Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano by Swiss Train + Boat Cruise
Active
9h - 11h
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
Discover Lake Como and Lugano in a very small group, limited to just 12 travelers
Travel from Milan with a licensed, English-speaking guide, avoiding large buses, traffic jams, and rushed schedules.
The itinerary focuses on quieter, lesser-known lakeside villages for a more relaxed experience.
Reach Como in about 40 minutes, enjoy a scenic boat cruise, then visit Torno or Cernobbio, authentic villages with a local feel.
After the village visits, enjoy free time in Como for a relaxed lunch.
In the afternoon, cross into Lugano, Switzerland, with free time to explore the lakefront, historic center, or enjoy famous Swiss chocolate.
Optional swimming in Lake Lugano during summer.
A smooth Italy–Switzerland day trip, designed for travelers who value quality, comfort and good organization.
All train and boat tickets are pre-booked in advance, and the itinerary is perfectly timed. You don’t need to worry about connections, queues, or organizing tickets — everything is handled for you.
Available options
Small group: Lake Como, Lugano
What's included
Funicular ride from Lugano train station to city center
1-hour Lake Como boat cruise with preebooked tickets
English-speaking local guide
Free time in Como & Lugano
Swiss train & Como lake ferry tickets included
Detailed itinerary
1
Discover the charming town of Como, one of the oldest towns on Lake Como.
Walk through the historic center with your guide, learn about the town’s rich past, and hear stories about famous local families, artists, and celebrities connected to Como.
Enjoy the elegant lakefront, historic squares, and relaxed atmosphere before continuing your journey.
2
Pass by Villa Erba during the boat cruise, a historic lakeside villa in Cernobbio featured in Ocean’s Twelve starring George Clooney, and in Lavazza commercials.
3
View Villa d’Este from the lake, the world-famous luxury hotel in Cernobbio that has hosted Hollywood stars like Greta Garbo, Clark Gable, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, and George Clooney.
4
Stop 4
Discover the beautiful Swiss city of Lugano, located in the Italian-speaking region of Ticino. Surrounded by mountains and a sparkling lake, Lugano combines Swiss precision with a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Enjoy plenty of free time to stroll along the lakefront, shop in the city center, taste famous Swiss chocolate, or — during summer — take a refreshing swim in the clear waters of Lake Lugano.
Learn how Switzerland became one of the most prosperous countries in the world, with insights into its history, economy, and unique way of life.
5
From Como, embark on a scenic boat cruise and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Como while passing by some of the most stunning villas along the shoreline.
From the water, admire famous villas featured in Ocean’s Twelve and the elegant lakeside villa once owned by Gianni Versace — icons of luxury and international style.
6
Torno is a small pedestrian village where you can enjoy a peaceful, relaxed stroll.
It is never too crowded, giving you time to slow down and experience a typical Lake Como village away from mass tourism.
With its cobblestone streets and charming old houses, Torno feels like a step back in time — when daily life was closely connected to the lake, fishing, and local artisanal traditions.
7
During the boat cruise, admire Villa Le Fontanelle from the lake, the former lakeside residence of Gianni Versace.
This elegant villa is one of the most iconic symbols of Lake Como’s luxury lifestyle and international glamour.
What's not included
Optional
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
242 reviews
5★
227
4★
10
3★
4
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
840 reviews
5★
819
4★
16
3★
3
2★
2
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
MEETING TIME: 08:15 at the square in front of the train station
This tour involves walking on stairs, uneven surfaces, and cobblestone streets. Children should be comfortable walking independently.
Meeting point
Meeting time: 8:15 AM (please arrive 5 minutes early; late arrivals cannot be accommodated)
Meeting point: In the square in front of Milan Central Train Station, next to the large apple sculpture
How to recognize your guide: The guide will be holding a stick with an Italian flag
About Milan
Milan, the vibrant capital of Lombardy, is a city where ancient history meets modern luxury. Known for its fashion, art, and design, Milan is a dynamic metropolis that offers a rich cultural experience and a thriving culinary scene.
Top Attractions
Duomo di Milano
The Milan Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and the third-largest church in the world. It took nearly six centuries to complete and is a symbol of the city.
Architecture/Religious
1-2 hours
€10-€15
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
This historic shopping gallery is one of the world's oldest and most beautiful. It features luxury boutiques, cafes, and the famous mosaic floor of the bull.
Architecture/Shopping
1 hour
Free to enter, shopping varies
Santa Maria delle Grazie
This church and convent house Leonardo da Vinci's famous mural, The Last Supper. The painting is a masterpiece of Renaissance art and a must-see for art lovers.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
€10-€15 (advance booking required)
Castello Sforzesco
This medieval castle was built by the Duke of Milan and later renovated by Ludovico Sforza. It houses several museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
€5-€10
Teatro alla Scala
One of the world's most famous opera houses, Teatro alla Scala is a symbol of Milan's rich musical heritage. Guided tours are available to explore the historic theater and museum.
Cultural/Entertainment
1 hour
€10-€15
Must-Try Local Dishes
Risotto alla Milanese
A creamy saffron risotto, a staple of Milanese cuisine.
Main Course
Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian.
Ossobuco
Braised veal shanks, traditionally served with gremolata.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made gluten-free.
Panzerotti
Fried dough pockets filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and other ingredients.
Snack
Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Cotoletta alla Milanese
A breaded and fried veal cutlet, similar to schnitzel.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made gluten-free.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby Alps
Cycling along the Navigli canals
Aperitivo in Navigli
Shopping in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Visiting museums and historic sites
Attending opera or ballet performances
Boat tours on Lake Como
Swimming in Lake Como
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit Milan is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Milan is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Be cautious with your belongings and stay alert.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of distractions and common scams
Getting there
By air
- Milano Malpensa Airport • 50 km from city center
- Milano Linate Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Milano Centrale, Milano Rogoredo
By bus
Lampugnano Bus Station, San Donato Milanese
Getting around
Public transport
The Milano Metro system consists of four lines (M1, M2, M3, M5) and is efficient and easy to use. It is the quickest way to get around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Brera
Navigli
Quartiere della Moda
Isola
Day trips
Lake Como
50 km • Full day
Lake Como is a stunning alpine lake known for its beautiful villas, gardens, and scenic views. It is a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Bergamo
50 km • Half day
Bergamo is a charming medieval city with a well-preserved old town and a rich history. It offers a mix of historic sites, museums, and local cuisine.
Verona
150 km • Full day
Verona is a romantic city known for its association with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. It offers a mix of historic sites, romantic landmarks, and cultural attractions.
Festivals
Milan Fashion Week • February and September
Milan Design Week • April
Milan Film Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Duomo early in the morning to avoid crowds and long queues
- Explore the Navigli district in the evening for a vibrant aperitivo experience
- Use the ATM Milano app for real-time public transportation schedules and maps
- Consider purchasing a Milan Card for discounts on attractions, transportation, and dining
- Try local specialties like risotto alla Milanese and panzerotti
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
