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Book Lake Como sightseeing tours
- Embark on a scenic tour through stunning Italian and Swiss destinations, led by an expert guide.
- Discover Lugano's delights, like Swiss chocolate, with free time to explore.
- Stroll through the 'Pearl of Lake Como', Bellagio, and relish some leisure time.
- Travel comfortably in an air-con bus, and enjoy a skip-the-line Lake Como cruise for a full day of fun.
- Embark on a scenic tour through stunning Italian and Swiss destinations, led by an expert guide.
- Discover Lugano's delights, like Swiss chocolate, with free time to explore.
- Stroll through the 'Pearl of Lake Como', Bellagio, and relish some leisure time.
- Travel comfortably in an air-con bus, and enjoy a skip-the-line Lake Como cruise for a full day of fun.
Inclusions
- Transportation by air-conditioned bus
- English and Spanish-speaking guide (optional)
- Audio headsets
- Skip-the-line boat tickets
- Bottled water
Exclusions
- Lunch
- Tip: Bring Swiss francs, Lugano is in Switzerland and they use it as currency. Have cash for small purchases or places without card payment.
- A passport is required to pass through Swiss customs. People without a valid passport and visa will not be allowed to participate in the tour.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Visit three cities across Italy and Switzerland, and relax on a private boat tour.
- Full day out to: Como, Bellagio, and Lugano from Milan. Enjoy a guided walking tour in Como and a panoramic private boat tour on Lake Como. Get free time to café-hop in the Italian commune of Bellagio, and admire unique architecture in the Swiss lake city of Lugano.
- You’ll get: Comfortable bus rides, unlimited high-speed WiFi on both bus and boat, a professional English/Spanish-speaking tour leader, and audio headsets for groups over 10.
- Como: Discover the art, history, and gothic cathedral of this picturesque lakeside city on a walking tour.
- Bellagio: Enjoy free time in this picturesque commune, stroll its cobblestoned paths, and discover historic villas.
- Lugano: Explore the Swiss city center, shop for high quality products, and sample authentic Swiss chocolate.
Visit three cities across Italy and Switzerland, and relax on a private boat tour.
- Full day out to: Como, Bellagio, and Lugano from Milan. Enjoy a guided walking tour in Como and a panoramic private boat tour on Lake Como. Get free time to café-hop in the Italian commune of Bellagio, and admire unique architecture in the Swiss lake city of Lugano.
- You’ll get: Comfortable bus rides, unlimited high-speed WiFi on both bus and boat, a professional English/Spanish-speaking tour leader, and audio headsets for groups over 10.
- Como: Discover the art, history, and gothic cathedral of this picturesque lakeside city on a walking tour.
- Bellagio: Enjoy free time in this picturesque commune, stroll its cobblestoned paths, and discover historic villas.
- Lugano: Explore the Swiss city center, shop for high quality products, and sample authentic Swiss chocolate.
Inclusions
- Full day trip to Como, Bellagio, and Lugano
- 2-hour private boat tour of Lake Como
- High-speed Wi-Fi onboard
- Guided tours of Como, Bellagio, and Lugano
- Round-trip bus transfers from Milan
- Expert English or Spanish-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- Hotel pick-ups
- Food & drinks
- All participants are required to carry their original passport/travel document with them to enter Switzerland. Participants from a non-EU country will need a Schengen Visa.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.
- Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
- Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.
- Dress code: If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.3
988 ratings
595
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Guests from Romania, Spain, United States and over 11 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Celia
Apr 2025Verified booking
The route is great and it was easy to buy the trip online. The guide was experienced and knowledgeable, so it was a good day out.
View original review in Portuguese
Adoración
May 2025Verified booking
Ζωη
May 2025Verified booking
Kavitha
Apr 2025Verified booking
Roderick
Apr 2025Verified booking
Hernandez
Apr 2025Verified booking
Shalee
Mar 2025Verified booking
Jessica
Mar 2025Verified booking
Elena
Feb 2025Verified booking
Alexandra-Diana
Feb 2025Verified booking
CRISTINA
Jan 2025Verified booking
Larissa
Jan 2025Verified booking
Alexandra
Jan 2025Verified booking
Josefa
Dec 2024Verified booking
Colleen
Nov 2024Verified booking
Ticketing was easy. Guide Sara was outstanding!
