travelling around lake como

Traveling to Lake Como for the First Time (Tips & Info for Your Visit)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 29, 2024

Traveling to Lake Como, Italy, for the first time  and not sure where to start? Planning a trip to Lake Como might be overwhelming indeed, especially so if this is your first time in this beautiful area.

How much time do you need in Lake Como? When to visit? Where to stay and how to get around Como Lake? Or how to see the best that Lake Como has to offer without the crowds?

To help you plan your first trip to Lago di Como , I selected some of our best tips for visiting Lake Como . This experience-based practical guide will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget. Find out!

READ ALSO: Best Places to Visit & Things to Do in Lake Como

These are our top travel tips for visiting Lake Como:

1. Decide how long you’ll stay

Lake Como is one of the largest lakes in Italy. Shaped like an upside-down letter “Y”, Lake Como has a 100-mile (160 km) long shoreline that is lined with countless charming towns and picturesque villages.

So visiting Como Lake is not as straightforward as you may think. It’s not a place where you just drive to one town, do a boat trip, and can see everything in a few hours. In fact, you could spend weeks traveling around Lake Como and still not see ‘everything’.

So before anything else, decide how long you’ll stay at Lake Como . Once you know that, it will be much easier to plan the rest of the trip – starting with getting there, getting around, the best area(s) to stay, places to see, things to do, etc.

But don’t worry – Lake Como is worth it even if you only have a day or two . And you can see many amazing places in a short time – IF you know what to expect and plan well.

Good to know:

• If you have just 1 day for Lake Como and want to see some of the most popular places, do yourself a favor and take an organized tour . Otherwise, you’ll lose too much time traveling between places and won’t be able to do as much.
• We recommend planning at least 2-3 days for your first visit to Lake Como. This will give you enough time to see some of the ‘musts’ in a more relaxing way. However, if you want to see all the top places, you should really plan at least 4-5 days or it will be very rushed.
• If you are traveling in the warm season and like hiking, biking, or want to get a bit off the beaten path and visit some less popular towns and villages, you can easily spend a week or even two in the area.

2. Travel in the shoulder season

Being one of the most beautiful destinations in Italy , it will come as no surprise that Lake Como is extremely popular. Furthermore, the main tourist season here is rather short – approximately from March through October, with most tourists visiting in the peak summer months (June – September).

So if you are mostly interested in sightseeing and do not care about swimming etc., see if you can adjust your travel plans and visit Lake Como in the spring or in the fall . It will still be busy, but incomparable to July or August when European countries have their school holidays.

The best months to visit Lake Como are mid-April – May and mid-September to mid-October. That’s when everything is open, the weather is mild, and it’s not too busy.

TIP: Some of the best places to see at Lake Como are historic Lake Como villas with beautiful gardens . So one of the best times to visit Lake Como is when everything is green and the gardens are in full bloom. The gardens are at their nicest when rhododendrons and azaleas bloom, which – depending on the weather – is around the second half of April .

Of course, visiting Lake Como in summer is amazing too. This is the season when you can enjoy everything that the area has to offer to the fullest. However, traveling in the summer, you’ll have to do a bit more advanced planning and prepare to deal with the crowds (especially at the boat harbors of the most popular towns).

Good to know: While the scenery is stunning the whole-year round, traveling to Lake Como in the winte r is a very different experience. This is mostly because the weather can get really cold and lots of businesses shut down between November and February. There are also fewer boats and the main attractions are closed too.

We once visited Lake Como in late October and once also in late November. It was still a great experience, but incomparable to the warmer months. If you are looking for solitude and want to discover the more local side of the area, you’ll enjoy visiting here in the off-season.

3. Stay in a central location

If you are visiting Lake Como for a few days and are looking for the best ‘base’ for exploring the area, we recommend staying around the middle of the lake . Bellagio is right in the center of it all, but also Varenna , Menaggio, Griante, Cadenabbia, Tremezzo, and Lenno all are very well located for sightseeing.

Of course, the southern end of the lake ( Como , Cernobbio, Lecco…) is worth considering too. But it all comes down to how much time you have and what you want to see and do.

For the first trip and if looking for just one place to stay in order to visit all the top places, I’d stay in the middle.

This is the area where you will find some of the most charming towns and villas of Lake Como. It also has very good boat connections. The ferry journey between all the main places on the eastern and western shores of the lake will take just 10-30 minutes (vs. 1.5-2 hrs from Lecco or Como towns).

Where to stay

Good to know: Bellagio is the most popular town on Lake Como. This means that it’s very busy and accommodations here can be really expensive (even more than in the other areas which aren’t cheap either). A quieter alternative is the nearby quaint village of San Giovanni . It also has a ferry stop and can also be reached by a tourist ‘train’ from Bellagio.

Another very popular town on Lake Como is Varenna . It has a direct train connection to Milan and easy ferry connections to pretty much everywhere on Lake Como.

TIP: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds of day tourists, stay on the western side of the lake in the area between Mennagio and Lenno . You can easily visit everything from here, but this shore is much quieter. From places like Tremezzo or Cadennabia, you can usually take a ferry (and find a seat) without having to arrive half an hour in advance or stand in a huge chaotic line.

Our experience: We’ve been to Lake Como a few times and stayed in three different areas during those trips (Como, Cernobbio, and Cadenabbia). While each was great for the purpose of that specific trip, we found that staying in the central area of the lake was the most convenient for sightseeing. Despite the mixed reviews, we really loved the historic Grand Hotel Cadenabbia . It has unparalleled rooftop views, an amazing pool, and free parking. (At the moment of the last update, this hotel is being renovated. The closest similar hotel is the Grand Hotel Tremezzo ).

For more information as well as the advantages and disadvantages of different towns around the lake, please see our detailed guide via the link below. For more info about the ferries – see further below.

LEARN MORE: Where to Stay at Lake Como

4. Reserve as much as possible in advance

This is really becoming the new reality of traveling to popular destinations – you have to reserve as much as possible in advance. Luckily, it’s not yet the case for everything at Lake Como, but it sure helps to do some research before you go.

For example, if you want to visit Villa del Balbianello inside , you really have to book tickets in advance on their website . The visits are guided and the number of people they can take in a day is quite limited. When we traveled to Lake Como in August, the tours of the villa interior were sold out a few weeks in advance.

Most people simply visit the gardens of Villa del Balbianello. Also here, we highly recommend pre-booking your tickets, but you should still be able to get in without an advance reservation. Just keep in mind that the queue at the entrance can get very long, so booking skip-the-line tickets in advance can save you a lot of time.

Villa Carlotta can be visited without an advance reservation, but the queues at the ticket desk can get really long. If you book in advance , you can just walk in via a separate entrance.

PRO TIP:  If you plan on visiting several of the nicest Lake Como villas in one day, check out this  ferry + villa tickets combo . It includes Villa Monastero, Villa Carlotta, and the gardens of Villa Melzi, plus a 1-day ferry ticket.

Also your accommodation is one of the things you better book well in advance. Staying at Lake Como is not cheap and the earlier you book, the more choices you have, and thus better prices. For example, when we checked the rates at our hotel a week before our trip, we saw that it was about 30% more expensive than what we paid when we booked it a few months upfront.

And if you want to dine at a specific restaurant , you better call them in advance too. For most places, you’ll be able to reserve a table just a few hours in advance. But if it’s a very popular restaurant and you are visiting on a weekend, you may want to call them a few days upfront. And if you didn’t reserve – go early. Italians eat late (around 8 pm or even later), so if you come earlier, you have more chance to find a table. Just be sure to check when the restaurant opens – some only open at 7.30 pm.

Oh, and if you want to take a private boat cruise on the lake, it’s also best to book in advance. You can find some of the best options here . When comparing tours, don’t forget to check their duration and in which town they start!

5. Book a hotel with a view and a pool

One of the charms of staying at Lake Como is being able to enjoy the spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. So when looking for accommodation, see if you can find a nice hotel with a lake view.

You don’t absolutely need a room with a lake view (you’ll probably hardly spend any time in the room anyway), but it’s really nice to be able to enjoy the views at breakfast or from a bar/ restaurant in the evening.

When we stayed at Grand Hotel Cadenabbia , we opted for the garden-view rooms since we read that the lake-view rooms were quite noisy (lakeside is often also the street side, depending on where exactly you are staying). But we could enjoy the most stunning views from our restaurant every morning and from the rooftop terrace the rest of the day. I’d go back to this hotel in a heartbeat, even if just for the views!

Another thing that you may want to look at is that your hotel has a pool . If visiting Lake Como in the summer, you’ll be glad to spend the hottest hours of the day by the water. Depending on where you stay, there are also some public beaches at Lake Como, but really just a few. The best one is probably the public beach of Bellagio in San Giovanni.

Our hotel had an amazing pool and also the pool of the nearby luxury Grand Hotel Tremezzo looked great too (theirs is directly on the lake). Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio also has a beautiful outdoor pool (and one indoors), and direct access to the lake with a separate swimming area. There are many other hotels with swimming pools along Lake Como. We found that it’s well worth a splurge, and not just for families with kids.

6. Get ferry tickets online or at slow times

Visiting Lake Como will usually involve at least a few ferry journeys. You’ll need a ticket for those ferries, which you can get at any harbor or online.

While it won’t be a big issue in the quieter months, the ferry ticket offices during the day in the peak season are swamped with people. This is especially the case in places like Bellagio or Varenna, but also Como town. So if you don’t want to waste lots of precious time queuing, try to get your ferry tickets in advance.

If you have the patience to try to navigate the official website of Navigazione Laghi , you can book your ferry tickets and day passes online in advance. This is the website where you can get ferry tickets for Lake Como, but also Lake Garda , and Lake Maggiore.

Alternatively, in the morning, get the tickets for all the journeys you are planning to do that day. Or consider a day ticket if you think you’ll want to visit multiple towns in a day. And you can also pass the ticket office the evening before (not too late or it will be closed) and see if you can already get your tickets for the next day(s).

TIP: Depending on your plans, the earlier-mentioned ferry + villa tickets combo can be an easy option allowing you to prebook everything at once.

7. Get to the ferry harbor early

You’ll find the Lake Como ferry schedule in every harbor around the lake. Generally, the boats are quite punctual, so if you are staying in a quieter town, you can just arrive at the harbor a few minutes before the scheduled time.

However, in the most popular towns and at peak times, the harbor often looks like a beehive. There are often at least a few boats arriving/departing at about the same time, and sometimes things can get a bit chaotic.

So save yourself the stress and get to the harbor at least 10-15 minutes before the scheduled departure time so that you can try to figure out where exactly to be. And if you want to be sure to have a place to sit on the ferry, you may want to arrive even earlier so that you can get on the boat sooner.

Our experience: We took multiple ferries on Lake Como. In the lower season, it wasn’t busy and you could rely on the schedule. Also in the summer, departing from smaller harbors was never an issue. But the harbors in Bellagio and Varenna were crazy busy. In addition, many passenger boats arrived (and thus departed) too late. There were also ferries that weren’t indicated on the schedule (apparently they sometimes add an extra boat if it gets too busy) adding to the confusion and people trying to get on the wrong boat without realizing where it was going…

If things get crazy, try to stay calm, and don’t be afraid to ask the staff where the ferry is going if you aren’t sure. You don’t want to end up on the other side of the lake if all you need is a 10-minute ferry ride from Varenna to Bellagio or so.

8. Visit the most popular towns in the late afternoon

If you are visiting Lake Como in summer, expect it to be very busy everywhere. One of the best ways to avoid crowds in the most popular towns is to arrive very early (before 10 am) or to visit later in the afternoon (after 3-4 pm). The problem with arriving early is that other day-trippers will be there soon too. Whereas late afternoons are much quieter and it just gets better.

When we first arrived in Lake Como, we started our days like everyone else – after a relaxed breakfast. Big mistake! It was so busy everywhere…

But we quickly realized that most places got much quieter in the afternoon. And by the evening, most of the day tourists are gone, and you can actually enjoy the charming towns of Lake Como rather than feeling annoyed about brushing elbows with strangers all the time.

This will be easier to do if you have at least a few days in Lake Como. But if you do, indeed, why not adjust your schedule and visit the towns in the afternoon rather than in the morning. Ferries run quite late in the evening during the summer, and if you are staying in the middle of the lake as we recommended, you can easily visit all the towns in that area this way.

Often, you only need a few hours in a place anyway. Just be sure to keep an eye on the schedule of the attractions that you want to visit inside so that you don’t miss them by arriving too late!

READ ALSO: Most Beautiful Towns & Villages on Lake Como

9. Don’t count on the ferry schedule 100%

While most ferries on Lake Como run quite punctually, we have experienced quite a few delays during our visit too. Especially on the small passenger ferry which stops in Varenna and Bellagio. One time the ferry was so late and had additional delays waiting to dock in Bellagio that we arrived back at our hotel an hour later than we planned.

Car ferries have a separate dock, so they are usually nicely on time. Whereas passenger ferries have to share the same dock and that’s where things go wrong in the busiest towns during peak times. And if you already have a 10-minute delay on a specific line in the morning, it usually gets worse and worse by the end of the day.

So when planning your sightseeing time at Lake Como, be sure to leave some room for delays, sometimes even up to 30-45 minutes. You can’t rely on the ferry 100% and that’s also what makes it a bit more difficult to visit multiple places in a day in the peak season.

If you just go to one or two towns, it’s normally not a big deal. But if you are visiting Lake Como for just a day and are on a tight schedule (or even have to get back somewhere before a certain time), keep in mind that ferries can have serious delays. This brings us to the next point…

10. Make a plan and don’t try to see it ‘all’

Lake Como has a lot to offer, but if your time is limited, don’t try to pack it all in a day or two . There’s no way to see everything in just a few days anyway and you’ll be spending more time waiting for ferries and riding them than sightseeing…

I’d recommend focussing on just 1-3 places in a day and exploring a bit deeper. Take your time to actually visit the place, have a drink or a meal at a local restaurant, explore the villas and the gardens, take a private boat trip on the lake , and try to get just a bit off the main tourist streets. Remember that often, less is more.

Ideally, you make somewhat of a plan so that you don’t miss any of the musts (such as Como , Bellagio , Varenna , or the most beautiful villas on Lake Como ). But try to also leave some free time for unexpected discoveries and to just relax and absorb the atmosphere.

TIP: If you want to pack more in a single day, you should really consider an organized tour. For example, most Lake Como day tours from Milan visit the towns of Como, Bellagio, and Varenna. But they use a bus and private boats for the travel between these towns (= no wait time or delays). If you try to see these three places in a day on your own, you’d have to rush through and have much less time to actually explore them.

11. Get a bit off the beaten path

Lake Como is busy in the high season. But this is the case at all the bucket-list destinations, isn’t it? The good news is that most people just visit a few of the most popular places and never take the time to wander further.

So if you have the time (even if just a few hours), try to explore the area a bit deeper and get off the beaten path. Often, you don’t even have to walk far. A few examples:

• While Varenna town center is very busy, its castle Castello di Vezio sees just a fraction of the visitors. Granted, it’s located high on the hill and you will need to make an effort to walk to it. But it only takes 20-25 minutes and you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views of the lake, the town, and its surroundings. Plus, the castle itself is really cool too – especially if you are visiting Lake Como with kids.
• The main area close to Bellagio harbor is crowded during the day. The same for the most famous street with the best view in town – Salita Serbelloni . But if you take any of the narrow alleys parallel to this street, the crowds disappear. Not many people even seem to walk to Punta Spartivento , the viewpoint at the very end of the peninsula. And if you take the little tourist train and hop off in Pescallo or San Giovanni, you’ll find a totally different atmosphere than in Bellagio itself.
• In Lenno (where the famous Villa del Balbianello is located), be sure to also check out the town itself. There’s a beautiful church right in the center – Chiesa Santo Stefano – with an impressive underground crypt. While the villa and the gardens were very busy when we visited, there was nobody in the church…

These are just a few examples at the most popular towns on Lake Como. If you visit smaller towns and turn just a bit off the main streets, you will be able to enjoy a more authentic side of Lake Como without the crowds. Plus, there are countless hiking opportunities and on most trails, you’ll hardly meet any people at all.

