From Milan: Villa Del Balbianello and Varenna by Train

Exploring the picturesque Lake Como region from Milan is a captivating experience. Travelers can embark on a full-day excursion that showcases the iconic Villa del Balbianello and the charming town of Varenna. With seamless transportation, stunning boat rides, and access to historic sites, this journey promises to immerse visitors in the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of this enchanting destination. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a day of adventure, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the wonders that lie beyond Milan’s city limits.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion from Milan to visit the picturesque Villa del Balbianello and explore the charming lakeside town of Varenna on Lake Como.
• Convenient roundtrip train tickets and boat rides included, as well as entrance fees and assistance, for a hassle-free experience.
• Explore the stunning gardens and historic significance of the iconic Villa del Balbianello, located on a scenic peninsula.
• Spend time wandering the colorful streets and lakefront promenade of Varenna, with the option to visit Villa Monastero.
• The tour offers approximately 10 hours of exploration, with moderate walking required and flexibility for potential schedule adjustments.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

What does the Villa del Balbianello and Varenna by Train tour offer?

This full-day excursion departs from Milan’s central station, taking travelers on a scenic journey to the picturesque towns of Varenna and Lenno on Lake Como.

Guests will visit the renowned Villa del Balbianello, known for its stunning gardens and historic significance.

The tour includes roundtrip train tickets, boat rides, admission fees, and assistance throughout the day.

With a total duration of around 10 hours, this tour provides an opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks of the Lake Como region in a convenient, hassle-free manner.

Departure From Milan

The tour begins with a convenient departure from Milan’s central station, Milano Centrale, at 8:20 AM.

Travelers embark on a one-hour regional train journey to the picturesque town of Varenna, arriving at 9:24 AM.

From there, they’ll board a 40-minute ferry that takes them across the serene waters of Lake Como to the town of Lenno.

This scenic boat ride sets the stage for the highlight of the day – a visit to the stunning Villa del Balbianello, situated at the tip of a scenic peninsula.

Arrival in Varenna

Travelers arrive in the picturesque town of Varenna at 9:24 AM. The ferry docks, and they step onto the quaint streets lined with colorful buildings.

They’ve 2 hours to explore the charming Villa Monastero and its lush gardens before their next train departure. The villa features a mix of architectural styles, from Renaissance to Baroque, and its expansive botanical gardens offer stunning views of Lake Como.

Visitors can wander through the villa’s rooms and admire the collection of rare plants and flowers. With ample time to soak in the serene atmosphere, travelers feel refreshed and ready for the next leg of their journey.

Villa Del Balbianello

After the ferry ride, they make their way to the iconic Villa del Balbianello.

The villa, located atop a scenic peninsula, offers a breathtaking view of Lake Como. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the villa’s beautifully manicured gardens and explore its rich history.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, allowing ample time to admire the villa’s stunning architecture and landscaping. With its picturesque setting and well-preserved interiors, the Villa del Balbianello is a highlight of the tour, offering a glimpse into the region’s aristocratic past.

The 30-minute walk from the ferry terminal provides a leisurely approach to this magnificent property.

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Return to Varenna

Following the ferry ride back to Varenna, they’ve around 2 hours to explore the charming town at their leisure.

Visitors can wander through the narrow streets, lined with colorful buildings and quaint cafes. They may choose to visit Villa Monastero, which features stunning gardens and a museum. The grounds offer breathtaking views of Lake Como.

Alternatively, travelers can simply stroll along the picturesque lakefront promenade, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

As the afternoon winds down, it’s time to head back to the train station for the return journey to Milan, concluding the day’s adventure.

Train to Milan

As the afternoon draws to a close, travelers board the train at Varenna station for the return journey to Milan. The 1-hour train ride provides scenic views of the countryside as the train makes its way back to the city.

Upon arrival at Milano Centrale, travelers can:

1. Explore the grand architecture and bustling atmosphere of the iconic train station.
2. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the station.
3. Easily connect to their next destination, whether it’s their final stop or a continued adventure in Milan.

The return trip marks the end of a memorable day exploring the stunning Villa del Balbianello and the charming town of Varenna.

Included in the Tour

The tour package includes several key elements to enhance the overall experience.

Visitors are provided with roundtrip regional train tickets from Milano Centrale to Varenna, allowing for a seamless journey.

Plus, the tour includes roundtrip boat tickets for the Varenna-Lenno route, facilitating the transportation to and from the iconic Villa del Balbianello.

Entrance tickets to both Villa del Balbianello Park and Villa Monastero, including the museum and gardens, are also included.

The package offers 24-hour assistance before and during the excursion, ensuring a smooth and well-supported experience.

Taxes and service percentages are covered, making the tour a convenient and inclusive option for visitors.

Important Considerations

Travelers should be aware of the moderate walking requirement for this tour. The 30-minute walk between the Lenno ferry terminal and Villa del Balbianello may not be suitable for all participants.

Additionally:

1. This tour isn’t recommended for wheelchair users due to the walking distance and uneven terrain.
2. Comfortable shoes and clothing are essential, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor activities.
3. Boat timetables may change based on the public navigation schedule of Lake Como, so flexibility is advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for guests of all ages, as long as they can complete the moderate walking requirements. Children must be accompanied by an adult during the excursion.

Is There a Group Size Limit for the Tour?

The tour does not have a stated group size limit. It is a public tour open to individual travelers. The tour description does not mention any group size restrictions.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are generally permitted to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour operator regarding consumption during the excursion.

Are There Any Discounts Available for This Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour operator does not offer any discounts for this excursion. The listed price of €108 per person is the standard rate, and no special offers or promotions are available at this time.

Can I Extend My Stay in Varenna or Lenno if Needed?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Varenna or Lenno if needed. However, they’ll need to book additional transportation and accommodation separately, as the tour package does not include extra time in those locations.

Recap

This captivating full-day excursion from Milan to Lake Como offers a chance to explore iconic Villa del Balbianello, the charming town of Varenna, and the stunning landscapes of the region. With roundtrip train tickets, scenic boat rides, and entrance fees included, it’s an efficient and immersive way to experience the beauty and culture of this enchanting destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: