From Milan: Lake Como Cruise with Como Town & Bellagio Tour

Traveling from Milan to Lake Como is a classic day trip that promises stunning scenery, charming towns, and a taste of Italy’s luxury lifestyle. This particular tour by Travelmade is designed to show you the highlights, combining a walking tour through Como, a scenic cruise on the lake, and a visit to the picturesque village of Bellagio, plus a stop at the Sanctuary of Ghisallo.

What we love about this experience is its flexibility and focus on authentic moments—walking the streets of Como, soaking up the lakeside views, and wandering Bellagio’s scenic pathways. The boat cruise offers a unique perspective of the villas and natural landscapes that make Lake Como famous. Plus, the stop at the Ghisallo Sanctuary adds a cultural and sporty twist, especially for cycling fans.

However, one consideration is the price—at around $107.68 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, but the value comes from its comprehensive itinerary and guided insights. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Lake Como without the hassle of independent planning. If you’re after a day filled with scenic vistas, history, and a touch of luxury, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines town walking, boat cruise, and cultural sights.
• Expert Guidance: English and Spanish-speaking guides enrich your experience.
• Excellent Value: Includes skip-the-line tickets and a scenic cruise.
• Authentic Moments: Opportunity for leisure in Bellagio and Como.
• Breathtaking Views: Lake Como’s villas and natural beauty are front and center.
• Limited for Wheelchair Users: Accessibility might be an issue.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Lake Como Experience

Meeting in Milan and Travel Logistics

The adventure kicks off at 8:30 am in Piazza della Repubblica, right in front of the newsstand next to BNL Paribas. From there, it’s about an hour’s comfortable bus ride northward, with air conditioning to keep things cool on a warm day. This drive offers a quick preview of the Lombardy landscape—rolling hills, charming villages, and the distant promise of lake views.

Traveling by coach is a practical choice, especially for groups, providing a smooth start to the day. Although the itinerary can be reversed for operational reasons, the overall flow remains the same, ensuring you don’t miss out on any major sights.

Exploring Como: A Historic Lakeside Town

Once in Como, the guided walking tour lasts about two hours. This part of the day is all about soaking in the atmosphere of this elegant town. You’ll get a close look at the Duomo, a Gothic masterpiece with its striking façade and ornate interior. Strolling through Como’s narrow streets, you’ll feel the charm of old Italy, with boutique shops and cafes lining the way.

The lakeside itself is a highlight—perfect for photos, with panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The guide will point out notable villas, including Villa Olmo and Villa Geno, which have played host to countless celebrities and aristocrats. As one reviewer mentioned, this part of the tour offers a “stunning view” of Como’s architecture and scenery.

Cruising Lake Como: Views, Villas, and Celebrity Homes

After the town exploration, you’ll board a boat for a two-hour cruise across the lake. This part is often the most memorable for travelers. From the water, you’ll see the impressive Villa Carlotta, famous for its lush gardens, and Villa Balbianello, which has appeared in movies like Star Wars and James Bond.

The cruise also offers a glimpse of the luxury summer homes of the rich and famous—many of which are private villas, but their exteriors tell stories of opulence. You might catch sight of George Clooney’s villa in Laglio, a highlight noted by many travelers.

The views are breathtaking, and the fresh air mixing with the scent of lake waters makes this a truly relaxing experience. An added bonus, as some reviews point out, is the chance to see unspoiled natural scenery along with historic architecture, creating a perfect balance of nature and culture.

More Great Tours Nearby

Bellagio: The Pearl of Lake Como

Disembarking at Bellagio, you’ll get about 2.25 hours to explore this charming village. Known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio’s cobbled streets, boutique shops, and lakeside cafes are perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can wander through gardens, admire panoramic vistas, or just sit back with a glass of local wine and people-watch.

One reviewer appreciated the “idyllic atmosphere,” emphasizing how Bellagio’s streets and views make it easy to relax and enjoy the moment. Because of the size of the group, the time here feels generous enough for some unhurried exploration. You might take photos from the lakeside vantage points or visit some local artisan shops.

The Sanctuary of Ghisallo and Cycling Museum

Before heading back to Milan, the bus makes a short stop at the Sanctuary of Madonna del Ghisallo, perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of the lake. This spot is especially meaningful for cycling enthusiasts, as it’s considered Italy’s most revered cycling shrine. The Museum of Cycling housed here displays jerseys and memorabilia of legends like Coppi, Bartali, and Merckx.

The stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving you enough time for photos and a quick look at the exhibits. The panoramic view from the sanctuary is one of the trip’s highlights, offering a different perspective of the lake and surrounding mountains. It’s a nice cultural and scenic addition that appeals to sports fans and history buffs alike.

Returning to Milan

The journey back begins around 6:30 pm, with an estimated 7:00 pm arrival at the starting point. The bus ride offers a chance to reflect on the day’s sights and relax after a full day of exploration.

Real Traveler Insights and Tips

One traveler expressed frustration, mentioning they were put on a bus that wasn’t part of the original booking, which led to some inconvenience and a negative experience. This highlights the importance of confirming bookings and staying in touch with the tour provider if things seem unclear.

On the flip side, another reviewer praised Ricardo, the guide, for his attentiveness and professionalism, noting that his insights made the experience more enriching. Good guides can make all the difference when navigating a busy schedule or unfamiliar places.

Many travelers appreciate the value this tour offers, with included skip-the-line cruise tickets and a well-organized itinerary. It’s especially handy for those who want to avoid logistical headaches and make the most of their limited time in the region.

Practical Considerations

• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to the walking and boat components.
• Pack comfortable shoes and clothes, as you’ll be on your feet quite a bit.
• Remember, meals and drinks are not included, so bringing a snack or purchasing locally in Bellagio is recommended.
• The use of public navigation during the cruise ensures safety and a smooth experience, though it may affect timing depending on weather conditions.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour is a solid choice for travelers seeking a structured, guided experience that hits all the major sights of Lake Como in one day. Its combination of walking, cruising, and cultural visits offers a well-rounded taste of the area’s beauty and history.

While the price might seem on the higher side, the inclusion of skip-the-line cruise tickets and a professional guide makes it a convenient and valuable option for those wanting a hassle-free day trip from Milan. The scenic views, especially from the water and the sanctuary, are worth the investment.

If you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a fan of picturesque villages, this tour will likely satisfy your expectations. Active travelers or those with mobility issues should consider alternative options, perhaps private tours or different itineraries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 8:30 am in Piazza della Repubblica and usually returns around 7:00 pm, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel by air-conditioned coach from Milan to Como and back, with the boat cruise included in the ticket.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Since meals are not included, it’s a good idea to bring some snacks or plan to buy food during your free time in Bellagio.

Are the guides fluent in English and Spanish?
Yes, the tour offers guides who speak both languages, enhancing your understanding and overall experience.

Can I customize this tour or extend my time in Bellagio?
The scheduled time in Bellagio is about 2.25 hours, but you’re free to explore at your own pace if you wish to stay longer—just plan ahead.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Generally yes, but keep in mind the walking involved and the boat ride. It’s best for children who can comfortably walk and enjoy scenic views.

Final Thoughts

This Lake Como day tour from Milan offers a well-balanced mix of history, nature, and leisure. Its highlights—Como’s charming streets, the spectacular lake views from the boat, and Bellagio’s postcard-perfect streets—are genuinely captivating. The inclusion of the Sanctuary of Ghisallo adds a unique cultural layer, especially appreciated by cycling aficionados.

While it may not be the cheapest option, the convenience of guided commentary, skip-the-line access, and a diverse itinerary make it a worthwhile choice for many travelers. It’s especially suited for those who want to see the main sights without the stress of independent planning and are happy to spend a full day on the move.

If you’re looking for a scenic, informative, and comfortably organized way to experience Lake Como’s beauty in one day, this tour ticks most boxes. Just be prepared for some walking and the possibility of weather-dependent changes, and you’ll find yourself with a memorable day by Italy’s most iconic lake.

In summary, this tour is best for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience that covers the essential sights of Lake Como. It offers excellent value through included transportation, skip-the-line tickets, and a professional guide, making it ideal for first-timers or those short on time. For a complete, scenic, and culturally rich day, it’s a compelling choice—just keep your expectations aligned with the reviews, and you’ll likely walk away with plenty of beautiful memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: