Exploring Lake Como by Boat, The Lover’s Edition

In the spring of 2024, Lake Como played host to one of the most talked-about couples of the year—pop sensation Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce. The superstar couple, whose whirlwind romance had taken the tabloids by storm, chose Italy’s most glamorous lake as their sanctuary. For Taylor and Travis, it was the perfect backdrop to escape the spotlight and bask in the serenity of one Italy’s most romantic settings.

The couple’s weekend getaway was punctuated by a private boat tour, a quintessential Lake Como experience. As their boat glided over the lake they traced a path passing storied landmarks like Villa del Balbianello, where the gardens spill down to the water’s edge, and Villa Carlotta, famous for its botanical wonders and neoclassical elegance.

For those inspired by Taylor and Travis’s romantic excursion, a private boat tour is the ideal way to explore Lake Como. Here are some of the top operators who can curate your own dreamy Italian escape:

• Como Classic Boats: Specialising in vintage wooden boats, this operator offers guided tours with a touch of old-world glamour. Drift past historic villas and quaint lakeside villages while sipping prosecco—just like a classic Italian film.
• Il Medeghino: Based in Como town, Il Medeghino customizes private tours that navigate both iconic landmarks and hidden gems. From the bustling heart of Como to the tranquil corners of the lake, these tours are a mix of discovery and relaxation.
• Bellagio Water Limousines: For a taste of luxury, Bellagio Water Limousines offers polished wooden boats that make every passenger feel like royalty. Their tours often include stops at famous villas, and their captains share stories that bring Lake Como’s history to life.
• Taxi Boat Varenna: Operating out of Varenna, this service is beloved for its intimate, customisable tours. Guests can explore famed towns like Bellagio, Lenno, and Tremezzo, or enjoy a romantic picnic on the boat, surrounded by panoramic views.
• Lake Como Vacations: Offering versatile itineraries, Lake Como Vacations caters to all whims—whether you want to visit the gardens of Villa Melzi, explore the dramatic Orrido di Bellano gorge, or simply sunbathe in a secluded cove.

Sample Itineraries:

• 3-Hour Tour: Glide past historic villas and enjoy a brief stop in a quaint lakeside town.
• 4-Hour Tour: Indulge in a longer exploration with extended visits to villas or a leisurely lakeside lunch.
• Full-Day Tour: Immerse yourself fully with multiple stops, dining experiences, and time to swim or relax on secluded shores.

Lake Como’s combination of dramatic landscapes, luxurious villas, and quaint towns makes it a timeless destination for romance and discovery. Whether you’re following in the wake of celebrities or carving out your own unique adventure, a private boat tour offers the perfect vantage point to experience the lake’s magic.