Lake Como private tour - two villages and two villas
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the essence of Lake Como on a full-day private guided tour that reveals its most iconic villas and timeless villages. Departing from Como in the morning, cruise with your private skipper and local guide across the lake’s shimmering waters, discovering landscapes and stories that define this remarkable place.
Visit two of its most celebrated villas—Villa del Balbianello in Lenno and Villa Melzi in Bellagio. When Balbianello is closed (Monday & Wednesday), the visit is replaced with Villa Monastero in Varenna.Between visits, enjoy relaxed moments on board and time to explore lakeside towns at your own pace.
Throughout the day, your guide shares insight into Lake Como’s culture, art, and heritage, offering a deeply personal way to experience the lake and its surroundings.
Available options
Melzi & Balbianello
Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat,Sun: Bellagio - Villa Melzi & Lenno - Villa del Balbianello
Melzi & Monastero
Monday & Wednesday: Bellagio - Villa Melzi & Varenna - Villa Monastero
What's included
Whisper audio system provided to clearly hear the guide throughout the tour.
Two villages. Two villas. One unforgettable day on the lake.
Admissions to Villa Melzi, Villa del Balbianello or Villa Monastero
Professional guide. This tour is conducted in English. GER, FRE, RUS, ITA on request.
Transportation by private boat reserved exclusively for your group.
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your private skipper and local guide in Como for a short introduction before boarding your private boat. As the morning light reflects on the water, begin your navigation north through elegant lakeside villages and grand villas.
2
Reach Bellagio, the “Pearl of the Lake,” in the peaceful early hours before the crowds. Your guide leads you through narrow cobbled alleys, small boutiques, and panoramic terraces that overlook both southern branches of the lake.
3
Stop 3
Enjoy a guided visit of the Villa Melzi gardens, a refined example of early 19th-century design with sculptures, exotic trees, and graceful paths along the shoreline. The ticket includes access to the Gardens, Chapel, and Museum, offering a serene walk among art and nature.
Notes
Villa Melzi: The villa is a private residence. The ticket includes access to the Gardens, Chapel, and Museum, offering a serene walk among sculptures and lakefront paths.
4
Take time to relax and enjoy lunch at one of Bellagio’s lakefront restaurants, where your guide can recommend local dishes and scenic spots. This is a moment to unwind and take in the atmosphere of village life.
5
Stop 5
After lunch, continue across the lake to your second villa visit. On most days, explore Villa del Balbianello in Lenno, a masterpiece of elegance surrounded by terraced gardens. When Balbianello is closed (Monday & Wednesday), the itinerary includes Villa Monastero in Varenna, known for its neoclassical architecture and botanical gardens.
Note:
- Villa del Balbianello: Interior visits are managed directly by the villa. We will do our best to reserve entry in advance, but availability is limited and often sells out several days or weeks ahead. When interior access is unavailable, the visit focuses on the panoramic gardens and terraces, famous for their appearances in films such as Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and Casino Royale.
6
Relax on board as you cruise back to Como, passing charming villages and lakefront villas in the golden afternoon light. Your guide concludes the tour with final insights and local recommendations for your stay.
What's not included
Villa Melzi interiors not open to the public (ticket covers Gardens, Chapel, and Museum).
Villa del Balbianello interior visit not guaranteed; if closed, the visit covers the gardens.
Lunch is not included in the tour to provide you with flexibility, but we can make reservations.
Pick-up or drop-off, guests must reach the meeting point on their own.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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
Villa del Balbianello interior access is not guaranteed; when closed (Monday & Wednesday) or sold out, the visit is replaced with Villa Monastero in Varenna. Villa Melzi is a private residence; the ticket includes the Gardens, Chapel, and Museum only. Departure and visit times may vary slightly depending on lake conditions and villa schedules.
Not recommended for travelers with limited mobility, leg problems, elderly participants, or young children.
Meeting point
Meeting Point: Piazza Cavour 26, Como
Number 26 is a building — we’ll be outside, in front.
Face the lake, head to the right side of the square, between Bar Touring and Hotel Vista.
️ Google Maps: Piazza Cavour 26, Como
Please arrive 10 minutes early. Thank you!
About Lake Como
Lake Como, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, is renowned for its stunning villas, serene waters, and picturesque towns. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking relaxation and elegance.
Top Attractions
Villa del Balbianello
A stunning villa with beautiful gardens and a rich history, featured in films like Star Wars and Casino Royale.
Historical
2-3 hours
€10-€15
Como Cathedral
A beautiful example of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, featuring intricate details and a grand façade.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Villa Carlotta
A historic villa with beautiful gardens and a museum showcasing art and natural history.
Historical
3-4 hours
€10-€15
Must-Try Local Dishes
Missoltino
Dried and salted fish, typically served with polenta.
Dish
Contains fish
Risotto al pesce persico
Risotto made with perch, a local fish.
Dish
Contains fish
Polenta e formaggio
Polenta served with local cheese.
Dish
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boating
Cycling
Spa treatments
Lakefront walks
Sunbathing
Villa tours
Art museums
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak season offers warm weather, vibrant atmosphere, and numerous outdoor activities. However, it can be crowded with tourists.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lake Como is generally safe with low crime rates. However, travelers should take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or pre-arranged transfers
Getting there
By air
- Milano Malpensa Airport • 50 km
- Milano Linate Airport • 60 km
By train
Como San Giovanni
By bus
Como Bus Station, Bellagio Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Ferries are the most scenic and convenient way to travel between towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber is not widely available
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Como
Bellagio
Varenna
Day trips
Milan
50 km • Full day
A vibrant city known for its fashion, art, and architecture, including the famous Duomo and La Scala opera house.
Bergamo
60 km • Full day
A charming medieval city with a well-preserved old town and stunning views from the upper city.
Festivals
Lake Como Film Festival • July
Como Opera Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit lesser-known towns like Varenna and Menaggio for a more authentic experience
- Take a boat tour to see the lake from different perspectives
- Explore the surrounding mountains for stunning views and hiking opportunities
- Try local specialties like missoltino and risotto al pesce persico
- Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
