Lake Como, Bellagio & Varenna: Small Group Day Trip by Train & Boat

Summary

Lake Como’s villas, film spots and lakeside towns by train and boat

You’ll hop trains and boats from Milan to Lake Como’s villages, skip lines for ferries with your local guide leading the way, and wander through Bellagio’s boutiques before lunch overlooking the water. Expect film-worthy views (literally) and small surprises — like a silent moment in Varenna or hearing stories you won’t find online.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the train from Milan to Como to feel so quick — one minute we were in the city, the next I was squinting at misty mountains outside the window. Our guide, Anna, was already telling stories before we even left the station. She pointed out the old Duomo as we wandered through Como; I remember the cold stone under my hand when I leaned against it for a photo. There was this faint smell of espresso drifting from a café nearby — honestly, it made me wish we’d had time for a quick coffee stop.

The boat cruise started off calm but then someone spotted Villa del Balbianello (apparently where they filmed James Bond and Star Wars — who knew?). The air felt sharper on the lake, and I could hear bits of conversation in Italian and English mixing together as we passed those grand villas. Anna kept tossing in little facts — like which villa belonged to which celebrity — but never in that “tour guide voice.” Just casual, almost like gossip. We had guaranteed seats on the ferry so nobody was fighting for a view. At some point I realized my hands were freezing but I couldn’t stop taking photos.

Lunch in Bellagio hit differently after all that wind and water. Anna suggested a spot with tables right over the lake; I still think about that risotto with perch (and how clumsy I was with my fork). The sunlight bounced off the water so hard it made everyone squint and laugh. Afterward, we ferried across to Varenna — quieter than Bellagio, more faded colors on the houses. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for church bells somewhere up the hill. It felt like maybe you could just stay there all afternoon if you wanted. Some folks did.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Lake Como and visit Bellagio

• Meet guide in Milan
• Take express train to Como
• Walk in Como city with guide
• Visit Duomo of Como
• Join panoramic boat cruise from Como
• Admire Villa Olmo and Villa D'Este
• Pass near Cernobbio and Villa D'Este hotel
• See Torno village and Villa Pliniana
• View Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello
• Arrive in Bellagio and explore village
• Have lunch at lake-view restaurant
• Take ferry to Varenna with guide
• Discover Varenna village
• Return to Milan by express train

Top questions

How long is the Lake Como day trip from Milan?

The tour lasts about 10 hours including all transportation between Milan, Como, Bellagio & Varenna.

Is lunch included on this tour?

Lunch is not included but your guide will suggest lake-view restaurants in Bellagio where you can eat during free time.

Are ferry tickets included?

Yes, all ferry tickets including reserved seats for the boat cruise are included in your booking.

Does this day trip include skip-the-line access?

You get priority skip-the-line access for ferries and guaranteed prebooked seats during boat rides.

Is there free time to explore Bellagio or Varenna?

Yes, there’s a balanced mix of guided moments and free time in both Bellagio and Varenna.

Can I stay longer in Varenna instead of returning with the group?

You can choose to stay longer in Varenna after telling your guide by 13:00; your return ticket will be provided.

What happens if it rains during the tour?

The tour runs rain or shine; only extreme weather may affect schedules or routes.

Are there any famous film locations on this Lake Como tour?

You’ll see Villa del Balbianello (James Bond Casino Royale & Star Wars) plus other celebrity villas along the cruise route.

What’s included

Your day includes first-class express train tickets from Milan to Como and back, all ferry tickets with reserved skip-the-line access (so no standing around), an expert English-speaking local guide throughout, visits to Como city center plus guided walks in Bellagio & Varenna, and plenty of time for your own exploring or lakeside lunch before heading back together (unless you decide to linger longer).