Northern Italy’s Brescia region packs three excellent self-guided tour options.
The standout is the Franciacorta wine route, which lets you visit family-run wineries and organic producers at your own pace – perfect for savoring both wines and local lunches without being rushed.
History buffs will appreciate exploring Val Camonica’s Roman ruins independently, while the Lake Garda Vespa circuit ranks as our favorite way to experience the area’s postcard-perfect towns and lakeside vistas.
These well-marked routes are all manageable without a guide and offer good value.
Let’s look at our top picks for exploring Brescia on your own.
Key Points
Explore the renowned Franciacorta wine region through guided visits to organic and niche wineries with tastings and a traditional three-course lunch.
Discover the well-preserved Roman archaeological sites in Val Camonica valley through a 1.5-hour self-guided walk, including a visit to a local winery.
Experience the scenic beauty of Lake Garda on a Vespa scooter through self-guided tours in Moniga Del Garda, Desenzano Del Garda, and Salò.
Enjoy the flexibility to tailor the self-guided Vespa tours in Lake Garda to personal interests and take advantage of discounts on ferry tickets and local produce.
Benefit from private transportation, travel agency assistance, and comprehensive digital guides for a seamless self-guided experience in and around Brescia.
Self-Guided Wine Tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience With Lunch
Starting with a self-guided wine tour in Franciacorta, this full-day experience offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy the renowned wine region‘s rich heritage and award-winning vintages.
Highly rated on Viator and Tripadvisor, this tour accommodates up to 15 guests and includes a guided visit to two wineries – one organic and one niche. Participants will savor a tasting of five Franciacorta wines and enjoy a traditional three-course lunch with a glass of wine, water, and coffee.
Convenience is ensured with private transportation and travel agency assistance, along with a tour leader to provide guidance throughout the day. The tour is accessible to wheelchair users and strollers, though not recommended for pregnant travelers.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the detailed itinerary is provided one week prior to the tour, which begins in Erbusco and ends in Passirano, both in the Province of Brescia, Italy.
Read our full review: Self-Guided Wine Tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience With Lunch Review
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Self-Guided Walk Exploring Roman Footprints in Val Camonica
Travelers seeking to uncover the ancient Roman heritage of Northern Italy can embark on a self-guided walk through the picturesque Val Camonica valley. This 1.5-hour experience allows visitors to explore the region’s rich Roman footprints at their own pace, discovering well-preserved archaeological sites and breathtaking natural scenery.
The tour, priced at $36.86 per person, takes guests on a journey through the valley, highlighting the remarkable Grotte di Catullo archaeological site. Here, they can marvel at the remnants of a sprawling Roman villa, seeing the region’s captivating history.
The tour also includes a visit to a local winery, where travelers can indulge in a wine tasting, further enriching their cultural experience.
With an impressive 5-star rating from previous participants, this self-guided walk through Val Camonica offers an ideal opportunity to explore Brescia’s Roman legacy at one’s own leisurely pace.
Whether seeking a deeper understanding of the region’s past or simply appreciating its natural beauty, this tour presents a unique and engaging way to explore the area.
Read our full review: Self-Guided Walk Exploring Roman Footprints in Val Camonica Review
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Moniga Del Garda: Lake Garda Self-Guided Vespa Tour
Adventurers can explore the captivating Lake Garda region on a self-guided Vespa tour, seeing the area’s stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage.
This 8-hour experience offers the flexibility to discover the lake’s major scenic spots at one’s own pace, with a route optimized to avoid heavy traffic. Riders will enjoy impressive views from both shores, including a famous viewpoint over 300 meters high, and can even drive along the renowned Strada della Forra, one of the world’s most beautiful roads.
The tour includes the latest model Vespa scooters, safety gear, and roadside assistance. Discounts on ferry tickets and local produce purchases add value, while the DGtalguide™ app provides navigation and content in multiple languages for a seamless experience.
With a minimum age of 21 and a valid driver’s license, this self-guided adventure is an excellent way to uncover the charms of Lake Garda. Priced at $136.90 per group (up to 2 people), the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Moniga Del Garda: Lake Garda Self-Guided Vespa Tour Review
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Desenzano Del Garda: Lake Garda Self-Guided Vespa Tour
The picturesque town of Desenzano Del Garda offers visitors an equally captivating self-guided Vespa tour along the shores of Lake Garda. This 2-hour experience allows you to explore the charming lakeside village at your own pace, taking in the stunning views and discovering hidden gems along the way.
The tour includes a Vespa rental, a helmet, and a GPS-guided route, so you can navigate the scenic roads with ease. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to stop and admire the picturesque harbor, the medieval castle, and the charming piazzas that dot the town.
You can also take a break to enjoy a traditional Italian coffee or gelato, soaking up the laid-back atmosphere of this beautiful destination.
Whether you’re a seasoned Vespa enthusiast or a first-time rider, this self-guided tour offers a unique and memorable way to experience the enchanting town of Desenzano Del Garda and the breathtaking beauty of Lake Garda.
Read our full review: Desenzano Del Garda: Lake Garda Self-Guided Vespa Tour Review
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Salò: Lake Garda Self-Guided Vespa Tour
Along the picturesque shores of Lake Garda, the charming town of Salò offers visitors a self-guided Vespa tour that allows them to explore the area at their own pace.
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and provides an opportunity to discover the village’s highlights, including its historic buildings, charming piazzas, and stunning lakefront promenade.
Riders can take in panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains as they cruise along the scenic roads.
The self-guided nature of the tour allows travelers to stop and explore at their leisure, giving them the flexibility to tailor the experience to their interests.
Whether it’s admiring the architecture, grabbing a bite to eat, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, the Salò Vespa tour offers an immersive and authentic way to experience the beauty of Lake Garda.
With its convenient location and ample opportunities for exploration, this self-guided tour is a must-do for any visitor to the region.
Read our full review: Salò: Lake Garda Self-Guided Vespa Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Brescia and the surrounding Lake Garda region offer a variety of self-guided tours that allow visitors to explore the area’s rich history, scenic landscapes, and renowned vineyards. From guided wine tours in Franciacorta to Vespa excursions along the lakefront, these experiences provide an immersive and flexible way to discover the best of Brescia and its idyllic surroundings at one’s own pace.