Milan: Brescia & Franciacorta with Wine Tasting Small Group

If you’re looking to combine cultural discovery with a taste of Italy’s sparkling wine, this small-group tour from Milan offers a balanced mix. We haven’t personally taken this trip, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear this experience appeals to those craving authentic sights, regional flavors, and manageable group sizes.

What we love about this tour is how it thoughtfully blends two distinct experiences — a historic city tour and a scenic winery visit — into a single day. First, the guided walk through Brescia promises a dose of culture with sights like the Duomo, Victoria Square, and the Foro Romano. Second, the Franciacorta hillside offers rolling views and a chance to learn about traditional wine-making methods while tasting some of Italy’s finest sparkling wines.

A caveat? The day’s schedule is quite packed, with roughly 10 hours of activity. If you prefer a slow pace or want to linger longer at each site, this might feel rushed. Also, the tour does not include lunch, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.

This experience suits curious travelers eager for a well-rounded day — history buffs, wine lovers, or those just wanting a taste of Italy beyond Milan’s urban scene. It’s perfect for visitors who appreciate guided insights and enjoy a small-group setting for a more personal feel.

Key Points

• Two-in-One Experience: Combines cultural exploration of Brescia with a scenic wine tasting in Franciacorta.
• Expert-Led Tours: Guided visits ensure you’ll get meaningful historical and regional insights.
• Taste Authentic Wines: Sample 2 traditional Franciacorta sparkling wines, paired with regional snacks.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in air-conditioned private vehicles, making the long day easier.
• Flexible Options: Includes optional hotel pickup, private group availability, and full-day scheduling.
• Authentic Views & Flavors: Enjoy rolling hills, vineyard scenery, and regional specialties.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Well-Rounded Day in Lombardy

This tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Lombardy’s most interesting sights and flavors, all within a manageable 10-hour window. Starting early from Milan’s Excelsior Hotel Gallia, you’ll board a comfortable coach to Brescia, a city often overshadowed by nearby Milan but packed with character.

Brescia’s highlights include stunning squares like Loggia Square and Victoria Square, the impressive Duomo, and the ancient Foro Romano — all walkable with a knowledgeable guide. The balance of history, architecture, and local stories provides a vivid sense of the city’s past and present. One reviewer noted, “The tour in Brescia was very educational, so much culture!” which captures the enriching nature of this leg.

After exploring Brescia, you’ll enjoy some free time for shopping or soaking in the local atmosphere. Then, it’s onto the scenic Franciacorta vineyards. The journey through rolling hills is a highlight in itself, with the lush landscape providing perfect photo opportunities.

At the winery, you’ll get an intimate look at traditional wine-making processes. The guided tasting of two Franciacorta sparkling wines, paired with regional snacks like charcuterie and cheese, has been singled out as a real treat. As one happy traveler said, “The explanation was interesting, and the view was beautiful. Tasting the sparkling wine was the highlight.”

The return trip wraps up with a relaxed 30-minute drive back to Milan, ending at the same location you started.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins at the Excelsior Hotel Gallia, an easy-to-find Milan landmark. The coach ride to Brescia takes about 1.5 hours, allowing you to settle in and perhaps enjoy the scenic views along the way. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the long ride comfortable even on warmer days.

Brescia Exploration

Once in Brescia, your local guide will lead you through the city’s most noteworthy sites. This includes the historic Loggia square, a hub of social activity with beautiful architecture; Victoria Square, another lively spot filled with cafes and shops; the striking Duomo — a fine example of Italian religious architecture; and the Foro Romano, remnants of ancient Rome.

The guided tour give you context and stories behind each site, making history come alive. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, enough to see the main sights but leaving time for personal exploration or shopping. Many reviews mention how engaging and knowledgeable the guides are, helping guests appreciate Brescia’s local culture.

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Free Time in Brescia

After the guided portion, travelers have free time to wander at their leisure. You might browse local boutiques, enjoy a quick coffee, or simply relax in a picturesque square. This flexibility allows you to tailor your experience, whether you wish to soak up more history or grab some memorable souvenirs.

The Vineyard Experience in Franciacorta

Post-Brescia, the tour continues to the Franciacorta region, about a 30-minute scenic drive away. The landscape here is as charming as the wines produced there — rolling hills dotted with vineyards and charming farmhouses.

At the winery, the focus is on traditional wine-making methods — a behind-the-scenes look at how Italy’s famed sparkling wines are created. The guided tasting includes two Franciacorta wines, which are renowned for their fine bubbles and complex flavors. The pairing with regional snacks enhances the tasting experience, making it both educational and delicious.

Several reviews highlight how engaging the explanations are, with one saying, “Interesting explanation in combination with a beautiful view.” The combination of scenic views, expert insights, and regional flavors makes this one of the tour’s most memorable parts.

Return Journey and Final Drop-Offs

After the wine tasting, you’ll have about an hour to relax during the bus ride back to Milan. The tour concludes at the same location you started, the Excelsior Hotel Gallia, which is convenient for many travelers.

What to Expect in Terms of Value

For $214.11 per person, this tour delivers a lot of punch. You’re getting private transportation, guided city tours, wine tastings, and regional snacks, all in one day. Considering the cost of similar experiences, especially in Italy’s wine regions, the value holds up well, especially given the small-group setting, which enhances interaction and personalization.

Keep in mind, lunch isn’t included, so you might want to carry some snacks or plan to dine afterwards. The tour’s focus on quality over quantity makes it ideal for travelers who want an immersive yet manageable experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want a balanced taste of culture and cuisine without spending days in the region. It suits those who appreciate guided insights and enjoy small-group intimacy. If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to learn about Franciacorta sparkling wines, this is a great choice.

History buffs will enjoy Brescia’s historic sites, while casual travelers will appreciate the scenic drive and relaxed pace in the vineyards. It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues, as the tour involves walking and standing at sites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup is optional but not included. The tour starts at the Excelsior Hotel Gallia.

How long is the drive from Milan to Brescia?
The coach ride takes about 1.5 hours each way.

Are drinks included in the wine tasting?
Yes, you will taste two Franciacorta sparkling wines as part of the experience.

Can I buy more wine at the winery?
The tour includes tasting, but additional purchases are at your own expense.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is primarily designed for adults interested in wine and culture. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

How much free time do I get in Brescia?
You’ll have about 3.5 hours including the guided tour and free time for shopping or wandering.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around Brescia and the vineyards.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, the tour will take place regardless of weather conditions.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an option for private groups?
Yes, private group options are available, making this suitable for family or special occasions.

Final Thoughts

This Milan to Brescia & Franciacorta with Wine Tasting tour strikes a good balance between culture and culinary delights. You’ll visit a historic city with a local guide, then enjoy the stunning scenery and sparkling wines of Lombardy’s premier wine region. The small-group setting fosters a more personal experience, and the inclusion of expert-guided tastings and regional snacks adds to the value.

While it’s a full day and might feel quick if you prefer leisurely exploration, the highlights—especially the authentic wine tasting and Brescia’s beautiful squares—are sure to leave you with lasting memories. Perfect for travelers who want to see a different side of Italy, beyond Milan’s bustling streets, this tour offers a taste of regional life, history, and flavor in one well-organized package.

Ideal for curious culture-seekers, wine lovers, and those wanting a manageable yet comprehensive day trip. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an authentic Italian experience, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Lombardy.

You can check availability for your dates here: