Lake Como Helicopter Tour with Stop for Lunch

Thinking about splurging on a helicopter tour over Lake Como? This experience promises a mix of stunning aerial views, charming lakeside villages, and a leisurely lunch at a scenic mountain restaurant. It’s a way to elevate your trip—literally—and see the area from a perspective few get to enjoy.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of flying with the beauty of Lake Como’s iconic scenery. The guides and pilots are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more than just sightseeing. Plus, the chance to land for a relaxed lunch in the hills adds a special touch.

On the flip side, some travelers mention that the flight time may feel a bit short for the price—around 40 to 50 minutes of actual flying. If you’re expecting a lengthy helicopter ride, this could be a consideration. However, if you’re after a well-curated, scenic experience with a touch of luxury, this could be a perfect fit.

This helicopter tour is especially suited for those wanting a memorable, luxurious experience or celebrating a special occasion. If you love scenic views, appreciate a bit of adventure, and don’t mind the cost, you’ll likely find this trip worth the splurge.

Key Points

• Scenic Flight: A 40 to 50-minute helicopter ride that covers many of Lake Como’s most iconic sights.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable pilots and crew who enhance the experience with commentary and friendly service.
• Stunning Views: Fly over historic villas, charming villages, and the glamorous town of Bellagio.
• Unique Stops: Includes a land stop for lunch at a mountain restaurant, allowing for a relaxed meal and stunning surroundings.
• Flexible Itinerary: The route adjusts for weather and other conditions, ensuring a smooth experience.
• Private Tour: Only your group participates, making it a personalized experience.

A Deep Dive Into the Lake Como Helicopter Experience

If you’re considering a helicopter tour over Lake Como, imagine soaring above shimmering waters, dotted with historic villas, quaint villages, and lush green hills. This tour offers a chance to see the region’s highlights from a bird’s-eye view, which is truly special. It’s not just a flight; it’s an experience designed to give you a sense of the area’s grandeur and charm.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The tour begins with private shuttle transportation from Como to the heliport. This is a nice touch, ensuring a smooth start without the hassle of organizing transport. Once at the heliport, you’ll board a helicopter for about 40 to 50 minutes of flight time.

During the flight, you’ll pass over some of the most recognizable sights in Lake Como. We loved the way the route covers both natural beauty and architectural marvels. You’ll see Como’s cathedral and city center, giving a glimpse of the town’s history and vibe from above. Then, the pilot guides you past Castel Baradello, a fortress that’s been guarding Como for centuries.

Next, the flight takes you over Villa Erba, Villa d’Este, and Villa Pizzo, each famous for their gardens and historic significance. The aerial view of Blevio, with its luxurious residences like the Mandarin Hotel and the Sereno, highlights the region’s exclusivity.

The flight continues exploring smaller villages like Torno, known for its ancient church housing relics like the Holy Cross nail, and Moltrasio, with its unique stone quarries that supplied Roman roads. These stops reveal the area’s deep-seated history and craftsmanship.

Laglio, home to George Clooney’s villa, adds a touch of Hollywood glamour to the tour. From the sky, the glowing white structure of Villa Oleandra is unmistakable.

One of the most captivating parts of the flight is over Nesso, famous for its waterfalls and historic settlements. The geological rift that cuts through the village and the waterfall cascading over 20 meters create a dramatic scene.

Further along, you’ll fly over Isola Comacina, the only island on Lake Como, and admire villas like Villa Balbiano, Villa Cassinella, and the renowned Villa Balbianello—famous from movies like Star Wars and James Bond.

The aerial journey concludes with views of Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” and its elegant villas and botanical gardens.

The Land Stop for Lunch

After the flight, you’ll land at La Madonnina restaurant in Barni for a well-deserved lunch. It’s not included in the tour cost, but the restaurant is booked solely for your group, ensuring a peaceful, exclusive meal. The setting is picturesque, perched in the hills with views overlooking the lake and surrounding mountains.

The lunch stop lasts about an hour and a half, giving you plenty of time to relax, enjoy the local cuisine, and take in the scenery. The trip back to Como wraps up the day, with a shuttle transfer and some free time in the town.

The Experience and Value

While the price is around $2,846 for a group of up to 6 people, many reviews suggest that the experience justifies the cost—especially if you value private, scenic flights and a luxury touch. It’s worth noting that most bookings are made well in advance, often around 167 days ahead, indicating how popular this experience is.

Several guests appreciated how the pilots and guides made the tour engaging and personalized. One guest, Michael, shared that despite weather challenges, the crew adjusted the route, ensuring a memorable experience with excellent landmark descriptions and delicious lunch. Conversely, some felt the flight was slightly shorter than they hoped, wishing for more flying time.

Practical Details That Matter

The tour includes private transportation, which simplifies logistics and adds comfort. It starts at 11:30 am from Viale Vittorio Veneto in Como and ends back at the same spot. The total duration is around 2 hours 30 minutes, including transportation, flight, and lunch.

Weight limits per passenger are set at 243 lbs, so travelers should consider this if they have larger luggage or specific needs. Confirmation is prompt, and most travelers find they can participate comfortably.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter experience really suits those looking for a special treat or celebration—perhaps a honeymoon, birthday, or anniversary. If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime view of Lake Como, with the ability to relax and enjoy a luxurious lunch, this is a wonderful option.

It’s also ideal if you appreciate expert guides and stunning scenery, and don’t mind paying a premium for a private, curated experience. However, if you’re expecting a long flight or are sensitive to weather, keep in mind that the actual flying time is relatively short, and weather conditions could sometimes affect the route.

Final Thoughts

The Lake Como Helicopter Tour with Stop for Lunch offers a highly memorable way to see the region’s most iconic sights from a new perspective. It combines the thrill of flying with the charm of lakeside villages and historic villas, all wrapped in a private, luxurious package.

While some might wish for longer flying time, most reviews highlight the professionalism of the crew and the beauty of the views. If you’re prepared for the cost and the schedule, this tour can be a highlight of any trip to Lake Como.

This experience is best suited for travelers who value exclusivity, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of adventure. It’s a splurge, but one that could create lifelong memories, especially if you love the idea of seeing Lake Como from above, then relaxing with a scenic lunch in the hills.

FAQ

Is the helicopter tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but there is a weight limit of 243 lbs per person. If you’re comfortable with flying and enjoy aerial views, you’ll likely find it enjoyable.

How long is the helicopter flight?
The flight itself lasts about 40 to 50 minutes, covering many of Lake Como’s highlights from above.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation to and from the heliport, the helicopter flight, and a land stop for lunch at La Madonnina restaurant (lunch is not included in the price).

Can the route be changed?
Yes, the route may be adjusted depending on weather conditions and other factors. Many reviews mention that pilots and guides are flexible and make the best of the circumstances.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunglasses, and any personal essentials. Remember that the actual flight is relatively short, so plan accordingly.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This helicopter tour over Lake Como is a fantastic way to see the area’s beauty from a unique angle. It’s a luxurious, memorable experience that combines scenic flying with relaxing mountain lunch stops—perfect if you’re celebrating or simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.