About this tour
A seven-day loop through Italy's celebrated northern lakes and Ligurian coast, departing Milan. You'll navigate Lake Orta, Maggiore, Como, Garda and Iseo by private boat, exploring towns like Bergamo and Verona on foot. The route curves toward the coast at Genoa, taking in Cinque Terre's clifftop villages, the harbour charm of Rapallo and Santa Margherita, and Portofino's refined waterfront before returning to Milan. Accommodation included across six nights; transport by private coach with a guide.
Highlights
- Private boat excursions on five distinct alpine lakes
- Walking tours of Como, Bergamo and Verona's old quarters
- Two-hour cruise through Cinque Terre's stacked villages
- Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure exploration
- Focaccia and cheese tasting in Liguria
- Welcome Prosecco and daily breakfasts included
- Six nights' accommodation with comfort and luxury options
What to expect
Each day combines travel by air-conditioned coach with guided walks and water-based sightseeing. Mornings typically start with breakfast, followed by boat trips on the lakes—these feel intimate, navigating smaller towns and shoreline details rather than rushing past. You'll spend afternoons on foot in town centres, discovering arcaded squares and lakeside promenades at a steady pace. The transition to the Riviera happens mid-week; expect coastal villages clinging to steep terrain, requiring comfortable walking shoes. Weather and seasonal conditions affect boat schedules, particularly Cinque Terre cruises (April–October). The pace is measured; this isn't a tick-box sprint.
Good to know
Porterage and hotel pickups aren't included—arrange your own transfer to the Starhotel Ritz meeting point. City taxes aren't covered. Moderate fitness needed for walking tours and uneven coastal terrain. Smart casual dress recommended. Wheelchair-accessible throughout; prams and infant seats available. Multilingual guides may operate tours.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.