The 20 best experiences to do in and around Bergamo

Take a horseback ride along the banks of the Serio River, within the nature park of the same name on the border between the provinces of Bergamo and Cremona. Depart from Romano di Lombardia.

Relying on your guide you will have the opportunity to admire the protected natural area, rich in biodiversity and pristine habitats.

Before or after the horseback ride you can rest inside the center's characteristic clubhouse, enjoying an aperitif, or book lunches and dinners or stay in the comfortable B&B, all with a background of ambient music.

Enjoy this equestrian experience as a couple, with family, with friends, and ensure a moment of happiness and relaxation.

With this horseback ride in the Ticino Nature Park you will have the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the horses, brush them and prepare the necessary equipment for an enjoyable ride.

The experience begins with a short introductory lesson that will help you learn how to tame your horse.

During the horseback ride, which will have an effective duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, you will ride through the forest and spring areas, rich in waterways and vegetation. If lucky, you may see storks, herons and other migratory species.

There is also an opportunity to picnic on horseback.

Choose horseback riding in the hills of Bergamo and ride along the trails and dirt roads in the area, surrounded by the green woods of the park.

The horseback riding tour routes are suitable for both beginners and experts. The rides are one to two hours in length and take place throughout the week.

You will be led by an experienced guide, who will be with you for the duration of the excursion, showing you the most beautiful places and leading you through the most striking landscapes of the Bergamo area.

(The walk will be at a walking pace and not a galloping pace).

Learn all the secrets about wine making and create your own unique blend with this workshop at the Urban Winery in Milan.

Program

As soon as you arrive, you will be served a welcome glass, which you can taste during a tour of the winery's production area, accompanied by a brief introduction to the project.

Next you will taste 3 wine bases, learning to recognize the differences related to production methods. Based on your tastes, you can then create your own custom blend.

To conclude, you will be able to unleash your imagination by decorating the bottle label of the created wine.

At the end of the experience you will be given a bottle of the wine made, one per group (group means the group that made the reservation), to take home as a memento of the experience.

Any extra bottles of the created blend can be purchased directly on site, at a price of 10€ per bottle, upon request to the facility prior to creation.

Discover the beauty of the forests and hills around Lake Como with a group or couple horseback riding tour.

Depending on your preference, you can choose from the following tours:

Horseback riding with aperitif (private)

The horseback ride with aperitif includes the same itinerary as the walk-only tour and is followed by an aperitif at the Ca Verda agriturismo with drinks and appetizers.

Horseback ride with lunch (private)

The horseback ride with lunch includes the same itinerary as the walk-only tour and is followed by lunch at the Ca Verda agriturismo. The menu changes according to seasonality and includes an appetizer with cheeses and cold cuts, an encore of first courses and a second course of meat accompanied by potatoes.

Horseback ride with dinner (private)

The horseback ride with dinners includes the same itinerary as the walk-only tour and is followed by dinner at the Ca Verda farmhouse. The menu changes according to seasonality and includes an appetizer with cheese and cold cuts, an encore of first courses and a second course of meat accompanied by potatoes.

The walk takes 1 hour and is suitable for everyone, including beginners. Each tour has a maximum number of 4 participants. Minimum age: 14 years.

The riding school providing the experience uses the Ca Verda farmhouse to arrange lunch, aperitif or dinner.

Horseback riding along the Adda River, lasting one to two hours, through the surrounding woods is an experience not to be missed.

The horseback rides are also suitable for beginners, as they consist of comfortable and wide paths located within the Adda Park.

Thanks to this ride you will have the opportunity to explore the nature that characterizes these places, and to let the horses water within the river.

During the horseback ride, departing from Rivolta d'Adda, you will be accompanied by two equestrian guides, who will lead you for the duration of the excursion.

Rent a 40-horsepower boat and discover Lake Como in total autonomy, following your own pace and enjoying every moment with absolute freedom.

You will board comfortable boats that are easy to drive and do not require a boat license, making them ideal for a relaxing, enjoyable and uncomplicated experience.

Each boat is equipped with a comfortable sun shade to protect you from the sun and an ice chest with water, with refreshing drinks included to make the trip even more comfortable.

Fuel is also included, so you can focus only on the pleasure of sailing.

The itinerary is free and customizable, with the opportunity to admire some of Lake Como's most iconic villas from the lake, such as Villa del Balbianello, Villa La Cassinella, Villa Gaeta, and Villa Monastero.

During the cruise you will skirt fascinating locations such as Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Tremezzo, each with its own unique character and breathtaking scenery.

Discover the beauty of the forests and hills around Lake Como with a group or couple horseback riding tour.

Depending on your preference, you can choose from the following tours:

Horseback riding with aperitif (private)

The horseback ride with aperitif includes the same itinerary as the walk-only tour and is followed by an aperitif at the Ca Verda agriturismo with drinks and appetizers.

Horseback ride with lunch (private)

The horseback ride with lunch includes the same itinerary as the walk-only tour and is followed by lunch at the Ca Verda agriturismo. The menu changes according to seasonality and includes an appetizer with cheeses and cold cuts, an encore of first courses and a second course of meat accompanied by potatoes.

Horseback ride with dinner (private)

The horseback ride with dinners includes the same itinerary as the walk-only tour and is followed by dinner at the Ca Verda farmhouse. The menu changes according to seasonality and includes an appetizer with cheese and cold cuts, an encore of first courses and a second course of meat accompanied by potatoes.

The walk takes 1 hour and is suitable for everyone, including beginners. Each tour has a maximum number of 4 participants. Minimum age: 14 years.

The riding school providing the experience uses the Ca Verda farmhouse to arrange lunch, aperitif or dinner.

The private sailing yacht excursion departing from Bellagio gives you an exciting experience on Lake Como.

You can sail on an elegant, classically designed yacht that can accommodate up to 6 people. The boat has a sun canopy, toilet and bluetooth sound system.

You can choose from 4 different experiences.

2-Hour Tour

During this experience the skipper will show you the southeast side of the lake (Lecco branch) by sailing from Bellagio to Lierna and Limonta.

3-hour tour

The 3-hour tour allows you to sail from Bellagio to the northern part of Lake Como, Varenna, Bellano, Santa Maria Rezzonico and Menaggio.

4-Hour Tour

This experience allows you to see the northern area of Lake Como, Varenna, Bellano, Santa Maria Rezzonico, Menaggio Lierna and Limonta.

7-hour tour

During this experience, you will have the entire day to visit much of Lake Como; from Bellagio to the northern area to the amazing village of "Corenno Plinio".

In case of bad weather, the facility may cancel or modify the itinerary and its duration.

You will begin the experience by preparing the horses together with the guides, taking a few minutes to become familiar with your riding companion.

Once ready you will set off on your walk accompanied by a walking guide for each rider, to ensure maximum safety and enjoyment of the excursion.

The guide will help you learn the basics of horse handling as you travel the mule tracks and trails of the hill, which wind through small vineyards and dense forests inhabited by jays, buzzards, badgers, squirrels and deer.

With any luck you may encounter some of these animals!

The horseback ride, starting from Viggiù, a town in the province of Varese near the Swiss border, will take you through the territories of Monte Orsa, along the Cadorna Line, a place rich in history.

The experience begins with a short briefing of about 15 minutes that aims to get to know the horse and hang some basic rules for your own safety and that of the horse. After the briefing is over, you will leave the facility in the direction of the Cadorna Line and Monte Orsa.

During the walk, in addition to being able to admire nature and the splendid view of Lake Ceresio, also known as Lake Lugano, you will see the trenches and fortresses of the Cadorna Line. The guide will tell you some anecdotes regarding the area and, in particular, concerning the history of the defensive line, which became famous during the First World War.

For those who want, the experience does not end once you return to the facility. In fact, it is also possible to purchase an aperitif that includes a drink and appetizers.

In case of allergies or specific dietary needs, please contact the facility directly for the aperitif.

Horseback riding in the mountains above Lecco, 558 meters above sea level, starts in the town of Primaluna. Excursions offered for this experience are either 1 or 2 hours in length, as desired.

All horseback rides are on the bridleway along the Pioverna River, where you can admire scenic and very characteristic places in the valley. You cross the river, if possible depending on weather conditions and season, and reache the woods. 

The horseback riding experience is suitable for anyone, even first-time riders. Appropriate clothing for horseback riding, such as closed shoes and long pants, is recommended.

Horseback riding in the hills overlooking the west shore of Lake Garda from Toscolano Maderno, on trails surrounded by nature.

Hikes are suitable for beginners who are going horseback riding for the first time. You ride through the countryside and woods and reach high ground from where you can admire beautiful views, and you can stop for short breaks. 

To participate sportswear with long pants and closed shoes is necessary.

Minimum age: 14 years old. Maximum weight: 95 kg.

1-hour excursion

The’excursion includes a tour of about 5/6 km around Gaino passing through historical places and opening the heart to the views of Garda Bresciano.

2-hour hike 

Trip of about 12 km along the hill between Gargnano and Toscolano, crossing historic places and opening the heart to the views of Garda Bresciano.

1-hour excursion with lunch or dinner (Sunday evening dinner not possible due to closing shift)

The excursion includes a tour of about 5/6 km around Gaino passing through historical places and opening the heart to the views of Garda Bresciano.

In this experience a lunch or dinner with 3-course tasting menu are included, dessert and coffee, drinks included (dishes with seasonal and local ingredients).

Lunch is prepared for 12:30 / 13:00, is thus preceding the walk. Dinner, on the other hand, is prepared for 7:30 / 8:00 p.m. (Sunday evening excluded due to closing shift) and is held after the walk.

Lunch and dinner include:

•    3 courses
•    Dessert
•    Coffee
•    Drinks

This option is only available from March to September.

2-hour excursion with lunch

Trip of about 12 km along the hillside between Gargnano and Toscolano, passing through historic places and opening the heart to the views of Garda Bresciano.

In this experience lunch is included (available all year round). Lunch is prepared for 12:30 / 13:00, is then following the walk.

Lunch includes:

•    3 courses
•    Dessert
•    Coffee
•    Drinks

Take a horseback ride along the banks of the Serio River, within the nature park of the same name on the border between the provinces of Bergamo and Cremona. Depart from Romano di Lombardia.

Relying on your guide you will have the opportunity to admire the protected natural area, rich in biodiversity and pristine habitats.

Before or after the horseback ride you can rest inside the center's characteristic clubhouse, enjoying an aperitif, or book lunches and dinners or stay in the comfortable B&B, all with a background of ambient music.

Enjoy this equestrian experience as a couple, with family, with friends, and ensure a moment of happiness and relaxation.

Enjoy an original experience in the heart of Franciacorta with a quad bike tour suitable for everyone, even those who have never ridden on an ATV.

You will be able to choose one of two available tours:

Aperitivo (3 hours)

The quad bike tour with aperitif includes a loop through the vineyards with departure and arrival in Erbusco, near Brescia.

Halfway through the tour an aperitif awaits you in a place overlooking the Torbiere del Sebino Nature Reserve.

•    25+15 km
•    2h30' of actual driving
•    Total duration: 3h

Tasting (3h30')

During the excursion with tasting you can visit one of the most renowned wineries in Franciacorta.

•    25+10 km
•    2h of driving
•    1h visit to a winery + 2/3 Franciacorta tastings
•    Total duration: 3h30min

Wineries visited: Contadi Castaldi (usually Saturday afternoon), Ferghettina (usually Sunday morning) and Ronco Calino.

In case rain is expected, you will be contacted by phone the day before. It is possible to take turns while driving.

A wine tasting with a guided tour of the "Il Dosso" winery in Corte Franca is a unique opportunity to learn about the production processes of the famous Franciacorta and immerse yourself in the hills of Brescia, not far from Lake Iseo. 

The experience begins with a tasting, led by the producer, of selected Franciacorta wines offered by the winery, accompanied by a sampling of local cured meats and cheeses. It will continue with a visit to the winery, where you can learn about Franciacorta production techniques. 

It is possible to add an additional mixed platter of selected cured meats and cheeses to share (recommended for 2 people) for an additional fee.

Boat trip exploring the Sirmione peninsula departing from Desenzano, one of the pearls of Lake Garda.

During the tour you will have the opportunity to relax along the way, admiring the surrounding landscape and coastline from the calm waters of Lake Garda. Once you reach your destination, you can discover the beautiful Sirmione by staying on board or going down for two hours or more on the mainland.

Return is scheduled about 2 hours after the start of the stop in Sirmione. For example, if you book the tour departing at 11:00 am, you will get off in Sirmione around 11:40 am, and the return should be 2 hours later with the 1:40 pm tour. If you take the 1:00 p.m. one from Desenzano, the return from Sirmione will be at 3:40 p.m., and if you take the 3:00 p.m. one from Desenzano, the return will be at 6:40 p.m. from Sirmione.

