Exploring the lake by boat is a must-do experience during your stay in Lake Como. You will have unforgettable views of the surrounding mountains and majestic villas in the middle of the lake, and above all you will be able to swim away from the crowds.
Lake Como is less than an hour from Milan, so it’s a great place to include in your stay for an immediate change of scenery.
We’ve listed the various options for visiting this sublime lake by boat below, including one that might surprise you.
Where to take the boat to visit Lake Como?
You can take the ferries or rent a boat or canoe from the main towns on the lake: Como, Bellagio, Varenna, Lecco, Mennagio….
Lake Como by boat all options
Cruising
Departure from Milan
Everything from transportation from Milan to Lake Como towns such as Bellagio and Varenna is included. You can also cross the lake by boat. You’ll be able to see a condensed view of the lake and its main sights. With round-trip bus transport from Milan and a cruise on the lake, every detail is designed to maximize your time on site.
No need to worry about organization or transport. What’s more, having a guide helps you grasp the history and anecdotes of the places you visit. However, you’ll obviously have less freedom to explore at your own pace.
Boat rental
Of course, the best thing to do is hire a private boat, so you can explore the lake at your own pace and swim in peace.
Don’t panic if you are new to sailing, you can rent a boat with or without a license and with or without a skipper. In short, you’re bound to find a formula to suit your needs.
To rent your boat, we recommend that you use the Samboat platform. It’s very simple, they have the most complete offer of boat rental and their website is very easy to use!
You enter your location“Lake Como“,“Como“,“Lecco“, then your dates, then you can filter by boat type (motorboats, houseboats, small boats…), with or without a license, with or without a skipper: in short, you’re spoilt for choice.
Ferry
Another very good option is to take the ferry that connects the main cities of Lake Como, Como, Bellagio, Varenna, Mennagio….
You can buy a day ticket to get on and off whenever you want and stop to discover the incredible villages that surround Lake Como (about 15€ per day).
Find all the information you need about boat times and prices on the Navigazion Lago Como website.
By kayak
This original activity is possible from Bellagio, you will be able to explore the coast around Bellagio during 1h30 with a guide, you will know more about the area and you will have beautiful pictures to share!
Where to sleep on Lake Como?
Looking for a place to stay on Lake Como? To make your visit easier, we’ve included an article detailing the most interesting villages to stay in on Lake Como, along with our best hotel addresses.
1. Our favorite: Suite Menaggio, ideally located in the center of Menaggio with a beautiful view of the lake. Charming apartment with fully-equipped kitchen, so go for it.
2. Small price: Albergo Frirenze, next to the port of Como, ideal for taking a boat around the lake, right in the center of town, with parking nearby. Excellent value for money in Como.
3. With a view: Hotel Bellagio, right in the center of Bellagio, a comfortable hotel with an excellent, generous breakfast, served under a charming arbour with a view in the distance of the shore opposite with Villa Carlotta.
We wish you an excellent trip! Feel free to drop us a note below to let us know if you’re planning this trip, ask any questions you may have here or on Instagram, we’ll get back to you with great pleasure.
