How long is the full-day tour?

The experience lasts around eight hours, including the villa visit, time in Bellagio, and the return cruise to Como.

Do we have time for lunch during the tour?

Yes. You will have free time for lunch, and your guide can recommend trusted, non-touristic restaurants in Lenno or Bellagio depending on the timing of the day.

Is the entrance to Villa del Balbianello included?

Yes, the entrance to Villa del Balbianello is included unless otherwise specified.

What type of boat is used for the tour?

We use a comfortable private boat designed for sightseeing, with open seating, excellent visibility, and enough space to move and take photos easily.

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Lake Como?

Yes. This itinerary combines two of Lake Como’s most iconic destinations and offers a complete introduction to the lake.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?

Yes, the tour operates in most weather conditions. In case of severe weather or unsafe lake conditions, we will notify you as early as possible and offer an alternative option or a full refund. We follow directives from the Lake Authority — storms, heavy rain, or strong winds automatically prevent operations.

Can children join the tour?

Yes, children aged 7 and above, accompanied by an adult, are welcome. The experience is suitable for families and includes relaxed walking sections.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from Piazza Cavour 26 in Como. Exact meeting point details and a reference photo are included in your confirmation email.

Are animals allowed on the tour?

No, animals are not allowed on this tour to ensure comfort, safety, and smooth logistics for all participants.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users or guests with mobility limitations?

Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs or those with significant mobility difficulties. Boarding the boat requires stepping down onto the dock and moving on uneven surfaces.

From Milan: Villa del Balbianello, Villa Melzi & Bellagio Guided Tour

A full-day journey from Milan to the most celebrated corners of Lake Como. Travel comfortably by Mercedes van from Piazza della Repubblica to Como, then step aboard a Venetian taxi boat for a day on the water — the terraced gardens of Villa del Balbianello, the lakeside charm of Bellagio with time to wander and lunch at your own pace, and the botanical walks of Villa Melzi. A dedicated English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout, and every transfer is arranged for you — one seamless day, from Milan and back.

Highlights

Round-trip transfer from Milan by Mercedes van
Two iconic villa gardens: Villa del Balbianello & Villa Melzi
Boat cruise along Lake Como’s western shore
Free time and a guided walk in Bellagio, the “Pearl of Lake Como”
Small group of max 10 guests with whisper audio system

How the day unfolds

08:00 · MILAN DEPARTURE
Piazza della Repubblica 17, Milan
Depart Milan by Mercedes van for a comfortable transfer to Como.
10:00 · LAKE COMO
Board the boat in Como
Join the boat tour in Como and cruise north along the western shore, passing elegant villas and quiet bays.
MORNING
Villa del Balbianello
Explore the terraced gardens and panoramic balconies of one of Italy’s most admired lakefront estates (gardens only).
MIDDAY
Bellagio
Free time for lunch and a guided walk through Bellagio’s alleys, artisan boutiques and shaded stairways.
AFTERNOON
Villa Melzi
Stroll the lakeside Gardens of Villa Melzi.
LATE AFTERNOON
Return to Milan
Transfer to Como by boat, then travel back toward Milan by van, arriving approx. 20:00.

Times are approximate and may vary with lake and weather conditions.

What’s included

Included

Small group of max 10 guests
Round-trip transfer from Milan by Mercedes van
Professional English-speaking guide for the full day
Admissions to Villa del Balbianello & Villa Melzi gardens
Boat transport on Lake Como (venetian boat / ferry)
Whisper audio system

Not included

Villa del Balbianello interior (gardens only)
Villa Melzi interior (private residence)
Lunch (flexible; we can reserve a recommended restaurant)
Private tour (this is a shared experience)

Meeting point

Piazza della Repubblica 17, Milan

Your day begins in Milan with an 8:00 departure by Mercedes van from Piazza della Repubblica 17. Please arrive a few minutes early.

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Good to know

Where and when does the tour start?

The day begins in Milan with an 8:00 departure by Mercedes van from Piazza della Repubblica 17, arriving in Como to join the 10:00 boat tour.

Which days does this tour run?

This tour runs Tuesday to Sunday. For Mondays and Wednesdays (meeting in Como only), consider our alternative tour.

Are the villa interiors included?

No. The itinerary covers the gardens of Villa del Balbianello and Villa Melzi only; interiors are not included.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?

Not for everyone. The day involves boarding and disembarking at lake piers, steps and uneven ground, so it is not suitable for wheelchair users, or for guests with limited mobility, balance difficulties, or a strong susceptibility to motion or seasickness. A comfortable level of fitness is needed, and closed-toe, non-slip shoes are strongly recommended.

How much walking is involved?

A moderate amount, spread across a long day. Lake Como is a mountain lake and its villas and villages are built into the slope: expect steps and sloping gravel paths in the villa gardens, cobbled and stepped lanes in Bellagio, and boarding and disembarking at lake piers. There is also walking at the stations and between each pier and village. The pace is unhurried, but the day is long and largely spent on your feet, on uneven ground. Closed-toe, non-slip shoes are strongly recommended.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 48 hours before the tour begins and receive a full refund. Within 48 hours of the departure time the booking is no longer refundable.

€ 550 / personCheck availability