Exploring the picturesque towns and stunning lakefront properties around Lake Como is a captivating experience. Visitors can marvel at the opulent villas that once housed Italian aristocrats, enjoy a boat tour to admire the lakeside scenery, and savor local specialties at a historic olive oil mill. With guided walking tours, visits to renowned villas, and a moderate level of physical activity, this full-day tour offers an ideal way to discover the region’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. But what else can one expect from this immersive journey into the heart of Northern Italy’s natural beauty?
Key Points
- This full-day tour explores the picturesque towns of Varenna and Bellagio around Lake Como, including visits to the opulent villas Villa del Balbianello and Villa Melzi.
- The tour includes a boat tour on Lake Como to admire the stunning lakefront properties, as well as a tasting of local specialties at a historic olive oil mill.
- The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and includes lunch with starters, pasta, water, wine, and coffee.
- The tour involves a fair amount of walking, including some steep steps, and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
- The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, with full refunds for cancellations up to 6 days in advance and partial refunds for cancellations up to 2 days before the tour.
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Tour Overview
This tour offers visitors the chance to explore the beautiful towns of Varenna and Bellagio around Lake Como, where they’ll see opulent villas that were once home to Italian aristocrats.
The highlight is a boat tour that lets you view the stunning lakefront properties from the water.
With a private tour, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience led by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide.
Along the way, you’ll even get to taste local specialties at a historic olive oil mill.
Whether you’re looking to soak in the breathtaking scenery or learn about the region’s rich history, this tour has a lot to offer.
Included in Tour
The tour includes a professional, English-speaking guide who leads travelers through the experience. Plus, visitors can look forward to a tasting of local specialties at a historic olive oil mill. The package also covers a guided walking tour of Varenna, as well as a lunch at a local restaurant featuring starters, pasta, water, wine, and coffee. The tour also includes a 1.5-hour boat tour aboard an open-top Venetian taxi, allowing guests to view the opulent lakefront properties from the water. Rounding out the day, travelers will receive tickets to the stunning Villa del Balbianello and Villa Melzi, providing a glimpse into the region’s aristocratic past.
| Included in Tour | Details |
|---|---|
| Professional Guide | English-speaking |
| Local Tastings | Historic olive oil mill |
| Walking Tour | Guided tour of Varenna |
| Lunch | Starters, pasta, water, wine, coffee |
| Boat Tour | 1.5-hour open-top Venetian taxi |
| Villa Tickets | Del Balbianello and Melzi |
Meeting and Pickup
The tour begins at the Varenna Ferry Terminal Ticket Office at 10:30 am, where participants meet their professional, English-speaking guide.
Travelers then explore the towns around Lake Como, including the picturesque Bellagio, without hotel pickup or drop-off services.
The tour ends at the Hotel du Lac in Bellagio, offering a convenient endpoint for participants.
Key details include:
- Meeting point: Varenna Ferry Terminal Ticket Office at 10:30 am
- End point: Hotel du Lac in Bellagio
- No hotel pickup or drop-off included
This flexible meeting and pickup arrangement allows for a seamless transition between the various highlights of the tour, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Activity Details
A fair amount of walking is involved in this tour, including some steep steps that participants should be prepared for. The tour operates rain or shine, with possible changes to the transportation used.
It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Guests will explore the charming towns of Varenna and Bellagio, taking in the opulent villas that once housed Italian aristocracy. The highlight is the 1.5-hour boat tour that allows you to view the stunning lakefront properties from the water.
With a private guide, you’ll enjoy a personalized and immersive experience filled with local flavors and hidden gems.
Cancellation Policy
Canceling the tour is possible, but the refund amount depends on when it’s done. Guests can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 6 days in advance.
A 50% refund is available for cancellations 2-6 days before the tour, but no refund is given for cancellations less than 2 days in advance.
The cancellation policy is straightforward:
- Cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund.
- Receive a 50% refund for cancellations 2-6 days before the tour.
- No refund for cancellations less than 2 days in advance.
This flexible policy allows guests to plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can get their money back if their plans change.
Explore Varenna and Bellagio
Picturesque lakeside towns of Varenna and Bellagio provide a captivating glimpse into the charming ambiance of Lake Como during this tour.
In Varenna, you’ll take a guided walking tour to discover its quaint alleyways, historic churches, and lively piazzas. Wander through the peaceful gardens and marvel at the opulent villas that once belonged to Italian aristocracy.
Then, you’ll cruise across the serene lake to Bellagio, known as the ‘Pearl of the Lake.’ Stroll along the picturesque promenade, browse through boutique shops, and savor local delicacies at a charming restaurant.
This immersive experience allows you to truly soak in the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage of these enchanting lakeside communities.
Opulent Villas and Lakefront Properties
After exploring the charming lakeside towns, the tour takes visitors to witness the grandeur of the opulent villas that once belonged to Italian aristocracy along the shores of Lake Como. These sprawling estates offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of the elite, with their ornate architecture, lush gardens, and breathtaking views.
Some highlights include:
- Villa del Balbianello, a 18th-century villa with its distinctive loggia and terraced gardens that have been featured in Hollywood films.
- Villa Melzi, a neoclassical villa with its beautiful gardens and art collection.
The boat tour provides a unique perspective, allowing visitors to admire these grand lakefront properties from the water.
Tasting Local Specialties
The tour includes a tasting of local specialties at a historic olive oil mill, allowing visitors to savor the flavors that have defined the culinary heritage of the region. As part of this experience, guests will sample the finest extra virgin olive oils produced using traditional methods. They’ll also get to try a selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and other delectable delights that showcase the bounty of the Lake Como area. This tasting promises to be a true delight for the senses, transporting travelers on a flavorful journey through the local gastronomic traditions.
| Sensory Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Sight | Gleaming bottles of golden olive oil |
| Smell | Fragrant herbs and spices |
| Taste | Robust, peppery olive oil and creamy cheeses |
| Touch | Smooth, velvety textures |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a tasting of local specialties and a 3-course lunch, so outside food and drinks are typically not permitted.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be the best fit for children. It involves a fair amount of walking, including steep steps, and the pace may be too slow or strenuous for younger travelers. The tour operator recommends a moderate fitness level.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour offers a set itinerary, but travelers can’t customize it. However, they can discuss any special needs or requests with the guide beforehand to ensure the best possible experience within the tour’s structure.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, the company may consider providing discounts for groups of 4 or more. It’s best to inquire about any special offers or group rates when booking the tour.
Can I Request a Specific Tour Guide?
Customers can’t request specific tour guides for this tour. The tour company assigns guides based on availability and expertise. However, the tour provides a personalized experience with an English-speaking professional guide.
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Recap
This tour offers a captivating exploration of the picturesque towns and stunning lakefront properties around Lake Como.
Visitors can marvel at opulent villas, enjoy a boat tour, and savor local specialties, making it an ideal way to discover the region’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
With guided walking tours, visits to renowned villas, and a moderate level of physical activity, this tour provides a well-rounded experience of the Lake Como area.
