Venice to Lake Como Trips
On Request
- Great for Foodies
- Boats, gondolas, small planes, and fast cars
- Lombardia, Emilia Romagna and The Veneto
Everything You Need to Know About Lake Como Vacation Packages
Ready to Soak in the Magic of a Lake Como Vacation?
Have you ever daydreamed about gliding across a sparkling lake surrounded by postcard-perfect Italian villages? Lake Como vacation packages in 2025 are here to make those dreams real. Whether you’re planning a 9-day Lake Como tour or shorter Venice to Lake Como trips, these journeys offer something unforgettable for every traveler. Picture yourself hopping into a water taxi in Venice, then heading off toward the lakeside grandeur of Como — sounds like the opening scene of a romantic film, doesn’t it?
Venice to Lake Como Tour: Your Story Begins Here
If you’ve ever longed to merge the grandeur of Venice with the serenity of Lake Como, there is no better way than with carefully curated Venice to Lake Como tour packages. Imagine Venice’s canals shimmering under the summer sun, the aroma of fresh seafood mingling with the salty air. And then, as you travel on to Como, the scenery shifts: rolling green hills, castle-topped villages, and that legendary alpine backdrop that seems to wrap the lake in a gentle hug.
These Venice to Lake Como trips are designed for folks who crave a balance between culture and cuisine, between serenity and thrill. Want to taste balsamic vinegar straight from the barrels of Modena? Ever driven a Ferrari through Maranello? It’s not a dream – it’s all built into the 9-day Lake Como tour.
Venice to Lake Como Tour Packages 2025: A Perfect Blend
This coming year, travel companies are refining their Venice to Lake Como tour packages to deliver more personal touches than ever before. I’m talking about everything from private pasta-making classes to meeting actual Parmigiano Reggiano artisans. Let me ask you: would you rather hear a story about Parmesan or taste its 36-month aged glory in a rustic farmhouse? Yeah, thought so.
Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, these tours peel back layers of Italy you can’t find on your own. These experiences go beyond a cookie-cutter guidebook itinerary and let you live Italy.
Venice to Lake Como Tour 2025: Trip Details
Venice to Lake Como – A Journey of Discovery
- Dates: On request
- Regions: Lombardia, Emilia Romagna, and The Veneto
- Perfect for: Food lovers, adventurers, art enthusiasts
Northern Italy has a way of showing off. From the Alps to the lakes, the land practically sings of beauty. This tour stretches across three dazzling regions, taking you from gondolas in Venice to the rolling vineyards near Lake Como.
You’ll see:
- Parmigiano Reggiano made at the source
- World-famous balsamic vinegar in Modena
- The racing legends of Ferrari in Maranello
- The colorful lace town of Burano
- And, of course, Lake Como’s enchanting villages like Bellagio and Varenna
Sound like a bucket list? It is.
Why This 9-Day Lake Como Tour Is So Special
- Authentic tastes: Prosciutto di Parma, fresh pasta, ancient wines
- Thrilling rides: From gondolas to Ferraris to seaplanes
- Cultural treasures: Venetian glassblowing, medieval castles, Roman amphitheaters
- Relaxation built in: Plenty of downtime to sip Aperol Spritz and breathe it all in
You don’t just skim across the surface here. You’ll dive deep into flavors, smells, and stories with passionate locals who open their doors and share their craft with you.
Your Day-by-Day Snapshot
Day 1: The Approach, The Landing
Benvenuto in Italia! After arriving at Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), or by train from another location, your private water taxi will motor you to the Splendid Venice Hotel. Just steps from iconic St Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, enjoy stunning canal views, as you ready for a few days of the true Venetian experience!
You’ll be greeted with warm smiles and chilled glasses of prosecco, along with a variety of small bites as you manage take it all in. Unwind, nap, freshen up, maybe take a walk around the “other city of bridges” so you can fully grasp how magical Venice truly is. To that end, tonight we’ll be staying “in” for dinner. But why make our first meal together in Italy just a meal? Let’s go to the rooftop for a cocktail and welcome reception first as we get to know one another.
Dinner will be at Restaurant Le Maschere in our hotel, where you will find a menu made up of fine local classics with Executive Chef Massimo Livan’s eclectic twist.
Day 2: It's Time to Row, Let's See Venice
We will rise to our first morning and enjoy a typical Venetian breakfast before getting started with our first experience. It’s time to meet up with Jane, expert rower from the UK and owner of Row Venice. We’ll hop into our fleet of private gondole so we can each learn a bit on to navigate a gondola. Along the way we’ll bar hop in our vintage watercraft and have hearty snacks (locally called Cichette, a mixed variety of Venetian bruschette) and of course prosecco.
After, if there’s time we’ll stop by the DFS Rooftop Terrace, which boasts some of the best 360 degree views of Venice. You’ll have some free time this afternoon to shop and explore Venice at your own pace. Visit world-renowned landmarks like St. Mark’s Square and Doges Palace. Getting lost wandering through the enchanting canals is the best way to discover gems hidden around every corner. The city is your oyster and the possibilities are endless.
As the sun begins to set over the Venetian lagoon, we will gather for an unforgettable dinner at Algiubagio. Besides resting on the shimmering water’s edge, this charming restaurant offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation in its dishes. We will enjoy the freshest local ingredients while sipping fine Italian wines, trust me.
Day 3: Island Hopping - Murano & Burano
Today we’ll be heading to the outer Venetian islands of Murano, Torcello and Burano. Our first stop, Murano simply put, is WHERE Venetian glass originates. We get things started with a glassblowing demonstration at a renowned Murano Glass factory, where we will witness master artisans shaping vibrant colors of glass into exquisite works of art. Afterwards we’ll have a much better understanding of the craftsmanship involved in this ancient art form.
Right after, if we have time we will visit longtime friends Ennio & wife Mickey, a Pittsburgh native, who will give us a peek at their production room at Ars Cenedese. Their museum is filled with every color, shape and size imaginable if you want to pick up something nice for the house.
After walking about and working up an appetite our next stop is Busa Alla Torre da Lele. And this isn’t just any ordinary joint, it’s the oldest restaurants on the island of Murano – where Lele, the gregarious owner, serves up the most authentic and sophisticated Venetian cuisine.
We’ll continue our island journey to picturesque Burano Island, adorned with a spectrum of colorful homes situated along canals and streets where famous poets and painters still find their inspiration. It’s also the home of Venetian Lace, a dwindling craft still widely appreciated and respected around the globe. Here you can stop to watch ladies weaving lace, shop for gifts and meander the small streets, or simply find a bench to let the sun hit your face.
Eventually it’s time to head back across the Lagoon to our hotel for some chill time. Tonight we’ve left the evening open to do as you wish. You may shop or visit iconic sites, take a romantic gondola ride, relax at the hotel or perhaps stop by Harry’s Bar for a Bellini, after all this is where they were invented.
Day 4: Fast Cars & Biting into Bologna
After breakfast this morning it’s time to say our goodbyes to Venice and head west. It’s time now to slip out of The Veneto and into neighboring region, Emilia Romagna. Our first stop will bring some exhilaration to your mind and body for sure. There’s no better adventure now that we are in Maranello than driving a Ferrari or Lamborghini right? Take a peek at the Ferrari Museum while you wait, but when it’s your turn to drive buckle up!
After we tear up the streets it’s probably best to get some good food in us, and lunch today at Antica Trattoria La Busa qualifies completely. They’re famous for carving up a traditional Bolognese favorite, boiled meats served via a corello, the meat trolley wheeled right to us and carved table side.
Fully nourished, we’re off now to our next host property, the Art Hotel in the heart of Bologna. After checking in, feel free to take a walk around Piazza Maggiore and beyond to get acclimated with our new surroundings and the centuries-old architecture. Be sure to wander through the vibrant Quadrilatero market, where the scent of fresh produce and Italian delicacies fill the air.
Or if you prefer to set your own path for the evening, feel free to explore Bologna at your own pace. You might want to uncover more hidden treasures, indulge in some shopping, or simply relax and enjoy the city’s
charming ambiance.
Day 5: Parmesan, Prosciutto, Balsamico
Today after breakfast we will take a ride outside the city into the countryside of Emilia Romagna, into “meat and cheese country.” First stop today, Parma! Today is given to learning, smelling and tasting, and by the end of the afternoon, you’ll come to fully appreciate the process and what makes Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma so special.
There’s plenty of light to shed on the integrity of ingredients and passion of production here. We will meet the makers, the pigs, the cows and taste the end results of time, patience and highly regulated quality DOP ingredients.
We may decide to stop in Modena on our way back to Bologna. Home of balsamic vinegar, you’ll find it everywhere, but understand, it’s not all the same. Like with so many things in Italy, there’s great care and regulations outlining what can be considered DOP, and what’s not.
Once back in Bologna we will take a breather, regroup and prepare for dinner this evening. There should be enough time to step out and shop a bit, so many great stores in every direction! Tonight we dine at Da Cesari, a restaurant that’s cozy and friendly and full to the brim with great food and of course Lambrusco. Don’t knock it until you try it! What was once considered bottom of the barrel cheap house wine has taken on a new presence and popularity these days, by young creative vintners. You’ll especially appreciated it when paired with the right foods.
Day 6: Our Wine, Our Pasta, Our Property
Our time in Bologna has come to an end, but fear not because we are heading into a little slice of heaven near Lake Garda. We will stop by Verona, another world UNESCO site/city and spend the night nearby. We will certainly want to take in a bit of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet setting at the 14th century residence where the balcony still sits. Verona also boasts an amphitheater similar to the Colosseum in Rome, a 1st century architectural marvel brilliantly preserved to this day.
We’ll soon find ourselves in the hills of Valpolicella and Amarone country, amidst two of Italy’s finest wines. Our destination is Allegrini, a renowned Italian winery nestled in the picturesque countryside in a towered castle. We have to the place all to ourselves for the next 24 hours. Here, we’ll have a hands-on pasta demonstration, where can learn the art of crafting authentic Italian pasta beside their chef team.
After honing your pasta-making skills, the adventure continues with a short tour through the cellars and production rooms, where you’ll discover the secrets behind Allegrinis world-class wines. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the aroma of the vineyard as you explore this charming estate. In no time, our dinner is before us, including the items we’ve made earlier, paired with fine wines from the vineyards around us.
Day 7: Lake to Lake, Castles to Como
Waking up in a castle is quite magical isn’t it? And our breakfast is fit for kings and queens, and well-suited to the environment. Baskets filled with local fall fruits, marmalades, warm baked bread and eggs fresh from the coop on the property. Today we embark on a journey as we transfer by bus, stopping first at the enchanting town of Sirmione. We will explore the ancient beauty of this mythical city on Lake Garda and immerse ourselves in its rich history. After a morning stroll we may be ready for a visit inside the castle, indulging in a first class lunch experience after, right in Sirmione.
As the day unfolds, we need to make our way from one lake to another, next stop the stunning shores of Lake Como. We will soon say goodbye to Emilia Romagna as we step into our third and final region of the trip, Lombardia. Upon arrival at the Miralago Hotel, we can unwind and breath deeply, we are on the last leg of our journey, but its far from over.
In the evening, after a short siesta and change of clothes, we are now ready for a special dinner and a charming atmosphere, only steps away at the renowned Harry’s Bar in Cernobbio. Here with our co-hosts and owners, Beppe and Monica, we will toast to yet another incredible day, and now this meal filling us with some of Lake Como’s typical dishes of meat and fish.
Day 8: Let's Fly, Bellagio & Varenna
This morning we need to make our way from Cernobbio by ferry to Como city, the beating heart of the lake. Here we can go up, up, up to about 2500 ft for scenic seaplanes ride over the lake and Alps. For those who prefer to stay more grounded you may choose to wander and shop around Como, AKA “Silk City”. Be sure to pick up a locally made silk scarf or necktie, they’re a great lightweight gift to take home to loved ones.
Following this, we’ll continue our exploration by hopping another ferry, the fastest method of transport across (instead of around) this long narrow lake. First a stop is obligatory, its Bellagio, known for its captivating beauty and vibrant atmosphere. We’ll have time to stroll through its quaint streets and indulge in an afternoon cocktail or espresso. Great boutiques all around.
Let’s scoot over to Varenna next, it’s just a few minutes away by boat and certainly worth a visit. The narrow streets of Varenna go up and down and all around and the water pushes right up to the beach, so we have lots of options here, to relax or wander a bit.
To conclude our incredible Lake Como adventure, we’ll gather for a final dinner together at the illustrious Villa d’Este. This is our Grand Finale, the curtain closer, the Farewell Dinner. Dress up a bit because it doesn’t really get any fancier than this. The property and estate is a true masterpiece of Italian luxury and refinement. Starting with aperitifs on the lake lawn, we can sit in the perfectly manicured gardens with breathtaking views as we recount all the special moments. Here’s where we laugh and sing about whatever comes to mind. Everyone gets a chance to toast and tell their most prized moments of the journey and perhaps make plans for the next destination!
Day 9: Buon Viaggio
On your final morning, perhaps we’ll see you for breakfast, maybe we won’t. Either way, we bid you a fine farewell and Buon Viaggio as you continue your stay or depart for the return to America! Arrivaderci amici miei!
andiamo!
Trip Details
What’s Included
- Eight nights, nine days throughout Northern Italy
- Arrival transfer (day-of) from Venice airport or train station to hotel
- All hotel accommodations, meals, wine / beverages, guided tours & experiences
- All transportation throughout trip
Pricing On Request Only Available to Groups of 18 or more
What’s Not Included
- Airfare
- Departure transport
Spaces are Limited
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