6-Day Italian Lakes, Milan with Bernina Express Train Experience

Traveling through Italy’s stunning Lakes District is a dream for many, and if you’re considering a tour that hits all the highlights while giving you a taste of local culture and scenery, this 6-day adventure might be just what you need. We haven’t taken it ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, it looks like a well-rounded way to see some of Italy’s most beautiful spots in a relatively short time.

What we really like about this experience are the combination of scenic train journeys—especially the iconic Bernina Express—and the access to lakeside towns that often feel like steps out of a storybook. Plus, with guided tours, boat rides, and comfortable accommodations, it’s designed for travelers who want a mixture of structure and freedom.

However, a possible consideration is that the hotels are described as “quite basic” and the tour can be quite full-on with long days. That’s something to keep in mind if you prefer more relaxed, boutique-style stays or a more leisurely pace.

This tour suits those who are eager to see a broad swath of Northern Italy’s lakes and charming towns, especially if you’re okay with a busier sightseeing schedule and standard hotel comfort. It’s a good choice for travelers wanting to maximize their time and see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Variety of Lakes: The tour covers four of Lombardy’s most famous lakes—Como, Garda, Maggiore, and Orta—offering a comprehensive lakeside experience.
• Scenic Train Ride: The Bernina Express is a highlight, giving you spectacular views of the Alps on a historic, world-heritage train.
• Guided and Free Time: The itinerary balances guided tours with periods of free exploration, which many reviews appreciated.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel is done in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a small group size that makes for a more personalized experience.
• Boat Rides: Multiple boat trips around each lake provide a unique perspective and chances to see the scenery from the water.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Stopovers in towns like Sirmione, Bellagio, Verona, Riva del Garda, and Bergamo showcase Italy’s diverse charm.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Milan to the Lakes

Your adventure begins in Milan—famous for its fashion, art, and architecture. The tour kicks off with a quick overview of the city’s highlights, like the Duomo, Sforzesco Castle, and La Scala opera house—these iconic sites give a glimpse into Milan’s cultural richness.

After soaking up Milan’s vibe, the journey heads into the Lake District, where you’ll find yourself in a quieter, greener world. This first day also includes a visit to Porta Venezia, an old city gate with medieval roots, and a stroll through the Indro Montanelli Public Gardens.

One reviewer mentioned, “A wonderful tour with an amazing guide,” praising how the mix of guided sightseeing and free time works well. The hotels are described as “clean and convenient,” though somewhat basic, so don’t expect luxury here. The focus is on location and comfort rather than boutique luxury.

Day 2: The Bernina Express and Swiss Alps

A real highlight for many is the Bernina Express train ride. This historic train is over 100 years old and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, promising some of the most breathtaking views of the Alps. Sitting in a panoramic carriage, you’ll marvel at towering mountains and glaciers, with some reviewers calling it one of the most scenic train journeys they’ve experienced.

The day continues with a stop in St. Moritz, a world-famous Swiss resort town. You get some free time here, which lets you soak in the alpine atmosphere or grab a coffee with a view. The return trip to Milan wraps up a day full of natural beauty and memorable vistas.

Day 3: Lakes Como and Garda

The journey into the Lakes District continues with visits to Como and Bellagio—two of Italy’s most iconic lakeside towns. Como offers stunning vistas of the lake and Alps; many describe it as a “tourist destination for its beauty and proximity to nature.” In Bellagio, you’ll find charming streets and scenic views, perfect for a little wandering or photos.

Later, the group heads to Bergamo for an overnight stay. This city is divided into the modern lower town and the medieval upper town, with reviews praising its historic charm and well-preserved medieval streets.

Day 4: Lake Garda and Sirmione

Lake Garda is Italy’s largest inland water body, and you’ll spend the day exploring its west coast. Expect to enjoy the panoramic views of the Brenta Dolomites and serene Moraine Hills—both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

A boat tour in Sirmione is included, which many reviews say is a highlight. You’ll see the Sirmione Castle and the ruins of Catullus’s villa, adding a touch of history and romance to the day. Afterward, Riva del Garda offers a chance to explore its quaint, Venetian-style streets.

Day 5: Verona and the Wine Route

Verona, famously linked to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, is a city that blends history with romance. A guided walking tour takes you through Piazza delle Erbe, the medieval Castelvecchio, and the Torre dei Lamberti. Many travelers comment on the city’s “fascinating mix of influences,” making it a lovely stop.

Post-verona, the tour visits the Franciacorta wine region for a light lunch and wine tasting. The gravel and limestone soil here create ideal conditions for winemaking, and tasting local wines and food adds a relaxed, authentic touch to the trip. The day concludes with a return to Milan for your final night.

Day 6: Departure from Milan

After breakfast, it’s time for goodbyes and transfers to the airport. The tour doesn’t linger; instead, it wraps up with a straightforward transfer back to Milan’s airport, making travel planning easier.

What Travelers Say and Why It Matters

One reviewer shared, “In total, we had 6 lake cruises, which were more than expected,” emphasizing how the boat trips add a special dimension to the experience. Others appreciated the small group size—only six in some cases—allowing for a more personalized vibe.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some pointed out concerns about hotel quality being quite basic and the overall value for the price. The tour’s cost is not insignificant at over $2,100 per person, but when you factor in included activities—boat trips, scenic train rides, guided tours, and centrally located hotels—it begins to seem like a fair deal for those eager to see everything without extra planning.

A recurring theme is the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides, especially praise for Andrea and Alessandro, who are described as friendly, energetic, and well-organized. Good guides can truly make or break a tour, so this aspect is worth noting if you’re a guide-enthusiast.

Transport and Comfort

Travel is in a luxury coach, which reviewers say is spacious and comfortable. This makes the long days more manageable, especially when coupled with scenic stops. Group sizes are limited, making for a more intimate experience—something many travelers value.

Additional Perks

Boat rides, a highlight for many, are included in the package, providing a chance to see the lakes from a different perspective. Depending on weather, some boat trips may be adjusted, but overall, they add a memorable touch.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a structured but flexible way to see Northern Italy’s lakes and Verona. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity, such as walking through towns and a bit of boat riding, you’ll find this fits well.

It’s also suited for those who value guided sightseeing, especially with knowledgeable guides who can enrich the experience with local insights. The mix of boat trips, train rides, and walking tours means you get a taste of everything—scenery, culture, and history.

However, if your priority is luxury hotels, a leisurely pace, or traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit. The hotels are described as “basic” and the schedule is quite full, which could be tiring for some.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
It’s generally geared toward adult travelers who enjoy sightseeing and walking. Since the itinerary involves some long days and moderate activity, it may not be ideal for very young children.

Are meals included?
The tour includes breakfast daily and some lunches and dinners, such as the lunch in Franciacorta. Additional food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for extras.

What is the group size?
The maximum seems to be around 50 travelers, but some reviews mention smaller groups, like six, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Changes made less than 6 days before the tour are not accepted.

What is the price point like?
At around $2,194.97 per person, the tour covers quite a bit—train rides, boat trips, guided sightseeing, and hotel stays. Many reviews feel it offers good value considering what’s included, especially if you’re interested in the scenic and cultural highlights.

Are the hotels centrally located?
Most reviewers say they are, but hotel quality varies and some describe them as basic. It’s best to keep expectations realistic about hotel comfort.

What if the weather is bad for boat rides?
Boat trips depend on weather conditions; if they cannot be conducted, similar activities on land will be proposed.

Wrapping Up

If you’re someone who loves exploring Italy’s lakes with a bit of guided structure, this tour seems like a solid choice. It offers a chance to see some of the most beautiful lakes, charming towns, and iconic sights without the stress of planning every detail. The included scenic train rides and boat trips are definite highlights, and many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who help bring the experience to life.

That said, it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind basic hotels and a packed schedule. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or boutique accommodations, you might want to consider alternatives or extending your stay in fewer places.

This experience feels like a good way to get a broad, scenic taste of Italy’s lakes and Verona—especially if you’re eager to check off a lot of must-see spots in a manageable trip.

Happy travels, and may your Italian lakes adventure be as beautiful as the photos suggest!