Alexsandra
Dec 2024Verified booking
Rolan
Dec 2024Verified booking
Gabriela
Nov 2024Verified booking
Chiriac
Nov 2024Verified booking
Clara
Aug 2024Verified booking
We had a very good experience both with the guide, who told us curious facts, and with the organization of the trip, which gave us time to eat and walk around the villages we visited. You spend a lot of time on the bus but this allows you to see the scenery (better to be quick and take a window as the seats are fixed for the whole trip) and the experience of seeing the lake from the boat is impressive. To look for something negative the explanations were first in English and then in Spanish, so if you understand both languages it becomes a little heavy but otherwise amazing.
View original review in Spanish
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jul 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jul 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jul 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jul 2024Verified booking
On guided tour in a group of 10, head to Switzerland's Lugano and Italy's Como by AC bus, with a lake cruise.
- In central Milan, board a spacious coach that will shuttle your small group and expert guide to Lugano city.
- Roam the best spots, from the stunning St. Lawrence Cathedral and sprawling Ciani Park, to charming old town alleys and Via Nassa's boutiques.
- Next, a short drive brings you to Como, with free time to savor a tasty local lunch and explore the city's historic center.
- Set sail on Lake Como for an hour of uninterrupted vistas before disembarking at the medieval village of Torno or Moltrasio.
- Take your time exploring its monuments and relics before a quick ferry back to Como in time for your ride to Milan.
On guided tour in a group of 10, head to Switzerland's Lugano and Italy's Como by AC bus, with a lake cruise.
- In central Milan, board a spacious coach that will shuttle your small group and expert guide to Lugano city.
- Roam the best spots, from the stunning St. Lawrence Cathedral and sprawling Ciani Park, to charming old town alleys and Via Nassa's boutiques.
- Next, a short drive brings you to Como, with free time to savor a tasty local lunch and explore the city's historic center.
- Set sail on Lake Como for an hour of uninterrupted vistas before disembarking at the medieval village of Torno or Moltrasio.
- Take your time exploring its monuments and relics before a quick ferry back to Como in time for your ride to Milan.
Inclusions
- Full-day trip to Como and Lugano
- Expert English-speaking guide
- 1-hour boat tour of Lake Como
- Round-trip AC coach transfers from Milan Central Station
Exclusions
- Hotel pick-ups
- Food & drinks
- Carry your original passport and a valid Schengen Visa (for non-EU travelers) to enter Switzerland.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.
- Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
- Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.
- Dress code: If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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4.5
144 ratings
110
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4
2
8
What our guests say
pablo
Jul 2024Verified booking
I recommend Headout to everyone because its absolutely flawless.
venice
Jun 2024Verified booking
Great tour only because of Headout!
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
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Aug 2024Verified booking
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Jul 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
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Jun 2024Verified booking
Leah
Jul 2023Verified booking
The day was planned wonderfully! I took the trip with my daughter and we had a truly marvelous time. It was well organized, leaving enough time at each place to enjoy. Marco was a wonderful driver, even bringing us closer to our destination in Como because of the heat. Our guide Monica was perfect! She is knowledgeable and interesting and funny, and kept us at a good pace without feeling rushed. The hour long cruise was long enough (we originally had been looking at the one which had a 2 hour boat ride). The views we saw were absolutely spectacular and nownhave lifetime memories. Thank you for the amazing experience!
Anton
Oct 2023Verified booking
Trustworthy and very convenient
rozina
Aug 2023Verified booking
Constant update about the trip is very useful. Great job!
nedal
Apr 2023Verified booking
It was so much fun very short and nice the people are kind and very friendly that what made the trip better than ever
Sonia
Aug 2022Verified booking
Easy quick and great communication
Neil
May 2022Verified booking
Quick and reliable payment portal
Isobel
May 2022Verified booking
Excellent prices and reliable portal
ANNA
Aug 2021Verified booking
You guys are super cool! Amazing skills.
Jane
May 2021Verified booking
Brilliant service and easy communication
POULIGNY
Apr 2021Verified booking
easy to check out orders
Salvador
Mar 2021Verified booking
User friendly and reliable
Dimitris
Sep 2020Verified booking
Easy and lucid process. No complications.
claire
Sep 2020Verified booking
The fast service and trust
Linda
Apr 2020Verified booking
Very Good service
Headout Guest
Jun 2024Verified booking
- Sail away on a public boat tour and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of Lake Como, with flexible durations of 2, 3, or 4 hours, guided by an experienced captain.
- Explore the charming coastal towns, including the renowned Borgo di Laglio, which is famously home to Hollywood actor George Clooney.
- Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Ravine of Nesso, where cascading waterfalls create a captivating spectacle.
- Take a refreshing dip in the azure waters for an invigorating experience.
- Journey to the delightful villages of Torno and Blevio, where you can soak up the cultural richness of Como.
- Sail away on a public boat tour and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of Lake Como, with flexible durations of 2, 3, or 4 hours, guided by an experienced captain.
- Explore the charming coastal towns, including the renowned Borgo di Laglio, which is famously home to Hollywood actor George Clooney.
- Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Ravine of Nesso, where cascading waterfalls create a captivating spectacle.
- Take a refreshing dip in the azure waters for an invigorating experience.
- Journey to the delightful villages of Torno and Blevio, where you can soak up the cultural richness of Como.
Inclusions
- 2/3/4-Hour Public boat tour
- Captain
- Glass of wine or prosecco
- Snacks
- Fruit
- Bottle of water
- Sunscreen
- Music onboard
- Insurance
- Tip: Lake Como can often get crowded with other boats and swimmers. Plan your route carefully and navigate responsibly.
- Bring along your sunscreen, change of clothes, swim suit.
- This tour can accommodate a maximum of 8 people in 1 group.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Make the most of Milan
Why visit Lake Como?
Stunning natural beauty
Lake Como offers breathtaking alpine scenery, crystal-clear waters, and lush hillsides dotted with villas, making it one of Italy’s most picturesque and serene destinations.
Historic towns
Explore elegant towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Como, rich in history, cobblestone streets, local markets, and lakeside cafes that capture authentic Northern Italian charm.
Exciting activities
Whether you're in the mood for a panoramic funicular ride, a thrilling session of windsurfing, a winding hike, or a breezy cruise, Lake Como has lots of interesting activities to offer.
A stone’s throw from the Swiss
You can even cross over into Switzerland and explore villages and towns near the Italian border, like Lugano or St. Moritz. Experience two countries in one day!
Your Lake Como tour options
Only boat tour
- Lake Como cruise type: Shared, 90 mins
- Transport: 🛥️
- Guide: ❌
- Book now: Lake Como Shared Boat Tour
With transfers from Milan
- Lake Como cruise type: Private, 2 hours
- Transport: 🚌🛥️
- Guide: ✅
- Book now: Milan to Lake Como & Bellagio by Bus with Private Boat Tour
With trips to Switzerland
- Lake Como cruise type: Private, 2 hours
- Transport: 🚌🛥️🚄
- Guide: ✅
- Book now: Milan to St. Moritz by Bernina Red Train with Lake Como Private Boat Tour
Should I take a day trip from Milan?
Deciding between a day trip from Milan to Lake Como and staying overnight in one of the lake's charming villages depends on your travel preferences, time constraints, and desired experiences. Here's a balanced comparison to help you make an informed choice.
Option 1: Day trip
Pros
- Convenient and time-efficient: Lake Como is approximately 50 km from Milan, making it accessible by train in about 35–55 minutes and by car in 1 to 2 hours.
- Cost-effective: Ideal for travelers with limited time or budget, allowing you to experience the lake's highlights without the expense of overnight accommodations.
- Structured itinerary: You can choose to visit towns like Como, Varenna, or Bellagio, each offering unique attractions on a well-curated experience.
Cons
- Limited exploration time: A day trip may feel rushed, limiting your ability to fully explore multiple towns or partake in leisurely activities.
- Potential crowds: Popular spots can be crowded during peak hours, especially in summer.
- Missed evening ambience: You'll miss the tranquil evening atmosphere and local dining experiences that come alive after day-trippers depart.
Ideal for
- Travelers with tight schedules
- Those seeking a quick glimpse of Lake Como's beauty
- Budget-conscious visitors
Option 2: Overnight stay
Pros
- Immersive experience: Staying overnight allows you to experience the lake's serene mornings and evenings, offering a deeper connection to the locale.
- Leisurely exploration: You can explore multiple towns at a relaxed pace, visit villas like Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, and enjoy activities such as hiking the Greenway del Lago di Como.
- Authentic local life: Engage more deeply with the culture, enjoy local cuisine, and perhaps participate in community events.
Cons
- Higher costs: Overnight stays involve additional expenses for accommodation and meals.
- Planning required: You'll need to find accommodations and possibly navigate local transportation.
- Lack of context-setting: You need to arrange your own activities, decide your own itinerary, and actively seek out information.
Ideal for
- Travelers seeking a relaxed and immersive experience
- Photography enthusiasts and nature lovers
- Those interested in cultural and culinary exploration
Final recommendation
- Choose a day trip if you're short on time, prefer a structured itinerary, and want to minimize expenses.
- Opt for an overnight stay if you desire a comprehensive experience, wish to explore multiple towns, and enjoy leisurely activities.
🧭Which Lake Como town should I stay at?
Como
The lake’s namesake city on its southern tip blends alpine beauty with urban flair. Explore its medieval old town, funicular to Brunate, and lakeside promenade.
Transport options: Trains, buses, ferries
Highlights: Como Cathedral, Brunate funicular
Bellagio
Often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Lake’, this town sits at the intersection of the lake's three branches and is known for its cobbled streets and elegant villas.
Transport options: Ferries
Highlights: Cobblestone streets, Villa Melzi
Lenno
Nestled on Lake Como’s western shore, this commune charms with its tranquil bay, weekly market, and an iconic lush peninsula.
Transport options: Buses, some ferries
Highlights: Villa del Balbianello, serene lakefront
Varenna
A picturesque village on the central eastern shore with the historic Villa Monastero, which includes a museum and botanical garden along the lakefront.
Transport options: Trains, ferries
Highlights: Lovers’ Walk, Church of San Giorgio
Know all the Lake Como towns
What are the most famous villas near Lake Como?
Villa del Balbianello
Perched on a wooded peninsula, this villa is renowned for its terraced gardens and has featured in films like Star Wars and James Bond.
Villa Carlotta
Located in Tremezzo, it boasts a rich collection of art and a botanical garden filled with azaleas and rhododendrons.
Villa d'Este
A 16th-century Renaissance residence in Cernobbio, now operating as a luxury hotel, surrounded by 25 acres of exquisite gardens.
Public transport stops around Lake Como
Train stations
Ferry terminals
Bus hubs
Cable cars
- Como San Giovanni – Direct connections to Milan and Switzerland.
- Varenna-Esino – Closest station to Varenna, connected to Milan.
- Lecco – Southern branch, connects to Bergamo and Milan.
- Colico – Northern hub with routes to Switzerland and Tirano.
- ASF Autolinee Bus Depot (Como) – Connects to Cernobbio, Argegno, Menaggio.
- Lecco Bus Terminal – Services for eastern towns like Bellano and Varenna.
- Brunate Funicular – Panoramic ride from Como to the hilltop town of Brunate.
- Argegno to Pigra Téléphérique – A steep 5 minute ascent to the commune of Pigra.
Map of Lake Como
Customized three-day itineraries
Here are three tailored 3-day Lake Como itineraries designed for different travel styles—budget-conscious explorers, comfortable spenders, and luxury seekers.
🧳For budget travelers
Day 1: Como City & Brunate
- Morning: Check into Ostello Bello Lake Como, a highly-rated hostel offering affordable stays in Como.
- Activities: Explore Como’s historic center, visit the Duomo, and see the Life Electric sculpture.
- Lunch: Enjoy a gourmet panini at Il Vicolino del Paninaio in Como (~€10).
- Afternoon: Ride the Como–Brunate funicular (€3–€5) for panoramic views of the lake.
- Dinner: Dine at Il Baretto, a local café bar offering sandwiches, burgers, and pasta at reasonable prices.
Day 2: Bellagio & Varenna
- Morning: Take a ferry to Bellagio (~€12 one-way).
- Activities: Visit the Lungolago Europa promenade and Punta Spartivento for scenic views.
- Lunch: Grab a pizza at Bistrot Antichi Sapori in Bellagio, offering affordable options with lake views.
- Afternoon: Ferry to Varenna; walk the Lovers’ Walk and explore the town.
- Dinner: Enjoy a meal at Pizzeria Lugano in Menaggio, known for its budget-friendly pizzas and pastas.
- Evening: Return to Como by ferry.
Day 3: Lenno & Villa del Balbianello
- Morning: Bus to Lenno (~€2–€3).
- Activities: Walk to Villa del Balbianello (entry €11; €9 for students) and tour the gardens.
- Lunch: Enjoy a meal at Bar Company Vecchia Maiolica in Griante, offering pasta, pizza, and salads at reasonable prices.
- Afternoon: Relax at Teresio Olivelli Park in Tremezzo.
- Dinner: Return to Como and dine at L’Ora della Pasta, a takeaway pasta shop offering homemade dishes like ragu and ravioli (~€6).
