From Milan: Villa Del Balbianello and Varenna by Train

Exploring the enchanting shores of Lake Como has never been easier. Hop on a train from Milan and uncover the serene beauty of Varenna and Villa del Balbianello. This day trip offers a convenient way to marvel at lush gardens, historic villas, and charming lakeside villages. With stunning vistas and a seamless transportation plan, this experience promises an unforgettable escape into Italy’s captivating landscapes. But the best part? There’s much more to discover beyond the first glimpse.

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Key Points

Take the train from Milan to Varenna, a charming fishing village on Lake Como, for a day trip to explore the picturesque Villa del Balbianello.
Enjoy a scenic 1-hour train journey with views of the Po River plain, foothills of the Alps, and shimmering lakes.
Explore the lush gardens, ornate fountains, and panoramic lake views at the historic Villa del Balbianello.
Relax with a series of boat rides, including a 40-minute public boat trip from Varenna to Lenno and a 1-hour return journey.
Discover the medieval streets and promenade of Varenna during your leisure time in the charming lakeside town.

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Overview and Pricing

From Milan, travelers can embark on a day tour to visit Villa del Balbianello and Varenna on Lake Como.

The tour is priced from $117.51 per person and is valid for one day.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 7 days in advance for a full refund.

This comprehensive tour provides a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the picturesque landscapes of Lake Como, including the renowned Villa del Balbianello and the charming town of Varenna.

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

Itinerary and Transportation

The tour begins at Milano Centrale Railway Station, where travelers embark on a 1-hour train journey to the picturesque town of Varenna on the shores of Lake Como.

From there, a public boat transports passengers to Lenno, a 40-minute crossing.

A public boat traverses the waters of Lake Como, carrying passengers to the town of Lenno in a 40-minute crossing.

After visiting Villa del Balbianello, the return journey follows the same route, with a 1-hour boat ride back to Varenna and a 1-hour train ride to Milano Centrale.

The timetable is precise, with the first departure from Milano Centrale at 8:20 AM and the final arrival back at 6:40 PM, allowing ample time to explore the villa and its gardens.

Train Journey From Milan to Varenna

Though the journey from Milan to Varenna takes just an hour by train, it offers a scenic glimpse into the picturesque landscapes of Northern Italy.

The train departs Milano Centrale at 8:20 AM and arrives in Varenna at 9:24 AM.

The route includes:

Crossing the Po River plain, dotted with charming villages and vineyards.
Passing through the foothills of the Alps, with views of shimmering lakes and majestic mountain peaks.
Skirting the shores of Lake Como, revealing the charming waterfront towns and historic villas that dot the shoreline.
Arriving in the quaint fishing village of Varenna, a gateway to exploring the enchanting Lake Como region.

Boat Rides on Lake Como

After the scenic train journey, travelers embark on a series of boat rides to explore the Lake Como region.

A 40-minute public boat trip takes them from Varenna to Lenno. At Lenno, they disembark and walk for 30 minutes to reach Villa del Balbianello.

After visiting the villa, they take the 1-hour return boat ride from Lenno back to Varenna. This allows them to enjoy the stunning lakeside views and villages along the way.

The boat rides are included in the tour package, providing a relaxing and convenient way to navigate the picturesque Lake Como.

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Villa Del Balbianello and Its Park

Nestled along the western shores of Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and architectural grandeur.

Visitors can explore:

The villa’s lush gardens, featuring terraced landscapes, ornate fountains, and panoramic views of the lake.

The villa’s lush gardens, featuring terraced landscapes, ornate fountains, and panoramic views of the lake.
The interior spaces, which showcase exquisite furnishings, frescoed ceilings, and a collection of rare antiques.
The loggia, a scenic overlook that offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and waters.
The villa’s cultural significance, as it has been the backdrop for numerous films and television productions over the years.

There's plenty more to explore in Como

Villa Monastero: Explore the House Museum and Garden

Villa Monastero is a stunning house museum and garden located in Varenna, just a short ferry ride from where visitors disembark in Lenno.

The villa’s lush gardens feature a diverse collection of rare plants and flowers. Guided tours of the house museum offer a glimpse into the villa’s history and architecture.

Visitors can explore the elegant rooms, furnished with antique furnishings and artwork. With 2 hours of leisure time, guests can wander the serene grounds, admire the stunning views of Lake Como, and enjoy the villa’s peaceful ambiance.

A must-see stop on the Villa del Balbianello and Varenna excursion.

Leisure Time in Varenna

Varenna, a charming lakeside town on the shores of Lake Como, offers visitors a chance to explore its quaint streets and appreciate the stunning natural beauty of the region during the allocated leisure time.

Visitors can:

Stroll along the picturesque promenade and admire the colorful houses and cafes that line the waterfront.
Visit the Chiesa di San Giorgio, a 14th-century church with a beautiful bell tower offering panoramic views of the lake.
Explore the narrow medieval streets and alleyways, discovering hidden gems like local artisan shops and family-run eateries.
Relax at one of the lakeside cafes or bars, sipping a local wine or aperitif while taking in the tranquil atmosphere.

What to Expect and Customer Feedback

Travelers can expect a well-organized day trip from Milan to the picturesque Lake Como region.

The itinerary includes train transportation, public boat rides, and visits to Villa del Balbianello and Villa Monastero. Visitors will have ample time to explore the stunning gardens and take in the breathtaking scenery.

While the tour doesn’t include a guide, 24/7 assistance is provided before and during the excursion.

Based on 17 reviews, the tour earns an overall rating of 4.4/5, with high praise for value for money. However, some travelers note room for improvement in the transportation experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Infants and Children Eligible for Discounted Tickets?

Children under 12 are eligible for discounted train and boat tickets, while infants under 2 can travel for free. Families should contact the tour provider for specific pricing and policy details.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there are no designated eating areas or picnic spaces provided during the day’s activities. Guests are responsible for disposing of any waste properly.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Villas?

There is no strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking and sightseeing. Dressing in layers is recommended to accommodate any changes in weather or temperature during the day.

Can I Extend the Duration of My Stay in Varenna?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Varenna. The tour provides flexibility, allowing visitors to spend more time exploring the town and surrounding area on their own after the scheduled activities. Additional accommodations and activities can be arranged separately.

Is There an Option to Join a Guided Group Tour?

Unfortunately, this tour doesn’t include a guided group option. It’s a self-guided experience, but the provided logistics and inclusions, like transportation and entrance tickets, make it easy for travelers to explore Villa del Balbianello and Varenna independently.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Milan to Villa del Balbianello and Varenna offers a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Como. The train journey, boat rides, and exploration of the villa and village provide a memorable escape into Italy’s enchanting landscapes. With convenient transportation and ample leisure time, this tour is a practical and captivating way to discover the charms of this picturesque region.