Food & Wine Tour on Lake Orta from Milan - Private Tour

Milan , Italy

Food & Wine Tour on Lake Orta from Milan - Private Tour

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This small lake to the west of Lago Maggiore is one of the loveliest places I have ever been. It is telling that the Milanese call it La Cenerentola (Cinderella) because they have long considered it the secretly superior sibling to the larger, money-blighted lakes of Como and Maggiore. But, for me, what sets Orta apart is not its beauty – though the place is absurdly pretty – but the lake's mysterious, ethereal, almost supernatural quality. There is something for the soul there as well as for the eye.

Available options

Food & Wine Tour on Lake Orta from Milan - Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Professional English speaking driver at disposal full day

Lunch in Orta Lake ( wine not included )

Wine tour and tasting 4 wines and food tasting

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

It is telling that the Milanese call it La Cenerentola (Cinderella) because they have long considered it the secretly superior sibling to the larger, money-blighted lakes of Como and Maggiore. But, for me, what sets Orta apart is not its beauty – though the place is absurdly pretty – but the lake's mysterious, ethereal, almost supernatural quality. There is something for the soul there as well as for the eye.
Set off to the Lake Orta region for a full day food and wine experience with a personal driver and tour guide. In the morning meet your professional English speaking driver and guide in Milan at disposal for a full day. You will then be escorted to the Lake Orta Region for a food and wine experience. After the visit you will continue to Orta Lake, a small alpine lake with breathtaking landscapes.

Orta San Giulio is built on the slopes of a steep hill (the Sacro Monte) that forms a peninsula jutting out into the lake. By day it looks longingly toward the beautiful island. By night, the gaze becomes even more amorous when the island is lit up and appears to float on dark water glistening with reflections.

Visit a winery to learn the methods of vineyard cultivation, winemaking and aging techniques. This visit will last about 30 minutes, after that you will enjoy a great appetizer with the wine tasting of Nebbiolo Rosato or Millesimato Superiore DOCG Prosecco with fresh cheese whipped with herbs. A glass of Vespolina DOC and a glass of Nebbiolo DOC (2011 vintage: Bronze at the International Competition in 2014 IWSC Hong Kong, Silver at the Decanter Asia Wine Awards 2015 in Hong Kong and the World Gold Value Challenge 2015 in Chicago - USA)
Wine will be served with local and traditional food like salami, cheese, snacks and honey. Finish your tasting with coffee and grappa.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

at your hotel

About Milan

Milan, the vibrant capital of Lombardy, is a city where ancient history meets modern luxury. Known for its fashion, art, and design, Milan is a dynamic metropolis that offers a rich cultural experience and a thriving culinary scene.

Top Attractions

Duomo di Milano

The Milan Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and the third-largest church in the world. It took nearly six centuries to complete and is a symbol of the city.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours €10-€15

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

This historic shopping gallery is one of the world's oldest and most beautiful. It features luxury boutiques, cafes, and the famous mosaic floor of the bull.

Architecture/Shopping 1 hour Free to enter, shopping varies

Santa Maria delle Grazie

This church and convent house Leonardo da Vinci's famous mural, The Last Supper. The painting is a masterpiece of Renaissance art and a must-see for art lovers.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours €10-€15 (advance booking required)

Castello Sforzesco

This medieval castle was built by the Duke of Milan and later renovated by Ludovico Sforza. It houses several museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €5-€10

Teatro alla Scala

One of the world's most famous opera houses, Teatro alla Scala is a symbol of Milan's rich musical heritage. Guided tours are available to explore the historic theater and museum.

Cultural/Entertainment 1 hour €10-€15

Must-Try Local Dishes

Risotto alla Milanese

A creamy saffron risotto, a staple of Milanese cuisine.

Main Course Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian.

Ossobuco

Braised veal shanks, traditionally served with gremolata.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made gluten-free.

Panzerotti

Fried dough pockets filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and other ingredients.

Snack Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Cotoletta alla Milanese

A breaded and fried veal cutlet, similar to schnitzel.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby Alps Cycling along the Navigli canals Aperitivo in Navigli Shopping in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Visiting museums and historic sites Attending opera or ballet performances Boat tours on Lake Como Swimming in Lake Como

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Milan is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Milan is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Be cautious with your belongings and stay alert.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of distractions and common scams

Getting there

By air

Milano Malpensa Airport • 50 km from city center
Milano Linate Airport • 7 km from city center

By train

Milano Centrale, Milano Rogoredo

By bus

Lampugnano Bus Station, San Donato Milanese

Getting around

Public transport

The Milano Metro system consists of four lines (M1, M2, M3, M5) and is efficient and easy to use. It is the quickest way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Brera Navigli Quartiere della Moda Isola

Day trips

Lake Como

50 km • Full day

Lake Como is a stunning alpine lake known for its beautiful villas, gardens, and scenic views. It is a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Bergamo

50 km • Half day

Bergamo is a charming medieval city with a well-preserved old town and a rich history. It offers a mix of historic sites, museums, and local cuisine.

Verona

150 km • Full day

Verona is a romantic city known for its association with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. It offers a mix of historic sites, romantic landmarks, and cultural attractions.

Festivals

Milan Fashion Week • February and September Milan Design Week • April Milan Film Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the Duomo early in the morning to avoid crowds and long queues
Explore the Navigli district in the evening for a vibrant aperitivo experience
Use the ATM Milano app for real-time public transportation schedules and maps
Consider purchasing a Milan Card for discounts on attractions, transportation, and dining
Try local specialties like risotto alla Milanese and panzerotti