About this tour
A full-day circuit of Lake Como's most photographed estates and waterside towns. You'll drive the western shore to Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta, exploring their terraced gardens and lakefront settings, then board a three-hour boat for the return journey past Varenna and Bellagio. The route takes in alpine ridgelines, vintage villas, and the rhythm of water traffic—10 to 12 hours door-to-door from Como.
Highlights
- Villa del Balbianello: clifftop gardens with film-location pedigree
- Villa Carlotta's botanical grounds overlooking Bellagio
- Three-hour cruise past Varenna's waterfront and mountain backdrop
- Lakeside lunch with Valtellina wines (own cost)
- Private car and professional skipper throughout
What to expect
Morning drive hugs the lake's western edge, stopping first at del Balbianello's tiered gardens and neoclassical villa. You'll have time to wander the grounds and terrace before heading to Villa Carlotta for its planted ravines and panoramic terraces. After a lunch break at a lakeside table (bring euros), you board a motor cruiser for the leisurely return, drifting past stone villages and waterside properties. The boat ride is the day's centrepiece—bring a hat and sunscreen. Wind-down happens over an aperitivo as you approach Como.
Good to know
Lunch not included; budget accordingly for restaurant meals. Wear comfortable shoes for garden walks and bring sun protection. The itinerary shifts based on your pickup point and can be tailored. Not suitable if you have serious cardiovascular concerns. Infant seats available on request.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.