Points of interest to be seen will be Desenzano Castle, Villa Maria Callas, Boiola Spa and spring, Catullus Caves, Scaliger Castle, and the Medieval Port.

Boats with a maximum capacity of 30 people.

25-minute group boat trip to discover the most picturesque places of Sirmione, one of the pearls of Lake Garda.

During this experience you will have the opportunity to admire the surrounding landscape and coastline from the calm waters of Lake Garda.

This tour departs directly from the port of Sirmione. On a 25min boat excursion you will take a complete tour around the peninsula and visit points of interest directly from the lake.

During the tour, you will admire:

•    Maria Callas' former villa
•    Aquaria spa center
•    Boiola thermal spring
•    Caves of Catullus
•    Scaliger Castle
•    Medieval harbor

Boats with a maximum capacity of 30 people.

The vintage boat tour on Lake Como from Menaggio is a private tour with captain, ideal for discovering the uniqueness of the area and visiting the most beautiful and exclusive places in the area.

The duration of the private mini-cruise is at your choice and includes reaching the most famous villas in the area: Villa Carlotta, Villa del Balbianello (FAI), Villa La Cassinella and Villa Melzi.

There is a choice of two different boats:

•    The Cadenazzi Lasco 550 vintage boat, a boat with a unique and elegant line, one of the best historical boats produced in wood on Lake Como.
•    The classic Venetian boat, produced at the end of the 21st century in a famous shipyard in Venice, is over 9 meters long, has a large cabin, fitted out in mahogany and with upholstery in typical Venetian style.

The vintage boat is perfect for sunny days, while the classic Venetian boat is also suitable for colder or rainy days.

With this fascinating boat tour with aperitif in Menaggio, you can immerse yourself through the magic of Lake Como at sunset aboard a charming vintage boat, built entirely of mahogany.

The skipper will take you along the lake's renowned shores as the sun sets on the horizon. Meanwhile, you can relax and enjoy the view with a glass of Prosecco.

This romantic cruise is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your family or friends.

You will have a relaxing experience as you explore Lake Como in one of its most atmospheric settings.

Rent a 40-horsepower boat and discover Lake Como in total autonomy, following your own pace and enjoying every moment with absolute freedom.

You will board comfortable boats that are easy to drive and do not require a boat license, making them ideal for a relaxing, enjoyable and uncomplicated experience.

Each boat is equipped with a comfortable sun shade to protect you from the sun and an ice chest with water, with refreshing drinks included to make the trip even more comfortable.

Fuel is also included, so you can focus only on the pleasure of sailing.

The itinerary is free and customizable, with the opportunity to admire some of Lake Como's most iconic villas from the lake, such as Villa del Balbianello, Villa La Cassinella, Villa Gaeta, and Villa Monastero.

During the cruise you will skirt fascinating locations such as Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Tremezzo, each with its own unique character and breathtaking scenery.

Experience a shared catamaran tour on Lake Como, a 2-hour experience designed to discover the lake at leisure, departing from Varenna.

Sailing touches iconic places such as Bellagio and Comacina Island, alternating with coves and lesser-known stretches of coastline, with itinerary varying according to weather conditions. Aboard the 9-meter-long Maru catamaran, you'll find an essential, cozy space with a wooden table and carpets on deck to sit comfortably; small snacks are included depending on the time.

Maximum of 7 participants to provide a curated and relaxed experience among water, scenery and conviviality.

Discover Villa Cipressi botanical garden in Varenna, on the shores of Lake Como.
Located in Varenna, the villa complex - built between the 15th and 19th centuries and recently restored - combines historical charm with the elegance and comfort of one of the most beautiful historic villas on Lake Como.

A favourite destination for scholars and garden enthusiasts, the park surrounding the property boasts exceptional beauty and invaluable cultural significance, showcasing the biodiversity of different regions of Italy.

From November 1st to January 6th, the botanical garden of Villa Cipressi becomes Villa Cipressi Christmas Garden: a magical wonderland of lights, music, and Christmas flavors. Come and experience the magic in the green heart of Varenna!

This ticket will allow you to enter the Villa's garden and stay inside as long as you wish, during opening hours.

The private sailing yacht excursion departing from Bellagio gives you an exciting experience on Lake Como.

You can sail on an elegant, classically designed yacht that can accommodate up to 6 people. The boat has a sun canopy, toilet and bluetooth sound system.

You can choose from 4 different experiences.

2-Hour Tour

During this experience the skipper will show you the southeast side of the lake (Lecco branch) by sailing from Bellagio to Lierna and Limonta.

3-hour tour

The 3-hour tour allows you to sail from Bellagio to the northern part of Lake Como, Varenna, Bellano, Santa Maria Rezzonico and Menaggio.

4-Hour Tour

This experience allows you to see the northern area of Lake Como, Varenna, Bellano, Santa Maria Rezzonico, Menaggio Lierna and Limonta.

7-hour tour

During this experience, you will have the entire day to visit much of Lake Como; from Bellagio to the northern area to the amazing village of "Corenno Plinio".

In case of bad weather, the facility may cancel or modify the itinerary and its duration.

Alpaca walking in Carpaneto Piacentino allows you to enjoy a relaxing experience immersed in the tranquility of the countryside.

You can walk along pristine paths through forests, flowering meadows and vineyards accompanied by gentle, soft alpacas.

This experience is suitable for everyone: families, couples, groups of friends or simply those looking for a relaxing time away from the daily hustle and bustle.

Alpacas are gentle, curious and peaceful creatures, perfect for a relaxing and fun experience. Following their slow, meditative pace, you will savor the silence broken only by the rustling of leaves and their quiet breathing.

At the beginning of the experience there is a brief introduction about alpacas to learn about them, how to interact with them and how to guide them safely.

Afterwards there is a walk of about 1 hour on a nature trail, with stops to enjoy the scenery and make friends with these fascinating animals.

If you choose to participate in the vineyard picnic in Oltrepò Pavese, Lombardy, you will have a unique experience, stroll three vineyards and then rest while picnicking among the vines.

Everything you need for the picnic will be provided by the facility.

What is included in the picnic bag (for 2 people):

•    fabric bag with tablecloth
•    a bottle of wine (variable depending on the option chosen)
•    a bottle of water
•    local cold cuts and cheeses
•    homemade bread
•    tart with local jams
•    glasses and tableware

One should equip oneself with comfortable shoes, sun hats, sunscreen and insect repellent. We recommend bringing blankets to sit on in the grass, beach sarongs or towels to spread between rows of trees for shade.

During the tasting and vineyard walk in Oltrepò Pavese you will discover the Versa Valley in the province of Pavia as you stroll through the vineyards of a local agritourism farm, tasting their renowned wines and local products, discovering their cellars.

You will also have the opportunity to select a lunch in the vineyard..

The tasting includes:

•    Martinotti Method Brut sparkling wine or "Le Stelle" Classic Method 36 months - paired with a cold or warm vegetable appetizer.
•    347 M.S.L.M. Still White from different vintages - with samples of local artisan cheeses.
•    Novecento Bonarda frizzante or 347 M.S.L.M. Rosso fermo - paired with traditional Oltrepò Pavese cured meats.

Depending on the season, some hot or cold dishes typical of the region will be available.

The Vineyard Wine Tasting Lunch includes:

•    Martinotti Brut Method sparkling wine or "Le Stelle" Classic Method sparkling wine - paired with artisanal cured meats from the region and vegetables from the garden
•    47 M.S.L.M. Still White (of the vintage) or sparkling Rosé - Paired with a pasta or rice dish
•    347 M.S.L.M. Still red or sparkling Novecento Bonarda - Paired with a meat or vegetarian main course
•    Dessert of your choice

During this horseback ride in the Emilian Stirone Park you will be able to fully enjoy the beauty of the Apennines.

The horseback rides will take place on trails of low and medium-low difficulty suitable for all levels of experience, but also for those who have never been on horseback before.

You will be provided with all equipment for the excursion, including helmet (mandatory). Recommended clothing includes long pants and closed-toe shoes.

An experience designed to introduce young children to the world of horseback riding in a safe, fun and engaging way.

The Saddle Baptism allows children ages 3 to 10 to have a first encounter with a horse or pony, during which children learn to get to know, pet and brush it, gaining confidence and respect for the animal. The instructor explains in a simple way how to behave safely and accompanies each child on the first ride, on docile and age-appropriate animals.

There follows a short assisted walk at the pace, with the horse led at the lunge by the instructor or an assistant, and then games such as small cone courses, small soft obstacles or gymkhanas are provided to make the experience more fun.