How to Plan your Lake Como and Lugano Day Trip from Milan

Are you planning to visit Italy and looking for a relaxing day trip that will take you away from the hustle and bustle of Milan? Then, a day trip to Lake Como and Lugano is the ideal solution for you. This tour offers an opportunity to admire the stunning scenery along the lake and appreciate the beauty of the iconic cities of Como and Lugano. Here is all you need to know to plan your Lake Como and Lugano Day Trip from Milan:

Getting There

The tour starts early in the morning, so make sure to arrive at the meeting point on time. The meeting point is at the Zani Viaggi Milan Visitor Center, located at Largo Cairoli, 18, 20121 Milano MI, Italy. It’s easily accessible via different modes of transportation including the metro, bus, and train. The tour is conducted via a spacious coach that’s comfortable for long-distance travel. As you travel towards Lake Como, your English-speaking tour guide will provide you with insight and background information on the history and culture of the area.

Exploring Como

The first stop of the tour is the city of Como. Once you arrive, you’ll be guided through a walking tour of the city, where you’ll learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage. You’ll also get to explore the city’s distinguished boutiques, where you can indulge in some shopping therapy and purchase souvenirs to take back home.

Shopping in Lugano

After exploring Como, you’ll hop on the coach, and the tour will take you towards the Swiss city of Lugano. Lugano is famous for being a shopping paradise, and there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy shopping at its various boutiques while enjoying the Swiss scenery that surrounds you.

Lake Como Cruise

The highlight of the tour is the Lake Como cruise, which provides you with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the Italian and Swiss Alps from the water. As you cruise along Lake Como, you’ll be amazed by the picturesque views of the shimmering water and the verdant mountain landscapes that surround it.

Booking the Tour

So, are you ready to book the Lake Como and Lugano Day Trip from Milan? You can book the tour through GetYourGuide, a popular travel booking platform that assures you of the best prices and a quality travel experience. Book the tour here by simply clicking on the button provided at the end of this blog post, and following the steps provided on the GetYourGuide website.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, the Lake Como and Lugano Day Trip from Milan is an exceptional opportunity to escape the chaos of Milan and immerse yourself in the magnificent scenery of Lake Como and Lugano. As we’ve seen, the tour guarantees a memorable experience that includes a walking tour of the historic city of Como, shopping in the luxurious boutiques of Lugano, and a breathtaking boat ride on Lake Como. This day tour is an exciting opportunity to add to your Italy travel itinerary, and we’re sure that you’ll have plenty of memories to take with you back home. Book the Tour Here

Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Como: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Lake Como, located in the northern Italian region of Lombardy, is a breathtaking natural paradise that is known for its crystal-clear blue waters, medieval towns, and stunning landscapes. This pristine lake has become a popular travel destination for those seeking to explore one of Italy’s most charming regions. In this FAQ, we will answer all your questions about Lake Como, including what to do, where to stay, and how to get around. So, let’s dive in!

1. Where is Lake Como located?

Lake Como is located in northern Italy, in the Lombardy region. It is situated at the foothills of the Alps and extends into the Italian border with Switzerland. The lake is approximately 50 km north of Milan and 25 km northeast of the city of Como.

2. How can I get to Lake Como?

There are several ways to get to Lake Como, depending on where you are traveling from. – By air: The nearest airport to Lake Como is Milan Malpensa Airport, which is approximately 45 minutes away by car. You can also fly to Milan Linate Airport or Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport, both of which are about an hour and a half away. – By train: The main railway station in the region is Como San Giovanni, which is well-connected to Milan and other major cities in Italy. From here, you can take a bus, taxi or ferry to reach your destination. – By car: If you are driving from Milan, take the A9 motorway in the direction of Como. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

3. What are some popular things to do in Lake Como?

Lake Como offers a wide range of activities for visitors, from exploring ancient towns to hiking in the mountains. Here are some of the top things to do in Lake Como: – Take a boat tour: Boat tours of Lake Como are one of the best ways to admire the stunning scenery and explore the charming towns that surround the lake. From the water, you can see the stunning villas and gardens that dot the shoreline. – Visit Villa Carlotta: This 18th-century villa and its stunning gardens are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Lake Como. The villa is home to an impressive art collection, as well as rare plants and trees from around the world. – Explore Bellagio: Known as the “pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is a charming town located at the meeting point of the lake’s two branches. It is home to numerous villas, gardens, and restaurants, as well as the Basilica of San Giacomo. – Hike in the mountains: The mountains that surround Lake Como offer some of the best hiking trails in Italy, with breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. The Sentiero del Viandante is a popular hiking trail that runs along the eastern bank of the lake.

