Pagus Wine Tours® – Sirmione by boat and Amarone – Full day tour

An Authentic Day in Italy’s Countryside: Lake Garda, Sirmione, and Amarone Wine Tasting

Imagine starting your day in the historic heart of Verona, then relaxing with a beautiful boat ride across Lake Garda, followed by exploring the charming medieval streets of Sirmione. The tour culminates with a visit to a family-run winery in Valpolicella, where you’ll taste celebrated wines like Amarone and Ripasso while enjoying a light, local lunch. At around 6 hours long for $249.02, this tour offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and wine tasting—perfect for those wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed experience.

What we especially appreciate are the personalized small-group setting, which makes the experience feel intimate and friendly, and the delicious wine and food pairing that really highlights the region’s culinary traditions. Plus, the boat ride around Sirmione’s peninsula offers stunning views of the lake and Roman ruins, giving you plenty of photo-worthy moments.

One possible consideration is the weather—bad weather could mean a change in plans, with some outdoor parts replaced by a visit to the medieval castle. Also, the van used for transportation can be quite warm because it lacks air conditioning, so bringing a fan or dressing comfortably is wise.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic views, history, and wine without rushing through a busy itinerary. If you like small groups, personalized attention, and a taste of Italy’s varied landscapes and flavors, this tour is a great fit.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Boat ride on Lake Garda offers stunning views of Sirmione and Roman ruins.
• Wine tasting includes Amarone and Ripasso, famous DOCG and DOC wines.
• Delicious lunch paired with local wines enhances the wine tasting experience.
• Flexible itinerary with options to visit the medieval castle if weather is poor.
• Professional guides and sommeliers provide in-depth knowledge and friendly service.

Exploring the Full-Day in Verona’s Countryside

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour is designed to maximize your day, blending scenic beauty, cultural sights, and culinary delights. Your adventure begins in Verona at the Pagus Wine Tours store at Castelvecchio, where we found the welcoming staff and the opportunity to purchase wines at cellar prices—definitely a nice bonus for wine lovers. After a quick 10-minute meet-and-greet, you’re whisked off to Lake Garda for a scenic boat ride around Sirmione.

The boat trip is about 30 minutes and offers a unique perspective of this picturesque town. You’ll see the Grotte di Catullo, the impressive Roman ruins that once served as a grand villa—perfect for history buffs or anyone who loves a bit of ancient Italy’s charm. Several reviews highlight this part as a “really great, relaxed day exploring” with Jay, the guide, who was praised for his knowledge and friendly approach.

Following the boat ride, you’re free to wander Sirmione’s historic center for about half an hour. This quaint town is known for its narrow streets, lakeside cafés, and the medieval castle, making it an excellent place for a quick stroll and some photos. Some travelers, like Elizabeth D, mention enjoying the beautiful scenery and relaxing atmosphere despite the occasional rain.

The final, and arguably most indulgent, part of the tour is the visit to a Valpolicella winery. Here, you’ll sample Amarone, Ripasso, and other exquisite local wines, all paired with a delightful light lunch amid vineyard surroundings. “The two vineyards were well chosen and different,” says Stephane M, emphasizing the value of the wine tasting experience. The guides and sommeliers do a great job of explaining the wines’ characteristics, which many guests, like Ian W, find “very personalized and informative.”

The Wine Tasting: A Highlight

This part of the tour beautifully combines education and indulgence. Amarone, with its rich, full-bodied profile, is a standout that truly reflects the region’s winemaking expertise. You’ll also taste Ripasso, which is a more approachable yet equally delicious red wine. The vineyard lunch is simple but well-executed, allowing the wines to shine, and many comment on the delicious flavors and friendly atmosphere.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned mini-vans, which are comfortable, but one review pointed out the lack of air conditioning during a hot day, so dress accordingly. The tiny group size—a maximum of 8 travelers—ensures you get personalized attention, and guides like Jay and Ilaria often receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness.

Practical Considerations

While most travelers find the tour very well-organized, it’s worth noting that if you have mobility issues, some parts, like cellar stairs, might be challenging. The tour leader is mindful, but it’s good to mention any needs in advance. Also, the constant 15°C temperature in the wine cellar calls for a sweater or jacket, and comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around Sirmione and the vineyards.

Value and Overall Experience

At $249.02, the price reflects a comprehensive experience—a boat ride, scenic town exploration, wine tastings, and a lovely lunch. Many guests feel it’s excellent value considering the personalized service, quality wines, and stunning scenery. Guests consistently rate it 5 stars, praising the relaxed pace, knowledgeable guides, and delicious wines.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour appeals most to wine enthusiasts who enjoy learning about local varieties and savoring wines in a relaxed setting. It’s also perfect for history lovers and scenic travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor activities, beautiful views, and cultural insights. Families or groups seeking a small, personalized experience will find it especially rewarding. Keep in mind, it’s ideal for those comfortable with gentle walking and about 30 minutes of free time in Sirmione.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip from Verona that offers scenic boat rides, charming towns, and authentic wine tasting, this tour hits the mark. The small group size and knowledgeable guides create an intimate and engaging atmosphere, making it more than just a sightseeing tour—they turn your day into a genuine taste of Italian life.

The combination of stunning views, quality wines, and constant opportunities to learn and relax makes this a standout choice, especially for those wanting to experience Italy’s countryside without feeling rushed. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you’ll leave with beautiful memories, new tastes, and a deeper appreciation for Valpolicella’s wines and lakeside charms.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transport by air-conditioned mini-van throughout the day.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at Pagus Wine Tours, Corso Castelvecchio, 3a, Verona, at 9:00 am.

Can I buy wines during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase wines at cellar prices at the Pagus Wine Tours store at Castelvecchio, Verona.

Is the boat ride weather dependent?
Yes, the boat trip is in case of good weather, but if not, there’s an alternative visit to the Medieval castle.

Are meals included?
Yes, a light lunch at the vineyard is included, with wines paired with your meal.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum number of travelers per group is 8, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for travelers who can walk comfortably; those with mobility concerns should inform the tour operator in advance.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sweater or jacket for the cellar, and possibly a camera for the scenic views and town strolls.

This full-day adventure offers a genuine, enjoyable way to experience Italy’s scenic and vinicultural delights. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just looking to enjoy Italy’s lakeside beauty and history, it’s a trip that combines the best of all worlds with a friendly, relaxed vibe.