12. Wear comfortable shoes

If you are planning to do any sightseeing in Lake Como beyond just hopping off the ferry and checking out the main streets in every town, be sure to wear comfortable shoes . Because no matter where you go, you’ll be walking a lot. Often, a lot more than you anticipate.

As already mentioned, many villas around Como Lake have beautiful gardens. Sometimes, you’ll have to negotiate a few steeper trails or gravel paths. Also in towns, there are cobbled streets and often many stairs too…

Sneakers or light walking shoes are ideal. In summer, for most places, sandals with a good sole and comfortable fit will be fine too, but ideally, you avoid flat-bottomed leather sandals or flip-flops. If you are planning to go hiking, you’ll definitely need good hiking shoes or – depending on the season – even hiking boots.

Take my word for it, you’ll enjoy your visit to Lake Como so much more if you are wearing comfortable shoes!

13. Don’t visit by car

For all clarity – you can travel to Lake Como by car (we did a few times). But once you get there, park it and don’t touch it for the rest of the stay.

The traffic is usually not too bad, although many roads are very narrow and there are people, bikes, and scooters everywhere. If you aren’t used to this, it can be a very stressful experience. And if you turn off the main road and get into some very local areas, you can get quite stuck in a narrow street with not much space to turn (back)… We saw a German driver wrecking an entire side of his car by trying to take a turn into a narrow street in Lenno.

In addition, parking can get really problematic around Lake Como in the peak season. If you think it will be faster to just drive to a nearby village by car, reconsider. Often, you’ll spend more time looking for parking than getting there.

Plus even if you find a spot, often, there are time restrictions as to how long you can leave your car there. And in most places, you also have to pay for parking.

We saw LOTS of cars with parking tickets during our stay at Lake Como. Usually, because the cars stood somewhere longer than allowed.

There is a big public parking garage in Varenna, but it’s usually full in the morning already. So if your plan is to drive to Varenna and visit Lake Como for a day by car, try to get there really early. Once it’s full, you won’t even be allowed to wait for a spot to open up. Since the cars waiting to get into this parking block the entire street, the police just send everyone away. And there aren’t many alternatives.

TIP: I guess it goes without saying, but if you are driving to Lake Como by car, be sure that your hotel/accommodation has parking . This is really a must and you can’t just count on being able to find a spot (and leave your car there for as long as you want).

14. Pack a reusable water bottle and sun protection

There’s one packing essential that you absolutely need when traveling in Italy and that’s a reusable water bottle . There are free drinking fountains everywhere and so you can easily fill them up several times during the day.

Also in Lake Como, we saw many drinking fountains. In the summer, it’s a real lifesaver. You’ll also be able to buy some bottled drinking water, but it’s very expensive. In that case, hold on to that bottle and refill it later.

Another thing that you really need if visiting Lake Como in summer is a good sun hat and sunscreen . And if you didn’t pack a hat, you’ll find plenty of sun hats for sale everywhere.

15. Take some cash

While Italy has come a long way in accepting card payments, there are still some places that only take cash . We encountered this on quite a few occasions at Lake Como.

Luckily, most restaurants, shops, and main tourist attractions take credit cards.

So if you need euros, it will likely be for smaller payments. But it sure helps to have some cash, also for tips at the restaurants.

16. Research where and when to eat

There are so many restaurants in the Lake Como area that you will never have to worry about getting hungry. And the good news is that even the restaurants in the most popular areas usually serve really good traditional Italian food .

However, just as anywhere in the world, it’s also possible to have a less good meal in Lake Como. So do a bit of research before you sit down. Often, just a quick look at the reviews on Google Maps will already give you a good idea of what to expect.

