Travel in style to Northwest Italy with our 9-day Lake Como, Piedmont & Portofino Tour, with an intimate small group limited to twelve guests.
While traversing a land of richness that stretches from the Alps to the Mediterranean, our leisurely itinerary includes visits to Bellagio, Alba, Barolo, Camogli, Cinque Terre, and lesser-known villages, blending iconic destinations with offbeat experiences.
You’ll be pampered with the exquisite details of luxurious inns, with a private balcony overlooking the lake, or soaking up the seaside vibe of Santa Margherita Ligure.
Whether you’re sipping a drink at a chic café in Portofino, cooking in the private kitchen of a local chef, shaking hands with a cheese refiner, or observing the gestures of a truffle hunter, you’ll create lasting memories.
Splurge in affordable luxury experiences, including private boats on Lake Como and along the Italian Riviera, drivers, and local guides.
From handmade ravioli meticulously crafted by hand to an unforgettable dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Piedmont’s picturesque vineyards, we’ve invested generously to showcase one of Italy’s most refined cuisines.
You’ll also have the option to add an extra day trip to Switzerland on the Bernina Express from St. Moritz at an additional cost.
Our Lake Como, Piedmont, and Portofino Tour is a small-group vacation focused on culinary traditions, local culture, and natural beauty.
9 days | 8 nights
From Milan / To Milan or Genoa
Group size: 6-12 guests
Private Boat Trip to Portofino
A memorable Michelin-star Dinner in Piedmont
Premium Wine Tastings of Barolo and Barbaresco
Cheese Tasting with the Cheese Refiner
Hands-on Cooking Class in Piedmont
Truffle Hunting in the Woods with the Dog
Private Water Taxi on Lake Como and gardens tour
Stress-free Day Trip to Cinque Terre
May 3 — 11, 2026
5250€ per person in double occupancy
6635€ in single occupancy
May 31 — June 8, 2026
5250€ per person in double occupancy
6635€ in single occupancy
September 6 — 14, 2026
5250€ per person in double occupancy
6635€ in single occupancy
October 2 — 10, 2026
5250€ per person in double occupancy
6635€ in single occupancy
What's Included in the Tour Package
3 nights on Lake Como (Hotel La Darsena or similar), breakfast and porterage included
3 nights in Piedmont’s wine region (Villa del Borgo or similar hotel), breakfast and porterage included
2 nights in Santa Margherita (Hotel Continental), in superior/deluxe rooms, breakfast and porterage included
Private van or minibus (as per itinerary), with permits and parking included
Tour Manager for 9 days
Rooftop aperitif in Milan on day 1 (or similar)
Guided tour of the gardens of a villa on Lake Como
Private water taxi on Lake Como for one day
2 dinners on Lake Como with wine included
Cheese tasting with the cheese refiner (light lunch)
1 Michelin-star dinner (full tasting menu, water – NO wine)
2 boutique Barolo wineries tour and tasting of 4-5 wines in each one
Truffle hunting with the dog
Cooking class and dinner with wine included
Private boat trip (4 hours) from Camogli to Santa Margherita Ligure
Day trip to Cinque Terre by train
Farewell dinner with wine included
VAT 22%
Tour Operator Limited Liability Insurance and Bankruptcy/Extraordinary Circumstances Insurance (Fondo di Garanzia)
Assistance throughout the planning process and travel tips
The rate does not include:
Hotel City Tax (between 3 to 5€ per person per night)
Truffles at meals
Wine at the Michelin-star dinner
Optional day trip to Switzerland
Personal travel insurance
Airfare to/from Italy
Milan extension (airport transfer, 1 night in a 4-star hotel, guided tour, and Cathedral tickets)
Any other meal, tasting, entrance fee, transfer, personal expense, tips, and anything else not mentioned above in the field “The rate includes”.
The tour is confirmed with at least 6 participants
A 30% down payment is required in order to confirm the reservation (refundable up to 90 days).
The remaining balance is due 45 days before the tour.
CANCELLATION POLICY
There shall be a 250€ non-refundable processing fee (per person) on any cancellation request, regardless of the time frame within which the cancellation is submitted;
From 90 days to 46 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 30% of the price;
From 45 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 100% of the price
Read here the full terms and conditions.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance can cover different trip components, from the full trip cost for unforeseeable reasons to medical expenses, emergency transport, luggage loss, theft while on tour, and evacuation. Without a membership, an emergency evacuation could cost over $100,000.
While each insurance company has different deadlines and policies, our partner Global Rescue allows customers to purchase their best insurance package (IMG Signature Plus) that includes the “Cancel-For-Any-Reason” policy within 20 days from the initial deposit. Other less-inclusive memberships can be purchased until the date of departure.
Meet Piemonte Tour Operator partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading travel protection services. Medical and security emergencies happen. When they do, our guests can rely on Global Rescue to provide medical, security, travel risk, and crisis response services. More than one million members trust Global Rescue to get them home safely when the unexpected happens.
One of the few well-appointed accommodations built directly on the water, delivering unforgettable views of Lake Como and boats passing by.
A former monastery turned into a welcoming, luxurious boutique hotel filled with exquisite details, hardwood floors, and top-notch amenities.
Frontal sea view rooms in this luxury Old-World hotel overlooking the bay of Santa Margherita Ligure with a panoramic breakfast room.
This trip was everything I had hoped it would be. I traveled from the city to the lake, to the mountains, and to the Mediterranean. The tour was full of activities that were so much fun. The group walked and shopped, tasted chocolate, had a cooking class, ate at a Michelin star restaurant, swam in the sea. toasted one another with fabulous local wines, and much much more. If you want to get a great tour of these regions of Italy, this is the tour of tours! Book it now!!!!!! I have to applaud the trip leader, Marco Scaglione, for an outstanding job of being leader, tour guide, and friend. He was so professional and handled everything with ease, even when there was a "hiccup" and the weather didn't cooperate one day. He quickly found a replacement activity that was magnificent. I highly recommend Marco and Meet Piemonte.
Elizabeth C. – July 2025
As I sit here editing my photos, I am reliving this wonderful trip with Marco and Meet Piemonte. From the moment we met in the hotel lobby until our sad goodbyes in Santa Margarita it was stress free. Lovely, small boutique hotels, great experiences including truffle hunting, cheese refinery, several wine tastings and learning to cook local cuisine. Each activity planned and flawlessly executed by Marco (my first tour but he is the best tour leader I've ever!!😜) Grazie Marco and everyone at Meet Piemonte. You will see me again soon!
Charlene B. - June 2025
This is our first tour with Marco Scaglione Meet Piemonte and our second time to Italy. Our tour, Lake Como, Piedmont & Portofino was absolutely incredible!! We experienced Italy like never before. From beautiful boutique hotels, with breathtaking views, to planned excursions introducing us to their Italian cultures up close and personal. The food and every meal we had, was absolutely incredible! All in a small group setting of 6-12 guests. We have made amazing new friends in our group, including our tour manager, Marco. We loved our experience, and are planning another adventurous tour in 2026. We highly recommend Meet Piedmonte. Definitely, a 5-Star tour company!!
Catherine M. - June 2025
Read all reviews on Tripadvisor and on Google
Arrive in Milan the day before the tour begins and meet our driver in the airport arrival hall.
Transfer on a private van to the city center of Milan.
Check-in (from 2 pm) in a centrally-located 4-star hotel, within walking distance from all major attractions.
Dinner on your own.
The following morning, around 9:30 am (tour’s day 1), meet our Milan’s local guide in the hotel’s lobby.
Private walking tour of the city center, exploring some highlights, and hidden gems. Reserved timed-entrance ticket to visit Milan’s majestic Cathedral with our local guide.
Rate:
From 360,00 € per person (in double occupancy).
From 450,00 € in single occupancy.
The rate is confirmed at the time of booking (it vary depending on hotel’s availability).
The rate includes:
Airport transfer to the hotel
One night in a 4-star hotel (Bianca Maria Palace or similar)
Private city tour with a local guide and tickets to enter the Duomo
You can select this optional extension throughout the booking process.
Meals included: aperitif and dinner
Accommodation: Lake Como
The tour begins at 12:30 PM, when our guide will greet guests on a rooftop in Milan city center for a toast with a traditional “aperitivo” and some food bites.
We recommend that everyone arrive in Milan the day before the tour. Our Milan Pre-Tour Extension includes a hotel room, airport transfer, and a guided tour of the city before meeting up with the rest of the group.
This afternoon, we will drive to our hotel located in the central area of Lake Como. After check-in, you can take some time to relax and admire the calm waters of the lake from your balcony. We have secured rooms in one of the few hotels built directly on the water, allowing you to enjoy peace away from the noisy roads flanking the lake.
