Discover the Secrets of Lake Como & Cinque Terre
Lake Como & Cinque Terre small group tour: Discover a corner of Italy where time seems to slow, traditions run deep, and beauty reveals itself gently at every turn. This small group tour invites you into a world of shimmering lakes, pastel harbors, medieval villages, and the Riviera’s sunlit coast, creating a journey that feels both deeply personal and effortlessly indulgent.
Your adventure begins on the shores of Lake Como, where elegant lakeside towns, magnificent villas, and breathtaking alpine scenery set the stage for the journey ahead. From here, the road leads through the rolling countryside to Cremona, the historic City of Violins, before opening onto the vibrant colors of Liguria. Days along the coast bring the dramatic cliffs and terraced villages of the Cinque Terre, the hidden abbey of San Fruttuoso, and the elegance of Santa Margherita Ligure and Porto Venere.
Throughout your journey, enjoy handpicked boutique hotels, the warmth of local hosts, and meaningful experiences that reveal the soul of each place, from artisan workshops to harbour evenings, quiet island paths, and meals that celebrate the flavours of their region. Every step is curated with care, every moment shaped by authenticity, and every day designed to let Italy unfold at its most intimate and enchanting. Fall in love with the Cinque Terre Small Group Tours
Upcoming Tour Dates 10 Days/9 Nights
Pricing: € 5,000 (approx. US$5,550)
Price is per person based on double room occupancy
A single supplement is available at an additional cost of € 1300
Experience the beauty
Tour Highlights
- Stay on the tranquil shores of Lake Como
- Guided Private boat excursion to Villa del Balbianello and Bellagio
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Porto Venere, Abbazia di San Fruttuoso
- Get close to nature on the stunning Island of Palmaria
- Discover Cremona, the historic City of Violins.
- Visit picturesque towns like Vernazza, Monterosso al Mare, Porto Venere, Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure and more
- Hands-on pesto-making experience
- Explore Genoa and find out more about its illustrious maritime history on a guided tour
- Delicious Ligurian food and wine
- Visit a traditional violin-making workshop and meet a local artisan
Tour Itinerary
Transfer from Milan and enjoy a beautiful journey to the enchanting shores of Lake Como. Along the way, visit the historic city of Como, known for its elegant architecture and picturesque waterfront. Continue to Menaggio, a delightful lakeside town set against a backdrop of mountains and sparkling waters, where you’ll spend the first three nights. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.
Meals: Dinner included, breakfast and lunch on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Menaggio
Discover the beauty of central Lake Como on a private boat excursion (weather permitting). Visit the magnificent Villa del Balbianello, renowned for its elegant gardens, spectacular lakefront setting, and appearances in several famous films. Continue to Bellagio, the lake’s most celebrated town, where charming lanes, colorful villas, and sweeping waterfront views create an unforgettable atmosphere. This evening, gather in the main piazza for an apericena, enjoying the relaxed social tradition just like locals do!
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch & dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Menaggio
After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable excursion aboard the famous Bernina Express, one of the world’s most spectacular railway journeys and a UNESCO World Heritage experience. Travel through breathtaking Alpine scenery, passing dramatic mountain peaks, glaciers, picturesque valleys and charming Swiss villages as we make our way towards St. Moritz, the elegant resort town nestled in the Swiss Alps. Enjoy some free time to explore St. Moritz, admire its stunning mountain surroundings and soak up the unique Alpine atmosphere before returning to Lake Como. In the evening, gather for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, sharing memories of an extraordinary day.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Menaggio
After breakfast, depart Lake Como and travel through the scenic Lombardy countryside to Cremona, a city celebrated for its musical heritage and beautiful medieval architecture. Enjoy a guided walk through the historic centre, admiring the magnificent Cathedral, the impressive Torrazzo bell tower and the elegant Piazza del Comune. A special highlight is a private visit to a traditional violin-making workshop, where a local artisan reveals the centuries-old craftsmanship that made Cremona famous through masters such as Antonio Stradivari. Enjoy free time for lunch before continuing to the picturesque coastal village of Porto Venere, where you will spend the next two nights in a charming hotel. The evening is yours to explore the colourful harbour and enjoy dinner at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Porto Venere
The day is devoted to discovering Porto Venere, a small UNESCO listed harbor town where pastel façades, rocky cliffs, and the open Ligurian Sea come together in a striking sweep of color. Your exploration begins at the hilltop Doria Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking the coastline with views that capture the drama of this rugged stretch of Liguria. From there, follow stone pathways down toward the historic center, where ancient walls, hidden passages, and bright houses frame a harbor alive with Mediterranean light and sea air. The afternoon is free to wander, relax by the water, or enjoy the village at your own pace before gathering again for a memorable dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating your stay in this beautiful corner of the Riviera.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included, dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Porto Venere
Set out along the coast to discover the dramatic beauty of the Cinque Terre Hanging Villages, where steep terraces, vivid colors, and sea cliffs create one of Liguria’s most iconic landscapes. Begin in Manarola, a centuries-old fishing village perched above the water, then travel by boat, weather permitting, to Vernazza for time to wander its waterfront and enjoy lunch independently. A second short cruise carries you to Monterosso al Mare, a romantic beach town framed by lemon trees and turquoise waters. From here, continue to Santa Margherita Ligure, your home for the next four nights in a centrally located hotel with breakfast included, and enjoy the evening at leisure in this elegant Riviera town.
