Lake Como is one of the most beloved destinations in North Italy.
The place to be for a luxurious vacation, Lake Como is surrounded by green hills, snow-capped mountains, postcard-like towns, and beautiful and elegant lakeside villas.
No visit would be complete without a Como Lake boat tour! Cruising the blue waters of the lake while admiring the breathtaking landscape is an absolute must.
🏆 BEST BOAT TOUR ON LAKE COMO
Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best choice is this 5-star small-group tour:
Lake Como By SuBacco
You can join countless boat tours, from exclusive private ones with dinner onboard to wonderful tours with stops along the lake for a guided walking exploration of the best towns and villas.
Doing a boat tour of Lake Como is the best activity to have an unforgettable experience!
Here we’ll highlight the 12 best Lake Como boat tours, perfect for every travel group.
Quick Guide: Best Lake Como Tours By Boat
After a quick list of the top boat tours on Lake Como? Here are the best boat trips to experience.
Small-Group Tour Lake Como By SuBacco
- 2-Hour Tour
- Max 8-People
- Sights: Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Torno, Blevio, and the magnificent Villas.
- Leaves from Como
Lake Como Private Boat Tour
- Luxury private boat tour
- 4-Hour Tour
- Sights: Villa Balbianello, Giardini di Villa Melzi, Villa Carlotta, Comacina Island, and the towns of Bellagio and Nesso
- Departure from Como
Villa Balbianello and Flavors of Lake Como Walking and Boating Full-Day Tour
- 7-Hour Tour
- Sights: Varenna, Villa Balbianello, Villa Melzi, Chiesa di San Giorgio, Bellagio
- Lunch is included
- Departure from Varenna
12 Best Lake Como Boat Tours
The following boat tours in Lake Como each offer a beautiful and memorable way to experience the beauty of the lake.
Here is our list of our favorite tours by boat on Lake Como.
1. “Public Tour” Lake Como By SuBacco
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: A shared boat tour of Lake Como with fixed departure times.
- Tour Sights & Stops: Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Torno, Blevio, and the magnificent Villas.
- Departure Point: Sant’ Agostino su Lungo Lario Trieste in Como
- Length: 2 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
Experience the beauty of Lake Como with this shared small-group Lake Como boat tour!
This two-hour tour departs from Sant’ Agostino su Lungo Lario Trieste in Como and takes you along the shorelines of spectacular villas and gardens.
What a great tour! Loved being on the smaller boat, and Roberto with Subaco Tour was a fantastic host.
He was an expert at navigating the boat and showed us some of the most beautiful spots on the lake.
He was full of knowledge and interesting stories about the lake history, villas and more!
I would absolutely recommend!
Laurie_D (Viator reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Enjoy a unique perspective of the lake, taking in stunning landscapes and unique photographs.
The information will be given in both Italian and English to provide a comprehensive understanding of this amazing region of Italy.
This tour is limited to 8 people so you can enjoy a more intimate experience of Lake Como’s wonders!
Important Note: Petrol (fuel) is not included in the tour price. You will need to pay an additional 20 euros per person for fuel.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Anyone looking for an affordable shared boat tour of Lake Como.
This tour is perfect for those looking to avoid crowds and have an intimate experience on Lake Como.
The tour provides a great opportunity to learn more about the amazing sights around the lake that can only be seen from the water!
In addition, this tour has received a badge of excellence on Viator.
Book your tour today and experience the beauty of Lake Como!
2. Lake Como Private Boat Tour
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: A private boat tour of Lake Como with flexible departure times.
- Tour Sights & Stops: Villa Balbianello, Giardini di Villa Melzi, Villa Carlotta, Comacina Island, and the towns of Bellagio and Nesso
- Departure Point: Como, Matteotti Giacomo Square
- Length: 4 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
Enjoy the view of Lake Como’s historic villas and beautiful gardens with this private tour.
Claudio was a great guide and a captain, he showed us around in Como Lake and he had a very positive vibe.
I would recommend anyone to book the trip without even having a doubt in mind. Always would be happy to book again!
Yagmur_N (Viator reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With this boat tour, you will admire sights inaccessible by ferry or car, starting from Como and cruising to the famous Bellagio and Comacina Island before returning to Como.
The expert boat crew will explain all about the spots visited so you can have a wonderful time!
Who This Tour Is For:
- Anyone looking for a luxury cruise on Lake Como
This tour has received a badge of excellence on Viator.
The tour is a fantastic way to avoid the crowds and delays of the ferry for an upscale cruise on Lake Como!
3. Villa Balbianello and Flavors of Lake Como Walking and Boating Full-Day Tour
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: A boat transfer to Lake Como’s best spots with a guided visit to Villa Balbianello and Villa Melzi, and a walking tour of Varenna. Lunch in a local restaurant is included.
- Tour Sights & Stops: Varenna, Villa Balbianello, Villa Melzi, Chiesa di San Giorgio, Bellagio
- Departure Point: Varenna, Imbarcadero Piazza Martiri Libertà Street
- Length: 7 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
A wonderful Lake Como boat tour that will start by strolling around Varenna’s narrow alleyways to learn all about the famous lakeside town from a local guide.
After an olive oil tasting and a traditional Italian lunch, hop on a taxi boat to cruise the lake.
The boat will stop at Villa del Balbianello, which has been used as a filming location for Casino Royale and Star Wars, and Villa Melzi so you can walk inside with a guide who will explain all about them!
The tour ends in the beautiful town of Bellagio.
A full day tour in Lake Como – be prepared for lots of walking and wear very comfortable shoes and clothing.
Really good value for your money and small enough group to not feel overwhelmed.
Started with an olive oil tasting at the mill, then a walking tour of Varenna followed by a boat tour with a guided villa tour and a tour of the Melzi gardens.
An incredible way to see Lake Como learning the history and seeing so much in one day.
The open air water taxi was so special and gorgeous.
The food was delicious and our guide Pietro was so much fun and very knowledgable! Wish we could go back again today!
Christy_R (Viator reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important to note: This tour is great for larger groups as the boat can fit up to 11 people.
The tour starts in Varenna and ends in Bellagio, and the transfer back to Varenna or any other town along the lake is not included.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Fans of walking tours through history and art-filled spots
- Groups of friends looking for a full-day tour
Since this tour is pretty popular, we highly recommend you pre-book it to avoid disappointment.
Wear your most comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved!
4. 1-Hour Private Como Lake Boat Tour
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: A private boat Lake Como tour to discover its beautiful places and some secret spots
- Tour Sights & Stops: Laglio, Cenobbio, and many villas, among which Villa Erba, Villa Cademartori, and Villa Olmo
- Departure Point: Como, Lungo Lario Trieste
- Length: 1 hour
- Check Tour Price on Viator
A brief tour to discover the wonders of Lake Como.
Besides cruising by several villages and luxurious villas, the trained crew will explain to you the history of the many spots you will see and the architectural elements of the villas.
Ask to stop in a quiet location to take a quick swim in the crystal-blue waters of the lake for an extra special tour.
We had an unbelievable time with Frank (Francesco) – he is an amazing down to earth guy, knows everything local and a fantastic guide.
You will have a great time. Reasonably priced. Highly recommend. Five stars!!!
Yauheni_P (Viator reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important to note: The tour starts in Como town, but an alternative departure from a neighboring village can also be arranged.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Groups who want to make the most of their time if they are visiting Lake Como only for 1 day
- Families with small kids who don’t want to explore Lake Como on public ferries
This tour has received a badge of excellence on Viator as it has a 5/5 rate.
The short length of this tour will allow you to cruise Lake Como and have wonderful views of its villages.
Once it’s done, you have plenty of time to walk around your favorite spots.
5. Private and Guided Cruise to Lake Como Mostes Motorboat
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: A private guided cruise of the lake’s many attractions on a motorboat.
- Tour Sights & Stops: Como, Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Torno, Blevio
- Departure Point: Como, Lungo Lario Trieste (but they can pick up from other departure points too)
- Length: 1, 2, or 3 hours, depending on the tour selected
- Check Price on Viator For The: 1-Hour Tour, 2-Hour Tour, or the 3-Hour Tour
Explore the history and architecture of Como aboard an elegant motorboat accompanied by a multilingual and well-informed crew.
The captain, Luca, knows many stories about the most iconic villas and small villages alongside the lake.
From Como town to the fantastic Villa Erba, Villa d’Este, and Villa Pliniana, this tour is the perfect way to explore Lake Como.
Complimentary bottled waters are available on the boat.
My fiancé and I got this bout tour and it was AMAZING! We were smiling the whole time. We had a perfect day on Lake Como.
Katie_B (Viator reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important to note: This tour presents different options you can choose from.
Besides the 1-hour option, the tour can also last for two or three hours. The more time you spend on the boat, the more amazing the beauty of the lake is.
With the 2-hour tour, you will also pass by the gorgeous Comacina Island, Brienno village, and the natural gorge Orrido Di Nesso.
The 3-hour tour has the following additional sights: Villa del Balbianello, Tremezzo town and the famous Villa Carlotta, Bellagio and Villa Melzi, Punta Spartivento, Lezzeno village.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Anyone who prefers the luxury of choosing the cruise’s duration
- Small groups or families who want to enjoy each other’s company without a crowd
This is one of the best private tours from Viator, awarded with a badge of excellence.
Make sure to pre-book the tour option preferred as they sell out quickly, especially in the high season.
6. Varenna and Bellagio Exclusive Full-Day Tour
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: A fantastic private land and boat tour to see Lake Como’s best spots
- Tour Sights & Stops: Bellagio and the Basilica di San Giacomo, Punta Spartivento, Varenna and the Chiesa di San Giorgio and the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista
- Departure Point: Como, Cavour Square
- Length: 8.5 hours
- Check Tour Price On Viator
This fantastic Lake Como cruise is a full-day group tour via speedboat with several amazing stops.
Get off the boat in Bellagio for a walking tour of the old town and to learn about the local history.
Jump back onto the boat to reach Varenna where the tour guide will walk you around the town and its art-filled churches.
Violetta was an awesome excellent guide, very knowledgeable and made sure we all enjoyed ourselves.
The lunch spot she had picked out for us in Bellagio was superb. I would highly recommend this tour.
Greg_H (Viator reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important to note: The tour accommodates up to 15 people, so it is not for you if you prefer a small group tour.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Solo travelers who are ready to make new friends while learning all about Lake Como
- Groups of friends eager to do more than just a cruise
- Active families with curious children
The highlight of this trip is passing by Punta Spartivento, the most panoramic views of Lake Como, from where you will marvel at Pre-Alps and the villages Menaggio, Varenna, and Tremezzo.
7. Sailing on Lake Como with Private Skipper
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: A boat tour of Lake Como with a private skipper for a flexible and relaxed excursion
- Tour Sights & Stops: Bellagio, Villa del Balbianello, Villa Melzi, Villa Carlotta, and Comacina Island
- Departure Point: Bellagio, San Biagio street
- Length: 3 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
A great way to discover a quieter side of Lake Como.
This Lake Como boat tour from Bellagio will make you admire Como Lake’s top sights along the shoreline, including Villa del Balbianello, Villa Melzi, Villa Carlotta, and Comacina Island.
The crew will anchor the boat in a suggestive spot so you can swim in the lake and relax on board with music, soft drinks, and snacks.
We had such a great time on this trip around the lake!
Frederico showed us all the popular places around the area and stopped to let us swim for a little bit!
Had a bottle of champagne and snacks for us as well. Highly recommend!
PaigeGrissom (Viator reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Who This Tour Is For:
- Folks who love small group tours
- Any group of up to 9 people who want freedom and to spend a relaxing time at the lake
This is one of the best Lake Como boat tours, with a 5/5 rate on Viator.
8. Lake Como Exclusive Offshore Private Boat Tour
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: An exclusive private boat tour to discover the hidden gems of Lake Como at your own pace.
- Tour Sights & Stops: Como, Cernobbio, Tremezzo, Bellagio, Torno, and many villas along the way, such as Villa Olmo, Villa Le Fontanelle, and Villa Pliniana
- Departure Point: Como, Lungo Lario Trieste
- Length: 4 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
Enjoy stunning lakeside views during this private boat tour of Lake Como.
The captain will sail you around iconic monuments, ancient villas, and breathtaking views to have the best time.
