Milan isn’t just about high fashion and historic cathedrals; it’s also a fantastic starting point for exploring some of Italy’s most beautiful lakes and towns by boat. While the city itself is famous for its Gothic cathedral and vibrant street life, it’s the lake cruises and boat trips just outside the city that truly steal the show. We particularly love the Como Private Boat, Bellagio and Lugano Day Trip for its combination of luxury, sightseeing, and cultural richness. Imagine gliding across Lake Como’s shimmering waters, visiting charming villages like Bellagio, and crossing into Switzerland to explore Lugano—all in one day. For a more intimate experience, the Lake Como & Lugano: Small Group, No Crowds, With Boat Cruise offers a cozy, personalized journey with fewer travelers and more meaningful sights. Whether you want a luxurious private cruise or a small-group adventure, Milan’s boat tours are an excellent way to soak up Italy’s lakeside beauty.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we explore 15 of the best boat tours and cruises in Milan. These range from full-day excursions that include visits to Como, Bellagio, and Lugano, to shorter, themed cruises like the Navigli District canal boat tour with aperitivo. Some tours focus on luxury private boats, ideal for romantic dates or special occasions, while others cater to small groups seeking more personal attention. The variety ensures there’s something for every kind of traveler, whether you’re after luxury, adventure, or local flavor. Now, let’s dive into the details of each experience.
1. From Milan: Como Private Boat, Bellagio and Lugano Day Trip
At number 1, this 11-hour private boat trip combines the best of Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano. It’s perfect for travelers who want a luxury experience with flexible timing and personalized attention. The tour starts with two possible pickup points in Milan, then heads to Como for a walk around its cathedral and lakeside vistas. The highlight is the private boat cruise on Lake Como, which offers stunning views of famous villas and mountain scenery. After exploring Bellagio with free time for shopping and lunch, the journey continues to Lugano, where you can enjoy Swiss chocolates and scenic walks. With excellent reviews praising the organization and guide friendliness, this trip is ideal for those who want comfort and exclusivity. Keep in mind, it’s a full-day affair, and the price reflects the private, tailored experience. Bottom line: If luxury and privacy matter most, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Lake Como & Lugano: Small Group, No Crowds, With Boat Cruise
Ranking second, this 5-star rated small-group tour emphasizes intimate experiences with only about 8-12 travelers. For around $149 per person, it offers a 1-hour boat cruise around Lake Como’s villas, along with free time in Como, Torno, and Lugano. The small group size means your guide can give detailed stories about the notable residents and the history of the lakeside villas, like Villa Olmo and Gianni Versace’s villa. The highlight is the Torno pedestrian village—quiet and charming, perfect for relaxed strolling. Many reviews mention how this tour balances sightseeing and free exploration, making it suitable for travelers wanting a relaxed pace. The inclusion of train and boat rides makes it a great value. Bottom line: A cozy, well-organized option for those who want to see lakeside highlights without the crowds.
3. Bellagio & Varenna – Small Group Tour from Milan with Boat Cruise
Number 3 brings you to the heart of Lake Como with a 10-hour intimate tour capped at 12 people. It includes guided visits to Como, Bellagio, and Varenna, with ferry rides and a boat cruise. The guide helps you explore Como’s Duomo and its Roman history, then you’ll hop on a boat cruise to enjoy the spectacular lakeside villas, including Villa Olmo. Bellagio’s picturesque streets and Varenna’s peaceful charm make for a memorable day. Guests praise the personalized approach, with comments about the guide’s helpfulness and the “breathtaking views.” The inclusive transportation, ferry, and cruise make it convenient, but the itinerary can feel rushed for some. Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a personalized, outdoor experience with plenty of photo ops.
4. From Milan: Private Boat to Como Lake, Lugano, and Bellagio
Coming in at number 4, this 10-hour private boat tour offers luxury with a flexible itinerary. Starting from Milan, you’ll cruise on a panoramic private boat around Lake Como, exploring villas and Bellagio’s “Pearl of the Lake”. Crossing into Switzerland, you’ll visit Lugano for some free time, shopping, and tasting Swiss chocolate. Guests appreciate the private, customizable experience, which makes it perfect for special occasions or those seeking more privacy and luxury. The trip includes vistas of famous villas and scenic mountain backdrops. The reviews highlight how the personalized service makes it stand out. The downside? The price is on the higher end, but the exclusivity justifies it. Bottom line: Ideal for romantics and those wanting a tailor-made, private experience.
5. Lake Como, Bellagio with Private Boat Cruise Included
Number 5 offers 11 hours of lakeside beauty for about $102.56 per person. This tour features visits to Villa Olmo and Bellagio, with a private boat cruise in the middle of the day. The cruise is brief but offers excellent views of villas like Villa d’Este and Villa Olmo, plus the chance to enjoy scenic lake vistas. Guests love the well-organized itinerary and beautiful villages, though some mention the limited time in each place. It’s a good value, especially for travelers who want a full day with multiple highlights without the expense of a private tour. The smaller groups and included cruise make it a popular choice. Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation at a reasonable price.
6. Lake Como Experience with boat and van Small-Group from Milan
Seventh on our list, this small-group tour (135 reviews, 5-star rating) combines a walking tour of Varenna, a boat ride, and a scenic drive along Lake Como’s shores. For about $127.92, the tour emphasizes authentic local scenery and off-the-beaten-path spots. Travelers praise the guide for personalized attention and the chance to sample local food (on your own). The highlight is the charming Varenna village, which feels more genuine than the busier towns. The day ends with a train ride back to Milan, making it a good value for those who like a blend of walking, cruising, and local flavor. Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, in-depth experience of Lake Como’s quieter corners.
7. From Milan: Como, Bellagio, Lugano Day Tour & Lake Cruise
This 10-hour guided tour emphasizes multiple countries and lakes in one day. It includes visits to Como, Bellagio, and Lugano, with a lake cruise in the middle. Many reviewers mention the well-managed itinerary and knowledgeable guide. The tour’s strength is the diverse scenery—mountains, lakes, and Swiss town charm—plus abundant free time for exploration. Some find the schedule tight but worth the effort. The scenic cruise and visits are the highlights, especially for those wanting a broad overview of the region’s highlights. Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, multi-country experience without the hassle of planning.
8. Lake Como & Milan in One Day: Milan’s Duomo & Lake Como Boat Tour
Number 8 offers a 9-hour tour combining Milan’s iconic Duomo with a Lake Como boat cruise. You start with skip-the-line access to the Duomo’s rooftop for panoramic views, then head to Lake Como for a 1-hour boat ride. The trip is praised for efficient logistics and a balance of city highlights and lakeside scenery. Guests appreciate the exclusive access to the Duomo’s terrace and the relaxing cruise. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see two of Italy’s most iconic sights. The only downside is the limited time in each location. Bottom line: Great choice for city lovers who also want lakeside views in a single day.
9. Milan: Navigli District Canal Boat Tour with Aperitivo
This popular 50-minute canal cruise is perfect for wine lovers or those seeking a relaxing, social experience. For just $40, you’ll glide through Milan’s famous Navigli canals, enjoying an aperitivo—a typical Italian pre-dinner drink with snacks. Reviewers note the romantic atmosphere and friendly staff, but the commentary is minimal. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a short, fun experience in the evening. The scenic canals and relaxed mood make it a local favorite. Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a fun, social outing rather than a full-day excursion.
$40 per person
10. From Milan: Como, Bellagio, and Lugano Exclusive Boat Tour
At number 10, this 11-hour private boat experience offers a premium way to see Lake Como and Lugano. It’s highly rated for luxury, with options for custom itineraries and private cruises. Guests praise the personalized attention and the opportunity to visit villas and towns at your own pace. The trip is perfect for special occasions or travelers who want an exclusive experience. It’s more costly but justifies itself with private boat rides and tailored stops. Bottom line: Best suited for those who prioritize luxury and exclusivity.
11. From Milan: Cinque Terre Full-Day Guided Trip With Cruise
Number 11 takes you south to the Cinque Terre coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The 12-hour trip includes guided visits to Monterosso and Manarola, with a 90-minute boat cruise along the coast. Visitors love the spectacular views, the famous villages, and the chance to jump into the sea from the harbor. It’s a long day but offers the unique chance to see Italy’s legendary seaside. The trip’s main appeal is the sea cruise and picturesque villages. It’s best for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a full schedule. Bottom line: Perfect for sea lovers seeking a day of scenic beauty and coastal charm.
12. From Milan: Exclusive Boat, Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano Tour
Number 12 offers a luxurious full-day trip with exclusive boat rides across Lake Como and Lugano. Many reviewers highlight its premium service, comfortable transport, and guided walks. It’s a seamless way to experience both lakes with minimal hassle. Guests appreciate the beautiful scenery, especially the villa views and mountain backdrop. The trip is well-suited for travelers wanting ease and elegance. It’s a bit pricier but provides exceptional comfort and attention to detail. Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a luxury, hassle-free lakeside experience.
13. Private Tour: Lake Como From Milan with Private Driver and Boat
Number 13 is a private 8-hour tour featuring personalized transportation and a private boat. You’ll visit villas like Villa Balbianello or Villa Carlotta, with the option to cruise on the lake. Reviewers love the flexibility to tailor the day—whether you want more time at villas or a special boat cruise. The private driver ensures relaxed, customizable travel, ideal for romantic getaways or special celebrations. The main advantage is the personalized service, but it’s the most expensive option. Bottom line: Best for luxury travelers seeking a completely tailored lakeside day.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Milan
When picking your ideal boat experience, think about your budget, time available, and what you most want to see or do. If you’re after a luxury experience, the private boat tours are unmatched—From Milan: Como Private Boat, Bellagio and Lugano Day Trip and Private Tour: Lake Como From Milan fit the bill. For those who prefer a more relaxed, small-group vibe, the Lake Como & Lugano: Small Group Tour offers excellent value. Budget travelers might choose the Milan: Navigli District Canal Boat Tour with Aperitivo, which is fun and affordable.
Practical tips: Book early in peak season (spring through early fall), especially for private and small-group tours. Consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking and boat rides, but most are accessible for most travelers. Think about whether you want city highlights, lakeside scenery, or a mix of both, and choose accordingly. Many tours include free time for exploring towns, so look for options that match your pace and interests.
Final Thoughts
Milan offers a surprising array of boat tours and cruises that reveal Italy’s lakes from a new perspective. Whether you opt for a luxury private cruise around Lake Como, a small-group exploration of Bellagio and Lugano, or a short canal cruise with prosecco, there’s something for all. For the best experience, consider your budget, preferred pace, and whether you want a guided tour or private experience.
Our top picks include the From Milan: Como Private Boat, Bellagio and Lugano Day Trip for luxury and flexibility, and the Lake Como & Lugano: Small Group, No Crowds, With Boat Cruise for intimacy and value. Whatever you choose, these tours promise unforgettable views, charming towns, and a chance to enjoy Italy’s lakes like never before. Book early, and get ready for a memorable lakeside adventure.