Milan: Como and Lugano Highlights Day Trip with Boat Tour

Overview

This full-day small-group tour from Milan visits Lake Como in Italy and Lake Lugano in Switzerland, ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed cross-border experience.

Highlights

• Visit Italy and Switzerland: Lake Como and Lake Lugano in one day
• Swim in Lake Lugano's clear waters (weather permitting)
• Local guide provides authentic tips on dining and the best gelato
• Free time in Lugano to enjoy Swiss chocolate, lake views, and Renaissance frescoes
• Small group (max 12) with all transport pre-arranged

Description

This tour offers a hassle-free way to explore Lake Como without driving, planning, or large crowds. Travel from Milan by Swiss train and boat, crossing into Switzerland to visit two lakes in one day, all accompanied by a top-rated local guide.

The day starts at Milan Central Station with a direct 40-minute Swiss train ride to Como, avoiding traffic and transfers. In Como, your guide leads a gentle orientation walk through the town center, including the Cathedral, an important Gothic-Renaissance landmark. Receive genuine local advice on where to eat, find the best gelato, and explore notable streets.

Next is a boat cruise on Lake Como, passing historic villas, terraced gardens, and famous film locations. The boat stops at Torno, a small medieval village rarely visited by tourists, featuring stone streets, a Romanesque church, and peaceful lake views.

Enjoy around two hours of free time in Como for lunch, shopping in historic silk boutiques, or relaxing by the water.

The tour continues with a 40-minute train ride to Lugano, Switzerland. The atmosphere changes to quieter and more orderly, with a lakeside promenade ideal for a slower pace. You have about 1.5 hours free to enjoy Swiss chocolate, coffee with a lake view, or a visit to the Santa Maria degli Angioli church, renowned for Renaissance frescoes by Bernardino Luini, a pupil of Leonardo da Vinci.

The tour includes a maximum of 12 guests, an expert English-speaking guide, Swiss train travel, a Lake Como boat cruise, guided walks, and returns to Milan by early evening. No driving, parking, or planning required.

Includes

• Express Swiss train travel – fast, comfortable, no traffic or bus rides
• English-speaking local guide – clear explanations, not bilingual tours
• Guided walks in Como and Lugano – major highlights and local spots
• Free time in both towns – explore, shop, dine, or relax
• Lake Como boat cruise – one hour with skip-the-line pre-booked tickets
• Visit to an authentic Lake Como village away from mass tourism

Excludes

• Drinks and meals
• Tips (optional)

Important Information

• Meeting time: 8:15 AM at Milan Central Station

Cancellation Policy

Full refund when cancelled up to 24 hours in advance.

For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.