From Milan: Lake Como & Switzerland Day Trip with Private Cruise
Pair lake towns with Swiss charm on an international tour through Lugano, Como, and Bellagio
If you want to explore Lake Como and Bellagio, plus get a quick taste of Switzerland without planning every transfer, this tour is for you. Ride out from Milan by air-conditioned coach then arrive in Como for a short walking tour. Next, head to Bellagio to experience the steep lanes and lakefront views, from a 45 minute private boat cruise on Lake Como. Finally, cross the border into Lugano, Switzerland with time to stroll and snag some Swiss chocolate. It’s a smart day trip full of variety.
What You Get With This Tour
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See the crystal lake from two countries
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Expert bilingual guide (English–Spanish)
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Round-trip coach transport from Milan
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Como guided walking tour
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Bellagio guided walking tour & free time
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Private 45-minute Lake Como cruise
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Lugano guided walking tour & free time
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Audio guide included
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Guide tips
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Food and drink
Tour Itinerary
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1
Your tour begins by Milan Central Station
Meet your guide near Hotel Gallia, then board an air-conditioned coach. Your bilingual English–Spanish guide will share the itinerary for your international adventure and give you access to an audio guide as you start to head to Como, your first destination. -
2
Explore Como on a guided walk
Arrive in Como, and begin with a guided stroll through the historic center and main squares. Learn how this lakeside town shaped trade and culture, then stop for views of the sparkling blue waters and a quick coffee break. -
3
Transfer toward Bellagio via Cadenabbia
Next, travel about 60 minutes by coach toward the Bellagio area, passing the small lakeside community of Cadenabbia on the way. As the shoreline turns into coves, your guide points out the classic villa gardens and other geographical features that define the lake. -
4
Walk Bellagio’s stairway lanes
Arrive in the small town of Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” and follow your guide through steep stone alleys and colorful houses. Then use free time for lunch, lakeside photos, and browsing small shops off the main lane. -
5
Cruise Lake Como by private boat
After free time, board a private boat for a 45-minute panoramic cruise on Lake Como with just your tour group. Glide past famous villas, including Villa del Balbianello and Villa Balbiano, and see how architecture and landscape compete for attention from the water. -
6
Cross into Switzerland for Lugano
Finally, ride about 45 minutes into Switzerland to reach Lugano’s elegant center. Join your guide on a short walking tour, then use free time to explore the lakefront promenade or make a Swiss chocolate stop before the return drive. -
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Your tour ends at Milan Central Station
Settle in for the ride back to Milan, about 60 minutes. Return to the Hotel Gallia corner meeting point with amazing photos and memories of Como, Bellagio, lake villas, and Lugano’s Swiss-Italian atmosphere.
Additional Information
Discover what to expect, what's included, and everything you need to know before booking.
Good to know:
Accessibility: Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users
ID Requirement: Bring your passport for the Switzerland border crossing; EU citizens can use a valid national ID
Tour language: This tour may be carried out bilingually in English and Spanish
Coach travel: Expect multiple coach transfers (about 75 minutes to Como, 60 minutes toward Bellagio, 45 minutes to Lugano, and 60 minutes back to Milan). This coach is comfortable and air-conditioned, a perfect time to relax and enjoy views from your window.
Tour changes: For safety reasons, due to bad weather or high water levels, public navigation may be used instead of the private boat cruise
Check-in: Please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group is ready for a on-time departure.
Your 10-hour tour includes:
Expert bilingual guide (English–Spanish)
Round-trip transport from Milan by air-conditioned coach
Guided walking tour of Como
Guided tour time in Bellagio with free time for lunch
Guided tour time in Lugano with free time to explore
Audio guide included during bus transfer and city walk
Private 45-minute Lake Como boat cruise (weather permitting)
What to bring:
Passport (or EU ID)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunglasses
Hat
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Customer Reviews
Our tour guy Anna from local ‘Wander in Italy’ was terrific and very thorough leading our group and giving us a lot of information to enhance our experience from the very start to the end of the day trip to places I have never been to before. It encouraged me to come back on my own to explore further. Thanks!
Tour was well planned, prompt leaving and arriving, tour guide was wonderful and the bus driver knew these roads well! Would highly recommend this tour to see this part of Italy as it is difficult to navigate on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
This tour is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. There is walking in Como, Bellagio, and Lugano, plus steps and uneven streets in places.
Is lunch included in the price of the tour?
No, but you'll have a break to find delicious food. Your guide will suggest several wonderful lake view restaurants in Bellagio.
Is this tour family friendly?
Yes, families can join. Please keep in mind this tour is a full day with multiple walks and a boat ride. If traveling with kids, plan for a long schedule and bring anything they may need for coach time.
Do I need a passport for this tour?
Yes. Since you cross into Switzerland, bring your passport; EU citizens can use a valid national ID.
How long is the boat cruise?
The private Lake Como cruise lasts about 45 minutes, weather and lake conditions permitting.





