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.

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).

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.

Visit to the chocolate factory and chocolate tasting in Milan ideal for spending a culinary day among the many flavors of chocolate.

There are 3 different tours within the experience:

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Base

At the beginning of the activity you will observe, using the 3D viewer, the harvesting and production stages of cocoa beans on a Perù plantation. Afterwardsè you will pass by the "Cioccoteca", the roasting room and the processing laboratory to find out all about artisanal production. The visità will end with a tasting of 3 different types of chocolate.

Media

At the beginning of the activity you will observe, using the 3D viewer, the harvesting and production stages of cocoa beans on a Perù plantation. Afterwardsè you will pass by the "Cioccoteca", the roasting room and the processing laboratory to find out all about artisanal production. The visità will end with a tasting of 5 different types of chocolate.

Premium

At the beginning of the activity, you will be able to observe, using the 3D viewer, the harvesting and production stages of cocoa beans on a Perù plantation. Afterwardsè you will pass by the "Cioccoteca", the roasting room and the processing laboratory to find out all about artisanal production. The visità will end with a tasting of 5 different types of chocolate accompanied by a glass of sweet wine.

The maximum limit who canò participate in a single visitanè of 8 people, also each tour lasts about 1 hour.

Take a friendly walk with alpacas on the Serio River in Romano di Lombardia in the province of Bergamo.

Before starting the walk there will be a small briefing to get to know these docile and curious animals.

The walk begins at the ranch and continues through the landscape of the Serio River Park, before arriving at the river, a protected natural area rich in biodiversity and pristine habitats.

During the experience you can take souvenir photos with your new friends. 

An alpaca will be delivered for each adult couple.

Children, up to age 7, participate in the walk free of charge and must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Agritourism tasting in the Bergamo hills in Pontida allows you to taste local wines at the first vegetarian and vegan agritourism restaurant in the province of Bergamo.

While visiting and tasting the organic wines, you will have the opportunity to experience a bit of the world of viticulture, walking among the vines and discovering how the land is protected.

The experience will begin with a visit to the farm's vineyards during which you will learn all the secrets of organic farming.

Afterwards, you will be treated to a tasting that will include:

•    5 organic wines
•    a plate of local cheeses
•    veg appetizers
•    homemade bread and breadsticks

The tasting will be held on the panoramic terrace overlooking the vineyards or in the winery.

In case of food allergies or intolerances you can contact the facility after booking.

This experience allows you to have a unique experience aboard the first catamaran on Lake Como.

You'll find a living area in the stern and a large, sprung sunbathing net in the bow that will allow you to relax.

On board you will begin a slow and pleasant cruise to Comacina Island, passing some of the most famous villas around the lake: Villa Balbianello, Villa Cassinella, Villa Monastero.

On reaching Comacina Island for a short scenic stop with a chance to take a few dips you will set off again in the direction of Bellagio, which you will sail along and then stop for a longer stop during which you will be served an aperitif with typical Italian products and good wine.

At the end of the cruise you will sail between Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio and return to the port of departure.

Group Tour

You will share the catamaran with other people, just like a real boat party, to have a good time between music and an aperitif with local products and wine.

You can choose whether to relax on the overflow net on the water, launch yourself with dives or try the SUP experience.

Two departures are planned for the group tour: from Tremezzo or Laglio.

Private tour

You will have the opportunity to discover the hidden coves of Lake Como in tranquility and in the company of your family or friends.

This exclusive experience will allow you to feel like you are in your own personal boat, but with the comfort of having a skipper at your complete disposal.

For the private tour you can choose the departure location by contacting the facility following your reservation.

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.

This three-hour skippered group tour of Lake Como is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable experience, admiring the lake's charms from a unique perspective: the water.

Aboard a modern Capoforte SX200 boat, capable of accommodating up to seven people, you will share the sailing with other travelers and discover together the wonders of this iconic place.

The itinerary will take you through striking landscapes and picturesque villages. During the navigation you will admire some of the most beautiful and fascinating villas on the lake, such as the historic Villa Pliniana and the spectacular Nesso waterfall. Afterwards there is a one-hour stop in Bellagio, the famous "Pearl of the Lario."

On the return trip you will see other iconic residences, including the scenic Villa del Balbianello, George Clooney's villa, the elegant Villa Fontanelle, once owned by Gianni Versace, and the renowned Villa d'Este.