4. Where can I stay in Lake Como?

Lake Como offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, and private villas. Here are some of the best places to stay in Lake Como: – Grand Hotel Tremezzo: This luxurious hotel is located in the town of Tremezzo and offers stunning views of the lake. It features a spa, private beach, and several restaurants. – Villa D’Este: This 16th-century villa is located in the town of Cernobbio and is one of the most elegant hotels in Lake Como. It features beautiful gardens, a swimming pool, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. – Il Sereno: This modern hotel is located on the eastern shore of Lake Como and features sleek, minimalist design. It offers a private beach, infinity pool, and Michelin-starred restaurant. – Airbnb: There are also many private apartments and villas available for rent on Airbnb. This is a great way to experience local life and immerse yourself in the culture of Lake Como.

5. What is the best time to visit Lake Como?

The best time to visit Lake Como is from April to October, when the weather is mild and the days are sunny. The peak tourist season is from June to August, so expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, but still offer plenty of opportunities to explore the lake and its surroundings.

6. What is the cuisine like in Lake Como?

The cuisine of Lake Como is based on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the surrounding countryside. Some of the region’s most popular dishes include risotto with perch, lakefish, polenta, and various types of pasta. The area is also well-known for its cheeses, such as gorgonzola and taleggio, as well as its wines, including the famous red wines of Valtellina.

7. Is Lake Como a safe destination?

Lake Como is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, as with any tourist destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your valuables from theft. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded tourist areas, so it is important to be mindful of your belongings at all times.

8. What is the currency used in Lake Como?

The currency used in Lake Como, as well as the rest of Italy, is the Euro (€).

9. What language is spoken in Lake Como?

The official language of Lake Como, as well as the rest of Italy, is Italian. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and many locals also speak German and French.

10. What is the culture like in Lake Como?

Lake Como is known for its rich cultural heritage, with a long history of art, music, and architecture. The region is home to many museums, galleries, and historical landmarks, such as the 14th-century Como Cathedral and the medieval town of Varenna. The local people are friendly and welcoming, and the region has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. In summary, Lake Como is a stunning destination that offers something for everyone, from magnificent scenery to delicious cuisine and rich cultural heritage. With this FAQ, you should now have all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to this beautiful region of Italy.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Lake Como

Lake Como, located in the Lombardy region of Italy, is a popular tourist destination. The scenic beauty of the place, crystal clear water, and stunning landscape make it an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway. From picturesque towns, spectacular villas to breathtaking views, there is something for everyone. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Lake Como.

1. Explore the Villa del Balbianello:

One of the most iconic tourist attractions in Lake Como is the Villa del Balbianello. It is located on the tip of a wooded peninsula, and the villa is a hyrid of neo-classical and rococo architecture. The place houses a museum dedicated to explorer Guido Monzino, along with a lush garden that offers stunning views of the lake. The villa’s ornamental gardens have been featured in many Hollywood movies, including Casino Royale.

2. Visit the City of Como:

Como is the capital of the province and is a hub of culture, art, and tradition. It is the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon, explore the local markets, wander around the streets, and enjoy some traditional Italian cuisine. You can also take a walking tour of the city and explore the magnificent Cathedral of Como.

3. Take a Boat Tour of the Lake:

A boat tour of the lake is one of the most popular activities in Lake Como. The boat ride can take you to some of the most scenic spots around the lake, including the town of Bellagio, Torno, and Menaggio. You can choose from a variety of options, including private tours, group tours, and romantic sunset tours.

4. Explore the Town of Bellagio:

Bellagio is known as the pearl of Lake Como and is famous for its picturesque narrow streets, colorful buildings, and stunning gardens. The town is located at the intersection of the three branches of the lake, and you can enjoy some of the best panoramic views from here.

5. Visit the Villa Carlotta:

Villa Carlotta is a stunning villa located in Tremezzo is famous for its lush gardens which epitomize Italian landscaping in the Romantic period. You can enjoy a guided tour of the villa’s art galleries and explore the magnificent park that surrounds it.

6. Go Hiking:

Lake Como is surrounded by mountains, which means that there are plenty of hiking trails around the lake. The trails offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding villages. One of the most popular hikes is the Greenway Trail, which spans over 11km from Colonno to Cadenabbia. You can also opt for a guided hike from a local tour operator.

7. Visit the Town of Varenna:

Varenna is a small fishing village on the eastern shore of the lake. The village is famous for its traditional Italian architecture, cobbled streets, and cozy cafés. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the village, explore the historic buildings, and enjoy some local cuisine.

8. Enjoy Water Sports:

Lake Como is the perfect place to indulge in water sports. You can try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, or simply go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. You can rent equipment from a local operator or sign up for a water sports tour.

Book Your Tour Now:

Lake Como is a haven for tourists and one that is guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable experiences. With a variety of scenic towns, stunning villas, magnificent gardens, and outdoor activities, there is something for everyone. Keep this guide handy if you plan to visit Lake Como and create some amazing memories.