Lake Como is situated in the Lombardy region of Italy and is known for its stunning natural scenery. Plus, it’s a popular destination for tourists from all over the world and a coveted summer hotspot. It’s very high up on every traveler’s Northern Italy Itinerary and for a good reason!
While its charming towns and villas are jaw-dropping, the ultimate way of enjoying a day in the area is by heading to the lake and cruising it on a boat trip.
Being the highlight of the region, the lake offers a great number of boat experiences, making it hard to choose the one that best suits your interests, budget, or number of people.
In this article, I have compiled the absolute top boat tours of Lake Como to help you make the decision.
Everything from private trips to villa visits, romantic dinner cruises, and boat rentals is included. These boat tours provide a unique and unforgettable way to explore this beautiful Italian region. Read on, and take your pick!
Please note that some of the tours below only run during the high season (late spring to September). They might look unavailable if you try and book many months in advance.
Why rely on my recommendations for boat tours in Lake Como? As a Bologna native with a decade of experience writing about Italy travel, I’ve navigated more than just my hometown’s alleys.
I bring the same keen eye and experience to Lake Como, ensuring you set sail on nothing but the most rewarding and authentic boat tours. No fluff, just the crème de la crème of Lake Como’s offerings.
I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. If your plans change, you to cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
| THE BEST TOUR | Lake Como: Classic Boat Private Tour |
| PRIVATE TOUR | 1 Hour Private Wooden Boat Tour on Lake Como |
| SUNSET TOUR | Shared Sunset Boat Tour with a Prosecco Aperitif |
OUR PICK: The BEST Boat tour in Lake Como
Cruise through the stunning lake on your very own vintage wooden vessel with this Lake Como: Classic Boat Private Tour. It’s our top pick for a number of reasons, starting with the exclusivity it provides, catering just to you and your loved ones.
You’ll board a beautiful Cadenazzi speedboat and get comfortable as your captain takes you to the most iconic spots on the lake. Along the way, you’ll have a chance to admire the picturesque towns, the mountain scenery and the background, and the lavish villas.
You can choose between a quick 30-minute ride, or go for the longer 1 and 2-hour excursions.
Your captain will tell you about the area’s history, and point to the most important attractions on the lakeshore. You’ll get a glimpse of Villa Balbianello, where Star Wars and James Bond movies were filmed, and Villa Casinella.
If you choose the longer tours, you’ll also stop for a swim at Comacina Island, and sail past Bellagio, a town that embodies the unique atmosphere of Lake Como. I believe you’ll instantly understand why it became a sought-after destination for jet setters in the 1950s and 60s, its charm is so hard to resist!
You’ll finally head to Tremezzo to see the awe-striking Villa Carlota, a landmark that attracts countless tourists every year, and return to Como at the end of the tour.
Why is this the top tour? It’s a unique way to explore the lake, as you’ll be sailing in a spectacular vintage wooden boat with a local captain who will give you great insights into Lake Como’s culture and history. Plus, it’s reserved for your small group of 8 so it’s super personalized and intimate.
Read what the reviews say:
“Our favorite activity of our week in the area! The classic Cadenazzi was thrilling. Our guide Gabrielle was terrific – very knowledgeable, capable, plus he shared stories about his own family. We got to know Lake Como better, and from a different perspective. Plus we felt very glamorous!”
Mary – Read more reviews
This boat tour includes: A private boat tour, and a captain. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Shared Boat Tours of Lake Como
▶️ This Lake Como Shared Boat Tour is a 1.5-hour experience, ideal if you have limited time in the area. You can choose between three departure times, and set sail across the stunning lake with a small group of other travelers.
You’ll glide past lavish villas, including George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra, Villa d’Este, and Villa Erba, see the dome of the Cathedral, and see the spectacular mountainous scenery from the water.
You’ll also get a glimpse of Villa Pizzo, where John Legend got married, and other magnificent properties on the shores of the lake.
This tour includes: A 90-minute boat ride. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Lake Como: Shared Group or Private Boat Tour is a great alternative, and it offers a 3-hour boat cruise on the famous lake. You’ll share the tour with a small group, although you can choose to make it private, and enjoy the live commentary from your guide as you glide past impressive villas and other landmarks.
They’ll point to Villa Oleandra, George Clooney’s home; Villa Balbianello, a Star Wars film set; the luxurious Hotel Mandarin Oriental; and the picturesque towns along the shore.
Stop for a swim at Orrido di Nesso, enjoy the views of a lovely waterfall, and photo stops along the way.
This tour includes: A 3-hour boat tour, a live guide, bottled water, and life jackets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Lake Como: Shared Boat Tour and Prosecco Aperitif takes your experience to the next level. You’ll board a boat in Como, and glide across the lake while sipping on a glass of Prosecco, or soft drinks as you take in the beautiful views.
You’ll enjoy photo stops at the main attractions, including the palatial villas, celebrities’ homes, and manicured parks. Your expert guide will introduce you to the history and fun facts about the villas along the way.
The boat has a closed canopy, so you can stay warm and dry whatever the weather.
