From Milan: Lakeside villas on Lake Como with ferries

Travelers seeking a taste of Italy’s most picturesque lake will find this day trip from Milan a rewarding adventure. It’s designed for those who love scenic views, charming villas, and a slow-paced exploration of one of Lombardy’s most iconic spots. We particularly appreciate how smoothly the day is organized, allowing you to visit top villas at your own pace, combined with the fun of boat rides across Lake Como.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the convenience of traveling by train and ferry means you avoid the hassle of driving. Second, the chance to explore three stunning villas—Villa Monastero, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Melzi—each with unique charms. Third, the opportunity to soak up the lake’s beauty from multiple vantage points, especially during boat crossings. On the downside, since it’s a self-guided experience, you’ll need to stay organized and follow the itinerary closely to maximize your time.

This experience is best suited for travelers who value flexibility, love scenic lakeside scenery, and want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure. It’s ideal if you’re okay with a bit of planning and don’t mind navigating public transportation independently.

Good To Know

• Convenient transport: Combines train, boat, and walking for a seamless day.
• Flexible itinerary: Self-guided visits give you control over your schedule.
• Stunning villas: Visit three of Lake Como’s most famous properties.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect panoramic lake views and lush gardens.
• Time-efficient: A full day packed with sightseeing and relaxation.
• Note on logistics: Boat and train schedules can vary, so stay alert to timings.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Lake Como Day Trip from Milan

This tour offers a wonderful way to experience Lake Como’s highlights without spending multiple days or renting a car. It’s a well-structured plan that balances travel, sightseeing, and leisure, making it ideal for those who want a compact yet comprehensive taste of the area.

Starting in Milan: The Journey Begins

Your adventure kicks off early at Milano Centrale Railway Station, where a regional train whisks you away to Varenna in about an hour. The train ride itself is quite scenic, with views of Lombardy’s rolling hills and small towns. Many reviewers point out that the train tickets are included in the price, removing the hassle of booking separately.

First Stop: Villa Monastero in Varenna

Arriving in Varenna, the highlight is Villa Monastero, a villa famous for its beautiful botanical gardens and the house museum. Visitors often mention how the gardens are perfect for photos, with their lush greenery and lakeside backdrop. The villa’s interior offers a glimpse into historical life, and many enjoy the free time allotted to explore at their own pace. One reviewer shared, “The gardens are a tranquil escape with stunning views, and the house museum is surprisingly insightful for a self-guided visit.”

Crossing Lake Como: The Ferry Ride to Villa Carlotta

After exploring Varenna, you’ll hop on a public boat for a 15-minute ride to Villa Carlotta. The boat itself offers incredible vantage points of the lake—expect sweeping views of mountains and charming lakeside villages. Once at Villa Carlotta, you’re given about an hour and a half to wander through the lush gardens and art-filled interiors. The villa’s collection of artworks and the vibrant garden terraces are often praised by visitors. One review notes, “The art and the gardens complement each other beautifully, making it a highlight of the trip.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Scenic Drive to Bellagio

Next, the tour includes another ferry trip to Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of Lake Como.” Here, you get an hour to stretch your legs, enjoy a quick bite, and take photos of the iconic lakeside setting. According to travelers, Bellagio’s narrow streets and charming shops are delightful, though the free time is brief—so plan ahead if you want to explore more.

Visiting the Gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril

From Bellagio, another boat transports you to Villa Melzi d’Eril, where the gardens are a major draw. Although the villa itself is private and not open for interior visits, the gardens are accessible and represent a peaceful lakeside walk. Visitors comment on how the gardens are perfect for a relaxing stroll, with scenic views around every corner. A reviewer mentions, “The gardens are beautifully cared for, and the lakeside promenade is a photographer’s dream.”

Return Journey to Milan

The final leg is a ferry back to Varenna, followed by a train ride back to Milan, arriving around 6:40 pm. The schedule is tight but manageable if you keep track of timings. Some travelers note that boat schedules can change slightly, so it’s wise to stay flexible.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

This tour covers a lot in one day—visits to three villas, boat rides, and time in charming towns. It’s a fantastic way to soak up Lake Como’s essence without the expense of guided tours or private transfers. The self-guided format provides freedom but requires some organization on your part.

Transport is included, with regional train tickets and full access to public boats, which are both reliable and scenic. The entrance fees to the villas are also covered, meaning you don’t need to worry about extra costs once you’re on the ground. However, lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to grab a quick meal in Bellagio or Varenna.

What’s not included?

• No guide or guided commentary, so you’ll need to read up beforehand or explore independently.
• Lunch and snacks are extra, giving you a chance to sample local cafes.
• Access to Villa Melzi’s gardens is limited to the outdoor areas—interior spaces remain private.

Timing and Schedule

The itinerary runs from 31 March to mid-June, with a different schedule posted for the summer months. The day starts early, and the planned boat schedules are subject to change, especially during peak season or due to weather. Review the timetable beforehand to ensure smooth transitions.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it’s perfect for those comfortable with walking and navigating public transport. The pace can be brisk, especially with transfers and sightseeing, so be prepared for some standing and walking. The cost of $141.61 per person offers good value, considering all included tickets and transportation.

Authentic Tips from Past Travelers

Many reviews highlight the stunning views and the well-organized itinerary as key advantages. One traveler loved the flexibility, saying, “It’s perfect if you want to set your own pace without a guide,” while another appreciated the comfort of included transportation, noting, “It removed the stress of figuring out schedules or renting a boat.”

Some pointed out that the gardens and villas are a highlight, praising the mix of natural beauty and art collections. A common tip is to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera—the scenery is truly picture-worthy.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Milan delivers a delightful taste of Lake Como’s charm. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a flexible, self-guided experience that combines scenic boat rides with visits to iconic villas. The inclusion of train and ferry tickets makes it a convenient, budget-friendly option for exploring this famous stretch of water and its elegant properties.

While it requires some planning and an active approach, the stunning lake views, lush gardens, and historic villas make it a worthwhile adventure. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this tour offers a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration.

If stunning scenery and lakeside elegance are your priorities, this experience is a perfect choice. For those who prefer guided tours with commentary or more time in each spot, consider other options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with walking and boat rides, it can be enjoyable for families. Just keep in mind the schedule can be tight.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead ensures your spot, especially during peak seasons, and secures the timetable you prefer.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with a camera for the many photo opportunities. Snacks or a small picnic are also advisable since lunch isn’t included.

Are the boat schedules fixed?
Boat timings may change depending on the public navigation schedule, so keep an eye on the timetable on the day of your trip.

Can I customize my visit at each villa?
Since it’s a self-guided visit, you can spend as much or as little time as you like within the allocated hours.

Is there any free time in Bellagio?
Yes, you get about an hour—which is enough for a quick walk, a coffee, or some souvenir shopping.

How long is each villa visit?
Villa Monastero: about 75 minutes, Villa Carlotta: around 1.5 hours, Villa Melzi gardens: about 1 hour.

Are the villas wheelchair accessible?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What if I want more time at the villas?
You might find the schedule tight; consider starting early or extending your day with additional visits on your own.

What is the main value of this tour?
It’s the perfect way to see multiple highlights of Lake Como efficiently, with all transportation covered and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

This Lake Como day trip from Milan provides a practical, scenic, and flexible way to enjoy Italy’s famous lake. It balances transportation, sightseeing, and relaxation, making it a top choice for anyone eager to experience the beauty and elegance of this lakeside region.

You can check if your dates are available here: