Lake Como’s prettiest village offers several outstanding touring options. The best values are the shared 1-hour boat rides – perfect for budget travelers who want postcard views of Bellagio and Tremezzo without breaking the bank. Active travelers will appreciate the 3-hour guided hike with Jeep transfers, which combines exercise with spectacular lake vistas.
For those who can splurge, private boat tours lasting 5 hours or more deliver the full Lake Como experience, including stops at the magnificent Villa del Balbianello. I especially love the sunset shared tour – it’s timed perfectly to catch the golden light on the water and lakeside villages.
Let’s explore the top tour options in detail:
Key Points
- The Shared Sunset Boat Tour offers a scenic 1-hour cruise along Lake Como, highlighting landmarks like Villa del Balbianello and Grand Hotel Tremezzo.
- Magnificent Hiking Tours provide a 3-hour guided hike with Jeep/SUV transfer, catering to a small group of up to 8 participants.
- The Lake Como Shared Boat Tour provides a 1-hour intimate cruise for capturing picturesque landscapes and charming villages.
- The Grand Private Tour 5 Hours Invictus Boat offers a customizable 5-hour luxury private boat experience for up to 6 people.
- The Private Luxury Boat Tour of Lake Como allows for a personalized 1 to 6-hour excursion to iconic spots like Villa Del Balbianello and Varenna.
The Varenna: Shared Sunset Boat Tour With a Prosecco Aperitif offers visitors a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of Lake Como from the comfort of a Venetian water taxi.
This 1-hour tour departs from the public pier in Varenna, providing a scenic route past picturesque villages like Bellagio, Tremezzo, and San Giovanni.
Passengers can enjoy the tour’s highlights, including views of Villa del Balbianello, Grand Hotel Tremezzo, and the lakeside promenades, while sipping on a complimentary bottle of prosecco.
With an audio guide available in multiple languages, guests can learn about the area’s landmarks and history as they capture the lakeside charm on camera.
Limited to 8 participants, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
Priced at $114.72 per person, the tour receives an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 18 reviews, making it a top choice for those seeking a sunset boat tour in Varenna.
Read our full review: Varenna: Shared Sunset Boat Tour With a Prosecco Aperitif Review
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Magnificent Hiking Tours
One of the top tours in Varenna is the Magnificent Hiking Tours, offering visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Lake Como region. Priced from $155.39 per person, this small-group tour is valid for 3 hours and limited to 8 participants.
Pickup locations include Como, Lecco, Varenna, Milan, and Bellagio, with a 40-minute Jeep/SUV transfer to the hiking trails. The guided hike lasts for 2.5 hours, providing panoramic views of Lake Como and the Italian Alps.
Suitable for all skill levels, the tour includes a personal English-speaking guide, a nutrition bar, and water during the hike. Customers can enjoy a picnic with local cuisine after the hike. With an overall 5/5 rating based on one review, the Magnificent Hiking Tours ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Certain restrictions apply, as the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, altitude sickness, or high blood pressure. Proper footwear, such as comfortable shoes, is required.
Read our full review: Magnificent Hiking Tours Review
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A popular choice among visitors to Varenna is the Lake Como Shared Boat Tour, which offers an intimate and scenic cruise through the stunning landscapes of the region.
This 1-hour tour departs from V
Read our full review: Varenna: Lake Como Shared Boat Tour Review
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Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 Hours Invictus Boat
For those seeking a more intimate and exclusive Lake Como experience, the Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 Hours Invictus Boat offers a luxurious and personalized exploration of the region.
This private boat tour takes guests on a 5-hour journey aboard the Invictus, a high-end wooden boat, providing a unique and memorable way to discover the lake’s picturesque towns and stunning scenery.
Guests can customize their itinerary, choosing to visit charming villages like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, or explore the lake’s hidden gems.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from the departure point, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.
With a maximum capacity of up to 6 people, this private tour offers a more personalized and exclusive experience compared to larger group tours.
Priced at $685.20 for up to 2 people, the Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 Hours Invictus Boat is an excellent choice for those seeking a luxurious and tailored Lake Como adventure.
Read our full review: Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 Hours Invictus Boat Review
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Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat
Offering a captivating way to explore the beauty of Lake Como, the Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat immerses guests in the lake’s picturesque scenery and historic charm.
Priced at €657.00 per group (up to 2 people), this private excursion on a classic wooden boat allows visitors to customize the duration from 1 to 6 hours. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour provides the flexibility to plan around changing schedules.
Highlights of the experience include visiting charming towns, elegant lakeside villas, and notable sites like Villa Melzi Gardens in Bellagio. Guests can also take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters and enjoy beverages during the cruise.
The tour departs from various locations, including Bellagio, Menaggio, Varenna, and Tremezzo, offering convenient access points. With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 14 reviews, the Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat is a highly recommended way to immerse in the captivating beauty of Lake Como.
Read our full review: Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat Review
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Private Luxury Boat Tour of Lake Como With Stops & Drinks
Exploring the breathtaking scenery of Lake Como has never been more luxurious than with the Private Luxury Boat Tour. Priced from €439.00 per group (up to 2 people), this 1- to 6-hour tour offers a personalized experience with a private boat and driver.
Guests can discover iconic spots like Villa Del Balbianello, Varenna, and Isola Comacina, as well as filming locations from House of Gucci and Star Wars. The tour includes visits to charming towns, historic villas, and manicured Italian gardens, allowing guests to fully enjoy the lake’s beauty and charm.
Amenities like bottled water, soda, and alcoholic beverages are provided, along with towels. The boat tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and pets aren’t allowed. Travelers are advised to dress comfortably and bring a windbreaker, hat, and sunscreen, depending on the season.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 16 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable experience exploring the enchanting Lake Como.
Read our full review: Private Luxury Boat Tour of Lake Como With Stops & Drinks Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Local Restaurants in Varenna?
Varenna’s local restaurants offer stunning lakeside views and authentic Italian cuisine. Favorites include Il Caminetto, which serves fresh seafood, and Quatro Pass, known for its homemade pasta dishes. Visitors rave about the region’s exceptional wine and gelato offerings as well.
How Accessible Is Varenna for Travelers With Mobility Issues?
Varenna is generally accessible for travelers with mobility issues, with flat streets and some accessible hotels and restaurants. However, the town’s steep hills and steps may pose challenges for those with limited mobility. Assistance is available, but travelers should research accessibility options before visiting.
Are There Any Child-Friendly Activities or Tours Available?
There are several child-friendly activities and tours available in Varenna. Families can explore the town’s historic sites, take a boat tour of Lake Como, or visit the beautiful gardens and parks. Many local businesses also offer kid-friendly experiences.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Varenna?
The best time to visit Varenna is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Summertime can get quite hot and busy, while winters may be chilly but offer fewer travelers.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals for Tours in Varenna?
Many tour providers in Varenna offer discounted packages, especially during the shoulder seasons. Visitors can find deals on guided tours, boat tours, and multi-day packages that bundle accommodations and activities. Researching ahead can help travelers save on their Varenna experience.
The Sum Up
Varenna offers a wide range of captivating tours for visitors to explore the stunning Lake Como region. From shared sunset boat tours with Prosecco to private luxury boat excursions, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests and budget. Whether you prefer a leisurely cruise or an adventurous hike, Varenna provides an array of unforgettable experiences to make the most of your time in this picturesque Italian destination.