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Villa Balbianello & Bellagio Full-Day Tour on Lake Como by boat

By Lake Como Explorer
9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
Features
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  • Instant confirmation
Overview

Discover the soul of Lake Como on a small-group journey for those who appreciate nature, history, and timeless beauty. Departing from Como, cruise across the lake aboard a brand-new 10-passenger boat specially designed for guided tours, as reflections of mountains, villas, and villages unfold in harmony. Visit the legendary Villa del Balbianello, exploring its terraced gardens surrounded by cypress trees and breathtaking views. (Interiors not included due to time limits.) Enjoy free time for lunch with recommendations for lakeside restaurants serving authentic dishes. Continue to Bellagio, the “Pearl of Lake Como,” and visit the Villa Melzi gardens, a peaceful retreat of elegant paths and sculptures. Stroll through Bellagio’s alleys and boutique shops before returning to Como as the lake glows in the afternoon light.

Activity location
  • Piazza Cavour
    • Como, Italy
Meeting/Redemption Point
  • Piazza Cavour, 26
    • 26 Piazza Cavour
    • 22100, Como, Lombardia, Italy

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Sorry this activity isn't available on Wed, 21 Jan
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What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's included
    Professional guide. This tour is conducted in English only.
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Two villages. Two villa gardens. One unforgettable day on the lake.
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Admissions to Villa del Balbianello gardens & Villa Melzi gardens.
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Whisper audio system to clearly hear your guide throughout the tour.
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Small group of max. 10 guests.
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Transportation by private boat reserved exclusively for your group.
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Lunch is not included, offering you flexibility; we can reserve a table if desired.
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Villa del Balbianello & Villa Melzi interiors are NOT included (due to time constraints).
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Pick-up or drop-off, guests must reach the meeting point at Piazza Cavour, Como, on their own.

Know before you book

  • 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
  • Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
  • 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 Lenno. Please consider other options that better match your location.
  • If you have trouble walking, do not book this FULL-DAY tour! Thank you.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Activity itinerary

Piazza Cavour
  • 15m
Please arrive 15+ minutes before the scheduled departure time to meet your guide and prepare for the day's adventure.
Como
  • 45m
Depart from Como and enjoy a panoramic cruise aboard a private boat reserved exclusively for your group. Glide along the western shore of Lake Como, admiring picturesque villages, elegant villas, and mountain scenery while your guide shares stories about the lake’s history and culture.
Villa del Balbianello
  • 1h 30m
  • Admission ticket included
Visit the world-famous Villa del Balbianello gardens with your guide, exploring elegant terraces, sculptures, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Como. Hear stories of the villa’s explorers, unique history, and cinematic appearances. Please note: the interior rooms are not included in this visit due to time limitations.
Lenno
  • 1h 30m
Enjoy free time for lunch (at own expense). Your guide will recommend authentic lakeside restaurants to taste regional dishes such as risotto al pesce persico or fresh lake fish. Stroll along the charming promenade or relax by the water before continuing the day.
Bellagio (Pass by)
Continue your journey across the central lake area toward Bellagio. Depending on conditions, this transfer may be by private boat or scheduled ferry. Admire the lake’s mid-section, where the two branches meet around Bellagio.
Bellagio
  • 2h 30m
Arrive in Bellagio and visit the Villa Melzi gardens, then continue with a pleasant walking tour through the town’s charming alleys, boutique shops, and scenic lakeside corners. Your guide will share stories about Bellagio’s noble past, architecture, and local traditions. You’ll also have some free time to explore, shop, or relax before heading back toward Como. Please note: interior access to the villa is not included (private residence opened only for events).
Bellagio
  • 1h
Relax on the return journey to Como by private boat. Enjoy the calm atmosphere of the late afternoon on the lake as your guide offers final insights and recommendations for the rest of your stay.

Location

Activity location
  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Piazza Cavour
    • Como, Italy
Meeting/Redemption Point
  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Piazza Cavour, 26
    • 26 Piazza Cavour
    • 22100, Como, Lombardia, Italy

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