See Lake Como the way it was meant to be seen — from the water

Bellagio Cruise & Villa del Balbianello Gardens (VIP Access)

A rewarding couple of hours on the central lake. You cruise from Bellagio across to the wooded headland of Villa del Balbianello, then get VIP garden access to explore the famous terraces at your own pace — a film location for Star Wars and Casino Royale. Note that garden entry is included (interior museum is not) and the visit is self-guided with a free audio-guide app rather than a live guide.

• Scenic boat cruise from Bellagio to Villa del Balbianello
• VIP skip-the-line access to the terraced gardens
• See the Star Wars and Casino Royale film locations

Lake Como Catamaran Cruise with Aperitif (from Varenna)

A slow, intimate way to feel Lake Como. Aboard a restored wooden catamaran (max six guests), you set off from Varenna and drift past Bellagio, Villa Monastero and secluded coves the ferries never reach. The itinerary flexes with the weather and the mood, and there are snacks and an aperitif on board — plus the chance to swim. Choose the shared cruise or upgrade to private.

• Small-group catamaran (max 6 guests) from Varenna
• Sail past Bellagio, Varenna and quiet hidden coves
• Aperitif and snacks included on board

From Milan: Como Private Boat, Bellagio & Lugano Day Trip

The easiest way to experience Lake Como if you are based in Milan. This guided full-day trip handles the logistics: round-trip coach transport, time in Como (with its cathedral), a private boat cruise on the lake, free time in Bellagio, and a bonus stop across the border in Lugano, Switzerland. Bring your passport — you’ll cross an international border during the day.

• Round-trip coach from Milan — no car needed
• Private boat cruise on Lake Como
• Free time in Como and beautiful Bellagio

Lake Como Classic Wooden Boat Cruise

Pure Lake Como romance aboard a beautifully varnished classic wooden boat. Setting off from Como, you glide past the grand lakeside villas — including Villa d’Este and George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra — and the cinematic Villa del Balbianello, with a knowledgeable skipper along the way. The longer four-hour cruise adds free time in Bellagio and Varenna; the short shared version is a scenic taster.

• Cruise aboard a classic Italian wooden boat
• Glide past Villa d’Este, Villa Oleandra and Villa del Balbianello
• Small group of up to 8 with a local skipper

Bellagio

The Pearl of Lake Como

Sitting on the promontory where the lake splits into two branches, Bellagio is the postcard village of cobbled staircases, lakeside gardens and elegant villas.

Varenna

The romantic fishing village

A quieter, wonderfully atmospheric village on the eastern shore, famous for its lakeside Walk of Lovers, pastel houses and easy train access from Milan.

Como

The lively lakeside city

The largest town on the lake and the usual gateway, Como blends a walkable historic centre, a grand cathedral and a funicular up to Brunate for sweeping views.

Menaggio

The sporty western-shore hub

A relaxed, well-connected town on the western shore with a pretty promenade, great swimming spots and easy ferries to Bellagio and Varenna.

Villa del Balbianello

The lake’s most cinematic villa

Perched on a wooded headland near Lenno, this terraced villa and garden is one of Italy’s most beautiful — and a star of Star Wars and James Bond films.