Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise
Description
Visit two countries and two lakes in one day — Lake Como and Lake Lugano — on a small-group tour from Milan, small enough to reach the places big tours can't, with every train, boat, and border crossing handled for you. Skip the selfie crowds and the overrun hotspots. Instead, cruise past the lakeside villas of Gianni Versace, Ocean's Twelve, and John Legend's wedding, then slip into a quieter side of Como most travelers never see — the real village of Torno or Cernobbio, where life moves at its own pace and the tourist trail disappears behind you. After lunch in Como, cross the border into Lugano, Switzerland — a second country, a second lake, all in an afternoon. Stroll the calm lakefront and taste real Swiss chocolate. And when summer weather allows, the crystal-clear alpine water is yours for a swim. No driving, no planning, no chasing trains. Just one effortless day, two countries, two lakes — handled for you.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Discover the charming town of Como, one of the oldest towns on Lake Como. Walk through the historic center with your guide, learn about the town’s rich past, and hear stories about famous local families, artists, and celebrities connected to Como. Enjoy the elegant lakefront, historic squares, and relaxed atmosphere before continuing your journey.
Pass by Villa Erba during the boat cruise, a historic lakeside villa in Cernobbio featured in Ocean’s Twelve starring George Clooney, and in Lavazza commercials.
View Villa d’Este from the lake, the world-famous luxury hotel in Cernobbio that has hosted Hollywood stars like Greta Garbo, Clark Gable, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, and George Clooney.
Discover the beautiful Swiss city of Lugano, located in the Italian-speaking region of Ticino. Surrounded by mountains and a sparkling lake, Lugano combines Swiss precision with a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Enjoy plenty of free time to stroll along the lakefront, shop in the city center, taste famous Swiss chocolate, or — during summer — take a refreshing swim in the clear waters of Lake Lugano. Learn how Switzerland became one of the most prosperous countries in the world, with insights into its history, economy, and unique way of life.
From Como, embark on a scenic boat cruise and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Como while passing by some of the most stunning villas along the shoreline. From the water, admire famous villas featured in Ocean’s Twelve and the elegant lakeside villa once owned by Gianni Versace — icons of luxury and international style.
Torno is a small pedestrian village where you can enjoy a peaceful, relaxed stroll. It is never too crowded, giving you time to slow down and experience a typical Lake Como village away from mass tourism. With its cobblestone streets and charming old houses, Torno feels like a step back in time — when daily life was closely connected to the lake, fishing, and local artisanal traditions.
During the boat cruise, admire Villa Le Fontanelle from the lake, the former lakeside residence of Gianni Versace. This elegant villa is one of the most iconic symbols of Lake Como’s luxury lifestyle and international glamour.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- MEETING TIME: 08:15 at the square in front of the train station
- This tour involves walking on stairs, uneven surfaces, and cobblestone streets. Children should be comfortable walking independently.
- Please remember to bring your original passport (or National ID card for EU citizens). This is required for our international border crossing into Switzerland.
Reviews(1,336)
Najma was amazing, very friendly, helpful, & knowledgeable about the history. Plenty of free time in our stops in Como & Lugano to eat & shop.
Nagi our host, was fantastic and the trip was a great blend of tour and free time. Her recommendations for places and things to do for free time were excellent. Meeting points and times were well organised and instructions were easy to follow. A fantastic day. Would definitely recommend.
Naji was a wonder host. She was very informative and was very passionate about her job. The train ride was great and we were seated In first class which was a treat! Naji gave us directions and ideas as to where to go on our breaks and one of the restaurants she suggested was amazing! I would thoroughly recommend this trip and will be telling family and friends back home in Australia
Naji was a wonder host. She was very informative and was very passionate about her job. The train ride was great and we were seated In first class which was a treat! Naji gave us directions and ideas as to where to go on our breaks and one of the restaurants she suggested was amazing! I would thoroughly recommend this trip and will be telling family and friends back home in Australia
Najma was our guide and brought us to Como and Lugano. She was knowledgeable and guided us to local restaurants and shops when we had a chance to go out on our own. Great experience!
*"Thank you! Najma knows exactly where the locals actually eat and shop — that's the kind of insight you only get with a small group where the guide has time to focus on you rather than managing a crowd. Como and Lugano in one day is a great combination. Hope to see you again!"*
Loved it! A great tour to get to experience Lake Como and Switzerland, very informative and would definitely recommend. Monica was great!
....not rushed, in a small group, without crowded and super touristy places....
Monica was amazing !! We had a great time!! A must in Milan
Excellent experience I would not hesitate to book this tour.
Monica was amazing, had lots of interesting information to share. The tour was stunning! Definitely recommend!
Monica was amazing , so informative and relaxed in the same way. The day flowed beautifully and we would do it all again. We will definitely book this company again for another place in Italy ! Thank you so much!
The trip was great and Monica wa terrific. Friendly and knowledgeable. We had a great time.
