From Milan: Lake Como Private Day Trip

If you’re visiting Milan and craving a taste of Italy’s most picturesque lakeside scenery, a private day trip to Lake Como might just be your best option. While we’ve not gone on this exact tour ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of a well-organized, luxurious experience that takes in the best of what Lake Como offers.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of convenience, stunning sights, and personalized attention. The luxury ride in a Mercedes makes the journey comfortable and stylish, and the carefully curated stops—like Villa Balbianello and Bellagio—are holiday highlights in their own right. Plus, the ferry ride across the lake offers a fantastic perspective of the shimmering water and dramatic mountains that define the region.

However, one thing to consider is the price point—at $677.54 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option out there. It’s best suited for travelers who value comfort, exclusive access, and a flexible itinerary. This tour would be ideal for those eager to see Lake Como without the hassle of planning, especially if you’re after a luxurious, hassle-free day with plenty of photo opportunities and local charm.

Good To Know

• Luxury Transportation: Private Mercedes pickup and drop-off in Milan ensures comfort and convenience.
• Iconic Villas: Visits to Villa Balbianello (featured in Star Wars and James Bond films) and other beautiful estates.
• Scenic Ferry Ride: A 20-minute boat crossing offers fantastic views and photo opportunities.
• Charming Towns: Ample free time to explore Bellagio and optionally Varenna, experiencing authentic lakeside life.
• Flexible Itinerary: You can extend the tour to Varenna for more exploring at an extra cost.
• All-Inclusive Transfers: Ferry tickets and private driver make the day seamless and stress-free.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Journey to Lake Como: What to Expect

Picking Up in Milan: Comfort from the Start

The tour kicks off with your hotel or apartment pickup in Milan in a sleek Mercedes sedan or minivan. This instantly sets a tone of relaxed luxury, avoiding the hassle of public transport or self-driving. Your driver, who speaks English, will be knowledgeable about the area and ready to answer questions during the scenic drive that lasts approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

Scenic Drive and Photo Stops

Once you arrive at Lake Como, the driver will take you for a short scenic drive along the lakeside, allowing you to soak in the views of shimmering waters and lush hills. You’ll stop at Villa Balbianello, one of the most photographed spots on the lake, renowned not only for its beauty but also for its cinematic history. Films like Star Wars and Casino Royale used its stunning gardens and historic architecture as filming locations, making it a must-see for film buffs and photography lovers alike.

Visiting Villa Balbianello

The visit here typically lasts around an hour, giving you time to wander the beautiful gardens and appreciate the spectacular views from the villa’s terraces. If you’d like to go inside the villa, you’ll need to prebook a guided tour at an additional cost. Keep in mind that Villa Balbianello is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays, in which case you’ll visit Villa Carlotta or Villa Melzi instead—both equally charming with lush gardens and impressive architecture.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Ferry Crossing to Bellagio

After the villa visit, your driver will arrange the ferry-boat tickets included in the tour fee. The 20-minute ferry ride is a highlight, offering postcard-perfect views of the lake’s shoreline, dotted with historic villas and quaint towns. You’ll enjoy this relaxing crossing on water, capturing incredible photos and enjoying the fresh lake breeze.

Time in Bellagio

Once you arrive in Bellagio, the “Pearl of Lake Como,” you’ll have about 2.5 hours to explore independently. This charming town is famed for its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and lakeside cafes. You can stroll through its picturesque lanes, grab a coffee or gelato, and soak up the lively yet relaxed atmosphere. While lunch isn’t included, the tour provider is happy to offer restaurant recommendations and even book a table, making the meal planning stress-free.

Optional Extension to Varenna

If you’re feeling energetic and want a bit more exploring, you can extend the tour to Varenna at an extra cost. Varenna is smaller but equally captivating, with a lovely lakeside promenade and the historic Villa Monastero. You’ll get more free time to wander its narrow streets, browse artisan shops, or relax by the water.

Returning to Milan

After your time in Varenna (if extended), your driver will pick you up and take you back to Milan—usually a 1.5-hour drive. The day concludes with a comfortable return to your hotel, allowing you to unwind and reflect on a day spent in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions.

Full Breakdown of the Itinerary

• Pickup in Milan: Comfortable luxury ride to the lake
• Scenic Drive & Photo Stop: Enjoy views and capture moments along the lakeside
• Villa Balbianello Visit: Explore gardens and admire panoramic vistas (guided inside visit optional)
• Ferry Ride to Bellagio: 20-minute crossing with photo opportunities
• Time in Bellagio: Free to explore, shop, dine, and enjoy lakeside charm
• Optional Visit to Varenna: Additional free time and villa visit available at extra cost
• Return to Milan: Relaxed transfer back to your accommodation

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Milan
• Private driver and vehicle (Mercedes sedan/minivan)
• Ferry tickets across Lake Como

Not Included:

• Entrance fees to the villas (Balbianello, Carlotta, Melzi)
• Food and drinks (except ferry tickets)

This setup offers a luxurious and hassle-free experience with the flexibility of a private guide and tailored stops. The tour’s value lies in the ease it provides—no worries about navigation, ticketing, or timing—and the personalized service ensures your day flows smoothly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Lake Como trip is perfect for travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity. If you’re a photographer eager to capture stunning views, a movie buff excited about Villa Balbianello’s cinematic history, or someone who prefers a tailored itinerary over crowded group tours, this experience suits you well.

It’s also an excellent choice for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a luxurious, stress-free day at Italy’s most scenic lake. However, keep in mind the price and plan accordingly—this is an investment in comfort and convenience.

Final Thoughts

For those looking to maximize their time around Milan with a blend of beautiful scenery, historic villas, and charming towns, this private Lake Como day trip offers a well-rounded experience. The combination of private transport, flexible stops, and scenic ferry rides makes it stand out from more generic group tours.

While the costs are higher, the personalized service and exclusive access provide value for travelers who prioritize comfort and authentic moments over budget options. Whether it’s your first visit to Lake Como or a return trip wanting a tailored experience, this tour can be a memorable highlight of your Italian journey.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts around 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and how long you spend at each stop.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your Milan hotel or apartment, making the start and end of your day seamless.

What type of vehicle will I ride in?
A luxury Mercedes sedan or minivan ensures comfort and style throughout the day.

Are ferry tickets included?
Yes, the tour includes ferry tickets for the boat crossing on Lake Como.

Can I visit Villa Balbianello inside?
Inside visits require a prebooked guided tour at an additional cost. The basic tour mainly covers the gardens and exterior views.

What happens if Villa Balbianello is closed?
On Mondays and Wednesdays, when Villa Balbianello is closed, you’ll visit Villa Carlotta or Villa Melzi instead.

Can I extend the tour to Varenna?
Yes, Varenna can be added as an extension at an extra charge, offering more time to explore another lakeside gem.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, but the guide can recommend restaurants and help with reservations.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $677.54 per person, which includes transportation, ferry tickets, and private service.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, but comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around towns and villas.

In summary, this private day trip combines the luxury of tailored transport with the natural beauty and architectural charm of Lake Como. It’s ideal for travelers who want a stress-free, personalized experience with plenty of photo-worthy moments and authentic Italian lakeside atmosphere. If you value comfort and exclusivity, this tour could be one of the most memorable parts of your Italian adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: