Lake Como In Style

Fly from London to Milan and transfer to Bellagio, which lies on a promontory between the southern branches of Lake Como. Here, you’ll check into the 5-star Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, an iconic lakefront hotel that has hosted film stars, Austrian emperors and royals like Queen Victoria. The family-run villa was built over 150 years ago and features marble columns, chandeliers and frescoes. Enjoy a welcome drink and settle into your room, which comes with soaring ceilings, antique wooden furnishings and views over the lake (upgraded rooms) or the hotel’s vast terraced gardens.

After breakfast, board a private boat and sail to Varenna on the lake’s eastern shore. Stroll to the village centre along Lovers’ Walk, a cantilevered path over the water which showcases views of Lake Como, the mountains and Varenna’s colourful houses, shadowed by the imposing Castello di Vezio. Next, you’ll visit Villa Cipressi Gardens to browse grounds dotted with cypress trees, statues and fountains.

Next, sail back to Bellagio to visit 19th-century neo-classical Villa Melzi, now designated as a national monument. Wander its lush gardens, which stretch along the lakeshore, nestled between the Bellagio peninsula that divides the two branches of Lake Como, and visit the chapel and museum in the orangery. The rest of the day is yours to continue exploring independently or take advantage of the hotel pool and beach.
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This morning, travel south to Como, where you’ll take a guided walking tour to discover the city’s rich history, which dates back to the 1st century when it served as a Roman holiday resort. Highlights include lively Piazza Cavour and the marble Duomo, a cathedral built over four centuries in a blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Romanesque styles. In Piazza San Fedele at the centre of the walled city, you’ll spot the 7th-century basilica.

In the afternoon, take a scenic bus trip north along the western shore of the lake to Cernobbio. Here, you’ll visit the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este to experience their legendary afternoon tea at Bar Canova, established in 1873. Relax among sophisticated surroundings while sipping fine tea infusions accompanied by biscuits. Afterwards, you’ll return to Bellagio for a free evening.
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Today you’ll explore two of Lake Como’s most impressive villas. First, sail to Villa del Balbianello on the tip of the Lavedo promontory. The villa, last owned by famous Everest climber Count Guido Monzino, was built at the end of the 18th century and has featured in movies like Casino Royale. Marvel at the elegant interiors and collection of Chinese porcelain, reverse-glass paintings and tapestries, then roam the landscaped gardens.

Next, sail to Restaurant la Darsena in the village of Tremezzo for lunch with lake views, before walking along the shore to Villa Carlotta. This neo-classical building is renowned for its eight-hectare botanical gardens that are home to plant species from all over the world. You’ll also peruse the inside of this 17th-century villa, decorated with artwork and striking statues by Canova. Finally, sail back to your hotel by boat.
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Enjoy a free day to relax, starting with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, served in the frescoed former ballroom. You could spend all day lounging by the outdoor pool or wander down through the flower-filled gardens to the private beach, where you’ll find sunbeds, a jetty and diving platform. If you’re feeling active, there are squash and tennis courts, as well as a fitness centre, pilates room and sauna in the garden pavilion.

The hotel is perfectly located for exploring Bellagio’s cobbled lanes. Snap photos from the picturesque Salita Serbelloni staircase and Punta Spartivento, which lies at the end of the peninsula where Como splits into different branches, offering water and mountain views. Other landmarks include the Piazza della Chiesa and 11th-century Basilica di San Giacomo with its mosaics and golden altar.
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After breakfast, drive south to the buzzing city of Milan, famed for its fashion scene, art and architecture. Take in the city sights from the comfort of the bus with live commentary from your guide, then disembark at La Scala, one of the world’s best-known opera houses. From here, take a guided walk around Milan’s historic centre, including its ancient shopping arcade, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele.

Eventually, you’ll reach the Duomo, one of the world’s largest Gothic cathedrals, which you’ll learn about from an expert guide. In the afternoon, head to the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, painted between 1495 and 1498. After visiting this world-famous artwork, you’ll travel back to your hotel by bus; spend a quiet evening dining at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, Mistral, or venture into town for some Italian food on the waterfront.
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Make the most of a final day in Italy, soaking up the serenity of Lake Como from your luxurious hotel. Make use of the indoor and outdoor pools and book a session at the new Spa Luce del Lago, where you can decompress in the hammam, hydro pools and chromotherapy relaxation areas, as well as indulge in a range of massages and treatments.

If you’re keen to explore more of the area, then take a short walk to nearby Pescallo, a traditional fishing hamlet where watersports are now popular, from kayaking to SUP and boat rides. Don’t forget to take a last walk on the promenade in Bellagio and end the day with drinks in the hotel bar, accompanied by live piano music.
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Today your Lake Como adventure comes to an end. After breakfast, enjoy free time until your transfer to Milan Airport for your homebound flight. 
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