Lake Como & Lugano Day Trip from Milan with Ferry Ride

Summary

From Milan to Bellagio by ferry then Swiss chocolate in Lugano

You’ll glide across Lake Como by ferry to Bellagio, then wander its steep lanes before heading north to Lugano for lakeside walks and real Swiss chocolate. With round-trip transport from Milan and a local guide sharing stories along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of daily life on both sides of the border — and maybe find yourself lingering over unexpected details long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out of Milan early, the city still half asleep, and I watched the buildings blur into green hills through the bus window. Our guide — Chiara, who somehow remembered everyone’s name — pointed out little towns as we curved toward Lake Como. The lake itself just appeared, all glassy and blue, with those mountains crowding in. There was this faint smell of wet stone and coffee when we stepped off for the ferry. I nearly tripped on the ramp because I was staring at the villas across the water — you know that feeling when it’s almost too much to take in at once?

The boat ride to Bellagio was quieter than I expected. People mostly whispered or just leaned over the railings, watching sunlight skip across the lake. Chiara told us about one villa that had hosted writers and actors — she laughed when someone asked if George Clooney would be waving from his balcony (he wasn’t). In Bellagio, we wandered those steep cobblestone streets; my shoes slipped a bit on the smooth stones. There was a bakery with warm brioche smells drifting out, and I ducked in for an espresso that tasted like burnt sugar and comfort. Two hours felt like ten minutes.

After another quick ferry hop (I kept losing track of which side of the lake we were on), our bus wound up toward Switzerland. Crossing into Lugano was oddly subtle — just a sign and suddenly everything felt more orderly? Maybe it was in my head. The city had this calm energy: people walking slow along the lakefront, ducks paddling under willow trees. Someone in our group bought chocolate at a tiny shop; I tried a piece and it melted instantly, so rich it made me laugh out loud. We strolled through a park where old men played chess under chestnut trees. Didn’t expect to feel so relaxed after all that moving around.

The drive back to Milan was quiet — some folks slept, others scrolled through photos. I kept thinking about how light looked on the water near Bellagio, or that first taste of Swiss chocolate in Lugano. It’s funny how these small moments stick longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lake Como and Lugano tour

• Depart Milan by air-conditioned bus
• Board ferry to Bellagio
• Free time in Bellagio
• Board ferry to Menaggio/Cadenabbia
• Travel by bus to Lugano
• Stroll Lugano city streets
• Taste Swiss chocolate
• Walk along Lugano lakefront promenade
• Relax in lakeside park
• Enjoy scenic lakeside walk
• Return to Milan in evening

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Milan to Lake Como & Lugano?

The tour lasts approximately one full day with morning departure from Milan and evening return.

Is hotel pickup included for this Lake Como & Lugano tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; departure is by private bus or minibus from a set meeting point in Milan.

Do I need my passport for this tour into Switzerland?

Yes, you need a valid passport or EU identity card for crossing into Switzerland (Lugano).

How much free time do we get in Bellagio?

You have about two hours of free time to explore Bellagio during the tour.

Are ferry tickets included between Lake Como towns?

Yes, round-trip ferry transfers between Menaggio/Cadenabbia and Bellagio are included.

Is there time to buy Swiss chocolate in Lugano?

Yes, there is free time in Lugano where you can visit shops and try local Swiss chocolate.

What kind of vehicle is used for transportation?

The tour uses an air-conditioned private bus or minibus for comfort during transfers.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No lunch is included; you have free time to eat where you like in Bellagio or Lugano.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip travel by private air-conditioned bus from Milan, return ferry transfers between Menaggio/Cadenabbia and Bellagio on Lake Como, plenty of free time in both Bellagio and Lugano to wander or snack as you please, plus stories and guidance from an expert local guide before heading back to Milan in the evening.