Lake Como is one of Italy's most beautiful corners — but in summer, the wrong timing means hours lost in ferry queues.

This small-group tour (max 15) is planned by a guide who knows exactly when and where the crowds hit, so you reach Varenna in the morning while it's still quiet and explore Bellagio at its best.

On the cruise from Bellagio to Como, you'll see Lake Como's most famous villas from the water — George Clooney's home, Versace's villa, Villa Passalacqua (voted the world's best boutique hotel), and the villas from House of Gucci, The Devil Wears Prada 2, James Bond and Star Wars — as your guide points out the stories behind each one.

In Bellagio you can also visit Villa Melzi, one of the lake's most spectacular gardens (entrance not included, on your own).

Your train and skip-the-line boarding are arranged for you. End your day free to stay for dinner by the lake, ride the funicular up for sunset over Como (on your own), or head back to Milan with your guide.