Nesso is a charming village on Lake Como that offers more than just beautiful scenery. Its location makes it an ideal spot for exploring the lake through various tours—whether you’re seeking a private cruise, a fun water activity, or a guided shared trip. We particularly like the 1-hour private boat tour for its intimacy and stunning views, especially around celebrity villas like Villa d’Este and Villa Olmo, which you can see from the water. This trip promises a personalized experience with a skipper onboard, giving you the chance to admire the lake’s most iconic sights without the crowds.
For those celebrating a special moment, the Lake Como: Proposal Boat Tour and professional Photoshoot offers a truly memorable experience—combining cruising in a private boat, enjoying Prosecco, and capturing the event with a professional photographer. Lastly, if you love flexible, budget-friendly options, the shared boat tour provides a lively way to enjoy Lake Como’s beauty alongside fellow travelers, with the added comfort of rain covers in bad weather.
Below, you’ll find a well-rounded selection of tours: from private cruises to group adventures, water biking to romantic proposal packages, each with their own unique appeal. Whether you’re after an intimate experience or a fun group outing, this list offers something for all.
1. COMO LAKE : 1hr Private Boat Tour with skipper
At number 1, this private boat tour provides an intimate way to experience Lake Como‘s stunning scenery. For just an hour, you’ll cruise around the lake with a skipper included, giving you the flexibility to customize what you see. It’s perfect if you only have a limited window or want a quick but memorable outing. The tour starts from the public dock at Lungo Lario Trieste and passes through some of the most famous villas, such as Villa Olmo, Villa d’Este, and Villa Pliniana, each with their own stories and stunning architecture.
Guests consistently praise this tour for its personalized approach and the chance to see celebrity villas from the water—an experience that’s both relaxing and visually rewarding. The guide’s local knowledge enriches the trip, helping you spot the villas and providing interesting tidbits along the way.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and exclusivity—you’re not sharing with a large group, making it ideal for couples or small families. The price is competitive given the private nature, and the lack of crowds ensures a peaceful hour afloat.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, private glimpse of Lake Como’s highlights with a personal touch, this tour is an excellent choice.
2. Lake Como: Proposal Boat Tour and professional Photoshoot
Heading into a more romantic realm, the Proposal Boat Tour and professional Photoshoot offers an exceptional way to mark a special occasion. For between 2.5 and 4.5 hours, you’ll cruise in style, enjoying a bottle of Prosecco as you glide past some of Lake Como’s most picturesque spots. The tour includes a carefully planned proposal location—such as Villa del Balbianello or another scenic villa—and ends with a professional photographer capturing the moment in high-resolution images.
This experience is designed for lovers dedicating a moment of their lives to each other. Having a personal photoshoot ensures you’ll have beautiful memories to cherish long after the moment. The itinerary is flexible, with stops at iconic villas and hidden viewpoints, and the guide’s expertise helps you choose the perfect spot.
Guests who have booked this tour appreciate the personalized service and the quality of photos they receive—”The pictures are stunning, and the whole experience was unforgettable,” one review mentions. It’s a little more costly but offers incredible value for a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples seeking a memorable, romantic experience and professional keepsakes. It’s ideal for proposals, anniversaries, or special celebrations.
3. Como lake shared boat tour 1, 2, 3 ore (Bellagio) rain cover
For travelers on a budget or those who enjoy socializing, the shared boat tour is a great way to see Lake Como. Covering 1 to 3 hours, this tour departs from Lungo Lario Trieste and offers a lively group experience. You’ll share the boat with other travelers, which makes it more affordable and adds a social element. The route includes stops and scenic views, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of villas like Villa Cagni Troubetzkoy, Villa Taverna, and Villa Olmo.
One of the key benefits is the rain cover—an important feature in unpredictable weather—allowing you to enjoy the lake regardless of the forecast. The guide shares stories about the villas and the area’s history, making it educational as well as scenic.
Reviews are positive for the value and fun of the shared experience, though some mention it can be crowded during peak times. It’s best suited for travelers who want to meet others and see the highlights without the expense of a private tour.
Bottom Line: A practical choice for budget-conscious travelers or those eager to mingle while enjoying Lake Como’s sights.
4. Lake Como: Water Bike Rental
Rounding out the options, the Water Bike Rental offers a playful and eco-friendly way to explore Lake Como. Starting from Villa Oleandra in Laglio, the water bike allows you to cycle on the lake itself—an activity that’s both fun and relaxing. The rental lasts around 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore historic villages like Careno and even take a swim or dive in the Nesso gorge.
This activity is perfect for active travelers who want an immersive experience without strenuous exertion. The exclusive departure point next to George Clooney’s villa adds a touch of celebrity glamour. It’s suitable for most ages and fitness levels, and the quiet pace makes it a very different way to see the lake.
Guests appreciate the freedom to explore at their own pace and the chance to combine activity with sightseeing. The ability to swim in the gorge and enjoy the natural surroundings makes it stand out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active adventurers, families, or anyone wanting to see Lake Como from a new perspective while enjoying a bit of fun.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, the type of experience you want, and how much time you have. If you prefer a private, personalized experience, the 1-hour private boat is hard to beat. For special occasions like proposals, the photoshoot and boat offers a memorable and romantic package. Budget travelers or social butterflies will enjoy the shared boat, which combines affordability with scenic fun.
Active travelers seeking a hands-on experience should consider the water bike, especially if nature and physical activity are priorities. Think about your interests—whether it’s romance, adventure, or socializing—and pick the tour that best fits your mood and schedule.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot and get the preferred times.
Final Thoughts
Nesso’s location on Lake Como offers a range of tours that suit many tastes and budgets. For a quick, private glimpse of the lakeside villas, the 1-hour private boat is a solid pick. If you’re celebrating a special event, splurging on the proposal photoshoot makes sense. Budget travelers will find the shared tour a good introduction, while adventure seekers should not miss the chance to explore on a water bike.
No matter what you choose, each of these experiences offers a different way to see and enjoy Lake Como. To make the most of your trip, consider your interests, check availability early, and don’t hesitate to combine different activities if time allows. Lake Como is waiting to be discovered in a way that best suits you.
