Milan might be famous for its fashion, art, and history, but it’s also a surprisingly great jumping-off point for cruises and boat tours on nearby lakes and across borders. The city’s location in the Lombardy region means you’re just a short trip from the stunning Lake Como and even the Swiss city of Lugano. Whether you prefer a luxurious private cruise, a guided group tour, or a full-day adventure exploring multiple towns, Milan offers options that fit different styles and budgets. We especially like the From Milan: Como Private Boat, Bellagio and Lugano Day Trip for its comprehensive itinerary and personalized experience, and the Private Boat to Como Lake, Lugano, and Bellagio for its exclusive vibe.
In this guide, you’ll find a mix of day trips, private boat tours, and full-day explorations that showcase the region’s natural beauty and charming towns. Some tours emphasize luxury and exclusivity, while others focus on history and scenery. Whatever your style, Milan’s close proximity to stunning lakes and cross-border options makes it a perfect water-based adventure hub.
1. From Milan: Como Private Boat, Bellagio and Lugano Day Trip
At number 1, this full-day trip uses a private boat for an intimate experience of Lake Como, combined with visits to Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of the Lake,” and the Swiss city of Lugano. The tour kicks off from two starting points, then takes you through a carefully curated itinerary including Como, with its historic cathedral and lakeside charm. After a scenic boat cruise, you’ll visit Bellagio for lunch, shopping, and walking, then cross into Switzerland for a relaxed visit to Lugano. The day is full of scenic views, with a mix of guided tours and free time.
Guests love the balance this tour strikes—”great planning, very organized,” reviews say, with particular praise for the “stunning views and romantic weather.” The private boat is a highlight, offering a peaceful way to see the lakeside villas and gardens, plus a chance to relax on your own terms. Since the tour includes multiple stops and a mix of guided and free time, it’s perfect for travelers who want flexibility combined with scenic luxury.
Bottom line: If you want a personalized, scenic experience with the option to enjoy luxury on Lake Como, this trip is hard to beat. Expect a long but rewarding day with plenty of photo opportunities and stunning vistas.
2. From Milan: Lake Como & Bellagio DayTour with Private Cruise
Next, at number 2, this guided day tour from Milan emphasizes historical insights and scenic cruising. Starting from central Milan, you’ll visit Como for a guided walking tour of the city, then hop on a private boat cruise that lasts 1.5 hours, providing an up-close view of luxurious villas and lush gardens. Afterward, you’ll enjoy free time in Varenna and Bellagio, two of Lake Como’s most picturesque towns, with optional shopping or leisurely exploration.
Guests note the well-organized logistics and appreciate the audio guides that help them understand the region’s significance. The private boat ride, often described as “stunning,” is a highlight that offers a chance to see famous villas and the natural beauty of the lake without the crowds. The tour’s emphasis on local crafts and scenic views makes it especially appealing for those who want a compact yet rich experience.
Bottom line: For a day that combines history, scenery, and private cruising, this tour offers great value, especially with its focus on lake panoramas and charming villages.
3. From Milan: Private Boat to Como Lake, Lugano, and Bellagio
Number 3 on our list is a luxury private boat tour that spans two countries—Italy and Switzerland—in just one day. Starting from Milan, this trip includes a panoramic boat around Lake Como, visits to Bellagio, and a crossing into Lugano. The tour is designed for those who want to experience the region in style, with a focus on comfort and exclusivity.
The itinerary includes scenic drives, guided walks, and plenty of free time in each town. Guests rave about the opportunity to taste Swiss chocolate, stroll through Bellagio’s charming streets, and cross the border into Switzerland smoothly. The boat, described as “luxury,” provides a relaxing way to take in the beautiful villas and mountain views.
Bottom line: This is ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious experience with personalized touches, including private transportation and scenic boat cruises.
4. From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio & Varenna with Private Boat
At number 4, this comprehensive tour captures the essence of Lake Como’s beauty. The day involves a private boat cruise, visits to Como, Bellagio, and Varenna. Guests find this tour offers a perfect mix of scenic cruising, charming villages, and personal exploration, all within 11 hours.
Known for its smooth logistics and friendly guides, the tour allows you to walk through Como’s historic streets, soak in Bellagio’s scenic views, and enjoy Varenna’s quaint charm. The private boat provides an intimate experience with stunning lakeside villas and snow-capped mountain backgrounds. Guests praise the well-paced schedule and the chance to avoid the crowds on the water.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a relaxed, private approach and want to see multiple towns with ease, especially if they value personalized boat time.
5. From Milan: Bellagio & Lugano with Lake Como Private Cruise
Number 5 features a day trip across two countries, taking travelers from Milan to Bellagio, Lugano, and Lake Como. The focus is on scenic drives, guided walks, and a private boat cruise on Lake Como, designed for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation.
Guests love the comprehensive itinerary and appreciate how the tour includes free time for lunch and shopping. Highlights include Lugano’s elegant streets and Bellagio’s postcard-perfect views. The boat cruise is a personal highlight, offering a luxurious perspective of the lake’s famous villas.
Bottom line: This tour appeals to those wanting two countries, scenic cruising, and leisurely exploration in one day, at a moderate price point.
6. Milan: Bellagio, Varenna, and Lecco Trip with Cruise
Number 6 offers a less touristy experience combining Bellagio, Varenna, and Lecco. Starting from Milan, this guided tour features a skip-the-line cruise on Lake Como, along with visits to Lecco, a charming town often overlooked.
Guests enjoy off-the-beaten-path sights and the chance to see Lake Como from the water. The tour comes with express train tickets, making the transfer quick and comfortable. The cruise stands out as a favorite, offering a serene view of snowcapped peaks and historic villas.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond the crowds, with an emphasis on local towns and scenic boat rides.
7. From Milan: Como, Bellagio, Lugano Day Tour & Lake Cruise
Number 7 highlights a comprehensive guided experience that covers Como, Bellagio, and Lugano. Starting early from Milan, the tour includes a boat cruise, guided walks, and free time to explore each town’s unique character.
Guests appreciate the perfect timing—long enough in each place to enjoy without feeling rushed. The ferry rides between towns are described as “very enjoyable,” and the local guides are helpful for understanding the region’s highlights.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a full cultural and scenic experience in one day, with the added convenience of organized transport.
8. From Milan: Como, Bellagio, and Lugano Exclusive Boat Tour
Number 8 is a smaller group, high-end option for travelers seeking a more intimate experience. This tour features a scenic cruise on Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano, with a focus on luxury and comfort.
Guests love the personalized service and attention to detail, with a scenic cruise that offers stunning views of villas and mountains. The tour includes a visit to Como and free time in Bellagio, making it perfect for those who want to avoid large groups.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers craving a refined, exclusive experience with small-group intimacy.
9. From Como: Bellagio and Lugano Tour with Lake Como Cruise
Number 9 is a full-day trip focusing on Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano, with a luxury bus and lake cruise included. Starting from Como, the tour takes you to Bellagio for a 2-hour exploration and then across the border to Lugano.
Guests love the fellowship of the group and the smooth pace. The lake cruise is a standout feature, giving a chance to look at villas and mountain scenery from the water.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers who want a well-rounded day with comfort and scenic cruising.
10. From Milan: Como, Lugano, Bellagio with Private Lake Cruise
Number 10 offers a cross-border adventure, blending Italian lakeside towns and Swiss city life. The tour features private transportation, a private boat cruise, and visits to Como, Lugano, and Bellagio.
Guests praise the smooth transfers and the exclusive boat experience that provides an unhurried view of villas and mountain scenery. The tour includes wine tasting and chocolate sampling, appealing to sensory travelers.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking luxury, cross-border travel, and a variety of experiences in one day.
11. From Milan: Verona, Sirmione, and Lake Garda Tour with Boat Cruise
Number 11 broadens the scope beyond lakes into Verona and Lake Garda. This full-day tour includes a guided walk through Verona’s Roman Arena and Juliet’s House, plus a boat cruise around Lake Garda. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a mix of lakes, lakeside towns, and Italian romance.
Guests highlight the organized itinerary, with about 3 hours in Verona and 1.5 hours in Sirmione. The boat cruise on Lake Garda offers stunning scenery and a chance to relax after sightseeing.
Bottom line: For lovers of literature, romance, and lakes, this tour delivers a quintessential Italian experience.
12. From Milan: Verona, Sirmione, Lake Garda Private Boat cruise
Number 12 is a more intimate and flexible option, emphasizing private boat cruises on Lake Garda and personalized visits to Verona and Sirmione. It’s ideal for travelers who want customizable experiences.
Reviews praise the guide’s professionalism and the beautiful scenery. The Juliet’s balcony and Roman arena in Verona are key highlights, and the Lake Garda cruise provides a perfect photo opportunity.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who prefer tailored trips with private transportation and more time on the water.
13. From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, & Varenna with Private Boat Tour
Finally, at number 13, this small-group, personalized tour combines Lake Como with visits to Varenna, Bellagio, and Como. It features a private boat and a dedicated guide for a relaxed pace.
Guests appreciate the extensive free time to explore each town and the private boat cruise that offers a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery. The tour’s small group size ensures a more personalized experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want more flexibility and intimate service while exploring Lake Como’s highlights.
14. From Milan to Como, Bellagio, and Lugano: Royal Cruise
Rounding out the list, this luxury full-day cruise focuses on style and scenery. It includes a private boat tour of Lake Como, visits to Bellagio, and a stop in Lugano.
Guests rave about the splendid lake landscapes, historic villas, and the chance to see the famous villas of celebrities like George Clooney. The itinerary is carefully curated for those who want a luxurious, all-inclusive day.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a high-end experience with exclusive boat trips and premium scenery.
How to Choose Your Best Lake or Cross-Border Water Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interest in luxury versus local charm. For a personalized experience with private boats and flexible schedules, tours like the Como Private Boat, Bellagio and Lugano Day Trip or the Private Lake Como, Lugano, and Bellagio are excellent choices. If you prefer a guided group tour with solid logistics and scenic cruising, options like the Lake Como & Bellagio DayTour with Private Cruise or the Como, Bellagio, Lugano Day Tour & Lake Cruise work well.
For travelers seeking luxury and exclusivity, the Exclusive Boat Tour offers a more refined experience, while adventurous types may enjoy the Verona, Sirmione, Lake Garda** trips that combine lakes with iconic Italian towns.
Ultimately, it’s worth considering how much time you have, whether you want cross-border adventures, and if you prefer guided or private experiences. Booking early is always wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth trip.
To sum it up, Milan opens the door to some of Italy’s most scenic lakes and charming towns via these cruise and boat tour options. Whether you’re after a luxurious private cruise, a full guide-led day, or an off-the-beaten-path exploration, you’ll find something that fits your style. Don’t wait—these experiences fill up fast, so plan ahead and get ready to enjoy Italy from the water!