Lake Como, Bellagio and Varenna Semi-Private Day Trip from Milan

Immerse yourself in Italy's must see lake with a scenic boat ride and charming villages

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Lake Como, Bellagio and Varenna Semi-Private Day Trip from Milan 5 / 5 See All 22 Reviews
· 10.00h · Milan, Italy

Lake Como can feel daunting to explore independently, with public transport from Milan hard to navigate alone. That’s why, with a local guide, we’ll take you to renowned spots like Bellagio and Varenna, avoiding the stress of traffic and delays by traveling smoothly by train, so you can relax and immerse yourself in the heart of this stunning region. Enjoy a cruise across sparkling waters and experience the magic of Lake Como on this semi-private, stress-free adventure.

  • Meeting point in Central Station
  • Train ride to Como
  • Guided Tour of Como
  • Como Duomo
  • Boat Cruise
  • Bellagio
  • Free time for lunch​
  • Varenna
  • Train ride to Milan
  • Ending point

Experience the best of Lake Como on a 10-hour guided tour from Milan with a professional local guide. Avoid tourist traps, skip long lines, and travel with a small group of no more than 12 people for a relaxed, semi-private experience. Your adventure begins in Milan, where you'll meet your guide near Central Station. From there, take a comfortable express train for the 50-minute ride to Lake Como. Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic ferry cruise through the stunning "golden triangle," passing the Alps, historic villas, and charming villages like Bellagio and Varenna.

Throughout the tour, your guide will ensure you make the most of your day, sharing fascinating stories and insights about the area’s rich history, famous landmarks, and stunning film locations. In Bellagio, you'll have free time to enjoy lunch at one of the charming lake-view restaurants recommended by your guide, savoring authentic Italian cuisine.

Lake Como, Bellagio and Varenna Semi-Private Day Trip from Milan Tour Description

Your 10-hour day trip from Milan includes:

  • Professionally licensed English-speaking guide for the whole day

  • Ferry tickets to Como, Bellagio and Varenna

  • 90 min boat cruise along the lake

  • Admire film locations & celebrity villas

  • Guided walking tour of Como, Bellagio and Varenna

  • Round-trip train ticket to Milan in first class

  • Maximum of 12 people per group

Explore the Historic Charm of Como

After a comfortable, stress-free train ride from Milan Centrale train station, your day begins in the enchanting city of Como, rich in history dating back to pre-Roman times. Stroll through its charming streets as your guide shares tales of its strategic importance and its rule by various Italian, German, and Austrian powers.

A highlight of your walk is the Duomo Cathedral, or Duomo of Como, the last Gothic cathedral built in Italy and the city’s most important religious site. From Duomo of Como, you will continue to explore the city centers led by narrow marble streets through other important sites such as Piazza San Fedele, Via Vitani & Piazza Cavour.

After exploring the city, board a boat for a serene cruise along Lake Como.

Cruise Lake Como: Villas, Alps & Film Locations

Set sail from Como City and glide past elegant villas and picturesque landscapes. Admire Villa Olmo, an 18th-century masterpiece of neoclassical architecture with symmetrical gardens, fountains, and an expansive English garden. Continue to Villa Erba, a 19th-century estate featured in Ocean's Twelve, and marvel at the luxurious Villa d'Este, now a world-renowned hotel with a history of hosting royalty and filmmakers alike.

As the boat cruises further, you'll pass Torno, a charming lakeside village home to Villa Pliniana, tied to the Roman author Pliny the Elder. Admire other iconic landmarks, including Villa Carlotta with its magnificent botanical gardens and Villa del Balbianello, famously featured in Casino Royale and Star Wars.

Bellagio: The Jewel of Lake Como

Your cruise concludes in Bellagio, nestled in the lake’s famous "golden triangle." Wander through its cobblestone streets, browse boutiques showcasing local art, and soak in the breathtaking views. Take some free time to enjoy an authentic Italian meal at the a lakeside restaurant of your choice, with recommendations from your guide to make the most of your visit.

Discover the Timeless Beauty of Varenna

After lunch, take a ferry to Varenna, a timeless village nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Como. Known for its narrow streets, quaint charm, and breathtaking lake views, Varenna offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Stroll through its picturesque alleys, where every corner reveals delightful surprises, from vibrant flowers adorning balconies to cozy cafés offering local delicacies. In your free time in Varenna, you can visit the enchanting Villa Monastero, a historic mansion with exquisite botanical gardens stretching along the lakeside, or explore the Castello di Vezio, a fascinating medieval castle offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

As your guide shares stories of Varenna's rich past and cultural significance, you'll find yourself captivated by its peaceful atmosphere and undeniable charm—a true hidden gem of Lake Como.

In the evening, you'll board a first-class train at Varenna station. Relax in the comfort of your spacious seat as the train glides through the scenic Lombardy countryside, bringing you back to Milan Central Station.

See what people are saying

22 total reviews

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5.0/5 (based on 22 reviews)
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1 stars
Magnificent Views
05 October 2025
J
Reviewed by
Julie Bending

🇮🇹✨ Alessandro was a magnificent guide 🙌 2-hr ferry to Bellagio ⛴️ (wish it was 1, but I read previous reviews and knew this) — Bellagio so charming 💐, Varenna stunning views 🌄 best enjoyed from a café ☕️💛

A very busy day
20 September 2025
H
Reviewed by
Hal Berman

Emma was personable and informative; she was calm and kept the group together without making us feel constrained. The tour was probably as much as (or more than) we could have accomplished in a day on our own. Most people slept on the bus ride back to Milan! We were exceptionally grateful that the tour arranged all the transportation; it saved us a lot of time and stress. The tour was advertised as “semi-private” and was limited to 12 people. However, we travelled on ferries with the masses and returned to Milan on a bus with 2 other groups so it hardly felt “semi-private”.

17 September 2025
J
Reviewed by
Jeremy Rich

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Please bring a valid passport or ID document matching the name provided at the time of the booking. We also recommend wearing comfortable shoes and umbrella in case of rain.

What to bring?

Please bring a valid passport or ID document matching the name provided at the time of the booking. We also recommend wearing comfortable shoes and umbrella in case of rain.

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

No, this tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Milan.

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

Unfortunately, because of the areas visited, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. If you have other concerns about your mobility, please contact us in advance and we will do our best to assist you .

What happens if it rains?

We run our Lake Como Day Trip rain or shine. The schedule/means of transportation of the tour can change due to force majeure/operations reasons (eg. train strike/railworks, weather conditions, etc).

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.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included on this tour. You will meet your guide at the designated meeting point near the Milan Central Station.

Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?

Kids are welcome on this day trip from Milan, and there is a reduced fee for kids aged 17 and under.

Start From: $179.34

available days discounted days

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!

Reserve Now $179.34 / per person
$179.34 / per person

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