Tonight, we will toast to the beginning of the Lake Como, Piedmont & Portofino Tour with a 3-course dinner at a renowned restaurant in the area. You’ll have the opportunity to savor mountain-side recipes prepared just like Grandma used to make. Wine is included!
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: Lake Como
Today’s tour of Lake Como begins after enjoying breakfast on the hotel’s dining terrace, which overlooks the water.
Enjoying a private boat ride is an affordable, luxurious way to take in views of Lake Como’s majestic villas and hamlets surrounded by lush vegetation. As our local expert shares fascinating stories about the artists and celebrities who have made Lake Como their home for centuries, you will get a true sense of what “La Dolce Vita” is all about.
Our Lake Como, Piedmont & Portofino Tour includes a visit to the perfectly manicured gardens of one of these villas before we arrive in the town center of Bellagio.
Our tour of Lake Como is designed to be leisurely, allowing guests to enjoy the atmosphere at their own pace. Our guide will suggest the best options for an al-fresco lunch in Bellagio and recommend activities, such as hiking or shopping in artisan stores that specialize in leather, silk, and jewelry.
In the afternoon, we will cross the lake by boat to the town of Varenna, where we can admire the picturesque steep flights of steps descending from the upper piazza — a perfect spot to grab a gelato.
After returning to the hotel, enjoy a free evening at your leisure. For dinner, our guide can recommend various dining options and reserve a table on your behalf.
Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Accommodation: Lake Como
Today, you have the opportunity to experience Lake Como at your own pace. If you prefer a leisurely start, enjoy a late breakfast and take a stroll around the hotel while people-watching. For those who love outdoor activities, consider hiking on one of the trails that overlook the lake, where you can explore private homes, historic sites, and charming countryside chapels.
For a more adventurous option, join the optional day trip to St. Moritz in Switzerland (available at an extra cost), where you can board the Bernina Express, renowned as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, passing by stunning glaciers. Please see below for the detailed itinerary and pricing for this day trip.
Our guide will be available to assist everyone and will join in the activities based on the majority’s preference.
Tonight, we will gather in the hotel’s dining room, one of the best restaurants in the area, to savor fresh and local ingredients presented with a modern twist. Cheers to the first chapter of Lake Como, Piedmont & Portofino Tour!
The following day trip can be added on Day 3 and replace the free day on Lake Como.
08:15 am Depart with a private driver from our hotel on Lake Como to St. Moritz. The driving time is about 2,5 hours and it includes a stop for coffee in Chiavenna (the last Italian town before the border) and on top of the Maloja alpine pass for pictures
11:15 am Take a stroll with the tour manager along the alpine lake of St. Moritz, up to the old town
Free time for lunch (not included)
1:00 pm Walk to the train station and board the Bernina Express
01:20 – 03:30 pm One of the most scenic train rides in the world, up to 8,000 feet above sea level, with views over glaciers (weather permitting)
03:30 pm Meet the driver at the end of the train ride (in Tirano or Poschiavo) and drive 2 hours back to the hotel
Tonight, the group reunites at the hotel’s restaurant for the included dinner
Rate:
From 250,00 € per person, with a minimum of 6 participants. The rate is confirmed at the time of booking (based on the train ticket price).
The rate includes:
Private van or minibus as per the itinerary above
Second-class train ticket
Tour manager
Note:
This is a beautiful day trip; however, be prepared for two long bus rides. On the train, you can walk around and stretch your legs. If we book it, we will do it rain or shine.
This optional day trip can be added throughout the booking process.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Canelli
This morning, we say goodbye to Lake Como as we drive through the plains of the Po River Valley and arrive in Piedmont’s wine region.
Our first cultural and culinary experience is on the Monferrato Hills, in the countryside near Asti, with a cheese refiner. Follow this passionate artisan for an insightful narration of this rare craft, which focuses on enhancing the flavor and texture of cheese. This is not your ordinary dairy farm tour; instead, it’s a fascinating discovery of an art brought from France. You can learn more about the cheese refiner and his craft on our blog.
After visiting the aging cellar, we will enjoy a guided tasting of twelve types of cheese paired with jams, honey, wine, and a seasonal plate.
This afternoon, we will check in at our next luxury boutique hotel, set in the hills of Piedmont’s wine region in the town of Canelli. You can relax by the hotel’s pool or hike through the picturesque vineyards dotted with farmhouses and hilltop villages before we head out again for a special evening.