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Santa Margherita Ligure
Your day unfolds among the postcard perfect villages surrounding Santa Margherita Ligure, beginning with a leisurely visit to its elegant waterfront before continuing to the iconic harbor of Portofino, where pastel façades, cobblestone lanes, and sparkling sea views create one of the Riviera’s most photographed settings. From here, a boat carries you along the coast to the secluded inlet of San Fruttuoso, reachable only by water, where a medieval abbey sits dramatically at the edge of the beach. Weather permitting, there is time to admire this UNESCO listed treasure framed by turquoise waters before returning to Santa Margherita Ligure for a relaxed evening at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Santa Margherita Ligure
Travel to Genoa for a morning immersed in the city’s celebrated food culture, beginning with a hands-on pesto lesson that highlights the fresh basil, olive oil, and local ingredients that have made this Ligurian sauce famous. Your chef guides you through each step of the preparation before you explore the historic center on a gentle walking tour, winding through medieval streets, lively market squares, and the elegant palaces that reflect Genoa’s maritime past. After time to soak in the city’s atmosphere, return to Santa Margherita Ligure for a relaxed evening at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included, dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Santa Margherita Ligure
Your final full day on the Ligurian coast begins with free time in Santa Margherita Ligure, perfect for lingering in a sunlit café, browsing small shops, or simply savoring the easy rhythm of dolce far niente before the journey comes to a close. In the afternoon, travel to the seaside village of Camogli, a place of painted façades, fishing boats, and deep local character, where you gather for a memorable farewell dinner. This final evening is a chance to share stories, raise a glass to the days spent together, and enjoy the warmth of Ligurian hospitality one last time.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Santa Margherita Ligure
After breakfast, it is time to say arrivederci to the Italian Riviera. Private transfers will be provided to Genoa Airport, marking the end of your journey through Lake Como, Parma, and the Ligurian coast. As you depart, may the memories of colorful seaside villages, unforgettable flavors, and warm Italian hospitality stay with you long after you return home. If you wish to extend your Italian adventure, you may wish to consider a tour to one of Italy’s many spectacular destinations, such as Portugal, as Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, or the Northern Italy
Additional Information
- Small group tour of 12-15 participants
- Knowledgeable English-speaking tour director
- Entrance fees for all sites
- Tour transportation in a private air-conditioned motor coach
- Local guides in the outlined cities and towns
- Entrance fees for outlined activities
- Hotel city and service taxes at all accommodations and restaurants are included
- Airport transfers in Milan and Genoa
- Baggage transfers and porters are included
- All breakfasts, two lunches, and four dinners are covered. Main meals include wine, mineral water, espresso coffee with a set amount included
- Activity level: Light/Moderate
- Terms & Conditions/single supplement and FAQ
- Travel insurance and visa fees/trip Interruption & Cancellation Insurance
- Any charges for extras not listed in the itinerary
- Room services, telephone charges, laundry fees
- Gratuities for the tour director and local driver
- Single room supplement
- Airfares
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What Our Guests Say
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“Good evening Anne, Aldo, Katrin, We are finally back in Toronto after a long day of travel and I wanted to write to tell you how much Ed and I enjoyed our trip to Puglia with Secret Italia.”
“We have been on 7 small group tours with several different companies over the past few years and this was our second with Secret Italia in 2026.”
“Our recent Secret Italia’s “Contrasts of Northern Italy” tour exceeded our expectations of the finest in travel experiences offered by Aldo and Katrin.”
“Greetings, I wanted to let you know how much MaryJo Farrar and I enjoyed our Contrasts of Northern Italy Tour.”
“We just returned from our tour of the Northern Lakes and all I can say is " Wow" .”
“My sister and I recently went to Puglia including Matera with Secret Italia small tours. What an amazing region of Italy.”
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Authentic Travel Experiences
We believe in showcasing the true heart of the Mediterranean. Our meticulously crafted tours delve beyond the surface, immersing you in the local culture, cuisine, and hidden gems that only true insiders know.
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Our tours are limited to a maximum of 12-15 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience. You'll enjoy meaningful interactions, flexibility, and the chance to forge genuine connections with both locals and fellow travelers.
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Our team is deeply rooted in Europe, with extensive knowledge and a love for sharing our homeland. We take pride in hand-selecting accommodations, activities, and experiences that reflect our passion for authentic Mediterranean living.
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Leave the planning to us! We handle every detail, from logistics to unique cultural encounters, allowing you to relax and fully savor every moment of your Italian adventure.
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