With a professional skipper at the helm, you won't have to worry about a thing: just let yourself be lulled by the waves, enjoy the view and fully experience the magic of the lake in a convivial and pleasant setting.

An experience suitable for everyone, perfect for those who want to travel light and carefree, immersed in the natural beauty of one of the most fascinating lakes in the world.

Experience a’quad bike excursion in Sesto Calende, on Lake Maggiore, designed to spend half a day in the open air among scenic roads, dirt stretches and a stop with an aperitif overlooking the lake.

È an experience suitable even for beginners, ideal for friends, couples, families and small groups. The’activity’takes place aboard double quad bikes with the possibility of alternating driving, along a route of about 3 hours with sections mainly on asphalt, white roads, short dirt sections and a small ford. Halfway through the excursion there will be a stop in Angera with an aperitif overlooking Lake Maggiore, one of the highlights of the experience.

The trail has difficultyà 2 out of 5 and è therefore also suitable for those who è first experience.

Horseback riding in the hills overlooking Lake Maggiore to enjoy the natural surroundings.

At your arrival you will be provided with a helmet and once assigned your horse, you will have a short introductory lesson on horse handling to make sure everyone knows what to do on climbs, descents and other passes. Afterwards you will leave and with this ride you will be able to admire the view of Lake Maggiore from the hills and at the same time you will also have an excellent view of the surrounding mountains. Depending on the season, you may have to pass streams on horseback.

To personalize the experience you can choose from 2 types of tours that differ in duration and consequently in the length of the route. The two types of tours have a duration of 1 or 2 hours depending on your liking.

È appropriate clothing for horseback riding is recommended, such as closed shoes and long pants and suitable for going into the woods (no bags or hoop earrings).

In case of bad weather (rain or strong wind), the facility reserves the right to cancel or modify the route for your safety.

Rent a boat in Carate Urio and sail independently on Lake Como with friends or family.

Leaving from the pier in Carate Urio, you can explore Lake Como on an autonomous excursion, without a skipper, moving at your own pace.

You can choose the duration of the outing according to your preference from 1 hour to 1 full day.

The boat can accommodate up to 7 people.

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.

Experience horseback riding among the hills and woods surrounding Lake Garda. The rides start from Limone di Gavardo and wind along scenic trails with striking views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

Before departure, we will spend some time getting to know the horse and provide all the necessary guidance to feel safe and comfortable in the saddle. The activity is accompanied throughout by an experienced operator who will guide you along the route.

You will have a choice of two options:

•    1-hour walk
•    2-hour walk
•    1-hour walk with dinner
•    2-hour walk with lunch

The lunch/dinner menu includes:

•    Tasting of selected local zero km cold cuts
•    Cheese from Valsabbia with fruit compote and giardiniera
•    Trio of soft polenta served with gorgo ragout and mushrooms
•    Homemade dessert of your choice
•    Water
•    Coffee

Enjoy a relaxing moment surrounded by nature with a picnic in the olive grove of the Manestrini Oil Mill.

When booking, you can customize your experience by choosing between picnic only and the picnic that includes a guided tour of the olive mill and oil tasting.

You can choose from a variety of gourmet picnic baskets prepared with local products and carefully selected seasonal specialties:

•    Classic Basket: rustic breadsticks, red rice and quinoa with vegetables, cereal focaccia with salami and formaggella di Tremosine cheese, caprese salad with leccino olives, fresh fruit salad, dessert from the oil mill
•    Garda basket: rustic breadsticks, red rice and quinoa, focaccia with dill marinated trout and yogurt sauce with Casaliva evo oil, caprese salad, fruit salad, dessert from the mill
•    Vegetarian Basket: rustic breadsticks, red rice and quinoa, focaccia with grilled vegetables, pesto and cheese with olives, caprese salad, fruit salad, dessert from the mill
•    Baby basket (up to 10 years old): focaccia with salami and formaggella cheese, fruit salad, dessert

Drinks are included in all baskets.

Each basket includes everything you need for a complete experience: cutlery, napkins, glasses, wine glasses, towel, blankets and chairs. You will receive a free cooler bag to take home as a souvenir.

A wine tasting and visit to the historic Mosnel winery in Franciacorta is an experience not to be missed!

After the guided tour of the cellars, choose 3 of the 5 Franciacorta wines that have come to define the Mosnel winery style: Brut, Brut Nature, Pas Dosé, Rosé, Satèn.

