From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio and Lugano with Lake Cruise
About This Experience
This full-day escape trades Milan's traffic for the glassy shoreline of Lake Como and the palm-lined promenades of Swiss Lugano. You travel in an air-conditioned coach with a guide who fills the drive north with the history of the lake, its grand villas, and the film stars and writers who made it famous.
At the lake you board a ferry to Bellagio, the honey-coloured village known as the "Pearl of Lake Como." You have around two hours to wander its steep cobbled lanes, browse silk boutiques, and settle in at a waterfront café. The tour then crosses the border into Ticino for free time in elegant Lugano, where a lakeside walk and the subtropical greenery of Parco Ciani round out the day before the return to Milan.
Because the itinerary spans two countries, it is one of the most complete day trips you can take from Milan without renting a car or booking separate trains and ferries — everything is arranged, timed, and guided for you.
Highlights
- See two countries in one day — Lake Como in Italy and Lugano in Switzerland
- Cross to Bellagio, the "Pearl of Lake Como," by scenic ferry
- Free time to explore Bellagio's cobbled lanes and lakefront cafés
- Stroll Lugano's palm-lined promenade and Parco Ciani
- Relax on an air-conditioned coach with a live English-speaking guide
What's Included
- ✓ Round-trip transport by air-conditioned coach
- ✓ Return Lake Como ferry crossing
- ✓ English-speaking guide
- ✓ Free time in Bellagio
- ✓ Free time in Lugano
- ✓ Optional 1-hour Lake Como boat ride (select when booking)
Not Included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Optional boat ride upgrade
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses and a camera
- A valid passport or EU/Schengen ID card (the tour crosses into Switzerland)
Good to Know & Caveats
- The tour crosses the Swiss border, so a valid passport or Schengen ID card is required for every traveller.
- Ferry and boat crossings may be cancelled in poor weather for safety; the itinerary may run in reverse order.
- Departures are subject to minimum numbers, with a full refund if a date is cancelled.
Not Suitable For
- Travellers with reduced mobility
- Wheelchair users
Meeting Point
Bus stop next to Hotel Excelsior Gallia, Piazza Duca d'Aosta at the corner of Piazza IV Novembre, beside Milano Centrale station.
What Travelers Say
Rated 4.9/5 by 1536 verified GetYourGuide travelers.
I had a great time on this tour, the time given for each location was enough to get a taste (in my opinion). I personally like to see as much as possible so I was satisfied. Chiara was my guide and she was very nice, and Max the driver was lovely.
— Maria, 2026-07
Had a great time! My guide Chiara was very nice and knowledgeable. She was always quick to answer questions and resolve any issues. It was a great day! Grazie!
— Hakeem, 2026-07
Chiara was our tourguide and she made sure that all of us will enjoy the trip! Absolutely recommend travelling with her :)
— Natalia, 2026-07
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a passport for this Lake Como tour from Milan?
Yes. Because the day includes Lugano in Switzerland, every traveller must carry a valid passport, or an EU/Schengen national ID card, to cross the border.
How long is the day trip?
Plan for a full day of about 10 hours door to door, departing from central Milan in the morning and returning in the evening.
Is lunch included?
No. Food and drinks are not included, which leaves you free to pick a lakeside café in Bellagio or Lugano during your free time.