This tour includes: A 1-hour Lake Como boat ride, aperitif, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Sunset Boat Tour from Varenna or Bellagio
▶️ The Varenna: Shared Sunset Boat Tour with a Prosecco Aperitif is the perfect option if you’re staying in Varenna. You’ll set sail just before sunset, and sip on a glass of Prosecco as you glide past the astounding villas and picturesque towns around the lake.
You’ll pass by the villages of Tremezzo and San Giovanni, take a peek at the famous Villa del Balbianello, and enjoy the scenery bathed in the sunset light while learning about the area from an audioguide.
This tour includes: A 1-hour boat ride, Prosecco, and an audio guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ If you’re staying in Bellagio, book the same exact tour departing from there. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Lake Como Private Boat Tours
▶️ If you’re limited on time, nothing beats this 1 Hour Private Wooden Boat Tour on Lake Como 6 pax. You and your friends will enjoy a relaxing and very scenic cruise across the enchanting Lake Como in a traditional Venetian taxi.
The trip will zip you past several landmarks such as Villa Olmo and Villa Erba, the region of Cernobbio, and George Clooney’s lakeside house. Drinking water will be available onboard.
This Lake Como boat trip includes: A private 1-hour boat trip. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Embark on this 2 Hour Private Cruise on Lake Como by Motorboat and sail in style on a stunning motorboat with your closest friends.
A local captain will take you to the most unique spots on the lake, pointing to the magnificent villas and attractions as they tell you about the history and culture of this iconic destination, plus a few anecdotes about the celebrities who vacation here.
Relax on deck as you take in the views with a glass of Prosecco or a refreshing beer in hand.
This tour includes: A private boat tour, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ On this Lake Como Exclusive Offshore 4 Hours Private Boat Tour you’ll witness the stunning local scenery and architectural wonders that surround Lake Como from up close.
Glide past iconic landmarks like the Life Electric sculpture and the Volta Temple, along with the awe-striking, aristocratic Villas that are a staple of the area. Villa Olmo, Villa Balbiano, and Villa del Balbianello will display all their splendor as you see them from the water.
The tour will take you through charming towns like Cernobbio, Tremezzo, and Torno, and has the added luxury of a personalized schedule and optional swimming stops at Isola Comacina, where you’ll also indulge in a drink. With room for up to eight people, gather your squad and hop aboard!
This luxury boat tour in Lake Como includes: Boat trip, snacks, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Sailing Tours on Lake Como
▶️ On this small group Paré, Lake Como: Sailing Boat Experience, explore the eastern side of the lake, taking in breathtaking views of Baia di Parè, Malgrate, Lecco, Abbadia, and the surrounding mountains.
During the trip, you’ll get to jump into the crystal clear waters for a swim or try your hand at being captain. As you sail along, your experienced skipper will guide you through the best spots to enjoy the stunning scenery and take in the fresh air.
You’ll also have the chance to visit picturesque towns along the shoreline and immerse yourself in the local culture.
To cap off your adventure, enjoy a glass of Prosecco and a light dinner onboard while taking in a mesmerizing sunset view. This tour is limited to six participants.
This Lake Como boat tour includes: A sailing cruise, a skipper, Aperitivo with Prosecco, and a light dinner. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Ready to discover the most breathtaking spots on Lake Como in a unique way? Step on board a 38-foot private yacht for a Sunset sailing tour on Lake Como with private skipper.
The tour offers breathtaking views of hidden coves, stunning villas, and picturesque towns bathed in the golden light of sunset.
Sip on Prosecco and nibble on local specialties while enjoying unique views of Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Melzi as your local skipper guides you through the lake’s history and culture.
This private tour on a spectacular Lake Como yacht accommodates up to 9 people and offers a flexible itinerary.
This Lake Como sunset cruise includes: A private sunset cruise, Prosecco, snacks, and an expert skipper. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots? This Sailing Experience on Lake Como with Private Skipper is the answer.
Hop aboard an elegant 8.5 m-long vessel for a Lake Como tour from Bellagio, and admire the picturesque shoreline, featuring iconic landmarks like Villa del Balbianello and Villa Melzi, as you glide along.
Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the lake or kick back with music, drinks, and snacks while enjoying the beauty of Lake Como at your own pace, away from the crowds. And don’t worry about the details – private boats can accommodate up to nine people in the utmost style!
This tour includes: A private boat trip, an expert skipper, snacks, and alcoholic drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Lake Como Boat Rental (Drive Your Own Boat)
Become a captain for a day and explore the stunning lake at your leisure with this Personal Lake Como Motor Boat Rental. Start your adventure in Sant’Agostino su Lungo Lario Trieste, where you’ll get a quick briefing on how to navigate the vessel.
Then, it’s time to set sail and discover the hidden gems of the lake, from sun-kissed swimming spots to picturesque towns along the shoreline.
With the freedom to explore at your own pace, you’ll create unforgettable memories on this DIY tour. The boat accommodates up to five people.
This tour includes: Boat rental, safety equipment, and a GPS. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
