People from all around the world come to Lake Como with the aim of discovering breathtaking landscapes, elegant villas, and a truly Italian Dolce Vita approach to life. The best way to have it all is by trying classic experiences, such as exploring Lake Como’s waters, stepping inside its historic residences, and getting hands-on with our rich culinary heritage.
Tourists are always in search of the next excitement, but some classic activities are doubtlessly a go-to for everyone who comes to spend their holidays on Lake Como. Here are three beloved experiences that travelers continue to choose year after year.
1. Private boat tour: explore Lake Como from the water
Sailing across Lake Como is a must-do for tourists, and that’s not surprising: admiring the villages from a boat offers a completely different perspective on their beauty. A private boat tour lets you admire elegant villas, lush gardens, and picturesque towns like Bellagio, Menaggio, and Tremezzo at your own pace, from the calm waters of the Lake.
As you move along the shoreline, you’ll get a close look at the most famous Villas, such as Villa del Balbianello and the historic Villa Carlotta, landscapes that have inspired artists and writers for generations. During the hottest months, chilling on the waters of Lake Como is a genius way to cool down, and a sunset cruise creates a magical atmosphere that you won’t easily forget.
A private boat tour is perfect for taking in every detail and exploring along your preferences. Our best-selling offer, available every day from April to October, includes a complete two-hour tour of the central Lake, with an English speaking captain that will be able to show you all the unmissable spots.
2. Villa Balbianello tour: step into history
Among the many historic residences on Lake Como, Villa Balbianello stands out for its breathtaking location and fascinating past, and is therefore highly appreciated by Italian and foreign tourists alike. Perched on a promontory, it offers stunning views of the Lake and beautifully maintained gardens.
Built in the 18th century, the villa has been home to explorers, intellectuals, and, more recently, film productions. Some of its most famous appearances include Star Wars and Casino Royale. Walking through its elegant interiors and lush gardens is a journey into a world of art, history, and natural beauty few attractions can match.
Choosing our Villa Balbianello Boat Tour, you’ll be able to enjoy a cruise of the center Lake with an Italian and English-speaking tour guide. We will provide you with the entrance ticket to Villa Balbianello and its Gardens, and take you back to the eastern shore of the Lake once the visit is over. The perfect half-day trip for a holiday plan.
3. Cooking class: experience Italian cuisine hands-on
Italian food is known around the world for its rich flavors and simplicity, while Italians are known for being friendly and outgoing. This is why a cooking class with a local chef is a great way to dive into our tradition, achieve Italian-holiday goals and bring some easy cooking tricks at home. Tourists have fun and learn what makes Lake Como’s cuisine so special.
Our successful formula includes a professional chef that will guide you through each step, from rolling out fresh pasta to preparing sauces using local ingredients. The experience is hands-on, allowing you to knead, cook, and taste your own creations. At the end of the lesson, you’ll sit down to enjoy your meal, which also includes a starter, wine, and water.
No wonder why it got in the top three Varenna Holidays’ experiences.
Why book with Varenna Holidays?
Planning a trip to Lake Como means choosing experiences that truly connect you with the region. At Varenna Holidays, we rely on our deep knowledge of the area and a trusted network of local partners to offer high-quality tours and activities.
By booking through us, you gain access to carefully selected experiences run by professionals who know and love this territory. Whether you want to sail across the Lake, visit a historic villa, or learn to cook like a local, we make sure everything is arranged with care.
Ready to experience the best of Lake Como? Secure your spot today and let us take care of the rest.