From Milan: Como Lake Trip Driving a Vintage Car

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From Milan: Como Lake Trip Driving a Vintage Car — A Complete Review

If you’re dreaming of cruising along Italy’s most picturesque lakes in a vintage car, this tour could be just your thing. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the details suggest an experience packed with charming villages, gorgeous scenery, and a fun driving adventure.

What excites us most? The chance to drive a stunning vintage vehicle, explore iconic Lake Como towns like Como and Menaggio, and enjoy a relaxed, scenic route. Plus, there’s a chance to indulge in a delicious lakeside lunch. The only caveat? The tour’s duration is six hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. This experience works beautifully for couples, friends, or small groups craving a blend of scenic beauty and vintage style—especially if you’re a car enthusiast or love exploring Italy’s lesser-known gems.

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Key Points

Vintage Car Experience: Drive or relax in classic vehicles, with options for both.
Iconic Lake Como Towns: Visit Como, Menaggio, Argegno, Lenno, and more.
Scenic Route: Enjoy panoramic views and charming lakeside villages.
Flexible Options: Drive yourself if licensed and comfortable, or opt for a professional driver.
Authentic Local Cuisine: Lunch at a lakeside restaurant with stunning views.
Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience.

Looking for more options in Milan? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Discovering the Charm of Lake Como in a Vintage Car

This tour offers a unique way to experience Lake Como’s enchanting scenery in a setting that’s both fun and nostalgic. Imagine winding through scenic streets in a vintage vehicle, feeling the breeze (or the warmth if it’s sunny), and soaking in views that countless travelers only see from afar. The appeal lies in the blend of effortless elegance—driving a beautifully restored car—and the relaxed pace that allows you to truly appreciate the lakeside atmosphere.

You’ll start from Milan, heading directly to the highlight—Lake Como. The first stop is Como city itself, where you’ll have around an hour to explore the historic center. Expect cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and maybe a glimpse of the majestic cathedral. From there, the journey continues along the lake’s edge, with a quick photo stop in Cernobbio, known for its luxurious villas and elegant lakeside scenery.

The next major highlight is lunch at “una finestra sul lago,” a lakeside restaurant renowned for its views and local flavors. Here, you’ll take a break to relax and enjoy regional dishes, an essential part of the lakeside experience that offers a taste of authentic Lombard cuisine. The afternoon features stops at Moltrasio, Laglio, Brienno, and finally Menaggio, a picturesque town perfect for a leisurely walk and an ice cream before heading back.

The return route is a panoramic drive that offers sweeping views of the lake, making the journey just as memorable as the stops. This makes it a flexible experience—whether you want to drive the vintage car or sit back and relax while your guide takes the wheel.

What to Expect from the Tour

Departure and Initial Stop in Como

Beginning at Piazza XXV Aprile, the group sets off towards Como. This city is famous for its historic center, with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of photogenic spots. Expect about an hour here, giving enough time to take in the architecture, visit local shops, or simply enjoy the lakeside views.

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Cernobbio and Lakeside Views

Next, a quick stop in Cernobbio offers a photoshoot opportunity by the water. Known for its elegance and historic villas, this small town provides an authentic lakeside impression with its scenic streets and lush gardens.

There's plenty more to explore in Milan

Lakeside Lunch in Moltrasio

The highlight here is the lakeside lunch at “una finestra sul lago.” The two-hour break allows you to savor regional dishes while gazing out at the shimmering water—ideal for both food lovers and scenery seekers. The restaurant’s location offers breathtaking views, making every bite a memorable experience.

Exploring Charming Villages

Post-lunch, the journey continues through Moltrasio, Laglio (famous for being George Clooney’s villa location), and Brienno. These stops are perfect for quick photos and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. You might find these villages less crowded, allowing for more relaxed exploration.

Menaggio and Ice Cream Break

The final town visit is Menaggio, with about an hour to wander its lively streets and enjoy a sweet treat. This town is well-loved for its promenade, quaint shops, and inviting vibe—ideal for wrapping up the day.

Return via Panoramic Road

The trip concludes with a scenic drive back to Milan via a panoramic route, giving you a last chance to enjoy the lakeside vistas. The total duration is approximately six hours, perfect for a full but relaxed day exploring Italy’s stunning lake region.

The Vintage Car Experience

The tour offers two vintage, two-seater vehicles with options for both soft and hard tops. If rain or chilly weather is forecasted, don’t worry—the cars are equipped with heating and roofs, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. Guests have the chance to drive, provided they hold a valid EU driver’s license and are comfortable with manual transmission. For those who prefer not to drive, an additional fee secures a professional driver, making it accessible for everyone.

From the reviews, many travelers find the vintage cars to be a major highlight. One guest described the car as “absolutely stunning,” emphasizing how special it felt to cruise in such a well-maintained classic. Another reviewer appreciated that even without an international license, the experience remained worthwhile—a testament to the flexible options offered.

Practical Details and Value

This tour’s price includes the car rental, insurance, and fuel—covering the essentials for a hassle-free experience. However, lunch, drinks, gratuities, and hotel transfers are outside the package, allowing you to customize your day.

The small group size (up to 8 participants) ensures an intimate, personalized experience, great for those wanting a relaxed pace and more interaction. Plus, the ability to reserve and pay later makes planning flexible, especially if your travel dates are uncertain.

Duration-wise, six hours is enough for a comprehensive day trip without feeling rushed. The departure times are flexible, and the tour runs with guides speaking Italian, English, and Spanish—making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews

Feedback from past travelers paints a picture of a relaxing, scenic, and stylish adventure. One reviewer praised the “relaxing” nature of the tour and the “nice ride,” mentioning that even without an international license, it was still worthwhile just to enjoy the views. The vintage car, in their words, “really made the experience special.”

Another guest highlighted how the stop in Como allowed them to see the city’s historic charm, making the trip feel both leisurely and culturally enriching. The combination of scenic drives, charming villages, and a lakeside lunch creates a well-rounded day for anyone seeking authentic Italian lake life with a vintage twist.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience offers a wonderful blend of nostalgia, scenic beauty, and relaxed exploration. If you love the idea of cruising in a classic car along one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes, this trip is hard to beat. It’s particularly suitable for couples and small groups who enjoy a more intimate, personalized experience.

While the price covers the essentials and provides a memorable vintage car adventure, it’s best for those who appreciate authentic scenery and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing. The route’s flexibility—whether you want to drive or sit back—adds extra value.

For anyone craving a relaxed yet stylish way to see Lake Como, this tour stands out as a memorable, beautifully curated experience that balances comfort, authenticity, and a dash of vintage glamour.

FAQ

Can I drive the vintage car myself?
Yes, if you hold a valid EU driver’s license and are comfortable with manual transmission. You’ll drive the car, making the experience even more immersive.

Is the tour suitable if I don’t have a driver’s license?
Absolutely. The tour offers the option to have a professional driver handle the car for you, for an additional cost.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring your passport, driver’s license (if driving), sunscreen, a hat or scarf, and comfortable clothing for the day.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the car rental, insurance, and fuel. Lunch, drinks, gratuities, and hotel transfers are extra.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about six hours, including stops and lunch.

Can I join the tour with just one person?
Yes, the tour accommodates small groups up to 8 participants, so solo travelers or couples are welcome.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for anyone under 21.

What languages are available?
Guides speak Italian, English, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

What if the weather is bad?
The cars have roofs and heating, so you’ll stay comfortable even in rain or cooler weather.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this vintage car trip from Milan to Lake Como offers a charming, scenic, and flexible way to explore Italy’s beloved lake region. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a lover of beautiful villages, or simply seeking a relaxed day of sightseeing, this tour delivers with style and authenticity. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to combine comfort, scenic views, and a touch of vintage glamour into one memorable day.