From Como: Bellagio and Lugano Day Trip with Boat Cruise
Cruise across Italian waters then explore Swiss alpine streets with round-trip transport & free time
Sail past grand villas and snow-capped peaks on a scenic voyage through the the Lombardy region. Begin with a boat cruise across Lake Como to visit Bellagio, a village famous for its steep cobblestone alleys and waterfront cafes. From there, a coach carries you into Switzerland to discover the lakeside promenade of Lugano. Enjoy guided history on the bus and boat, plus plenty of free time to shop and dine. This tour offers the best balance of structure and independence for your lakeside holiday.
What You Get With This Tour
-
Visit two countries in one day
-
Expert English-speaking tour leader
-
Round-trip coach transport
-
Lake Como boat cruise
-
Free time in Bellagio and Lugano
-
Unlimited Wi-Fi onboard
-
Guide tips
-
Food and drink
Tour Itinerary
-
1
Meet your guide at Hotel Barchetta in Como
Your day begins at Piazza Cavour in front of Hotel Barchetta Excelsior in Como. Meet your English-speaking tour leader, join your group, and prepare to board a scenic public boat bound for one of Italy's most celebrated lakeside towns. -
2
Cruise across Lake Como to Bellagio
Settle onto the deck as the boat glides across Lake Como's glittering waters. Watch grand villas, lush gardens, and pastel-painted towns pass by along the shoreline, framed by Alpine peaks. -
3
Explore the Pearl of Lake Como
Step ashore in Bellagio and enjoy free time to wander its narrow cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafes. Known as the Pearl of Lake Como, this tranquil village invites you to stroll at your own pace and soak in its lakeside charm. -
4
Pass through the historic village of Cadenabbia
Next, you'll pass through Cadenabbia, a former retreat for Queen Victoria and Czar Nicholas of Russia. Your guide shares stories of its aristocratic past as you take in views of the surrounding mountains and the shimmering waters of Lake Como. -
5
Travel by coach into Switzerland
Board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach for the scenic drive across the border into Switzerland. As Italian villages give way to Swiss valleys, you'll cross into Lugano, a cosmopolitan lakeside city nestled between towering peaks and the calm waters of Lake Lugano. -
6
Discover the lakeside city of Lugano
Enjoy free time in Lugano's elegant city center. Browse Swiss chocolate shops, stroll the waterfront promenade, or explore the charming Old Town. Your guide will point out local highlights before giving you time to discover this Swiss gem at your own pace. -
7
Return to Como with lake views
Relax on the comfortable coach ride back to Como as the sun begins to set over the Italian Lakes. -
8
Your tour ends near Como city center
Arrive back in Como at the B&B Hotel Como City Center. Your guide bids you farewell, and you're free to explore Como's historic center, enjoy dinner by the water, or continue your Italian Lakes adventure with fresh memories from two countries.
Additional Information
Discover what to expect, what’s included, and everything you need to know before booking.
Good to know:
Passport & ID Requirement: Non-European citizens must present a valid passport to pass Swiss customs, while European citizens can use a valid ID card. All documents must be original (no photocopies or digital versions).
Accessibility: Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. The tour includes coach travel, walking at stops, and boat boarding which are not suitable for wheelchair users.
Lunch: Please note that lunch is not included on this tour. You'll have free time in Bellagio and Lugano to purchase meals at local restaurants and cafes at your own expense.
Lugano Store Closures: In Lugano, most stores are closed on Sundays, and some may also be closed on public holidays. Plan your shopping accordingly during your free time.
Swiss Purchases Over €300: Purchases over €300 made in Switzerland require a customs stop for VAT refunds. As this tour does not include this stop, please avoid purchases exceeding this amount during your free time in Lugano.
Weather Advisory: For safety reasons, due to bad weather or high water levels in the lake, public navigation may be used instead of the exclusive boat cruise.
Valuables: The tour operator is not responsible for valuables left on the bus. Please keep your belongings with you at all times.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can depart on time.
Your 8-hour tour includes:
Expert English-speaking tour leader
Round-trip coach transport from Como
Boat cruise on Lake Como
Audio headsets (over 10 participants)
Free time in Bellagio and Lugano
Unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi on bus and boat
What to bring:
Valid passport (non-EU citizens) or ID card (EU citizens)
Comfortable walking shoes
Water bottle
Camera
Money for lunch and shopping
Hat for sun protection (in warmer months)
You might also like...
Free Cancellation Guided Tour
Lake Como Semi-Private Boat Tour with Prosecco
Free Cancellation Guided Tour
Lake Como: Small Group Food Walking Tour
Free Cancellation New Tour
Semi-private Italian Cooking Experience with a Local in Como
Guided Tour New Tour
Lake Como Semi-Private E-Bike Tour
Free Cancellation New Tour
Pizza and Tiramisù Cooking Class in a Local Home in Como
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour family friendly?
Yes, this tour is family friendly. Kids are welcome, and infants must sit on laps (no separate seats provided). Please keep in mind that the tour involves several hours of coach and boat travel, so suitability depends on your child's comfort with extended transit.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. The tour includes coach travel, walking at stops in Bellagio and Lugano, and boat boarding which are not suitable for wheelchair users. If you have concerns about your mobility, please contact us in advance before booking to discuss your needs.
Does this tour run if it rains?
Yes, this tour runs rain or shine. The boat and coach are both covered, though you'll want to bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella for your free time in Bellagio and Lugano.
Is lunch included in the tour price?
Lunch is not included on this tour. You'll have free time in both Bellagio and Lugano to enjoy a meal at local restaurants and cafes at your own pace and expense.
Do I need a passport for this tour?
Non-European citizens must present a valid passport to cross into Switzerland, while European citizens can use a valid ID card. All documents must be original (no photocopies or digital versions). Make sure to bring the correct documentation or you will not be able to enter Switzerland.
