Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 1,491 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise worth booking?
Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise is a 9-hour experience in Lake Como, Italy, from $165 per person. It scores 97 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Peak Performance”, based on a 5/5 rating across 1,491 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing. It sits in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.
- Outty Ranking
- 97 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (1,491)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $165 per person
Visit two countries and two lakes in one day — Lake Como and Lake Lugano — on a small-group tour from Milan, small enough to reach the places big tours can't, with every train, boat, and border crossing handled for you.
What you get
About this experience
Visit two countries and two lakes in one day — Lake Como and Lake Lugano — on a small-group tour from Milan, small enough to reach the places big tours can't, with every train, boat, and border crossing handled for you. Skip the selfie crowds and the overrun hotspots. Instead, cruise past the lakeside villas of Gianni Versace, Ocean's Twelve, and John Legend's wedding, then slip into a quieter side of Como most travelers never see — the real village of Torno or Cernobbio, where life moves at its own pace and the tourist trail disappears behind you. After lunch in Como, cross the border into Lugano, Switzerland — a second country, a second lake, all in an afternoon. No driving, no planning, no chasing trains. Just one effortless day, two countries, two lakes — handled for you. In summer, weather permitting, you can enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear alpine waters. The beach is small and rocky, and the lake becomes deep close to the shore. Don't forget to bring a towel.
What's included
Included
- Funicular ride from Lugano train station to city center
- 1-hour Lake Como boat cruise with preebooked tickets
- English-speaking local guide
- Free time in Como & Lugano
- Swiss train & Como lake ferry tickets included
Not included
- Gratuities
- Lunch
What you'll see and do
Como
Discover the charming town of Como, one of the oldest towns on Lake Como. Walk through the historic center with your guide, learn about the town’s rich past, and hear stories about famous local families, artists, and celebrities connected to Como. Enjoy the elegant lakefront, historic squares, and relaxed atmosphere before continuing your journey.
140 minutes here
Villa Erba
Pass by Villa Erba during the boat cruise, a historic lakeside villa in Cernobbio featured in Ocean’s Twelve starring George Clooney, and in Lavazza commercials.
Pass by without stopping
View Villa d’Este from the lake, the world-famous luxury hotel in Cernobbio that has hosted Hollywood stars like Greta Garbo, Clark Gable, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, and George Clooney.
Pass by without stopping
Lugano
Discover the beautiful Swiss city of Lugano, located in the Italian-speaking region of Ticino. Surrounded by mountains and a sparkling lake, Lugano combines Swiss precision with a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Enjoy plenty of free time to stroll along the lakefront, shop in the city center, taste famous Swiss chocolate, or — during summer — take a refreshing swim in the clear waters of Lake Lugano. Learn how Switzerland became one of the most prosperous countries in the world, with insights into its history, economy, and unique way of life.
120 minutes here
Cernobbio
From Como, embark on a scenic boat cruise and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Como while passing by some of the most stunning villas along the shoreline. From the water, admire famous villas featured in Ocean’s Twelve and the elegant lakeside villa once owned by Gianni Versace — icons of luxury and international style.
Pass by without stopping
Torno
Torno is a small pedestrian village where you can enjoy a peaceful, relaxed stroll. It is never too crowded, giving you time to slow down and experience a typical Lake Como village away from mass tourism. With its cobblestone streets and charming old houses, Torno feels like a step back in time — when daily life was closely connected to the lake, fishing, and local artisanal traditions.
45 minutes here
Villa Le Fontanelle
During the boat cruise, admire Villa Le Fontanelle from the lake, the former lakeside residence of Gianni Versace. This elegant villa is one of the most iconic symbols of Lake Como’s luxury lifestyle and international glamour.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Lake Como
Join From Como: Meeting at 9.35 at the statue of Alessandro Volta in Como town
Meeting point
Lake Como
Meet outside Milano Centrale, facing the main entrance. Stand at the pillar between the left and central arches. Guide holds an Italian flag on a stick. Bring your passport MEETING TIME: 8:15 am. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Join From Como: Meeting at 9.35 at the statue of Alessandro Volta in Como town
Ends at
Meet outside Milano Centrale, facing the main entrance. Stand at the pillar between the left and central arches. Guide holds an Italian flag on a stick. Bring your passport MEETING TIME: 8:15 am. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Abroads Tours
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- MEETING TIME: 08:15 at the square in front of the train station
- This tour involves walking on stairs, uneven surfaces, and cobblestone streets. Children should be comfortable walking independently.
- Please remember to bring your original passport (or National ID card for EU citizens). This is required for our international border crossing into Switzerland.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,482 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
1,482 verified traveler reviews for Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Como and Lugano tour with Chiara
We had a wonderful experience with Chiara as our guide. As a native of Como she was extremely knowledgeable and her communication on meeting points and times was excellent. The small group size made the experience seem more personalized. Travel by train was an improvement over typical tour bus options. The trip fully met our expectations.
via Tripadvisor
Great day trip to Lake Como
The Lake Como and Lugano tour was an amazing day. Chiara, our tour guide was so knowledgeable and fun, giving us just the right amount of guidance and independence. The meet up location at the Milano train station was convenient. Lake Como and Lugano with Chiara, are well worth your time.
via Tripadvisor
Lake Como and Lugano
Chaira was very knowledgeable and shared many interests facts. It was a nice day out, I’m glad we did this tour
via Tripadvisor
Speechless
Nothing short of spectacular. The views were beyond breathtaking, but Chiara was an amazing guide who made the entire experience better. Super knowledgeable and hilarious. She even humored us as we attempted to speak Italian. Città!! Would do it again a thousand times over! Highly recommend!!!!!
via Tripadvisor
Lovely tour of two lakes in two countries
Hassle free tour of Como and Lugano lakes in one day. Chairs was a great tour guide. Very helpful answering our questions. We had a lovely time on the cruise to see Como Lake and walking around Lugano. If you want to see two lakes in two countries in one day, then this is the tour for you.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 522
- Verdict
- Peak Performance
Why this scores 97
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Lake Como.
How much does Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise cost?
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Prices start at $165 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Lake Como usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise take?
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Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Lake Como is not rushed.
Is Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 97 out of 100, which we label "Peak Performance". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 1,491 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Lake Como, and how flexible the cancellation terms are. Scoring 90 or above puts it in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.
Can I cancel or reschedule Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise?
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Around 522 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Lake Como can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Lake Como and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Small-Group Lake Como & Lugano: 2 Countries in 1 Day, Boat Cruise start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Lake Como within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Lake Como?
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On Outty we rank every Lake Como experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Como, Bellagio & Varenna: Small Group from Milan with Boat Cruise, Small-Group Lake Como: Bellagio, Varenna, Hidden Gorge & Boat, Small-Group Lake Como Experience with Boat and Van from Milan. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Lake Como?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Lake Como?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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