Lake Como from Milan Villa Balbianello and Bellagio

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11 to 12 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

A day on Lake Como, arranged entirely from Milan.
We collect you at a central Milan meeting point and drive you north — no trains, no connections, no logistics to manage. In Como, your guide and boat are waiting.
You'll cruise the western shore to Lenno, where Villa del Balbianello sits above the water on its wooded headland — terraced gardens, panoramic balconies, and the setting chosen by the makers of Casino Royale and Star Wars for some of cinema's most recognisable scenes. The visit includes free time in Lenno to enjoy lunch at your own pace, with your guide on hand to recommend where to go. In the afternoon, the boat continues to Bellagio: the Villa Melzi gardens along the waterfront, then a guided walk through the town's shaded stairways, artisan boutiques, and scenic terraces.
The full day is guided in English by a dedicated local expert with deep knowledge of the lake's history, architecture, and culture. Return transfer to Milan included. Maximum ten guests.

What's Included

Professional guide, this tour is conducted in English only.
Admissions to Villa del Balbianello gardens & Villa Melzi gardens.
Transportation from Villa del Balbianello by private boat or ferry depending on the availability.
Transportation from Bellagio to Como by venetian boat or fast ferry depending on the availability.
Transfer from/to Milan by Mercedes Van.
Transportation from Como to Villa del Balbianello by venetian boat.
Both Villas interiors. Gardens only — itinerary does not allow time for interior visits.
Lunch and drinks (own expense; approx. 1h)
Private tour (this is a shared tour, max. 10 participants)

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your driver at 9:15 AM. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to allow a smooth departure. The drive north to Como takes approximately one hour under normal traffic conditions, arriving in time for the 11:15 AM boat departure.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 11 to 12 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Your meeting point is Piazza della Repubblica 17, Milan — a central landmark easily reached by metro, taxi, or on foot from most city hotels. Meet your driver at 9:15 AM. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to allow a smooth departure. The drive north to Como takes approximately one hour under normal traffic conditions, arriving in time for the 11:15 AM boat departure.

    1 hour 15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Como

    Depart from Como and enjoy a panoramic cruise aboard a private boat reserved exclusively for your group. Glide along the western shore of Lake Como, admiring picturesque villages, elegant villas, and mountain scenery while your guide shares stories about the lake’s history and culture.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Villa Del Balbianello

    Visit the world-famous Villa del Balbianello gardens with your guide, exploring elegant terraces, sculptures, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Como. Hear stories of the villa’s explorers, unique history, and cinematic appearances. Please note: the interior rooms are not included in this visit due to time limitations.

    1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 4
    Bellagio

    Continue your journey across the central lake area toward Bellagio. Depending on availability, this transfer may be by private boat or scheduled ferry. Admire the lake’s mid-section, where the two branches meet around Bellagio.

    25 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Bellagio

    Arrive in Bellagio - lunch break for 1h., we make the reservations for you. Bellagio tour and Villa Melzi gardens. You’ll also have some free time to explore, shop, or relax before heading back toward Como. Please note: interior access to the villa is not included (private residence opened only for events).

    2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Bellagio

    Relax on the return journey to Como. Enjoy the calm atmosphere of the late afternoon on the lake as your guide offers final insights.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Lake Como

    At the end of the day, your driver will be waiting in Como for the return transfer to Milan, dropping you back at Piazza della Repubblica. Journey time is approximately one hour under normal traffic conditions.

    1 hour 15 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
  • This is a **guided tour**, not just a boat ride. During the ride from Como to Villa del Balbianello, you will see the main highlights of the lake from the boat. After that, we visit the main attractions on the lake, walk through beautiful places, and experience the destinations properly. If you are looking for a tour where you simply sit on the boat the whole time, this is not the right tour for you. You should look for a different boat-only experience. Our tour is for guests who want to visit and discover Lake Como, not just pass by it.
  • Please note: Due to the high operational costs, a minimum number of 4 participants is required for the guided tour to operate. If the minimum is not reached, we will contact you the day before the tour, an alternative tour or date will be offered, or a full refund provided.
Supplied by Lake Como Explorer
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Tags

Day Cruises
Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Jet Boat Rentals
Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Water Tours
Sightseeing Cruises
Speed Boat Rentals
Small Group
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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