Starting and arriving in the city of Como, this tour gives time to arrange land excursions and swimming stops.
Amazing experience for my wife and I and our four young kids (8, 5, 3, and 1).
Paolo picked us up in a beautiful boat near our Airbnb and showed us all around the lake, traditional villages, aristocrat houses, shared stories, and brought us to some epic swimming areas.
Having the sparkling wine on board as we sailed into the sunset was a memory we’ll never forget. Highly recommend!
Paul (Viator reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Who This Tour Is For:
- Families who relish their time together
- Girl trippers looking for a fun and full-of-beauty day
I love this tour! There is nothing better than exploring everything Lake Como has to offer than doing it from a private boat.
9. Romantic Sail & Sunset Experience
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: A private sunset sails around Lake Como with drinks (Prosecco and Franciacorta wine) and dinner with local specialties
- Tour Sights & Stops: best locations around Lake Garda, like Bellagio
- Departure Point: Valmadrera (Lecco Province), by the harbor. The location departure might change due to the Lake level.
- Length: 3 hours
- Check Tour Price
A late afternoon, exclusive tour to experience Lake Como’s spectacular views at sunset.
Such a good experience ! The team Was so Nice and caring! The meal Was great not small with fresh produce…
There was definitely a romantic atmosphere on board… I recommend !
GetYourGuide traveler (Get Your Guide reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
There is no better way to spend a romantic time with your partner while admiring the landscapes around you.
During the sail, you will enjoy a gourmet dinner and a bottle of Franciacorta wine.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Couples who’d rather not share this romantic experience with a group
- Honeymooners who love a romantic sunset over the beautiful Lake Como
If you want to live a real romantic experience without others around, then this tour is a fantastic choice.
10. Best Villas via Private Boat Tour – 1 Hour
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: A luxury private boat tour of the gorgeous villas of Lake Como
- Tour Sights & Stops: most of the famous villas of Lake Como, like Villa d’Este and Villa Olmo
- Departure Point: Como, the pier in Lungo Lario Trieste
- Length: 1-2 hours
- Check Tour Price
With this private Lake Como boat tour, you will feel like a member of the jet set! Cruise around the lake’s most beautiful palatial villas and natural places.
The 1-hour tour itinerary will show you some incredible villas, like Villa Olmo, Villa Pizzo, and Villa Fontanelle, the historic Versace residence.
The 2-hour tour adds several other spot sights, such as Villa Oleandra, George Clooney’s house, and a stop for a classic Italian aperitif with Aperol spritz and white wine.
My experience with Stefano Wave Boat Lake Como was simply outstanding. From the moment we booked our two-hour boat trip, the process was seamless and easy.
Upon arrival, Stefano greeted us with a warm smile and a genuine passion for the lake.
Throughout the tour, he provided us with interesting stories and knowledge about the area’s history, making the experience much more than just a boat ride.
He was attentive to our needs and made sure we had the best possible experience, ensuring we had plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the scenery.
Safety was also a top priority, and we felt completely secure throughout the entire trip.
Overall, I highly recommend Stefano Wave Boat Lake Como for anyone looking for an exceptional boating experience on Lake Como.
Stefano’s expertise, professionalism, and passion for the area make this an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
GetYourGuide traveler (Get Your Guide reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important to note: Make sure to select your preferred tour length when booking.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Anyone who prefers touring with just a small group
- Travelers who love to learn about the lake’s historic villas from a local guide
The expert and professional guide will explain the history and lesser-known details about the villas you pass by.
A great pro of this tour is that it is for a small group which makes it more personal.
11. Paré, Lake Como: Sailing Boat Experience
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: Lake Como sailing tour with a guide and a stop for swimming. An additional option is sunset dinner on board.
- Tour Sights & Stops: Malgrate, Baia di Parè, Lecco, and Abbadia
- Departure Point: Eastern side of Lake Como (in Malgrate). The activity provider will contact you with its exact location.
- Length: 3-4 hours
- Check Tour Price
Experience the beauties of Lake Como on a sailing tour led by local skippers.
Absolutely wonderful experience with Guilia, our English guide and our two skippers.
They were extremely hospitable and treated us like family! The snacks, fruit and drinks were a great bonus to a beautiful day on the like with some tunes.
We‘ll be sure to make this a repeat excursion when in Como!
GetYourGuide traveler (Get Your Guide reviews) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The sailing tour takes you to the Baia di Parè and around Malgrate, Lecco, and Abbadia to admire beautiful landscapes and charming little towns on the lake’s shores.
The boat will stop so you can jump into the lake’s blue water for a refreshing swim.
Enjoy a glass of Prosecco while cruising back to the pier to end the tour perfectly.
Important to note: The tour offers a sunset option with a light dinner onboard.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Families with children who would love swimming in the lake
- Folks who prefer small group tours
This tour is a great fit for those who want to avoid crowds as it takes you to less touristy spots of Lake Como.
12. Vintage Wooden Boat Rowing Experience on Lake Como
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: A private sail on a classic wooden boat around Lake Como with complimentary wine and local food
- Tour Sights & Stops: Pescallo Bay and Bellagio
- Departure Point: Bellagio Water Sports.
- Length: 1.5 hours
- Check Tour Price
Sailing on a vintage wooden boat is a unique way to explore Lake Como.
This short tour will give you enough time to experience the sights of the lake’s pristine waters, towering mountains, and beautiful villages.
Row the picturesque Pescallo Bay, part of Bellagio, and end your experience with complimentary wine and a local meal (focaccia or pizza).
Important to note: This Lake Como wooden boat tour boat can fit max 2 people.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Couples who prefer a different cruise experience
- Whoever wants to explore the lake at their own pace
Alternative Option: Lake Como Boat Rental
Rental Overview:
- Rental Type: Speedboat rental to enjoy Lake Como at your own pace
- Tour Sights & Stops: Every location around Lake Como
- Departure Point: Changes depending on the rental shop of choice
- Length: 2, 3, or 4 hours
- Check Prices For: 2-hour boat rental, 3-hour boat rental, or 4-hour boat rental
The best way to cruise Lake Como is by renting a boat to make as many stops as you wish!
Whether you prefer admiring the stunning villas and the mountains in the background or dropping the anchor to dive and swim in the wonderful lake’s waters, boat rentals are the right choice!
Important to note: You don’t need a license to rent the speedboat. Usually, these boats can accommodate around six people.
Who This Rental Is For:
- A small group (friends or families) who want to experience the lake in total freedom!
FAQs
Find below the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.
Lake Como is one of the most scenic and touristy destinations in Italy, and there are countless fantastic water tours you can join!
This private boat tour is among the best for families or groups looking for a half-day cruise.
For a romantic cruise with your partner, this sunset boat tour is the best one you can choose!
For an affordable shared small-group tour, this one by SuBacco is our top pick.
You might have only 1 hour or less for a boat ride in Lake Como, so selecting the right tour is crucial.
Depending on the group you are traveling with, check out this top-rated boat tour, this motorboat cruise or this scenic boat tour.
Several factors are involved in the price of a Lake Como boat tour.
Usually, they can cost anywhere between 130 to 400€.
However, to join an exclusive private boat tour, you can pay from 500€ to 1000€.
Summary Of The Best Boat Tours of Lake Como
A tour of Lake Como by boat is the best way to live a memorable vacation.
🏆 BEST BOAT TOUR ON LAKE COMO
Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best choice is the popular small-group tour:
“Public Tour” Lake Como By SuBacco
With these 12 best boat tours of Lake Como, you can explore all the incredible lakeside towns and villas with an English-speaking crew who knows the area inside and out.
Whether you’re looking for a private or group tour, check out my suggestions, book your favorite boat tour, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
More Lake Como blog posts to help you plan:
- Not sure when to go? Here is all the information about when to visit Lake Como.
- Which is better? Lake Como or Lake Garda
- Not sure what to include in your itinerary? Here are the best towns to visit in Lake Como.
- Also, check out the best luxury hotels on Lake Como.
- Want to do a boat tour but based in Milan? Here is a list of the best Milan to Lake Como tours.
- Want to do a road trip around the lake? Here is everything you need to know about renting a car in Como.
- Bellagio is our favorite town and that is where w stayed, here is our Bellagio travel guide.
- Want to add on a few day trips? Here is a list of 20 top day trips from Lake Como.
