From Milan: Lugano, Bellinzona and Chocolate Factory Trip

If you’re seeking a delightful day trip from Milan, this Lugano, Bellinzona and Chocolate Factory tour ticks all the boxes. Indulge in Swiss chocolate tastings, explore the charming town of Bellinzona and its UNESCO-listed castles, and admire the scenic beauty of Lake Lugano. With round-trip transportation and a multilingual guide, you’ll enjoy a seamless experience discovering the rich culture and history of this stunning region. But that’s just the start – there’s more to explore on this unforgettable journey.

Key Points

• A day trip from Milan to Switzerland’s Ticino region, visiting the Alprose Chocolate Factory, Lake Lugano, and the UNESCO-listed castles of Bellinzona.
• The 11-hour tour includes roundtrip transportation, a multilingual guide, chocolate tasting, and time for exploration at each destination.
• Highlights of the trip include Swiss chocolate, lakeside walks, and the medieval castles of Bellinzona.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.
• Early booking is recommended due to limited places, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Highlights

Travelers can discover the Italian part of Switzerland on a day trip from Milan to the Ticino region.

They’ll visit the Alprose Chocolate Factory, stroll along the shores of Lake Lugano, savor local cuisine, and explore the medieval charm of Bellinzona.

This 11-hour tour features a live guide available in Italian, Spanish, and English.

Highlights include premium Swiss chocolate tasting, lakeside walks in Lugano, and discovering Bellinzona’s UNESCO World Heritage castles.

With roundtrip transportation and inclusions like chocolate factory tickets and food, this comprehensive excursion offers an immersive experience in the Italian-Swiss landscape.

Itinerary Details

The itinerary begins at Via Nicola Antonio Porpora, 1, where participants board the GT bus.

The journey starts with a 1-hour drive to a local café for a 30-minute coffee/breakfast stop.

Next, the bus travels 30 minutes to the Alprose Chocolate Factory for a 1-hour visit.

The tour then moves on to Lake Lugano, a 30-minute drive, where visitors have 2.5 hours to explore the lakeside.

The final destination is Bellinzona, a 30-minute drive, with 2.5 hours to discover the medieval castles.

The trip concludes with a 2-hour return to the starting point.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes roundtrip transportation by GT bus, a multilingual trip coordinator, a ticket to the Alprose Chocolate Factory, and food and drinks during the excursion.

Roundtrip transportation, multilingual coordinator, Alprose Chocolate Factory ticket, and food and drinks included in this excursion.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those with recent surgeries. Plus, alcoholic drinks aren’t allowed in the vehicle.

This full-day trip from Milan to the Italian part of Switzerland promises an immersive experience, from premium Swiss chocolate tasting to exploring the medieval charm of Bellinzona.

Guests are advised to book early, as places are limited.

Booking Information and Cancellation Policy

Those interested in this day trip can save up to 37%, with prices ranging from $85.92 to $54.13 per person.

A reserve now & pay later option is available. However, booking early is recommended as there are limited places.

Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

Reviewers have provided an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars for this day trip, based on 6 reviews.

While there were positive remarks on the organization and completeness of the excursion, some suggestions for improvement included:

• More guide involvement and advice on the best visit locations, especially for the Belvedere castles

• Better recommendations on how to maximize the time at each destination

• Clearer communication on the level of activity and mobility required for the tour

Exploring Lugano: A Lakeside Gem

As one traverses the winding roads leading to Lugano, the breathtaking vistas of the crystal-clear lake and the surrounding Alps come into view.

The town’s charming promenade invites visitors to stroll along the water’s edge, soaking in the serene atmosphere. Travelers can enjoy a leisurely lunch or coffee at one of the lakeside cafes, savoring the local cuisine and taking in the picturesque setting.

For those seeking a more active experience, boat tours and water sports provide opportunities to explore the lake and its tranquil coves.

Lugano’s blend of Italian and Swiss influences creates a truly unique and memorable destination.

Discovering Bellinzona’s Medieval Marvels

The medieval town of Bellinzona captivates visitors with its impressive trio of castles, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the strategic importance of this northern Italian region.

Travelers can:

• Explore the three medieval fortresses – Castelgrande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro – which date back to the 13th-15th centuries and offer panoramic views of the surrounding Alps.

• Stroll through the picturesque Old Town, home to well-preserved historic buildings and charming piazzas.

• Savor local cuisine and specialty dishes, such as polenta and Ticino wines, at the town’s traditional restaurants.

Indulging in Swiss Chocolate Excellence

After exploring the medieval wonders of Bellinzona, the journey continues with a stop at the renowned Alprose Chocolate Factory.

Visitors are invited to indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of premium Swiss chocolate. The factory tour offers an insider’s view of the chocolate-making process, from bean to bar.

Guests can sample a variety of flavors and learn about the intricate techniques that give Alprose chocolates their distinctive taste and texture.

This sweet interlude is a highlight of the day trip, allowing travelers to savor the excellence of Swiss chocolate craftsmanship.

Ask Away

Can We Stop at Any Other Locations During the Trip?

The itinerary is fixed, but the tour coordinator may allow brief stops at other locations if time permits and the group agrees. However, significant deviations from the planned route are not possible.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Unfortunately, there’s no option to extend the tour duration on this specific day trip. The 11-hour itinerary is fixed, covering the key highlights in Ticino. However, travelers could consider booking a multi-day trip to explore the region more thoroughly.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for students and seniors. Customers can save up to 37% on the regular price, with discounted tickets starting from $54.13 per person. Visitors should inquire about the specific student and senior rates when booking.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own alcoholic drinks on the bus. However, outside of alcohol, passengers are generally permitted to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to consume during the trip.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?

No, the itinerary can’t be customized. It’s a pre-set tour with scheduled stops. However, travelers can spend more or less time at each location based on their preferences, within the given timeframes. Bringing your own food and drinks isn’t allowed on the bus.

Final Words

This daytrip from Milan to the Ticino region promises an unforgettable experience. Indulge in Swiss chocolate, stroll along the picturesque Lake Lugano, and explore the historic castles of Bellinzona. With seamless transportation and a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the region’s rich culture and natural beauty. Don’t miss this chance to discover the delights of Switzerland’s Ticino.

You can check availability for your dates here: