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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Como from the water on a scenic boat tour, with charming villages and stunning villas as your backdrop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
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Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Como from the water on a scenic boat tour, with charming villages and stunning villas as your backdrop.
"This is the highlight of our Italian lakes trip so far, the captain was so great!"
📸 Captains are great photographers!
Don't hesitate to ask your captain to snap some photos of you and your group. They're often happy to help!
⏰ Arrive a bit early
Check in 10-15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to ensure a smooth start.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Lake Como Cruise
Lake Como
Glide across the stunning waters, taking in breathtaking views of villas and charming towns.
Villa Balbianello Stop
Isola Comacina
A picturesque island villa, famous for its gardens and film appearances. A must-see!
Personalized Commentary
Onboard
Learn about landmarks and history from knowledgeable captains who share interesting insights.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Peak Season
Consider Private vs. Shared Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Captains are great photographers!
Don't hesitate to ask your captain to snap some photos of you and your group. They're often happy to help!
⏰ Arrive a bit early
Check in 10-15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to ensure a smooth start.
🎶 Music adds to the vibe
Enjoy the curated playlists that enhance the overall boat trip experience.
💰 Shared tours can be private!
Sometimes, you might be the only booking for a shared tour, giving you a private experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Captains are great photographers!
Don't hesitate to ask your captain to snap some photos of you and your group. They're often happy to help!
⏰ Arrive a bit early
Check in 10-15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to ensure a smooth start.
🎶 Music adds to the vibe
Enjoy the curated playlists that enhance the overall boat trip experience.
💰 Shared tours can be private!
Sometimes, you might be the only booking for a shared tour, giving you a private experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Most visitors rave about their Lake Como boat tour experiences, often calling them the highlight of their trip. The stunning scenery, knowledgeable captains, and comfortable boats are frequently praised. However, a few travelers have reported negative encounters with rude or rushed drivers on certain tours, suggesting it's important to choose operators carefully.
"I'd give this 10 stars if I could.
Me and my partner booked the shared Classic tour lasting 1 hour, the tour was booked to start at 6pm, we arrived at 5:50pm and checked in as per the email instructions. Luckily for us we were the only 2 to have booked the tour and therefore had the tour to ourselves. This is the highlight of our Italian lakes trip so far, the captain was so great, played great music, provided excellent photography skills, (he took photos of me and my partner together) and provided good and interesting information about the landmarks around the centre of the lake, despite his limited English. The boat was lovely, clean and looked very stylish. We felt so lucky and enjoyed the boat trip so much, can't recommend the service enough."
Daniel Slack
"We booked this taxi boat last minute on Saturday to go from Varenna to Tremezzo. When we are getting in we explained the driver we need to take some pucs along the way and if he could drive bit slowly. He agreed at that point. But when the boat started he blistered through the ride, 15 minutes ride was only 10 minutes. When we asked him whether he could stop in the middle of the lake for us to take some pictures he was very rude about it and he screamed at me saying he has another tour and he has to go back soon. We paid a huge amount of money just for a 10 minute ride. I understand they are also doing continuous tours, but you have to make your customers happy by atleast giving them some comfort and listening to them. When the boat stopoed at tremezzo. He was like get down get down i have to go. He was rushing so much. I do not recommend this company for tours. Drivers re very rude and arrogant. There are other 2 boat companies in varenna just check them out"
Ashi R
"Our group tour with Taxi Boat Varenna was the highlight of our few days in the Lake Como area! We got to stop and see views of many of the towns in the central lake region and our driver/guide shared really interesting commentary throughout the tour. The boat was comfortable (even heated since the day was a bit chilly), the views were great, the guide was everything we could have asked for. Would give more than 5 stars if we could - highly recommend!!"
Korey Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Varenna is accessible by train from Milan and other major cities. From the Varenna-Esino train station, it's a short walk down to the lakefront where most boat tour operators are located.
Some tours offer pick-up and drop-off services from various towns around Lake Como, including Bellagio and Menaggio. It's best to confirm this with your chosen operator when booking.
Parking in Varenna can be challenging, especially during peak season. If driving, research public parking options in advance or consider arriving by train.
The most convenient way is by train from Milan Centrale to Varenna-Esino station, which takes about an hour.
Accessibility can vary by boat. It's recommended to contact the tour operator directly to inquire about specific boat accessibility and boarding procedures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary depending on the tour duration and whether it's a shared or private experience. Shared tours can range from €30-€60 per person, while private tours can be €200+.
Yes, especially during peak season (summer and holidays), booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.
Typically, the price includes the boat ride, captain, and fuel. Some tours may offer complimentary water or a small snack. Commentary is usually included.
Cancellation policies differ between operators. Check the terms and conditions when booking, as some may offer full refunds if canceled within a certain timeframe.
Some operators may offer group discounts. It's worth inquiring directly with the company when you book your tour.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours can range from 1 hour for a classic cruise to 3-4 hours for tours that include stops at multiple villas and towns.
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended. Layers are a good idea as it can be cooler on the water, even on a sunny day.
Absolutely! The scenery is stunning. Many captains are happy to help you get the best shots.
Commentary usually covers the history of the villas, local legends, and interesting facts about the towns you pass.
Smaller tour boats may not have restrooms. For longer tours or those with specific amenities, check with the operator beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful lighting for photos. Early mornings can also be less crowded and offer serene views.
Key spots include Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, Bellagio's colorful houses, and the general panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Ask your captain to slow down near the villas. Utilize your phone's zoom feature or a camera with a telephoto lens for clearer shots.
It's a good idea to have some protection for your electronics, as there's a chance of spray from the water.
The best angles often come from the middle of the lake, looking back towards the shorelines, or from a slightly elevated position on the boat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When booking, look for tours that offer a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation. Shorter tours (around 1-2 hours) might be ideal for younger children. Some operators might offer complimentary water or snacks, which can be a nice touch. Don't hesitate to ask if the boat has any safety features like higher railings or if life jackets are readily available for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your savings, consider booking your tour in advance online, as sometimes early bird discounts are available. Also, be mindful of the duration; shorter tours are naturally less expensive. Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help reduce on-board expenses.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Many captains are adept at playing romantic music and can even help you capture beautiful photos together. Consider booking a tour that includes a stop at a picturesque location like Villa del Balbianello for a truly magical outing. The 'golden hour' light during late afternoon tours adds an extra layer of enchantment to the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Lake Como Boat Tour
For those seeking a more personalized and flexible experience, private boat tours are the way to go. These tours allow you to dictate the pace, spend more time at specific viewpoints, and tailor the itinerary to your interests. While more expensive, they offer an unparalleled level of intimacy with the lake and its stunning surroundings. Reviewers often highlight the captain's ability to provide excellent photography tips and capture memorable moments for couples and families.
Regardless of your choice, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the busy summer months and holiday periods. This ensures you secure your preferred time slot and avoid any last-minute disappointment. Researching different companies and reading recent reviews can also help you find an operator known for friendly service and reliable tours.
The Magic of Villa del Balbianello
The villa's terraced gardens are meticulously maintained, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Exploring the loggias and interiors provides a fascinating glimpse into the history and opulent lifestyle of its former inhabitants. The unique architecture and the stunning natural setting make it a photographer's dream.
When visiting, consider the timing of your tour. Tours that align with the late afternoon 'golden hour' can provide spectacular lighting for photos. Remember to check the opening hours and any specific tour requirements for the villa itself, as access might be managed separately from the boat tour.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit