7-Days Italian Lakes and Riviera Tour from Milan

Exploring Northern Italy: A 7-Day Lakes and Riviera Tour Review

If you’ve been dreaming of wandering through Italy’s most picturesque lakes and glamorous coastal villages, this 7-day Italian Lakes and Riviera tour from Milan might just be the trip you’re after. Though we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the itinerary offers a compelling mix of iconic sights, scenic boat rides, and charming towns—perfect for travelers who love beautiful scenery and cultural experiences.

What really draws us in are the well-organized mix of guided tours and free time—allowing you to soak in the views at your own pace, plus the inclusion of boat trips that promise unforgettable water-front perspectives. We also appreciate the detailed itinerary, which covers a broad swath of Italy’s best-loved spots, from the lakes of Como, Garda, and Iseo to the colorful villages of Cinque Terre and Portofino.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour, while packed with highlights, is on the pricier side, at over $3,300 per person. It’s a significant investment, but for those who value convenience, expert guidance, and a curated experience, it could be worth it. That said, it’s probably best suited for travelers comfortable with a moderate pace, a fair amount of walking, and a group setting.

If you’re eager to explore Italy’s lakes and coastlines in one go, enjoy scenic boat cruises, and prefer a tour that handles logistics — including accommodations and transport — this experience is well worth considering. Now, let’s dig into what makes this trip stand out (and what might be less ideal).

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Package: Lodging, guided tours, boat rides, and breakfasts are included, simplifying your planning.
• Diverse Locations: From lakeside villages and historic towns to glamourous Riviera spots, the itinerary is extensive.
• Scenic Boat Cruises: Multiple boat trips at Lake Orta, Maggiore, Como, Garda, and Cinque Terre give you stunning water views.
• Cultural Highlights: Walks through historic centers of Como, Bergamo, Verona, and medieval villages add depth to the experience.
• Food & Local Flavors: Enjoy tastings like focaccia in Liguria and a glass of Prosecco on arrival, plus some free-time for meals.
• Group Travel: Max 30 travelers, with multilingual guides, creating a friendly, manageable group dynamic.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Lakeside Charm Begins

Your journey kicks off with a boat trip to San Giulio Island, a tiny spot with a peaceful vibe. The boat ride is included and offers a relaxing start, giving you your first taste of Italy’s lake magic. Then, you’ll visit Isole Borromee, exploring Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella, both known for their quaint streets and impressive gardens. The boat tours here are included, and reviewers mention the boat rides as a highlight.

Day 2: The Wonders of Lake Como and Bergamo

We love the way this day combines the elegance of Lake Como with the charm of a medieval Italian town. You’ll walk through the Centro Storico of Como, soaking up its blend of old and new, then hop on a two-hour boat cruise to appreciate the lake’s staggering scenery—alpines, lush greenery, and luxurious villas. The day ends with a stroll through Bergamo’s ancient streets and visits to its Duomo and battistero.

Day 3: Lake Garda and Verona

This day hits the high notes of Italy’s largest lake, Garda. The visit to Sirmione offers a picture-perfect village with cobblestone streets and thermal baths, while the boat ride across Garda is a chance to really take in the expansive, shimmering waters. Later, in Verona, you’ll walk around Piazza Bra, visiting the Arena and appreciating the romantic atmosphere—think of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, with Juliet’s house as a quick stop.

Day 4: From Lake Iseo to Genoa

A more relaxed morning at Lago d’Iseo, which many consider less crowded and more peaceful than Como or Garda. Afterward, you’ll travel to Genoa, a city full of maritime history and lively streets. The boat ride from Iseo to Genoa is a great way to transition between the lakes and coast.

Day 5: Glamorous Villages of the Riviera

This day is all about the Riviera’s highlights. Rapallo gets a quick walk along its promenade, tasting local focaccia. Next, Santa Margherita Ligure offers a glimpse of authentic Italian seaside charm, before you visit Portofino, often described as one of the most iconic villages in Italy. It’s a short stop, but enough to fall in love with its pastel-colored buildings and luxe yachts.

Day 6: Cinque Terre’s Colorful Villages

A boat departs early for Portovenere, a less crowded jewel with dramatic cliffs and charming streets. Then it’s onto Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare, the two most famous of the Cinque Terre villages. Expect vibrant scenery, narrow alleys, and spectacular views. The boat rides here (from April) are highlighted as particularly scenic, making this one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

Day 7: Final Stop in Medieval Villages

Your last day takes you to Laigueglia, a quiet fishing village, and Finalborgo, a medieval town with cobblestone streets and historical sites. These quieter spots offer a relaxed end to your Italian adventure.

What We Like and What to Consider

The guides get high praise for their knowledge and friendly approach. Having local experts explain the history and stories behind each place makes a big difference, especially in towns like Bergamo, Verona, and Cinque Terre. The boat rides are also a major plus—they’re more than just transportation; they’re part of the experience, offering unimpeded views of Italy’s stunning lakes and coast.

Food is another highlight, with tastings like focaccia and cheese in Liguria and a welcome Prosecco. These add a flavorful touch that makes the trip feel authentic. Based on reviews, many travelers enjoyed the balance of guided visits and free time to explore on their own.

However, the itinerary is quite packed, and some stops are relatively brief—like the 20-minute visit to Juliet’s house or just an hour in Portofino. If you’re someone who prefers to linger longer or explore at your own pace, this might feel rushed. The tour is also on the pricier side, averaging over $3,300 per person, but it covers a lot: accommodations, transport, guides, boat trips, and breakfasts.

A key consideration is the physical effort involved. The tour involves walking through historic towns and some boat rides, so moderate fitness helps. Also, the navigation between different modes of transport and towns requires flexibility and patience, especially if weather affects boat schedules.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who want a rundown of northern Italy’s lakes and coastlines without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided walks, want to see multiple locations in one trip, and enjoy scenic boat cruises. It’s also ideal for travelers comfortable in a group setting and looking for a well-organized, all-inclusive experience.

If you’re a lover of beautiful scenery, charming villages, and Italian culture, you’ll find plenty to love here. But if you prefer more time in fewer places or are on a tighter budget, consider customizing your own trip or choosing fewer stops.

The Sum Up

This 7-day Italian Lakes and Riviera tour offers a well-rounded taste of northern Italy’s most stunning areas. From the tranquil waters of Lake Como to the colorful streets of Cinque Terre, the experience is designed to give you a combination of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and leisure.

The guided nature of the trip means you’ll benefit from local expertise and logistical convenience, making it suitable for travelers who want to relax and enjoy rather than worry about the details. The inclusion of boat rides at key lakes adds a visual splendor that’s hard to beat.

While the pace can be a bit brisk, especially for those who like to linger longer, the overall value is strong for those seeking a curated, scenic adventure. The tour’s focus on iconic spots and authentic local tastings makes it a memorable journey, particularly for first-timers or travelers looking for a comprehensive Italian experience in a manageable timeframe.

If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, scenic cruising, and culture—and are okay with the price—the 7-day Italian Lakes and Riviera tour could be a fantastic choice. Just be prepared for some busy days and moderate walking, and you’ll likely return home with plenty of beautiful memories.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour features private air-conditioned coach transport throughout along with boat trips at various lakes and coastal areas.

What’s included in the price?
Your payment covers accommodations for six nights, guided walking tours in Como, Bergamo, and Verona, boat trips on lakes and Cinque Terre, breakfasts, and some tastings like focaccia and Prosecco.

Are meals other than breakfast included?
No, meals besides breakfast are not included, giving you some flexibility to explore local restaurants and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 30 travelers, which allows for a friendly, manageable atmosphere while still meeting other like-minded travelers.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Some walking is involved in towns and around historic sites, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. If you have specific mobility concerns, it’s best to check with the provider.

When is the best time to do this tour?
The tour runs from April to October, aligning with the best weather for boat rides and outdoor sightseeing.

What happens if the weather disrupts boat schedules?
Boat trips are weather-dependent. In case of bad weather, some cruises might be canceled, but the itinerary typically offers alternative options or adjustments.

Can I extend my stay after the tour?
Since the tour ends at the meeting point, you can arrange to stay longer in Milan or other cities, but that would need to be planned separately.

What should I pack for this trip?
Comfortable walking shoes, casual smart attire, sun protection, and a camera are essentials. Spring and summer visitors should bring layers, as weather can vary.

Ultimately, this tour offers a thorough, scenic exploration of northern Italy’s lakes and coastlines, suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of guided discovery and free time. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a memorable, well-organized Italian adventure.