Bellagio & Varenna Full-day Tour on Lake Como by private boat
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
Discover the beauty of Lake Como on a small-group full-day tour connecting its most charming villages. Departing from Como, travel by private boat reserved exclusively for your group (a brand-new 10-passenger boat specially designed for guided tours), admiring mountain reflections and colorful lakeside towns. Reach Varenna, a peaceful village of narrow alleys and blooming balconies, and visit Villa Monastero, a lakeside villa known for its exotic plants, sculptures, and stunning terraces. After the visit, enjoy free time for lunch at one of Varenna’s authentic restaurants recommended by your guide. Continue to Bellagio, the “Pearl of Lake Como,” where elegant stairways, boutiques, and lake views await. End your day with a relaxing cruise back to Como, watching the afternoon light shimmer across the water.
Available options
English tour
What's included
Admissions to Villa Monastero.
Transportation by private boat, reserved exclusively for your group.
Professional guide. This tour is conducted in English only.
Whisper audio system to clearly hear your guide throughout the tour.
Two villages. One timeless villa. An unforgettable day on the lake.
Small group of max. 10 guests.
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide at Piazza Cavour 26, Como. After a short briefing, aboard and begin your journey. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure.
2
Enjoy a panoramic cruise aboard a private boat reserved exclusively for your group, passing mountain landscapes, elegant villas, and colorful villages while your guide introduces Lake Como’s history and culture.
3
Visit Villa Monastero, a graceful lakeside estate famous for its terraced botanical gardens, exotic plants, and elegant architectural details. We’ll walk along its panoramic promenade that follows the water’s edge, passing cypress-lined pathways, marble balustrades, and quiet corners perfect for photos. It’s a slow, beautiful moment to simply breathe in Lake Como.
4
Enjoy free time for lunch in Varenna at your own expense. Your guide will recommend selected local restaurants overlooking the water, perfect for tasting traditional lake cuisine.
5
Cross the lake to Bellagio and stroll with your guide through the village’s narrow streets, boutique shops, and scenic terraces. Enjoy some additional free time to explore or relax.
6
Experience the charm of Bellagio in a concise one-hour guided tour. This tour offers a quick yet enriching exploration of Bellagio's picturesque streets, stunning lakeside views, and vibrant floral displays. You'll wander through the historical heart of the town, discovering hidden gems and iconic spots such as the bustling Piazza San Giacomo and the serene lakeside promenade.
7
Board the boat for the tranquil journey back to Como, watching the afternoon light shimmer on the lake and mountains—a calm ending to a beautiful day.
What's not included
Lunch is not included, offering you flexibility; we can reserve a table if desired.
Pick-up or drop-off, guests must reach the meeting point at Piazza Cavour, Como, on their own.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
105 reviews
5★
85
4★
7
3★
7
2★
3
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.8
197 reviews
5★
180
4★
6
3★
6
2★
3
1★
2
Important information
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
Please note: Due to the high operational costs, a minimum number of participants is required for the tour to operate. If the minimum is not reached, we will contact you in advance to offer an alternative tour or date. This situation is very rare and has occurred only a few times in recent years. In the unlikely event of a technical issue with the boat, an alternative tour or date will also be offered, or a full refund provided.
Guests must arrange their own transportation to and from the meeting point at Como’s Piazza Cavour.
This tour is not suitable for guests staying in Bellagio or Varenna. Please consider other options that better match your location.
If you have trouble walking, do not book this FULL-DAY tour! Thank you.
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Absolutely not suitable for anyone with knee or back issues. The villages around Lake Como are built on steep terrain with uneven, sloped streets—good physical condition is essential. Please do not book if you're not prepared for this.
Meeting point
Go to the middle of the large square called Piazza Cavour.
Face the lake. On your right-hand side, you’ll see a bright yellow building next to a pink one — that’s nr 26.
A Google Maps link is provided, also you can see the 2nd photo in the gallery for reference.
Please arrive 15+ minutes early.
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
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