Discovering Lake Como’s Villas from Lecco: A Self-Guided Adventure
Our review of this tour offers a window into a flexible, scenic way to see some of Lake Como’s most celebrated villas. Starting from Lecco, you get entry tickets to Villa Monastero, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Melzi d’Eril, plus a full day of ferry rides connecting charming lakeside towns. The experience is designed for those who prefer to set their own pace, enjoying the lush gardens, art collections, and stunning lakeside vistas without the pressure of a guided group.
What I really appreciate about this experience is its combination of convenience and flexibility. Pre-booking your entry and ferry tickets means less waiting and more time exploring at your leisure. Plus, the included ferry transfers between Bellagio, Tremezzo, and Varenna make it easy to hop from one magical lakeside town to another without the hassle of figuring out schedules on your own — assuming you like a bit of spontaneity.
On the flipside, one consideration is that this is not a guided tour, so if you prefer detailed historical narration or expert insights, you might find yourself missing some context. Still, the provided timetable and the detailed itinerary help you maximize your day, and the gardens at each villa are self-explanatory enough to enjoy without a guide.
This experience offers a fine balance of value, beauty, and independence, making it ideal for travelers who want to craft their own Lake Como story. It’s a good choice for those comfortable navigating public transportation and eager to focus on what interests them most.
Key points / Takeaways
- Flexible self-guided format allows you to choose which villas to explore and how long to spend at each.
- Pre-arranged ferry transfers between towns simplify travel and save time, connecting Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo effortlessly.
- Lush botanical gardens at Villa Melzi, Villa Monastero, and Villa Carlotta are highlights, showcasing sculptures, tropical plants, and Japanese ponds.
- Entry tickets include garden vouchers, making access straightforward and adding value to your visit.
- A well-planned timetable helps you make the most of your day, with a clear route from Lecco to each villa and back.
- Authentic experience of lakeside life, with free time for wandering, lunch, and photography in charming villages.
A Deep Dive into the Lake Como Villas Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lecco.
Starting in Lecco: The Gateway to Lake Como’s Charm
Lecco is often overshadowed by the more famous towns like Bellagio or Varenna, but starting here makes sense if you’re looking for a less crowded launchpad. The ferry terminal at Lungolario Cesare Battisti is your starting point, and it’s easy to locate via Google Maps. The journey begins at 10:10 am with a ferry crossing to Bellagio, giving you a scenic 1.5-hour cruise across the lake’s shimmering surface.
This first leg also offers a chance to enjoy the views that make Lake Como special — rugged mountains, elegant villas dotted along the shoreline, and reflections that seem almost unreal. The ferry service is reliable, but keep in mind that timetables are subject to change based on the public navigation schedule.
Bellagio: Gardens and Town Charm
Arriving in Bellagio around 11:40 am, you’ll find ample free time to explore the town and its gardens. The highlight here is the gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril, renowned for sculptures, a Moorish temple, and a Japanese pond. The garden’s tropical plants and sculptures provide a kaleidoscope of colors — it’s a peaceful walk with plenty of photo opportunities.
The reviews highlight the stunning views and tranquil atmosphere. One visitor mentioned, “Loved the views, lovely towns, a leisurely pace!” which is exactly what this part of the trip offers. You can also enjoy a lakeside lunch, choosing from the many cafes and trattorias—just be mindful of your schedule to stay on the timetable.
From Bellagio to Tremezzo: The Elegant Villa Carlotta
At 2:00 pm, a ferry takes you from Bellagio to Tremezzo, your next stop. The entrance to Villa Carlotta opens at 2:16 pm, giving you about an hour and a half to explore. This villa is famous for its art collection and botanical gardens. Masterpieces by artists like Canova and Hayez decorate the interiors, while the gardens burst with color and fragrance.
Guests often remark on the luxurious private apartments and furniture once owned by Princess Charlotte of Sachsen-Meiningen. The botanical gardens are particularly praised for their lushness and variety, making it a perfect place to slow down and enjoy nature’s artistry.
Varenna and Villa Monastero: A Historical and Botanical Finale
The final leg of your journey is from Tremezzo to Varenna at 4:16 pm, arriving around 4:30 pm. Here, you’ll visit Villa Monastero, a place with eight centuries of history and a beautifully preserved house museum. The garden is a botanical paradise, with lakeside views that invite lingering.
One reviewer called it “a wonderful way to view a few cities around Lake Como,” emphasizing the leisurely pace and the beautiful gardens. The villa’s history and setting offer a peaceful conclusion to your villa tour.
Returning to Lecco by Train
The last segment involves a train from Varenna at 6:35 pm back to Lecco, arriving around 6:58 pm. This relaxed schedule lets you enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, and the train ride offers a different perspective of the lakeside scenery.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The package includes full-day ferry transfers, the entry tickets to all three villas, and a train ticket from Varenna to Lecco. Plus, H24 assistance provides peace of mind should you encounter issues. However, there’s no guide, so you’ll need to make your own discoveries and interpretations at each site. Lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy local eateries.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits independent travelers who enjoy setting their own pace and exploring at their leisure. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable using public transportation and are keen to visit multiple villas and towns in one day. Those looking for a guided, narrative-driven tour might find it lacking, but if your priority is stunning scenery, authentic gardens, and flexibility, this is a winner.
Price and Value
At $135.94 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included ferry rides, villa entries, and train ticket. The convenience of pre-booked tickets and coordinated schedules means you won’t waste precious time lining up or figuring out logistics. Plus, the gardens and villas themselves are significant attractions, making this a comprehensive introduction to Lake Como’s lakeside elegance.
Who This Tour Is Best For
If you crave independence, beautiful scenery, and a well-organized schedule, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for travelers who love to explore on their own, take photos, and enjoy lakeside towns without the restrictions of a guided group. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate botanical gardens and art collections, and who don’t mind a bit of ferry hopping.
However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth historical commentary or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it requires some walking and navigation through busy ferry terminals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, families who enjoy boat rides and garden visits will find this trip engaging. Just ensure children are comfortable with walking and ferry rides.
Do I need to pre-book my ferry tickets?
Yes, the tickets are included in your package and are pre-booked, which helps streamline your day and avoid long lines.
Can I modify the itinerary?
While the schedule provides a suggested timetable, you’re free to spend more or less time at each villa depending on your interests. Just remember to stick roughly to the planned timetable to catch the ferries.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended since you’ll be walking through gardens and exploring towns. Also, bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for sunny days.
Are there any restrictions I should know?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Also, keep in mind that Villa Melzi’s gardens are private property and only the gardens are open to visitors.
What if I want to skip a villa?
Since this is a self-guided experience, you can choose to skip certain sites if you prefer more time in towns or for rest.
How reliable are the ferry schedules?
Ferry timetables are subject to change, so it’s wise to check the current schedule closer to your travel date. The tour provider offers assistance in case of delays.
Is there any guidance on the best time to visit?
The suggested timetable runs from late March to mid-June, ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The experience might differ slightly outside these months.
To sum it up, this Lecco-based villa tour offers a practical and scenic way to see some of Lake Como’s most iconic sights. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy taking their time, exploring gardens and towns at their own pace, and navigating public transport comfortably. With stunning scenery, well-chosen stops, and the flexibility to craft your perfect day, it provides a memorable lakeside experience without the hefty guide price or rigid schedule. For those seeking a taste of Lake Como’s beauty and charm, this self-guided adventure promises a satisfying and authentic journey.