Lake Como tour: unique landscapes and timeless villages
Discover the charm of Lake Como with a dedicated tour: sail through picturesque villages, historic villas, and breathtaking views, for an unforgettable experience in one of the iconic destinations of Lombardy.
Lake Como tour: the tickets most chosen by travelers
Lake Como Tour: discover a world of elegance and breathtaking landscapes
In the heart of Northern Italy, surrounded by the Alps and located just a short distance from the city of Milan, Lake Como is one of the most fascinating and refined destinations in Lombardy. With its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes, the lake is a perfect mix of unspoiled nature and charming villages lining its shores.
The elegance of its many historic villas, including the wonderful Villa del Balbianello, represents one of the defining features of this true paradise, ideal for those seeking an experience of pure enchantment and tranquility. The lush gardens, elegant architecture, and the stories they tell invite visitors to explore the cultural and natural heritage of this magical place.
Getting lost among the charming streets of Bellagio or watching the sunset reflect on the lake’s waters, immersed in a landscape that seems to come straight out of a postcard, is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Taking part in a Lake Como tour also means embarking on a journey that combines the charm of lakeside villages with the thrill of paths offering breathtaking natural views. Cruising on the lake is one of the most unforgettable experiences, providing a unique perspective of the landscape.
Boat excursions, in fact, allow you to discover the hidden secrets and wonders of the area, the quieter corners, and the picturesque coves ideal for a relaxing stop. Meanwhile, if you're in search of a true adventure, you can explore the many trails winding along the surrounding mountains, offering countless opportunities for hiking and admiring spectacular views.
Visiting Lake Como means entering a world where culture and nature intertwine, creating an experience that stays in the heart—a unique chance to live the magic of one of the most beautiful places in Italy.
Discover all other experiences
Lake Como tour: tips for your visit
Useful information for exploring Lake Como
1. Why is Lake Como famous?
Lake Como is famous for its stunning scenery, charming lakeside towns, luxurious villas, and celebrity appeal. Surrounded by the Alps, it offers a mix of natural beauty and historical significance, attracting visitors from around the world. The lake's picturesque setting, the tranquil atmosphere, and the elegance of its historic villas have made it a sought-after destination for celebrities and filmmakers. Additionally, the numerous opportunities for hiking, boat trips, and relaxation make it one of the most appreciated destinations not only in Lombardy but throughout Italy.
2. How to tour around Lake Como?
The best way to tour around Lake Como is by boat, which connects the main towns and villages. Alternatively, you can choose buses, taxis, or rent a car. Many tourists also opt for organized tours that include transportation.
3. Which part of Lake Como is the most beautiful?
The most beautiful part of Lake Como is often considered to area of Bellagio, a wonderful town known as the "pearl of the lake”. With its charming cobblestone streets, elegant historic villas, and breathtaking panoramic vistas, it captivates visitors offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor. The nearby Tremezzo and Varenna also boast incredible beauty, offering their own unique charm.
4. Is English widely spoken in Lake Como?
Yes, English is widely spoken, especially in the tourist areas around Como, Bellagio, and Menaggio. Many locals, particularly in hospitality and tourism, can communicate in English, making it easy for non-Italian speakers to navigate the region.
5. How long does it take to tour Lake Como?
A one-day tour is perfect for those who want to discover the beauty of Lake Como in a short amount of time, covering key attractions and enjoying a boat ride. For those with more time, spending two to three days allows for exploring hidden corners and soaking up the unique atmosphere of the area. To make the most of your visit, booking an organized tour online is an excellent way to optimize your time and reduce stress. A full tour of the lake typically takes around 10 hours, but this can vary depending on the chosen itinerary.
6. Which side of Lake Como is best?
The western shore is generally considered the best for visitors, offering the most iconic views, charming towns like Cernobbio, known for its proximity to some of the lake's most opulent villas, and easy access to scenic boat rides. However, the eastern shore should not be overlooked: it's quieter and more residential but still offers breathtaking views and wonderful villages such as Varenna and Bellagio, the "pearl of the lake".
7. What is the best month to visit Lake Como?
The best time to visit Lake Como is from April to October when the weather is mild, and the towns are more lively. May, June, and September are particularly enjoyable months, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months.
How to get to Lake Como
One of the advantages of joining a Lake Como tour is the ease of traveling to reach the lake's most beautiful areas. By booking a tour online, you can conveniently depart from Milan and effortlessly reach your destination. The meeting point in the city depends on the tour you choose.
If you prefer to reach Lake Como independently, here are your options:
- by car: the lake is easily accessible from Milan via the A9 motorway (Autostrada dei Laghi). Exiting at Como Sud or Como Centro, you’ll arrive in the heart of Como, on the southern shore of the lake, after about an hour’s drive. If you wish to explore other destinations around the lake, such as Bellagio or Menaggio, you can take the scenic (but often busy) roads that run along its shores.
- by train: direct trains to Como San Giovanni, one of the main stations in the area, depart from Milan Centrale station. The journey takes around 40 minutes. Once in Como, you can travel between the various lake towns using local buses or the ferry and hydrofoil services.
- by bus: departing from Milan Lampugnano, you can reach the center of Como in about an hour aboard modern and comfortable buses, which are often bookable online at competitive prices.
Regardless of the means of transport you choose, it’s advisable to plan ahead, especially during peak season, to ensure the best possible experience in this stunning destination.
The best experiences in Lago di Como
Best attractions around Lake Como tour
How to reach Lake Como: the complete guide
How to reach Lake Como? We will guide you through breathtaking scenery and suggest itineraries to reach this pearl in Lombardy.
Vedi ❯What to see at Lake Como
Explore Lake Como and you’ll step into a world filled with elegance, relaxation, and unmissable natural wonders, whether you choose to stroll along its shores, wander through charming villages, or cruise on its calm, crystal-clear waters.
The first stop, and a great base for discovering the area, is the city of Como, with its old town and stunning lake views. Guided walking tours reveal its magnificent Cathedral, ancient alleys, and elegant squares, showcasing the city’s authentic soul.
From here, you can start exploring the lake by boat, enjoying a privileged perspective of luxurious historic villas, lush gardens, and elegant architectures. During the cruise, you’ll capture breathtaking shots of the lakeside villages, with towering mountains as the backdrop.
A must-see, the heart of Lake Como, is the village of Bellagio. Famous worldwide, this town is known for its cobbled streets, stairways adorned with artisan shops, and panoramic terraces offering spectacular views. Bellagio is the perfect spot to sip a local wine or explore boutiques selling regional products.
Just a stone’s throw from Bellagio are two more stunning gems of the lake: Tremezzo and Varenna, each uniquely encapsulating the charm of the area. Tremezzo, located on the western shore, is renowned for the beautiful Villa Carlotta and its botanical gardens, rich in exotic species and with a direct view of the lake. The town, with its peaceful atmosphere, is perfect for a lakeside walk or a break in one of its traditional cafés. Varenna, on the eastern shore, is a picturesque village with medieval origins, offering a lovely lakeside promenade and the enchanting Villa Monastero.
Finally, from the western shore, you can easily reach the city of Lugano in Switzerland by bus. The journey offers unique panoramic views and a chance to cross the border, blending two distinct cultures. Lugano, with its Swiss elegance and Mediterranean flair, is perfect for a stroll among shops, well-maintained streets, and a charming lakeside walk.
Best tours to discover Lake Como
Book a tour online to experience the true magic of Lake Como, exploring the area from a unique perspective and uncovering hidden secrets in its most charming villages. Participating in a guided tour offers a blend of culture and nature, with the perfect touch of luxury and elegance that only Lake Como can offer.
Here are the best tours you can join:
1. Lake Como: Tour from Milan - discover the charm of Lake Como with a relaxing boat ride, historic villas, and stunning landscapes. Visit Como's historic center and its beautiful Cathedral, before heading to Bellagio in summer or Brunate in winter for panoramic views via funicular.
2. Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano Switzerland Day Trip from Milan - explore the wonders of both Lake Como and Switzerland in one spectacular day. Enjoy a cruise past luxurious villas, explore Bellagio, and stroll through Lugano, surrounded by breathtaking views and stylish boutiques. Travel across two countries in one day, with a private bus and expert guide.
3. Lake Como, Bellagio & Lugano: Guided Tour from Milan - take part in a one-of-a-kind experience starting from Milan, discovering stunning scenery, and venturing into Switzerland's beautiful Lugano. Perfect for those seeking breathtaking views and a relaxed atmosphere, blending cultural insights and natural beauty while exploring unique villages and must-see spots at your own pace.
Lake Como: a journey through elegance, cinema, and nature
The clear waters of Lake Como offer a landscape that seems suspended in time, a source of inspiration for poets, artists, and celebrities throughout history. British writer Percy Bysshe Shelley found refuge here with his wife Mary in 1818, while contemporary Hollywood stars like George Clooney have chosen the lake as their residence, alongside Sylvester Stallone.
Amidst art, nature, and culture, the attractions that make a Lake Como tour truly unforgettable are numerous. Yet, if there is one activity that should not be missed, it is the visit to one of the magnificent historic villas that dot the shores. These villas not only testify to the elegance and luxury of the past but also represent a deep connection to the region's history.
The most famous and iconic of these is undoubtedly Villa del Balbianello, located in Lenno. Renowned for its extraordinary position and historical and cinematic significance, this villa was built in the 18th century according to designs by architect Pietro Lingeri. It is famous for its panoramic terrace overlooking the lake, offering breathtaking views, and for its garden filled with exotic plants and ancient trees, where greenery harmoniously blends with the azure waters in the background.
Villa del Balbianello is also known for its connection to the world of cinema; it has served as a set for famous film franchises, including James Bond (Casino Royale) and Star Wars (Episode II – Attack of the Clones). Its timeless beauty has inspired filmmakers and creators of all kinds, who have chosen it to tell captivating stories of luxury and mystery.
Yet, despite its glamorous allure, what truly makes the villa and Lake Como special is their ability to transform every visit into a personal and sensory experience. Whether exploring its shores by boat or wandering through the ancient village streets, this place has the power to make every visitor feel part of something extraordinary—a refuge for the soul, a mirror-like expanse where dreams and desires are reflected. For at Lake Como, one does not simply go to see; one goes to be inspired.