You ever watch James Bond, see all of the exotic locations and think, “Man, I’d really like to take a vacation there!”? If so, then Lake Como is the Italian destination you should be visiting.
You’ll see flashy sports cars driving through narrow streets that take you past charming villages and towns overlooking the pristine lake. It’s not all about showing off riches, though – there’s plenty of history and beautiful architecture around the natural magnificence of Lake Como.
If you’re looking to make the most out of it, check out the top day trips to Lake Como!
Best Day Trips To Lake Como From Milan
| Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Train Day Trip From Milan | Lake Como PRIVATE Guided Tour | Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano Bus Day Trip From Milan | |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Budget Tour | Best Private Tour | Best Value Tour | |
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 |  |  | |
| Departure: | Variety available | Hotel pickup and drop-off included | Milan Porta Garibaldi Train Station |
| Start: | Contact tour operator | Between 8:00 to 8:30 am | Contact tour operator |
| Duration: | 13 hours | 7 to 8 hours | 10.5 hours |
| Includes: | Luxury coach, guide, earphones, 1-hour lake cruise by private boat, walking tour in St. Moritz, pre-booked train ticket from St. Moritz to Tirano | Private guided tour, air-conditioned private transportation, WiFi on board | Guide, headsets (if needed), ticket for a 2-hour Lake Como boat cruise, free time in the towns of Lugano and Bellagio, all transfers by air-conditioned bus |
Quick Answer: The 7 Best Lake Como Day Trips From Milan For 2024
- Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Train Day Trip From Milan
- Lake Como PRIVATE Guided Tour
- Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano Bus Day Trip From Milan
- Lake Como Day Trip from Milan: Varenna, Bellagio, and Tremezzo – small group
- Private Lake Como and surrounding wine region tour from Milan
- Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Day Tour From Milan
- Private Tour: Lake Como From Milan with Private Driver and Private Boat
Day Trips to Lake Como Reviews
1. Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Train Day Trip From Milan
- Duration: 13 hours
- Departure: Variety available
- Departure Time: Contact tour operator
- Includes: Transportation by luxury coach, professional tourist guide, earphones, 1-hour lake cruise by private boat, walking tour in St. Moritz, pre-booked train ticket from St. Moritz to Tirano (2nd class)
If you’re looking for the most comprehensive tour of the area, the From Milan: Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Train Day Trip is it. While also one of the longest, it manages to pack in some of the top destinations in Italy.
If you want to see, explore, and learn more about authentic Italian culture, make sure to put this one on your list. Start off by boarding a luxury coach, which is nice and comfortable throughout the entire time.
It comes with nicely-padded seats, plenty of leg room, air conditioning, and large windows so your views of Italy’s natural landscapes go unobstructed. Your first stop of the day is in the historic town of Lecco – an amazing alpine city right on the shores of the lake.
Once you arrive to Lake Como, you’ll board a private boat and cruise leisurely across the calm waters in the morning.
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Many times, you’ll avoid the crowds and have much of the lake to yourself. Take in the breathtaking views, enjoy the sound of the gentle waters, and watch out for gorgeous villages like Bellagio and Varenna (among others).
Then, head to St. Moritz on your coach and see the sweeping valleys and dramatic landscapes like Chiavenna and Bregaglia. Once you arrive in St. Moritz, you’ll have time to stroll around, see the craftsmanship, while sipping on a freshly-brewed coffee or hot chocolate.
After fueling up, board the Bernina Red Train, where you’ll get even more impressive views along a route known as one of the most beautiful in the world.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
Other Milan Experiences You May Enjoy:
2. Lake Como PRIVATE Guided Tour
- Duration: 7 to 8 hours
- Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off included
- Departure Time: Between 8:00 to 8:30 am
- Includes: Private guided tour, air-conditioned private transportation, WiFi on board
Next, we bring you one of the shortest tours of its kind, so if you don’t want to do the whole day trip, it’s a nice alternative. The Lake Como Private Guided Tour clocks in at around 7 to 8 hours, and offers you a kind of VIP experience.
With a guide who knows the area like the back of their hand, you can be assured to see the best Lake Como has to offer! Pickup starts around 8 to 8:30 am, and with included hotel pickup and drop-off you don’t have to worry about leaving your accommodations earlier to meet at a pickup spot.
Your guide will meet you in your lobby, where you’ll then board a private van with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi to keep connected at all times, and more. Your guide is likely to be born and raised in the area, so you can count on an exquisite account of everywhere you visit.
They offer amazing insight into Lake Como, as well as the surrounding villas and cities.
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You’ll first see Cernobbio, home to some of the most gorgeous villas in all of Italy. Their Villa Bernasconi dates back to the early 20th century, and clearly originates form Art Nouveau inspiration.
Next up is Sala Comacina, Lenno Villa Balbianello, and Cadenabbia where you’ll take a ferry out on the lake to Bellagio. Bellagio is a sight to behold, with its charming cobblestone streets, fancy buildings, and 18th-century Villa Serbelloni Park. It’s also a great place to see Romanesque architecture, art, great boutiques, and tasty restaurants.
Speaking of art and food, Magreglio is a wonderful spot for both. You’ll have plenty of time here, checking out traditional cafes, new restaurants, and breathtaking sights over the lake.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
3. Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano Bus Day Trip From Milan
- Duration: 10.5 hours
- Departure: Milan Porta Garibaldi Train Station
- Departure Time: Contact tour operator
- Includes: English-speaking guide, headsets (if needed) to hear your guide, ticket for a 2-hour Lake Como boat cruise, free time in the towns of Lugano and Bellagio, all transfers by air-conditioned bus
Next up, we bring you another one of the most popular Italian tours. The From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano Bus Day Trip is a 10.5-hour excursion is a wonderful way to explore some of the most beautiful parts of the country (and that’s really saying something!).
You’ll even cross the border into southern Switzerland, experiencing the Swiss Alps natural beauty, as well. Escape the busy city life and hop on an air-conditioned coach with comfortable seats and big windows for prime viewing of the picturesque Alpine outdoors.
In less than an hour, you’ll cross the border and arrive in Switzerland. Head first to Lugano, where you’ll not only enjoy amazing vistas, but great coffee and shopping options. We highly recommend strolling through and seeing Chiesa di Santa Maria di Loreto church.
Due to the small group size and obviously knowledgeable guides, you have the chance to ask them anything you’d like about the area’s history.
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They’re also skilled at making sure to offer interesting commentary along the way, so you really do learn quite a bit.
Next up, it’s back to the Italian side, for the world-renowned Bellagio, aka, the “Pearl of Lake Como”. Once there, you’ll also have some time to spend as you wish. Shopping, sampling the local eats, grabbing a drink, or simply enjoying the architecture and vibe of this elegant city – it’s all yours for the taking.
Then, take a 2-hour boat cruise across the lake and see this amazing landscape from another perspective. The villas from this viewpoint are out of this world, and you’ll see those which have hosted Hollywood blockbuster film sets like Star Wars and James Bond.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
4. Lake Como Day Trip from Milan: Varenna, Bellagio, and Tremezzo – small group
- Duration: 9 hours
- Departure: Central Station area, Milan
- Departure Time: 8:00 am
- Includes: Professional guide, round-trip train travel between Milan and Varenna, walking tours in Varenna and Bellagio
If that tour sounds fascinating to you, but you’re looking for something a bit shorter, we have a great alternative in mind. The Lake Como Day Trip from Milan: Varenna, Bellagio, and Tremezzo Small Group Tour features a lot of the same sights and experiences but is 4 hours shorter.
You’ll get to see all of the highlights and board various modes of transportation for an interesting time full of natural and manmade beauty.
Meet with your guide and the rest of your group at Central Station, conveniently located in the middle of Milan. Everone will board the train, which is incredibly relaxing and offers phenomenal views.
You’ll head straight to Varenna first, where you’ll appreciate the fantastic architecture and its old-school Italian charm. Located on the eastern shore of the lake, you can see the central part towards Bellagio.
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One of the crowd favorites is checking out the charming, winding lanes and old fishermen homes which offers a more “homey” feel rather than opulent.
The next stop is Bellagio, which is dripping in luxury. Take a boat cruise here from Varenna, and see all that the “Pearl of the Lake” has to offer. 5-star hotels, top-notch restaurants, various shopping options, and of course, incredible lakeside views. Here, you’ll have plenty of time to walk around, eat lunch, and shop.
After lunch, you’ll head over to Tremezzo and Villa Carlotta. Villa Carlotta is a great place for lovers of art and Neoclassical design, Their over 70,000 square meters of gardens and museum space exhibits all kinds of renowned works, including some by Antonio Canova.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
Search For Milan Experiences You May Enjoy:
5. Private Lake Como Tour & Surrounding Wine Region Tour from Milan
- Duration: 10 to 11 hours
- Departure: Contact tour operator
- Departure Time: 8:00 am
- Includes: Private Driver/professional guide, round trip train ticket Milan-Varenna, bottled water, air-conditioned car, van or mini bus
Are you a fan of wine, delicious meat and cheese plates, and beautiful scenery? If so, then you’re in the right place because the Private Lake Como and Surrounding Wine Region Tour from Milan has all that and more.
Lasting 10 to 11 hours, you’re going to learn, taste, and see authentic Italy like it was meant to be! Your guide is a local to the area, and will be able to customize the tour quite a bit to ensure you get to see the parts of the region that interest you most.
Many of these places are off the beaten path, known only to locals! There are various pickup spots available and you’ll head out quite early in the morning in order to fit everything in.
First, head to the charming villa of Varenna, where you’ll enjoy beautiful waterfront views and have some time to walk around the historical piazza and the legendary “path of love”.
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Next, make a stop in the old-world town of Morbegno where you’ll have time to sample some homemade cheeses and wine in underground cellars! After, everyone will drive around the Italian side of the Alps to search for a restaurant with local dishes for lunch!
Hop back in the air-conditioned vehicle, and drive around where you’ll drive closer to the exquisitely Italian terraced vineyards, stopping to see Nebbiolo plants, grapes, and more.
You’ll even have time to visit a winery, where they’ll teach you all about how they produce their special wines, where production takes place, how to barrel-age, and more. After taking in all that knowledge, sit down for a pleasant wine tasting of various types they offer in-house!
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
6. Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Day Tour From Milan
- Duration: 10 to 11 hours
- Departure: Contact tour operator
- Departure Time: Contact tour operator
- Includes: Transportation by luxury bus, professional tourist guide, headphones for the tour, alking tour in Como, 1-hour lake cruise by private boat
Next up, is the From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Day Tour. This is a wonderful introduction to Italy, and will give you plenty of time to learn from your guide while also having time to stroll around and see exactly what you want.
If you’re looking for an excellent family trip, we can’t recommend this one enough! Start out by meeting up with your guide and the rest of your group early in the morning, and board a luxury bus. You’ll be provided headphones for the tour as well, so you can hear your guide clearly.
Your guide will tell you all about the history and cultural relevance of each area you encounter so you learn as you go. This is a fantastic way to see 3 different branches of the lake – each of which feature varied landscapes and vibes.
First, you’ll see the actual town of Como, where you’ll partake in a leisurely walking tour of the city center. Visit the beautiful, neoclassical Villa Olmo, the enormous surrounding park, and buildings around it.
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Next up, relax a bit on a calm lake cruise on a private boat. This is a wonderfully serene experience where you really get to take some time to soak it all up. Your guide will offer some highlights on the history, and point out notable locations around the lake.
Once you’re on land, check out the luxurious Bellagio. Known for its elegant villas which overlook the water, small alleyways, and rustic Italian charm, it’s no wonder why it’s known as “the pearl” of Lake Como.
Make sure to check out the traditional village of Varenna on the eastern shore, too. This romantic town full of lush foliage, 14th-century churches, botanical gardens, museums, and much more.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
7. Private Lake Como Tour From Milan with Private Driver and Private Boat
- Duration: 8 to 10 hours
- Departure: Contact tour operator
- Departure Time: Morning
- Includes: Private tour, hotel pickup and drop-off, private driver, private boat tour (optional), flexible itinerary that you can customize
If you’re into that luxury, VIP life then you’ll love this tour. The Private Tour: Lake Como from Milan with Private Driver and Private Boat tells you exactly how you’re going to be traveling – in style!
With your experienced local guide, you’ll be able to see all the hidden gems along with the biggest tourist attractions around the lake. This 8 to 10 hour tour starts off with you and your group being picked up at your hotel or other accommodations.
Your private driver is there to make sure you get a customized tour catered to what you and your group want to see most. The luxury sedan or minivan that you’re riding in is very comfortable, air-conditioned, and spacious.
You’re likely to start off at the beautiful Villa Balbianello, known for its Villa and gardens which made for a great Star Wars film set! You’ll have plenty of time to explore, take pictures, and hear all about its history.
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Next, will be a relaxing ferry ride to Bellagio, which is the opulent town known around the world for its top-notch hotels, restaurants, shopping, and more. If you’d like, you can also take some time to go shopping, eat lunch, or just walk around.
If you prefer, you can opt to do a 60-minute tour on a private luxury boat where you’ll see the most beautiful branch of the lake and check out the breathtaking villas on land. Regardless of what you select, you can plan on the tour being meticulously-planned according to your preferences!
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
Milan Tour Guide
Getting There
Located in the north of Italy, Milan is easy to get to by both land and air. This is the easiest city to get to from the US, though varies a bit depending on the city you’re departing from. Finding non-stop flights can be a bit more challenging, however, there are some from Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Boston (BOS), Houston (IAH), and Dallas (DFW).
Alitalia, Delta, and United all offer non-stop options from Newark to Milan, though all flights from the US fly into Milan’s Malpensa Airport.
Getting Around
Milan is one of the easiest cities to get around, thanks to its layout, and the fact that most of the main tourist attractions are located in the historic center.
Walking – Milan is a very walkable city, and the locals usually do this as their main form of transportation.
Public Transportation – If you’re a newbie to using public transportation, Milan’s is the perfect introduction. While most cities seem to use different, more complicated ticketing systems between metros, buses, and trams, Milan’s is all the same.
No matter which of the 3 you’re using, all are 1.50 Euro, and each ticket is valid for 90 minutes. During that hour-and-a-half, you can use as many buses and trams as you’d like. However, you can only change trains on one Metro journey with a ticket.
If you plan on using their public transportation more than a couple of times, it’s probably best you just get a “carnet”. These are a 10-tiket package for under 14 Euro. You may also like the 24-hour, 48-hour, and weeklong unlimited passes.
There are 17 tram lines in Milan, but they do cover certain areas that buses do not. Some are over 100 years old, and they not only operate well, but are beautiful pieces of history.
Taxis – Taxis aren’t the easiest to hail in Milan, due to the fact that they can’t stop anywhere they’d like to pick up passengers. There are various cab companies, and you have to go to that specific stand to order one. If it’s not in a busier or touristy area, you may have to call one from the phone at the taxi stand which will connect you to their dispatch.
Bike – The city’s BikeMi program consists of over 200 stations throughout Milan, with subscriptions lasting anywhere from 1 day to a full year. It’s pretty easy to ride around in Milan, if you’re already used to cycling.
Where to Stay
Milan is often known as a capital of fashion, and sees a lot of tourism as well as visitors for work and conferences. This obviously makes for a lot of massive chain hotels, shopping centers, and things that may not feel too “authentic”. However, if you know the places and areas of where to stay, you can make sure to have a genuine Italian experience.
Brera – Located just northwest of the city center, sits the trendy neighborhood of Brera. You’ll find a bit less traffic here, along with plenty of locals and tourists. If you’re into art, you’ll love the proximity to the famous “Pinocotera de Brera” art museum.
Not only that, but you’ll be really close to the Castello Sforza, Park Sempione, and the Duomo. If you really want to see some cool architecture history, make sure to walk a bit past the castle to see Santa Maria delle Grazie, which is portrayed in Da Vinci’s world-renowned “Last Supper”.
San Lorenzo – Are you going with your significant other and want a romantic getaway? Perhaps you just love that more “legitimate” Italian vibe. Whatever the case may be, you’ll surely love San Lorenzo.
Located southwest of the Duomo, it’s perfect for venturing through little boutique shops, charming restaurants with traditional cuisine, and more.
Navigli District – Located in southern Milan, this is party central. Your bar, restaurant, and shopping options are limitless and so is Happy Hour, aka, “aperitivo”. Literally, there are bars that offer practically endless free food if you buy a drink. If you’re into electronic music, this is your neighborhood.
Porta Nuovo – Are you a foodie? Look no further than Porta Nuovo. The Eataly complex is a must-try! This 4-story center is all about Italian cuisine. You’ll have so many options among meats, cheeses, pastas, wines, olives, and all things “Italian” you won’t know what to do with it.
For larger budgets, we highly recommend checking out the Montenapoleone area which is known for its various Michelin-starred restaurants.
San Babila and Porta Venezia – If you want to experience Milan like a local, either one of these neighborhoods are great options. You’ll see exactly why Milan is known as such a fashion hub, there well-dressed locals walk down the beautiful streets with 17th-century pieces of art and architecture lining them.
Piazza del Duomo – If this is your first time in the city, you absolutely can’t go wrong with Piazza del Duomo. Located right in the heart of Milan, it’s home to the Duomo di Milano – a magical Gothic cathedral complete with a marble interior and some of the best views of the city on the rooftop!
Make sure to check out other notable sites, like The Camparini bar, which has been in business serving cocktails for over a century!
Restaurants and Eating Out
First off, you should know that each area of Italy has its own specialties or dishes. In Milan, it’s risotto and ossobuco. Risotto alla Milanese is a creamy, satisfying dish made with saffron, beef stock, lots of butter, and of course, fresh parmesan. Despite this being such a famous Milanese dish, don’t bet on being able to find a good ossobuco or risotto just anywhere in the city.
Il Solferino – But if you do want some delicious risotto, this is the place to go. Not only that, but they offer a massive wine selection and an absolutely magnificent negroni!
Berberé – If you want some amazing pizza, you can’t beat this spot. Made with fresh sourdough and all locally-sourced ingredients, it goes perfectly with their extensive beer list.
Panini De Santis – Who doesn’t love a melty, perfectly-grilled panini? There are so many dozens of panini options, that you will just have to keep coming back! Expect fresh ingredients, various types of cheeses, meats, creams, and more.
Ratanà – It may be one of those “mainstream” options that you always see recommended to tourists, but this is also due to its incredible consistency, amazing history, and just delicious, authentic local cuisine.
First off, the building it’s housed in is absolutely beautiful. It’s the perfect place to grab a glass of wine and some appetizers on date night, or enjoy the great weather and crunchy polenta at one of their outdoor tables. Oh, it also boasts a delicious risotto!
L’Antico Ristorante Boeucc – Having been around since 1696, you can bet they’ve definitely had time to perfect Milanese cuisine. While their menu is always changing, they’re famous for risotto alla Milanese, Mondeghili homestyle meatballs, and ossobuco.
God Save The Food – This is definitely a more trendy, hip spot that offers everything from fresh salads and sandwiches, to soups, hummus plates, fruit, and yogurt bowls. There are 4 different locations around the city, so pick the one that works best for you.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Rita – One of the most well-known aperitivo (Happy Hour) bars in the city, it’s managed to create great cocktails for 20 years now. You can expect a very laidback vibe and friendly staff and patrons along with interesting flavor combinations in both food and drink.
Dolce & Gabbana Bar Martini – As you can probably already guess from the name, this bar is absolutely the epitome of luxury. Located right next to the D&G Man boutique, their garden room is full of plants hanging from the ceiling, coming up from the floor (in pots, of course), and reflective black surfaces everywhere. It’s certainly a “cool” place to visit and have a drink or two.
Wine Bar
N’Ombra de Vin – This is certainly more French than Italian, but it’s worth going to because of its massive underground wine cellar! The vaulted stone ceilings are authentic, original, and impressive. You’ll find a mostly younger crowd with great DJs playing, along with live music occasionally.
Lacerba – This is another calm, laidback spot with a beautiful rustic design, phenomenal cocktails of all types, and delicious snacks to keep you snacking all night!
Nightclubs
Tempio del Futuro Perduto – If you’re into underground parties, this is the best option. This labyrinth-like club has an on-site library, a room filled with clothes to be donated to charity, and even a vinyl store and dancing school in the day time. They have a garden with barbecues, DJs, and live music in the summer, too.
At night, you’ll enjoy a quality Funktion One sound system purveying the music of top international techno artists.
Masada – If you’re looking for a daytime party, it’s hard to beat this place. DJs, theatrical performances, concerts, workshops, and more are all hosted here. More international techno DJs come here too, so there’s really something for everyone.
Amnesia – One of the biggest names in club culture, this is also one of the most popular clubs in Milan. You can count on the biggest names in electronic music to be here, along with fashion shows, and more.
Weather
Milan definitely gets seasons, so make sure you plan your trip around your ideal season. In the summertime, it can be warm and humid, but not overwhelmingly hot most of the time. From June to August tend to be the most popular times to go.
The wintertime can be very cold, though January tends to be the coldest month. Unless you love the cold, we do recommend avoiding this time.
Attractions
Il Duomo – Ah, the legendary Il Duomo. It’s one of the best examples of Gothic style popularized around much of western Europe. While construction began all the way back in the 14th century, the façade wasn’t complete until the early 1800’s under Napoleon. Talk about dedication!
Da Vinci’s Last Supper – Here, you’ll see the Gothic brick church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in the Corso Magenta, which started in approximately 1465. While the church alone is worth seeing, you have to see the masterpiece it holds: Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper.
Castello Sforzesco – Built originally in 1368 then rebuilt in 1450, this castle houses a series of museums. From sculptures, musical history, Egyptian and prehistoric antiquities, to weapons and medieval armor, there’s definitely something for everyone.
Pinacoteca di Brera – This piece of Renaissance history was constructed somewhere between 1651 and 1773. It not only holds the Pinacoteca di Brera art museum, but a library and observatory as well.
Teatro alla Scala – Known as the most prestigious opera house in the world, La Scala theater seats almost 3,000 people. Running from December to May, it’s best to acquire tickets through your hotel concierge or checking the box office.
Tips
- Never order a cappuccino after lunch. This is really weird for a lot of Italians as they believe anything with milk in the afternoon will hamper digestion. However, feel free to order any non-milk drinks later in the day.
- Plan ahead to see The Last Supper. Online reservations may show that they’re unavailable, but if you can call the ticket hotline you’ll sometimes luck out!
- Use the tram. While they’re about 100 years old, they’ve been modernized and are not only a great way to get around but to sightsee.
- Try aperitivos. They basically offer free food, and who can say no to that in Milan?
- Avoid the Duomo at night. You’ll save a lot of money this way.
Sites Seen
Tour Guides
Value
The Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Train Trip is our Editors Choice for the best Lake Cuomo day trip from Milan