💼 For mid-range spenders
Day 1: Como & Brunate
- Morning: Arrive in Como and check into Hotel Du Lac & SPA in Bellagio, offering lake views and spa services.
- Activities: Visit the Duomo and take the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views.
- Lunch: Dine at Trattoria San Biagio in Orsenigo, specializing in Lombard fare.
- Afternoon: Explore Brunate’s scenic spots.
- Dinner: Enjoy a meal at La Darsena in Tremezzo, known for its lakeside dining and seafood specialties.
Day 2: Bellagio & Villa Melzi
- Morning: Ferry to Bellagio.
- Activities: Tour the Villa Melzi gardens (entry €8).
- Lunch: Savor Italian cuisine at Ristorante Terrazza Barchetta in Bellagio.
- Afternoon: Explore Bellagio’s boutiques and charming streets.
- Dinner: Dine at Osteria il Pozzo in Menaggio, offering authentic Italian dishes.
Day 3: Varenna & Villa Monastero
- Morning: Train to Varenna.
- Activities: Visit Villa Monastero (entry €10) and walk the Lovers’ Walk.
- Lunch: Dine at Il Ristorante di Paolo in Menaggio, known for its refined dining experience.
- Afternoon: Relax by the lake and explore Varenna's picturesque streets.
- Dinner: Return to Bellagio and enjoy dinner at Ristorante Bilacus, offering traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist.
💎For luxury visitors
Day 1: Arrival & Cernobbio
- Morning: Arrive via private transfer; check into Villa d’Este in Cernobbio, a historic luxury hotel with extensive gardens and lake views.
- Lunch: Dine at The Veranda restaurant in Villa d’Este, offering exquisite dishes like truffle-topped courgette flowers.
- Afternoon: Relax at the hotel’s spa and gardens.
- Dinner: Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Il Sereno Al Lago, a Michelin-starred restaurant on Lake Como.
Day 2: Private boat tour & Bellagio
- Morning: Embark on a private boat tour of Lake Como, passing by celebrity villas.
- Lunch: Savor a meal at La Punta in Bellagio, offering panoramic lake views.
- Afternoon: Visit Villa Serbelloni gardens and explore Bellagio's upscale boutiques.
- Dinner: Return to the hotel; enjoy a gourmet dinner at Mistral, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni.
Day 3: Villa del Balbianello & Grand Hotel Tremezzo
- Morning: Visit Villa del Balbianello (entry €11), renowned for its elaborate terraced gardens.
- Lunch: Dine at La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi in Grand Hotel Tremezzo, offering fine dining with lake views.
- Afternoon: Relax at the hotel's spa and enjoy its floating pool.
- Dinner: Farewell dinner at The Kitchen, a Michelin-starred restaurant within Sheraton Lake Como, known for its refined simplicity and seasonal cuisine.
Frequently asked questions about Lake Como tours
Are boat tours on Lake Como available year-round?
Regular public ferry and private boat tours mainly run from March to October, with peak operations in May–September. Winter months have limited ferry services, and a lot of private tours shut down due to weather and reduced demand.
Do I need to book Lake Como tours in advance?
Yes, especially in the peak season (May to September). Guided tours, boat rentals, and villa entries can sell out. Pre-book online or directly with local operators.
Is a guided tour of Lake Como worth it?
Yes—guided tours are ideal if you want historical insights, stress-free logistics, and curated access to villas, gardens, or even private boat rides. Many tours cover multiple towns (e.g., Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo) in one day and include stops by major sites like Villa Balbianello or Villa Carlotta.
What’s the difference between a public ferry and a private boat tour?
Public ferries are inexpensive (€4–€15 per leg), can be hopped on and off as you like, scenic but slower. Private boat tours are more expensive (€150–€400+ per hour), but customizable, faster, and great for photography or special occasions. Some include prosecco, guides, or villa stops.
Do I need a car to tour Lake Como?
Not at all. Most popular towns are connected by ferry and bus. A car may be helpful for remote villages or mountain hikes, but it’s not recommended in busy towns due to narrow streets and limited parking. Trains + ferries are the easiest combo.
Can I visit Lake Como on a day trip from Milan?
Absolutely. Trains from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni or Varenna-Esino take about 40–60 minutes. Day tours from Milan often include transportation, a boat cruise, and guided visits to villages. However, staying overnight allows more time for ferry-hopping and villa visits.