Bergamo might be famous for its medieval Città Alta and stunning mountain vistas, but it’s also a fantastic spot for canoe and kayak adventures. Paddling on local lakes and rivers gives you a fresh perspective on the region’s natural beauty—close-up views of islands, cliffs, and lush shoreline that you can’t get from the bus or foot. Among the many options, we particularly like the Kayak Trip to Monte Isola on Lake Iseo for its combination of scenic beauty and user-friendly experience, especially if you’re new to kayaking or traveling with family. It’s a safe, guided trip that takes you past Monte Isola and San Paolo islands, giving you a privileged view of these iconic spots. Plus, the reviews highlight how fun and manageable the experience is, even for children.
If you’re after a shorter, more focused trip, the Lake Iseo: Baia del Bogn Kayak Tour offers a delightful paddle along dramatic cliffs and remote inlet spots, perfect for those who want a quick escape into nature. For a different scenery, the Adda River: Half day Kayak Trip lets you explore tranquil waters with a guide explaining kayaking basics—ideal for beginners or casual paddlers. And for those with a taste for scenic lakes, the Kayak Trip to Varenna on Lake Como provides a chance to see the picturesque lakeshore towns from the water, complete with all gear provided for a smooth trip. Lastly, the Guided Kayak trip to discover Endine Lake is perfect if you’re interested in wildlife and lush surroundings—this natural park is a quiet haven for birdlife and amphibians.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each experience, helping you pick the perfect paddling adventure in Bergamo.
1. Kayak Trip to Monte Isola, on Iseo lake
At number 1 we have the Kayak Trip to Monte Isola on Lake Iseo, which scores a perfect 5.0 based on 8 reviews. This 3-hour guided tour is ideal for those seeking a relaxing yet scenic outing. The tour includes a professional guide who ensures safety and shares insights about the lake’s highlights, such as the Monte Isola and San Paolo islands and the charming town of Peschiera Maraglio. The focus here is on experiencing the lake from an intimate, eye-level perspective—something you simply can’t get from a boat or car.
What makes this trip stand out is its approachability. It’s designed as an easy, safe adventure suitable for beginners and families, with plenty of time to enjoy the panoramic views and touch the water. The reviews praise the guide’s clear instructions and the equipment, noting how comfortable and fun the trip is—even for kids aged 12 to 15. Many mention the breathtaking scenery and the sense of being immersed in nature. For only $68.78 per person, you get a memorable experience that combines gentle exercise with stunning sights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those new to kayaking, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed introduction to lake paddling, with expert guidance and fantastic views.
2. Lake Iseo: Baia del Bogn Kayak Tour
Coming in at number 2, the Lake Iseo: Baia del Bogn Kayak Tour offers an approximate 2-hour paddle along the cliffs and natural inlet of Baia del Bogn. Rated 4.7 based on 14 reviews, this tour stands out for its focus on natural beauty and geological features. Paddling beneath towering cliffs and exploring remote observation points only accessible by water makes this trip feel like a mini adventure in itself.
During the tour, you’ll learn paddling techniques from your guide, who helps you navigate the calm waters and highlights the landscape’s dramatic contrasts—green trees against stark cliffs and clear water. Many reviewers mention how relaxing and fun the activity is, noting that it’s suitable for any age group. The price of $67.97 offers great value for a guided experience with all equipment included.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a short but rich nature experience and enjoy exploring lesser-known spots around Lake Iseo. It’s a perfect choice if you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of paddling in a beautiful setting.
Bottom Line: A concise, scenic kayak trip for nature lovers and those looking for an easy, guided paddle with beautiful geological features.
3. Adda River: Half day Kayak Trip
Number 3 on our list is the Adda River: Half day Kayak Trip, which has a perfect rating of 5/5 from just 3 reviews. This 2.5-hour trip is designed for those who want to discover the gentle waters of the Adda River without any prior experience. The tour includes a technical briefing, so you’ll learn the basics of kayaking before setting out with your guide.
What makes this trip special is its focus on unusual observation points and unreachable places on foot. The calm, slow-moving river allows for a relaxed paddle that’s perfect for families, beginners, or anyone wanting to enjoy nature from a new angle. Reviewers mention how much fun they had and how well the guide explained the nuances of kayaking and the river’s environment. At $62.63, it’s an affordable, accessible option that offers a peaceful escape into nature.
Bottom Line: Ideal for casual paddlers and those interested in wildlife, this trip combines easy paddling with the opportunity to see unusual spots along the river.
4. Kayak Trip to Varenna, on Como Lake
In fourth place, the Kayak Trip to Varenna on Lake Como is a 3-hour guided journey that highlights the beauty of one of Italy’s most famous lakes. Rated 5.0 with 2 reviews, this tour provides a comprehensive view of Varenna, Villa Monastero, and the Fiumelatte River from the water. The experience includes all necessary gear, such as kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and waterproof bags, making it easy to participate without fuss.
This trip is unique because it combines sightseeing with a manageable pacing suitable for small groups. You’ll paddle along the lakeshore, enjoying close-up views of lakeside villas and charming towns. It’s especially good for those who want a more intimate and active way to explore Lake Como without the need for a boat license. The reviews note how smoothly the organization runs and how enjoyable the scenery is.
At $69.41 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a memorable lakeside adventure, perfect for couples or small groups who enjoy scenic paddling.
Bottom Line: Best for small groups and those wanting a scenic, active exploration of Lake Como’s lakeside towns.
5. Guided Kayak trip to discover Endine Lake
Finally, number 5 is the Guided Kayak trip to discover Endine Lake, which scores full marks with a 5.0 based on 1 review. This 2.5-hour tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts interested in birdwatching and ecological diversity. Endine Lake is part of a Natural Park, characterized by reeds and a thriving biosphere of birds, fish, and amphibians.
Led by an expert guide, you’ll paddle around this tranquil lake, enjoying the lush surroundings and learning about its ecological importance. This experience is suited for those who want more than just scenic views—it’s about understanding the environment and observing wildlife in their natural habitat. The price of $64.00 makes it a good deal for an immersive nature trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for eco-minded travelers and wildlife lovers looking for a peaceful, educational paddle in a protected natural area.
$64.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Canoe & Kayak Experience in Bergamo
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, preferred scenery, and experience level. For a leisurely, family-friendly adventure with stunning views, the Kayak Trip to Monte Isola is hard to beat. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic paddle with geological interest, try the Lake Iseo Baia del Bogn Tour. For those interested in wildlife and ecological environments, the Endine Lake trip offers a quiet, educational experience.
Think about the logistics as well—most tours include all necessary equipment, but some, like the Como Lake trip, cater to small groups looking for an intimate outing. Booking early is recommended in high season, especially for tours with limited availability, such as the Varenna trip or the Endine Lake experience.
To sum it up, Bergamo offers a diverse range of canoe and kayak experiences that suit different interests and skill levels. Whether you want a relaxed paddle around Lake Iseo or an ecologically rich journey on Endine Lake, there’s an option for you. The most popular choices include the Monte Isola tour for its scenic appeal and family-friendliness, and the Como Lake trip for its small-group intimacy and lakeside charm. Be sure to book ahead, especially in the summer months, to secure your spot on these memorable adventures.