Tonight, a short drive will take us to a memorable fine dining experience that offers an engaging exploration of one of Italy’s most appreciated regional cuisines. A full tasting menu*** is included at a renowned Michelin-star restaurant in the Langhe Hills, featuring a sequence of traditional courses thoughtfully prepared, along with unexpected food pairings that will tantalize your senses.
*** Wine is not included at the Michelin-star restaurant.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: Canelli
Join us for an unforgettable Lake Como, Piedmont, and Portofino Tour that immerses you in the breathtaking beauty of the Langhe Hills, where enchanting hilltop villages and majestic castles are nestled among the vineyards.
We begin our adventure in the picturesque woods around Alba, famous for its exquisite summer black truffles and the celebrated white truffles of Alba. Accompanied by an experienced truffle hunter and their loyal dog, you’ll have the unique opportunity to learn the fascinating art of unearthing truffles from the rich Piedmont soil, uncovering the secrets behind this time-honored tradition.
As we journey from Lake Como to Portofino, we invite you to discover the wonders of Piedmont’s remarkable wine region. Driving along the scenic routes of the Barolo Wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll gain valuable insights from a local expert about the cultivation of Nebbiolo grapes and their transformation into the world-renowned Barolo wine through aging in oak barrels.
To top off this extraordinary day, we’ll visit a charming boutique wine cellar where you’ll savor premium Nebbiolo and Barolo labels. Experience firsthand how the unique characteristics of different vineyard soils influence the exquisite flavors of each wine.
Dinner on your own in Canelli.
Meals included: breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Canelli
Begin your day with a relaxed morning, followed by an unforgettable journey to the charming town of Alba, renowned for its elegant shops and diverse lunch options. With our knowledgeable guide at your side, you’ll delve into the captivating history of the town and explore the stunning Cathedral, featuring an exquisite XVI-century wooden choir.
Next, we’ll venture to Barbaresco, one of Southern Piedmont’s most prestigious wine regions. Here, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a winemaker’s family on the picturesque terrace of their winery, nestled atop a hill. Immerse yourself in the world of local grape varietals and elevate your tasting experience with samples of distinct Barbaresco wines.
As the afternoon unfolds, join a passionate local host in her private kitchen for an engaging hands-on cooking class. This immersive course dives into a selection of traditional recipes, sharing fascinating insights about local ingredients. Experience the culinary treasures of Piedmont, from an array of delectable “antipasti” to paper-thin egg pasta for captivating small ravioli known as “plin” or “tajarin.” Indulge in succulent beef slow-cooked in rich wine and finish with delightful desserts crafted from hazelnuts and chocolate.
Your day culminates in an enjoyable dinner, where you can savor the delicious dishes you’ve created in the kitchen, making it a genuinely memorable experience. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the flavors and culture of this incredible region!
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: Santa Margherita Ligure
Our small group tour to Lake Como, Piedmont, and Portofino arrives today on the Italian Riviera.
After a scenic drive from the hills of Piedmont to the Liguria region, crossing the Apennine Mountains, the bright colors of the Mediterranean will unfold before us. We’ll navigate the gentle flights of stairs connecting the upper main road of Camogli to the sea level, leading us to the picturesque harbor framed by colorful former fishermen’s houses.
Around 1 PM, we will board a private boat*** and set sail from Camogli to the protected Natural Park of Portofino. Keep an eye out for colorful villas built along the rocky coastline, private inlets, and, with a bit of luck, dolphins swimming in the dark blue waters of the Ligurian Sea.
Be sure to capture photos of the arched windows of the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, a former Benedictine monastery built in the 10th century, which stands in a small bay accessible only on foot or by boat. Weather permitting, guests may opt to swim off the boat (towels will be provided).
We toast to an unforgettable afternoon and sample the traditional focaccia of the Liguria region from our privileged point of view.
We will continue our boat journey to Portofino and its world-famous bay, adorned with luxury yachts. Here, you can take a stroll among high-end fashion shops, enjoy a cocktail at one of the exclusive cafés, or follow your tour manager on a 20-minute hike to the lighthouse, traversing peaceful olive orchards, flowering plants, and private gardens.
The final leg of our private boat trip along the Italian Riviera will take us to Santa Margherita Ligure, a popular beach resort featuring a long waterfront promenade and luxury hotels. You will check in and relax in a sea-view room, which will be your home for the next two nights. Our guide can recommend the best seafood restaurants in town for dinner on your own.
*** Please note: In case of rough sea conditions, for everyone’s safety and well-being, the boat ride will be replaced with another land-based activity, excluding the Abbey of San Fruttuoso. No refunds will be issued.
Meals included: breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Santa Margherita Ligure
Our final day of the small-group tour in Northwest Italy is set to unravel the iconic Cinque Terre National Park. With our knowledgeable guide managing all logistics, we will enjoy the beauty of these picturesque villages, accessible only by train or ferry (depending on sea conditions). Instead of hurrying through each location, we’ll immerse ourselves in the charm of the two most representative villages, allowing us to truly savor the moment.
Discover the hidden gems of the Cinque Terre, where olive orchards and terraced vineyards create stunning vistas overlooking the Mediterranean. To enhance our experience, we’ll strategically leave each area before larger crowds arrive, ensuring a peaceful exploration.
After a day filled with breathtaking scenery, we’ll return to our hotel to unwind for a bit. Finally, we’ll gather for a delightful farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant, celebrating the memorable moments from our Lake Como, Piedmont, and Portofino Tour. Let’s raise a toast to this incredible journey and to the friendships we’ve formed, cherishing the hope of gathering again in the future!
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: n/a
The Lake Como, Piedmont & Portofino Tour is almost over as your driver takes you back to Milan airport. Enjoy some extra glimpses of northwest Italy as we say goodbye until next time.
Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the tour cost.
Suggested arrival airport: Rome (FCO).
Suggested departure airport: Florence (FLR) or Rome (FCO)
Day 1: meet in central Rome at 2 pm. Specific directions will be provided. Please contact us if you’d like to add a private transfer to your tour package or a pre-tour hotel room.
Departure day: no airport transfer is included from the city center of Florence. If you fly out of Florence, consider that the airport is located within a 15-20 minute taxi ride from the city center (about 25€ per car). If you fly out of Rome, we recommend booking your flights not before 1 pm or the following day. Convenient high-speed trains frequently connect Florence to Rome (the ride takes approximately 1h30′). Please contact us if you’d like to add a private transfer or a post-tour hotel room.
In addition to airline luggage restrictions, please consider that:
Due to our van/bus space limitations during the tour, we ask you to limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person, weighing around 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).
Each guest can also bring one carry-on and a small, soft-sided bag or backpack for day-to-day travel. The space onboard our vans and minibusses, as well as the overhead rack and the space under the seat, is typically very limited, just enough for small bags and purses.
PASSPORT AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary documents for traveling to Italy, depending on your country of residence.
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the end of your tour to enter Italy. Currently, no vaccinations are required, but it is your responsibility to stay informed about any changes to this requirement.
For citizens of other non-European countries traveling internationally, it is advisable to contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine the required travel documentation.
MOBILITY AND HEALTH
To enjoy our Lake Como, Piedmont & Portofino Tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances. This is not a physically demanding tour, however, there will be a lot of walking, often on uneven steps, cobblestones, uphill and downhill. One of the charming aspects of Italy is its historical and architectural conformation. Many towns and attractions can only be visited on foot, as vans and buses cannot access the pedestrian areas where most places of interest are located.
While the driving time on our tours is limited, getting to remote farmhouses and villages may require driving on windy roads that may cause motion sickness.
WHEELCHAIRS
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Our tour managers and tour guides are unable to provide ongoing individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other physical needs.
HOTELS, WI-FI, AIR CONDITIONING
Due to the historic nature of many luxury boutique hotels we stay in, some rooms may have stairs and can vary in size and layout. Additionally, air conditioning in Italy, as well as the Wi-Fi connection, may not be as reliable as it is in the United States.
GRATUITIES and OTHER THINGS TO KNOW
Gratuities for hotel staff and waiters are included in the tour price. Guests may choose to leave a tip for drivers and guides as a token of appreciation for their services. Suggested tipping amounts will be communicated approximately a month before departure via email, along with a list of important information about Italy, including what to pack, how to manage money withdrawals, electricity usage, VAT refunds, and more.
Meet Piemonte (legal name Meet Voyager SRL), is a fully-licensed Italian Tour Operator enrolled in the Chamber of Commerce of Asti (REA: 131678), in Piedmont, northwest Italy.
We craft small-group tours with only 6 to 12 travelers and focus on selected regions, including:
Tuscany | Lake Como, Piedmont & Portofino | Sicily | Naples, Positano & The Amalfi Coast | Puglia & Matera | Sardinia | Food & Wine Tour in Piedmont
Learn more about our Small Group Tours To Italy
Learn more about Meet Piemonte’s team
Email: [email protected]
Office hours: Mon – Fri 9am-5pm