From Milan: Lakeside Villas on Lake Como With Ferries

Explore the picturesque lakeside villas of Lake Como on this captivating day trip from Milan. Start your journey at Milano Centrale, then head to the charming town of Varenna to see Villa Monastero’s stunning gardens. Continue by ferry to Villa Carlotta, known for its impressive art collection, before visiting the enchanting Gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril in Bellagio. With scenic train rides and ferry crossings, this tour offers a glimpse into the lakeside grandeur that awaits.

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Key Points

Departs from Milan Centrale Railway Station and includes a full-day tour to explore lakeside villas on Lake Como, priced at €125 per person.
Journey by train to Varenna, offering stunning countryside and lake views, with the first stop at the magnificent Villa Monastero.
Visitors can explore the 16th-century Villa Monastero, its botanical gardens, and museum during a 75-minute stop.
After a ferry ride, the tour includes visits to Villa Carlotta and the Gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril, with time for lunch in Bellagio.
The tour concludes with a train ride back to Milan Centrale, offering a comprehensive experience of Lake Como’s lakeside villas and scenic beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The tour departs from Milano Centrale Railway Station and lasts a full day, with a price ranging from €125.00 per person.

Cancellation is free up to 7 days in advance for a full refund. The tour is valid for 1 day, though the itinerary may change.

Travelers will journey by train to Varenna, then take ferries to explore villas and gardens around Lake Como.

The tour includes regional train tickets, entrance fees, and boat transfers, but excludes lunch, a guide, tips, and personal expenses.

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Journey From Milano Centrale to Varenna

After departing from Milano Centrale Railway Station, travelers embark on a 1-hour train journey to the picturesque town of Varenna on the shores of Lake Como.

Along the way, they’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the iconic lake.

Upon arrival in Varenna, they’ll disembark and have the opportunity to explore the charming town before continuing on to the next stop on the itinerary – a visit to the magnificent Villa Monastero, known for its beautiful gardens and historic house museum.

Villa Monastero: A Photographic Stop

Visitors first stop at the picturesque Villa Monastero, where they’ll have around 75 minutes to explore the property at their own pace. This former convent and villa turned museum offers stunning views of Lake Como. Visitors can wander the grounds and gardens, or take a self-guided tour through the villa’s interior rooms and exhibits.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | Along the eastern shore of Lake Como |

| Architecture | 16th century villa with Renaissance and Baroque influences |

| Gardens | Botanical gardens with over 2,000 plant species |

| Museum | Showcases historic furnishings, artwork, and scientific collections |

| Duration | Around 75 minutes to explore the villa and gardens |

Crossing the Lake to Villa Carlotta

After exploring Villa Monastero, visitors board a ferry for the 15-minute crossing to Villa Carlotta.

This lakeside villa features an impressive art collection and lush gardens. Guests can explore the villa and its grounds at their own pace during the 1.5-hour stop.

The ornate interiors showcase paintings, sculptures, and frescoes, while the terraced gardens boast an array of rare botanical species.

With free time to wander, travelers can admire the villa’s stunning setting and scenic panoramas of Lake Como.

The ferry then transports the group to the picturesque town of Bellagio for lunch and further exploration.

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Exploring the Grandeur of Villa Carlotta

The magnificent Villa Carlotta stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage. Nestled along the shores of Lake Como, this 17th-century villa boasts impressive art collections and lush botanical gardens.

Visitors can explore the villa’s opulent interiors, admiring the grand halls and exquisite sculptures. The surrounding gardens are a true delight, showcasing a diverse array of flora from around the world.

Whether strolling through the azalea groves or taking in the panoramic lake views, Villa Carlotta offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the area’s historic estates. This stop on the Lake Como tour is a true highlight.

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Bellagio: A Lakeside Lunch and Exploration

As the ferry glides across the serene waters of Lake Como, travelers arrive in the picturesque town of Bellagio.

With one hour of free time, they can stroll along the charming lakefront promenade, lined with colorful buildings and boutiques. Visitors can savor a leisurely lakeside lunch, sampling regional cuisine and taking in the breathtaking views.

Afterward, they’re free to explore Bellagio’s narrow streets and piazzas, discovering historic churches, art galleries, and quaint shops.

Bellagio’s narrow streets and piazzas beckon visitors to discover historic churches, art galleries, and charming shops.

This lakeside gem offers a chance to take in the local culture and ambiance of Lake Como.

The Gardens of Villa Melzi DEril

Visitors next explore the Gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril, a stunning 19th-century botanical garden situated along the shores of Lake Como.

The gardens feature a series of terraces, manicured lawns, and vibrant flowers. Highlights include a Japanese garden, an orangery, and statues scattered throughout the grounds.

Guests can wander the pathways and admire the views of the lake and the Alps in the distance.

While the villa itself is privately owned, the gardens are open to the public, offering a tranquil respite from the busier parts of the day’s itinerary.

Return Journey to Milano Centrale

After exploring the serene Gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril, participants board the ferry for the 30-minute journey back to Varenna.

From there, they’ll catch the train for the 1-hour ride back to Milano Centrale. The trip concludes with a return to the starting point, having experienced the highlights of Lake Como in a single day.

While lunch isn’t included, the tour provides ample opportunity for participants to enjoy a meal in the charming town of Bellagio.

The overall itinerary is well-paced, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the lakeside villas and their picturesque gardens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Food and Drink on the Public Boats?

Yes, passengers can purchase food and drink on the public boats during the Lake Como tour. The boats have on-board concessions where visitors can buy refreshments and light snacks throughout the day.

Are Audio Guides Available at the Villa Sites?

Audio guides aren’t provided at the villa sites. You’ll have to explore them on your own or download an app if you want more information. The tour focuses on giving you free time to wander and take in the scenery.

How Accessible Are the Villas and Gardens for Mobility-Impaired Visitors?

The villas and gardens are not wheelchair-accessible. Visitors with mobility impairments may find navigating the uneven terrain and stairs challenging. The tour is not suitable for those requiring wheelchair access.

Can I Take a Shorter Tour and Skip Certain Stops?

Yes, you can skip certain stops on this tour. The itinerary’s flexible, so you can take a shorter version and visit just the villas and gardens you’re most interested in. This allows you to customize the experience to your preferences.

Is There a Guided Option Available for This Lake Como Tour?

Yes, there’s a guided option available for this Lake Como tour. However, it’s not included in the standard tour package. Travelers can book a guided tour at an additional cost to get expert commentary during the visits.

The Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Milan to the lakeside villas of Lake Como offers a picturesque adventure. Travelers can explore the magnificent Villa Monastero, Villa Carlotta, and the enchanting Gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril, all connected by scenic ferry rides and stunning landscapes. The tour concludes with a scenic train ride back to Milan, leaving visitors with lasting memories of the region’s beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: