Varenna is one of the most charming villages on Lake Como, offering more than just picturesque streets and cozy cafes. It’s also an ideal base for boat adventures that showcase the lake’s beauty from the water. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise, a sailing experience, or a private vintage wooden boat ride, Varenna’s location makes it easy to explore Lake Como’s shimmering shores. We particularly love the Lake Como: Sailing Boat Tour with Skipper and Aperitivo, which combines a relaxing sail with a taste of local Prosecco—plus a swim in a secluded spot. It’s a great way to feel the wind in your hair and enjoy some authentic Italian leisure.
If you’re craving a more personalized experience, the Bellagio/Menaggio: Private Trip on a Vintage Wooden Boat offers a tailored journey on a classic vessel, taking in the most scenic lakeside villas and charming towns. For those seeking a quick yet comprehensive look at Lake Como’s highlights, the Varenna: Lake Como Shared Boat Tour delivers a fascinating ride past famous villas and hidden corners, with informative audio guides. Finally, the Lake Como: Tailor-made Catamaran Tour caters to travelers looking for a flexible, private cruise that can include activities like paddleboarding or onboard dining. Now, let’s dive into each tour to see what makes them special.
1. Lake Como: Sailing Boat Tour with Skipper and Aperitivo
At number 1 on our list, this sailing adventure offers a fantastic way to experience Lake Como with a local skipper guiding the way. The tour lasts anywhere from 3 to 7 hours, giving plenty of time to relax and take in the views. As you glide across the water, you’ll enjoy a traditional aperitivo with Prosecco, which perfectly complements the fresh breeze and sunshine. The boat is designed for a laid-back experience, and the skipper is there to share insights about the lake’s scenic villages and luxurious villas.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to swim in a secluded spot, with your swimsuit ready for the refreshment. You’ll get to feel what it’s like to sail on a classic vessel, soaking in the tranquility of Lake Como away from busy tourist spots. The reviews are glowing—28 travelers gave it a perfect 5/5—highlighting the memorable sailing experience, the delicious aperitivo, and the peaceful swim. This tour is best for those who want a relaxed, authentic sailing experience with a touch of luxury.
Bottom line: If you’re after a leisurely day on the water with local flair and stunning scenery, this sailing tour hits all the right notes.
2. Bellagio/Menaggio: Private Trip on a Vintage Wooden Boat
Number 2 on our list offers a private experience aboard a classic wooden boat, ideal for travelers seeking a personalized and intimate journey. Departing from Bellagio, Menaggio, Varenna, or Tremezzo, this tour provides flexible timings from 1 to 6 hours, allowing you to customize your route. The vintage boat exudes charm, with its polished wood and timeless design, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate craftsmanship and classic style.
This trip is all about taking in the scenery at your own pace. You’ll cruise past iconic lakeside villas, including the stunning Villa Melzi Gardens in Bellagio, and venture to quaint towns like Nesso and Varenna. During the cruise, you can sip a chilled drink—alcoholic or non-alcoholic—while enjoying the lake’s serenity. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with a 4.9/5 rating from 31 travelers, often mentioning the boat’s comfort and the picturesque views.
Bottom line: This private wooden boat ride is perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a tailored, elegant experience on Lake Como.
3. Varenna: Lake Como Shared Boat Tour
Third on our list is a shared cruise that offers a budget-friendly way to explore Lake Como. For around $45 per person, this 1.5-hour tour departs from Varenna and offers an excellent overview of the lake’s most notable sights. The boat takes you past Villa Balbianello, Villa Melzi, Villa Balbiano, and Villa del Balbianello, with stops for photos and guided commentary.
The highlight is the ability to see several famous villas and scenic spots without the hassle of organizing your own boat or dealing with ferry schedules. The tour includes access to an audio guide, so you can learn about the history and architecture of the villas as you glide by. The reviews are very positive; many mention the comfortable boat, scenic views, and the value for money.
This cruise is ideal for those on a time constraint or looking for an affordable way to see the main sights of Lake Como from the water. Bring headphones for the audio guide and enjoy a relaxed, informative trip.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Lake Como’s major villas and towns with minimal fuss.
4. Bellagio: Villa del Balbianello Gardens Shared Boat Tour
Number 4 is a shared boat tour from Bellagio, focusing on one of Lake Como’s most famous sights: the Villa del Balbianello. This 2-hour cruise offers a scenic ride from Bellagio to the villa, with stops at Villa Melzi and other villas along the way. Upon arrival, you can explore the villa’s spectacular botanical gardens and enjoy panoramic views from the terraces.
The boat ride itself is comfortable, and the narration—enhanced by an audio guide—provides insights into the villa’s history and architecture. Guests praise the smooth ride and the stunning scenery, with reviews noting the “breathtaking views” and the opportunity to see the villa’s architecture up close. It’s a good choice for those interested in the history and gardens of Villa del Balbianello, especially since it’s part of a small-group experience.
While shorter and less flexible than a private trip, this tour provides a nice balance of sightseeing and relaxation, especially if you want to visit the villa’s gardens without the hassle of organizing transport.
Bottom line: This is an excellent pick for travelers wanting a guided, scenic trip with a focus on one of Lake Como’s most iconic sites.
5. Lake Como: Tailor-made Catamaran Tour
Finally, at number 5, this customizable catamaran experience is ideal for travelers seeking a private, flexible day on the lake. Available for 4 to 8 hours, this tour allows you to choose your route and activities, including options like stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), onboard dining, or even guided meditation sessions. The friendly crew helps craft a personalized itinerary, whether you want to explore the lakeside towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio or just relax on deck.
This tour’s main appeal lies in its flexibility and relaxed atmosphere. You can decide to anchor in a quiet spot for a swim, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak up the scenery. The onboard guided meditation offers a peaceful break, making it suitable for wellness-focused travelers. Prices are not specified, but the value lies in the tailored experience.
Reviews note the “gentle rhythm of the lake” and the ability to customize your journey, making it perfect for couples or groups wanting a private, stress-free day. The option to include activities like SUP or onboard meals adds to its appeal.
Bottom line: If you prefer a private, versatile experience with the option to tailor your day, this catamaran tour is hard to beat.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Varenna
When selecting a boat tour, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. For a relaxing sail with drinks and swimming, the Lake Como: Sailing Boat Tour with Skipper and Aperitivo is perfect. If you want a personalized private ride, the Vintage Wooden Boat offers tailored luxury. For a quick overview, the shared cruise is cost-effective and informative. And if your priority is a customized, flexible day with activities, the tailor-made catamaran is ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, to secure your preferred dates. Also, check if the provider includes essentials like audio guides, drinks, or swimming gear.
Final Thoughts
Varenna offers a wide variety of boat experiences—from laid-back sailing trips to private vintage cruises—each suited to different types of travelers. For romantic couples, the private wooden boat promises intimacy and charm. Families or groups on a budget will appreciate the shared boat tour for its ease and affordability. Those seeking a personalized adventure may find the catamaran tour perfect, especially with its flexible options.
No matter which experience you choose, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable ways to see Lake Como. With so many options, you’re bound to find the perfect boat tour to make your visit to Varenna unforgettable.
