From Milan: Lakeside Villas On Lake Como With Ferries

Exploring the enchanting villas and gardens of Lake Como is a must-do when visiting northern Italy. Setting out from Milan, you’ll embark on a self-guided journey that promises breathtaking scenery and a glimpse into the region’s rich history. With efficient public boat transfers, you’ll have the freedom to learn about the serene ambiance of these lakeside gems, from the historic Villa Monastero to the impressive Villa Carlotta. But the real gem? Discovering the charming town of Bellagio, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Lake Como.’ Where this captivating adventure leads next is up to you.

Key Points

A self-guided tour from Milan to Lake Como, exploring renowned villas, gardens, and the charming town of Bellagio via public boat transfers.
The one-hour scenic train ride from Milan to Varenna is a budget-friendly and practical day trip option.
Visit Villa Monastero, a historic estate with lush botanical gardens and impressive Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
Explore the renowned Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, featuring an art collection, breathtaking gardens, and rich cultural heritage.
Discover the scenic town of Bellagio, known as the ‘Pearl of Lake Como,’ with its cobblestone streets, boutiques, and promenade along the Lungo Lario.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Tour Overview

This self-guided tour whisks visitors from Milan to the picturesque shores of Lake Como, offering a chance to explore the region’s renowned villas and gardens.

The itinerary starts at Milano Centrale station, where you’ll board a train for the scenic one-hour ride to Varenna.

From there, you’ll visit the stunning Villa Monastero, Villa Carlotta, and the charming town of Bellagio, before ending your day at Villa Melzi d’Eril.

Transfers between the sites are made easy with public boat services, and the full-day boat pass is included in the tour.

With a convenient duration of just one day, this budget-friendly excursion allows you to learn about the beauty of Lake Como without the hassle of planning everything yourself.

Departure From Milan

Visitors depart Milano Centrale station by train for the scenic one-hour ride to Varenna, the starting point of their self-guided tour of Lake Como’s renowned villas and gardens.

This budget-friendly and practical day trip allows them to:

Explore the historic Villa Monastero and its stunning botanical gardens
Admire the magnificent Villa Carlotta and its impressive art collection
Discover the charming village of Bellagio, known as the ‘Pearl of Lake Como’
Stroll through the lush grounds of the Villa Melzi d’Eril
Enjoy the convenience of public boat transfers between these lakeside gems

With the train tickets, entrance fees, and boat passes included, visitors can simply sit back, relax, and soak in the serene beauty of Lake Como at their own pace.

Villa Monastero

Villa Monastero is a historic estate nestled along the shores of Lake Como, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Spread across lush botanical gardens, the villa boasts an impressive collection of rare plants and flowers, as well as intricately designed terraces and pathways that afford stunning views of the surrounding lake and mountains.

The villa’s interiors showcase exquisite examples of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, with lavishly decorated rooms and halls that transport visitors back in time.

An absolute must-visit on any tour of Lake Como, Villa Monastero provides a serene and picturesque setting to explore the natural beauty and architectural wonders of this enchanting Italian destination.

Villa Carlotta

After exploring the captivating Villa Monastero, the tour continues to the renowned Villa Carlotta, another jewel along the shores of Lake Como.

Situated in the picturesque town of Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta boasts an impressive collection of art, including sculptures and paintings, as well as breathtaking botanical gardens that showcase a diverse array of flora.

Visitors can stroll through the lush gardens, admire the ornate interiors, and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this magnificent villa.

The tour offers a chance to experience the beauty and charm of Villa Carlotta, making it a must-visit destination on any Lake Como itinerary.

Admire the villa’s impressive art collection
Explore the stunning botanical gardens
Discover the villa’s rich cultural history
Enjoy the picturesque town of Tremezzo
Enjoy the beauty of Lake Como

Bellagio

The ferry ride to Bellagio transports visitors across the serene waters of Lake Como, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and lakeside villas.

Bellagio, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Lake Como,’ enchants with its meandering cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and renowned boutiques and restaurants.

Strolling through Bellagio’s historic center, visitors can admire the elegant buildings, grand hotels, and quaint shops selling local crafts and delicacies.

The town’s promenade, known as the Lungo Lario, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.

Whether exploring the villa gardens, indulging in regional cuisine, or simply soaking in the serene ambiance, Bellagio offers a quintessential Lake Como experience.

Villa Melzi D’eril

Situated along the picturesque shores of Lake Como, Villa Melzi d’Eril captivates visitors with its stunning Renaissance-style architecture and impeccably manicured gardens.

Tourists can stroll through the villa’s expansive grounds, admiring the diverse array of botanical specimens and picturesque vistas of the surrounding lake and mountains.

While the private property of the villa isn’t accessible, visitors are welcome to explore the villa’s lush gardens, which feature:

Blooming flowers and exotic plant species
Charming statues and fountains
Panoramic views of the lake and Alps
Tranquil walking paths and scenic benches
A small museum showcasing the villa’s history

This serene lakeside retreat offers a peaceful respite for those exploring the enchanting landscapes of Lake Como.

Return to Milan

Visitors wrap up their tour of the lakeside villas by taking the public boat back to Varenna, where they catch the train to return to Milano Centrale station in Milan.

The train ride back to the city takes about an hour.

This self-guided day trip provides a budget-friendly way to explore the famous villas and gardens along Lake Como.

The included train tickets, entrance fees, and boat pass make it easy to visit multiple sites without breaking the bank.

With a flexible cancellation policy, travelers can plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

Important Information

This self-guided tour offers a budget-friendly way to explore Lake Como’s famous villas and gardens, with a flexible cancellation policy that allows travelers to adjust their plans if needed. Visitors can’t access the private property of Villa Melzi d’Eril, but they can explore the beautiful gardens. Boat schedules are subject to change, so travelers should double-check the timing before their trip.

Key tips for an enjoyable experience:

Be mindful of accessibility – the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users
Bring comfortable shoes for walking between villas
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake
Arrive early to avoid crowds at popular attractions
Familiarize yourself with the public boat schedules

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lunch Included in the Tour Package?

The tour package does not include lunch. Visitors will need to budget for their own meals during the self-guided tour. There are various dining options around the lakeside villas that can be explored at the traveler’s discretion.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Villas?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the villas, but policies may vary. It’s best to check with staff on arrival. Some villas may have restricted areas or prohibit flash photography to preserve the historic interiors.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with transfers between villas done by public boat. Guests can expect to walk around each villa and its grounds, which may take 30-60 minutes per location.

Can I Purchase Snacks or Drinks During the Tour?

Visitors can purchase snacks and drinks at various cafes and shops along the lake during the tour. There are opportunities to grab a quick bite or refreshment as you explore the villas and villages.

Are the Villas Open on Public Holidays?

The villas are generally open on public holidays, but visitors should check the individual villa websites or contact them directly to confirm hours and accessibility, as schedules may vary. Some villas may have reduced hours or be closed on certain holidays.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

Recap

This self-guided tour from Milan to Lake Como is a budget-friendly way to explore the region’s renowned villas and gardens.

With scenic train rides, public boat transfers, and the flexibility to learn about the serene ambiance, it’s a practical and informative experience.

Discover historic Villa Monastero, impressive Villa Carlotta, and the charming town of Bellagio, the ‘Pearl of Lake Como.’