Milan: Bellagio, Varenna, and Lecco Trip with Cruise

Thinking about exploring Italy’s most iconic lakeside scenery without the hassle of planning every detail? This guided tour from Milan offers a well-organized way to experience Lake Como’s most picturesque towns, combined with the comfort of first-class train tickets and expert guidance. It’s designed for travelers who want authentic Italian charm, stunning views, and a taste of local life, all within a manageable day trip.

What we love about this tour is how smoothly it combines transportation, sightseeing, and storytelling—you get to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The skip-the-line boat cruise is a real plus, offering you unobstructed views of the lakeshore. Also, the inclusion of less-touristed spots like Lecco and the Bellano Gorge means you’re not just following the crowds. The one possible drawback? It’s a long day—around 10.5 hours—and requires punctuality, especially for the early start. Still, if you’re a fan of scenic travel and small-group intimacy, this experience fits the bill perfectly.

This trip is ideal for curious travelers who value authenticity over cliché, enjoy public transportation as part of their adventure, and prefer having a knowledgeable guide to unlock the secrets of Lake Como. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate stunning landscapes, charming villages, and a touch of local life.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visits both famous spots like Bellagio and Varenna and lesser-known Lecco or Bellano Gorge.
• Convenient Transport: First-class train tickets and ferry rides make travel comfortable and seamless.
• Expert Guidance: A licensed English-speaking guide ensures you get local insights and avoid tourist traps.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample time in Bellagio and Varenna for wandering, dining, and photos.
• Scenic Cruise: A 1.5-hour skip-the-line boat cruise offers unbeatable lakeside vistas.
• Small Group: Limited to 15 participants, creating an intimate atmosphere and easier interaction.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Lake Como from Milan: A Practical Breakdown

The Journey Begins: Milan to Lake Como

Your day starts early at Piazza Duca d’Aosta outside Milan’s central train station. With a first-class train ticket, you’ll glide through the Italian countryside in comfort—an underrated perk, considering how many other tours rely on buses or less comfortable transport. The 55-minute ride is smooth and scenic, giving you your first glimpses of the lush Lombardy landscape.

Traveling by train enhances the experience because it’s quick, reliable, and environmentally friendly. Plus, the first-class ticket means a quieter cabin and more space—important when you’re planning to start your day energized.

From Lecco to Lake Como: A Hidden Gem

Depending on the schedule, your first stop will be Lecco, a town often overshadowed by Bellagio but equally captivating. Known as the setting of Alessandro Manzoni’s novel “The Betrothed,” Lecco feels more like real life—locals go about their day, and the pace is relaxed. The tour description notes that due to train line works from June 15 to September 15, Lecco might be replaced with a visit to the Bellano Gorge—a natural attraction famous for its waterfalls and striking rock formations. This shift highlights the tour’s flexibility but also indicates a focus on natural sights and less-touristy areas.

The Lakeside Cruise: A Highlight

Once you arrive at Lake Como, the boat cruise is the first major highlight. Lasting about 1.5 hours, this cruise offers a chance to appreciate the lake’s stunning scenery from the water. The boat is skip-the-line, meaning no waiting, so you can start soaking in the views immediately. Travelers often comment on how this cruise provides unobstructed vistas of villas, mountains, and shimmering water, making it a perfect way to get your bearings.

More Great Tours Nearby

Bellagio: The Pearl of Lake Como

Next, your guide will lead you to Bellagio, famously dubbed the “Pearl of Lake Como.” This town is a postcard come to life, with its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and lakeside cafés. You’ll have about 2.5 hours to explore independently—plenty of time to wander the alleys, visit Villa Melzi’s gardens (as noted in reviews), or simply sit with an espresso and watch the world go by.

Reviewers praise the balance of free time here, noting that the guide’s recommendations helped them find local restaurants and hidden spots. One traveler said, “Oleg—our guide—was a treasure, making smart decisions and giving great tips,” which hints at the value of a knowledgeable guide in maximizing your visit.

Ferry to Varenna: A Picturesque Crossing

After Bellagio, you’ll hop on a ferry to Varenna, another charming lakeside village. This 15-minute ride is part of the authentic experience—no buses, just boats. Once in Varenna, you’ll get 1.5 hours to stroll its colorful streets and enjoy the Lovers Walk, a romantic lakeside promenade built over the water.

Travelers love Varenna’s fairy-tale vibe, with some mentioning how it’s less crowded than Bellagio but equally beautiful. As one reviewer put it, “Varenna is the perfect place to relax, snap photos, and enjoy homemade gelato.”

The Bellano Gorge and Return Trip

The tour then features a visit to the Orrido di Bellano, a natural gorge and waterfall that many find mesmerizing. The inclusion of Bellano Gorge is a standout feature, with reviewers calling it “an unexpected highlight” and “a natural wonder you wouldn’t see on most tours.”

Finally, you’ll retrace your steps back to Milan via train, completing the loop after roughly 10.5 hours.

The Experience in Detail: What Really Makes It Worthwhile

Transportation and Timing

The use of first-class train tickets sets this tour apart. It’s a small but significant upgrade, translating into more comfort and less stress. The entire day is carefully scheduled, with timing optimized so you’re not rushing from place to place. Multiple reviews highlight how well the itinerary is paced, with ample time in each location—not overly rushed, nor overly long.

The Small Group Advantage

Limit of 15 participants means a more personal experience. Travelers frequently mention how the small group size makes it easier to hear the guide, ask questions, and share the day with fellow travelers. This intimacy adds a layer of enjoyment that large bus tours can’t match.

Guides: Knowledge, Charm, and Local Secrets

Many reviews highlight the quality of guides—their friendly demeanor, local insights, and smart decision-making. Whether it’s navigating transportation, choosing the best spots for photos, or recommending eateries, guides like Oleg, Chiara, and Stefano make a tangible difference.

Authenticity and Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots

While Bellagio and Varenna are famous, the tour’s inclusion of Lecco and Bellano Gorge provides an opportunity to experience less touristy, more authentic sides of Lake Como. These places give travelers a better sense of local life and natural beauty, away from the crowds.

Cost-Value Analysis

Given that the tour includes round-trip first-class train tickets, a boat cruise, ferry rides, guided commentary, and entrance to Bellano Gorge, it’s a compelling value. You’re paying for convenience, expert guidance, and a curated experience—all in one package. Travelers who have compared it to DIY options often remark how much easier and more rewarding the guided approach is.

What to Bring and Consider

The tour advises bringing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hats, swimwear (June-September), and a camera—wise tips for making the most of your day. It’s also worth noting that high heels are discouraged, and punctuality is essential, given the tight schedule. The early meeting time (7:45 AM) might be a challenge for some, but it ensures a full and fulfilling day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This journey is perfect for travelers who appreciate natural beauty and authentic local encounters. Those who dislike long bus rides and prefer public transportation will find the train and ferry components refreshing. The inclusion of less-touristed sites makes it appealing to seasoned travelers who want more than just the standard Lake Como postcard.

It’s also a good fit for small groups who enjoy active, engaging tours led by knowledgeable guides. If you’re traveling with family, couples, or friends who want a memorable day without the stress of planning, this trip offers a great mix of structure and free exploration.

The Sum Up

This tour delivers a well-balanced mix of stunning scenery, authentic towns, and comfortable transportation—all seen through the eyes of expert guides. The inclusion of less-visited spots like Lecco and Bellano Gorge enhances its appeal for those wanting to go beyond the typical tourist routes.

The small group size and carefully curated itinerary mean you’ll get more personal attention and a richer experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or have been to Lake Como before, this trip offers a good value for the price, especially for those who want a day packed with highlights without the hassle of logistics.

For travelers who cherish natural beauty, charming villages, and seamless organization, this tour makes a compelling case for a full day of scenic discovery—leaving you with fantastic memories and plenty of stories to tell back home.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this tour?
The meeting begins at 7:45 AM at Piazza Duca d’Aosta in front of Milan’s central train station. Check availability for exact starting times.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is a short walk from the Milan train station, specifically in the square in front of the station, near the arch with the upside-down triangle. The guide will be holding an Italian flag.

What does the tour include?
Your package includes round-trip first-class train tickets from Milan, a 1-hour boat cruise on Lake Como, ferry rides, a licensed guide, audio system, and entrance to Bellano Gorge.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you should bring some snacks or plan to buy lunch during free time in Bellagio or Varenna.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
The tour is not recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or those over 80, due to the long day and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, camera, and possibly swimwear if you plan to swim (June-September).

What if the weather is bad?
Check the forecast a couple of days before. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 10.5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

Is this a small group experience?
Yes, limited to 15 participants, which fosters a more personal and engaging experience.

This guided trip from Milan offers a rich taste of Lake Como’s best, with enough flexibility and comfort to make it a highlight of your Italian adventure. Whether it’s the stunning vistas, charming villages, or the natural beauty of Bellano Gorge, you’re set for a day full of memorable sights and stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: