the best tours. From guided food and olive oil tastings to private boat excursions and wine tours, each offers a unique way to experience the region’s charm. Let’s dive into what makes each of these tours stand out.
1. Lake Garda: Tour with 4 Olive Oil Tasting & Local Food
This 2-hour tour takes you to a family-run olive oil estate on the southern shores of Lake Garda. The experience begins with a guided tour of the estate, where you’ll learn about traditional olive oil production and its history in the region. Afterwards, you’ll participate in a tasting of award-winning extra virgin olive oils and pâtés, which are served with local bread and specialties.
What makes this tour special is its focus on authentic, small-scale production—you get to see the estate’s stunning views of Lake Garda while discovering the nuances of different olive oils through a sensory game suited for both adults and children. The use of official tasting glasses adds a professional touch, helping you distinguish subtle flavors and aromas.
Guests consistently praise the friendly family atmosphere and the quality of the oils, with a recent reviewer calling it a “delightful, authentic experience.” It’s perfect for food lovers eager to explore Italy’s olive oil traditions without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: Great for those interested in authentic Italian food, families, or anyone curious about olive oil production.
2. Lake Como Boat Tour – Bellagio – Varenna – Menaggio – Tremezzo
At number 2, we have this luxurious 2-hour boat tour that operates on Lake Como. Using a classic Venetian taxi-style boat, you’ll cruise between some of the lake’s most famous towns: Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and Tremezzo. The boat, which seats up to 10 passengers, offers a cozy, yet comfortable way to explore the lake at your own pace.
This tour is more than just sightseeing; it’s about experiencing the grandeur of Lake Como’s villas and gardens from a private boat. You can request pickup from Vassena or other locations, making it flexible for your plans. Along the way, you’ll see iconic sites like Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello, famed for their gardens and architecture.
Many travelers rave about the personalized service, with one reviewer saying, “Fabio was knowledgeable and down-to-earth, making the entire experience unforgettable.” Because this is a private experience, it’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families seeking an intimate, customized day on the water.
Bottom Line: An elegant, private way to see Lake Como’s highlights, best suited for those wanting a tailored, luxury experience.
3. A unique private boat tour of isola Bella with guide Micaela
On Lake Maggiore, this 2-hour private tour offers a chance to explore the famous Isola Bella with complete exclusivity. Your guide, Micaela, meets you at your hotel in Stresa or the pier to take you on a private boat to the island, avoiding the crowds that flock here during peak times.
This tour includes access to the palace’s richly decorated rooms and the beautifully maintained gardens, which are typically crowded during the day. Visiting in the late afternoon means you experience the site at a quieter time, allowing for better photos and a more intimate visit. You’ll learn about the founders of the palace and the history behind this spectacular estate, all from a knowledgeable local guide.
Reviews highlight how impressive the opulent palace and lush gardens are, with one caller describing it as “a stunning, peaceful experience away from the busy crowds.” The private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers and those wanting a quiet, in-depth visit of Isola Bella’s highlights in a relaxed setting.
4. Guided tour with wine tasting
Rounding out our list is this 2-hour, 20-minute guided wine tour that immerses you in Lombardy’s rich wine culture. Starting at a local vineyard, you’ll walk among the grapevines and learn about how wine is made, what influences its flavor, and the different types produced in the region.
While the details about specific wineries aren’t provided, the tour promises a path of discovery through the region’s wine story, complemented by tastings of various wines paired with regional snacks. It’s a great option for those eager to understand Italy’s winemaking traditions beyond just drinking the wine.
At $118, it offers good value for the chance to explore Lombardy’s wine scene in a small-group setting, ideal for wine enthusiasts or couples looking for a relaxed, educational experience. Reviewers mention the informative narration and the opportunity to sample wines you wouldn’t find at home.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers seeking an engaging, educational tasting experience.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If you love gastronomy and olive oils, the Lake Garda tasting (see details here) is a wonderful, affordable choice. For those wanting a luxury water experience, the Lake Como private boat tour (more info) offers exclusivity and comfort. If you prefer historical exploration and quiet moments, the private Isola Bella tour (find out more) suits you perfectly. Lastly, wine aficionados will enjoy the guided tasting (check it out here), which provides a relaxed way to learn about regional wines.
Think about your schedule and interests—whether it’s food, water adventures, or culture. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to ensure availability.
Lombardy’s variety of tours offers something for every traveler—whether savoring olive oils on Lake Garda, cruising Lake Como in style, discovering a quiet island palace, or sampling regional wines. Two or three options here stand out for their authenticity and value, making your trip memorable and uniquely tailored. Whatever your choice, you’ll find Lombardy’s charm is best enjoyed with good planning and a sense of curiosity.