Villa Balbianello & Bellagio Full-Day Tour on Lake Como by boat

4.8
(135 reviews)
Lake Como, Italy

8 to 9 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Discover the soul of Lake Como on a small-group journey for those who appreciate nature, history, and timeless beauty. Departing from Como, cruise across the lake aboard a brand-new 10-passenger boat specially designed for guided tours, as reflections of mountains, villas, and villages unfold in harmony. Visit the legendary Villa del Balbianello, exploring its terraced gardens surrounded by cypress trees and breathtaking views. (Interiors not included due to time limits.) Enjoy free time for lunch with recommendations for lakeside restaurants serving authentic dishes. Continue to Bellagio, the “Pearl of Lake Como,” and visit the Villa Melzi gardens, a peaceful retreat of elegant paths and sculptures. Stroll through Bellagio’s alleys and boutique shops before returning to Como as the lake glows in the afternoon light.

What's Included

Professional guide. This tour is conducted in English only.
Two villages. Two villa gardens. One unforgettable day on the lake.
Admissions to Villa del Balbianello gardens & Villa Melzi gardens.
Whisper audio system to clearly hear your guide throughout the tour.
Small group of max. 10 guests.
Transportation by private boat reserved exclusively for your group.
Lunch is not included, offering you flexibility; we can reserve a table if desired.
Villa del Balbianello & Villa Melzi interiors are NOT included (due to time constraints).
Pick-up or drop-off, guests must reach the meeting point at Piazza Cavour, Como, on their own.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Go to the middle of the large square called Piazza Cavour. Face the lake. On your right-hand side, you’ll see a bright yellow building next to a pink one — that’s nr 26. A Google Maps link is also available, and you can see the 2nd photo in the gallery for reference. Please arrive 15+ minutes early.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 to 9 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Piazza Cavour

    Please arrive 15+ minutes before the scheduled departure time to meet your guide and prepare for the day's adventure.

    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.

    45 minutes 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
    Lenno

    Enjoy free time for lunch (at own expense). Your guide will recommend authentic lakeside restaurants to taste regional dishes such as risotto al pesce persico or fresh lake fish. Stroll along the charming promenade or relax by the water before continuing the day.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Bellagio (Pass by)

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

    Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Bellagio

    Arrive in Bellagio and visit the Villa Melzi gardens, then continue with a pleasant walking tour through the town’s charming alleys, boutique shops, and scenic lakeside corners. Your guide will share stories about Bellagio’s noble past, architecture, and local traditions. 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 by private boat. Enjoy the calm atmosphere of the late afternoon on the lake as your guide offers final insights and recommendations for the rest of your stay.

    1 hour Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
  • Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. 
  • Guests must arrange their own transportation to and from the meeting point at Como’s Piazza Cavour.
Supplied by Lake Como Explorer

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Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Jet Boat Rentals
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Water Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Speed Boat Rentals
Small Group
Excellent Quality
Top Product
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Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Curated Catalog

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

4.8 Based on 135 135 reviews
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