All wine tastings are accompanied by a small sample of local breadsticks, salami and cheese to better taste the wines on offer. You can request the addition of a mixed platter of cured meats from Az. Agricola Al Berlinghetto + 2 types of local cheeses + breadsticks (recommended for 2 people).

You will taste 3 glasses of your choice of the following wines:

•    Brut - Blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir grapes that defines the winery's style.
•    Brut Nature - Blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc with the structured touch of Pinot Noir, aged at least 24 months on the lees.
•    Pas Dosé - Matured at least 30 months to express the harmony of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir grapes.
•    Rosé - Fragrant blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with roundness of Pinot Blanc.
•    Satèn - Elegant Franciacorta with creamy, rich and refined perlage.

For this tour it is recommended to bring a garment to cover yourself adequately even in summer.

Accompanying pets in the cellars is not allowed.

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.

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.

This experience allows you to have a unique experience aboard the first catamaran on Lake Como.

You'll find a living area in the stern and a large, sprung sunbathing net in the bow that will allow you to relax.

On board you will begin a slow and pleasant cruise to Comacina Island, passing some of the most famous villas around the lake: Villa Balbianello, Villa Cassinella, Villa Monastero.

On reaching Comacina Island for a short scenic stop with a chance to take a few dips you will set off again in the direction of Bellagio, which you will sail along and then stop for a longer stop during which you will be served an aperitif with typical Italian products and good wine.

At the end of the cruise you will sail between Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio and return to the port of departure.

Group Tour

You will share the catamaran with other people, just like a real boat party, to have a good time between music and an aperitif with local products and wine.

You can choose whether to relax on the overflow net on the water, launch yourself with dives or try the SUP experience.

Two departures are planned for the group tour: from Tremezzo or Laglio.

Private tour

You will have the opportunity to discover the hidden coves of Lake Como in tranquility and in the company of your family or friends.

This exclusive experience will allow you to feel like you are in your own personal boat, but with the comfort of having a skipper at your complete disposal.

For the private tour you can choose the departure location by contacting the facility following your reservation.

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.

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.

Rent a boat in Carate Urio and sail independently on Lake Como with friends or family.

Leaving from the pier in Carate Urio, you can explore Lake Como on an autonomous excursion, without a skipper, moving at your own pace.

You can choose the duration of the outing according to your preference from 1 hour to 1 full day.

The boat can accommodate up to 7 people.

The farmhouse restaurant "La Selvaggia" is ready to host you for a moment of peace and relaxation where you can enjoy excellent dishes of Lecco's culinary culture in an environment in contact with nature and a breathtaking view.

The menuù "Unlimited wine" consists of a rich appetizer, first course, second course, dessert, and coffee. All is accompanied by half a liter of red or white wine, and a final bitter.

For children up to 10 years of age, the farmhouse offers the "menù baby" consisting of appetizer, first course of the day, Milanese cutlet with French fries, homemade dessert, and water.

To reach the farmhouse you have to walk for about 10 minutes along a small road, so it is recommended to wear appropriate clothing.

During the week, lunch or dinner will be confirmed upon exceeding 10 total reservations.

The farmhouse provides overnight accommodations with breakfast included in the price. The facility has 4 double rooms. Therefore, it is possible to reserve overnight stay on the same day even for more than two people, however, it will be necessary to make multiple reservations

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.

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.

The aperitivo in the vineyard in Oltrepò Pavese will be held at Valdamonte, a winery that covers 21 hectares in the area.

The winery is located in a hilly location on the eastern bank of the Versa Valley.

The winery's vineyards are located on the top of the hill, and this characteristic gives the wines a fresh, savory taste. The main grape varieties grown are pinot noir, chardonnay, Rhine riesling, croatina and barbera.

Every Saturday it will be possible to have an aperitif in the vineyard in the coolness of the Versa Valley hills.

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

A visit to the Calatroni Vini winery in Santa Maria della Versa will allow you to discover the wines that characterize the Oltrepò Pavese territory.

Program

The activity starts with a walk through the vineyard, then you will continue with a guided tour in the winemaking cellar and the Metodo Classico aging room where they will explain details about the products.

To conclude the experience, you will have the opportunity to have a tasting of 4 wines represented by the winery (including organic) accompanied by small samples (vegetable flan, cheese and tart).