As a general rule, try to avoid restaurants with food pictures on the menu. Usually, restaurants right next to the busy harbors of the main towns of Lake Como will not offer the best local experience either. But if you walk just a few blocks further or turn into a quieter side alley, you can find some local gems.

Also in the Lake Como area, there are huge differences in prices that you pay, depending on the restaurant. So check this in advance in order to avoid unpleasant surprises. Depending on where you eat, you can have a perfectly good pasta dish for 10 euros or for 20…

One more thing to remember is that most restaurants in Italy are only open for lunch and dinner (+- noon to 3 pm and 7 to 10 pm). So if you try to find a place to eat at 3-5 pm, good luck! And, as already said, it pays to reserve a restaurant for dinner in advance, especially if traveling in Lake Como in summer.

So this is our first-timer’s guide with some tips for visiting Lake Como.

I hope that this information will give you a better idea of what to expect, help you make the most out of your trip, and enjoy the best that Como Lake has to offer, no matter how much time you have.

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: ⭑ Best Things to Do in Lake Como ⭑ Best Things to Do in Bellagio ⭑ Most Beautiful Villas to See in Lake Como ⭑ Best Things to Do in Varenna ⭑ Best Things to Do in Como City ⭑ Best Things to Do in Milan ⭑ Milan 1-day Itinerary

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

More travel inspiration for Northern Italy:

• Best places to see in Lake Garda
• Best things to do in Venice
• Best places to see at Lake Garda
• Best things to do in Verona
• Best things to do in Bologna
• Best things to do in Florence
• Most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites
• Venice in 1 day
• 3 days in Venice
• How to visit Venice by car
• Venice gondola tips
• Best places to see in the Italian Dolomites
• Where to stay in the Dolomites
• Lake Garda Itinerary
• Cinque Terre in 1 day
• Trentino with kids  (off the beaten path, activity-filled trip)
• For many more destinations all over Italy, see our Italy travel guide .

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Monday 22nd of April 2024

If you buy your ticket on the spot for villa del balbieanello do you get to enter right away? or is it timed i.e., they sell you a ticket for a certain time slot like online? I am wondering because I am on a time crunch so if I can get to villa balbeianello by 3:30 pm I want to enter right then.

All the best, Sara Sadat

Hi Sara, if you want to be able to visit at a specific time, book online. When you buy tickets on the spot, you can enter (the gardens) just like that, but you usually have to wait in line at the ticket desk. And that can easily take half an hour or even an hour. Please see our guide to visiting Villa del Balbianello for more information.

Margaret Martin

Thursday 28th of March 2024

Hello- This is GREAT information. Does anyone know if a day pass for the Ferry means you can hop on and hop off at any point from Como to Bellagio to Varena? I don't see that information on the ferry website. Thanks!

Friday 29th of March 2024

Hi Margaret, if you get a day ticket, you should be able to use it on all ferries and hop off along the way. The websites of lake ferries in Italy are not great (and already quite an improvement compared to a few years ago), but it's all quite simple once you get there. You can find the ferry schedule at any harbor (take a picture with your phone so that you can easily check it during the day) and you can ask which ticket is best at the ticket desk. In other words - don't worry about it in advance. Have a great trip!

Tuesday 26th of September 2023

Hi there - this is a great article! We've travelled extensively in Italy for 20 years, but just now made it to Lake Como. Your blog is fantastic - rather than "you must see 'X'", you have fantastic suggestions about how to plan, advice as to what the real parking situation is (bad and lots of tickets), what are the less crowded times, etc. Bravo! One of the few useful travel articles I've found in many years. We will continue to follow you.

Wednesday 27th of September 2023

Thank you for the kind feedback, Barbara. Enjoy Lake Como!

Hemant Modi

Monday 11th of September 2023

Hi, We just visited Lake Como for the first time. The Information you shared was very useful & feel lucky I came across your blog.Do keep up the good work. All the Best.

Thank you for your kind feedback, Hemant. Glad to help and hope you enjoyed your trip!

Hasinah Wahab

Wednesday 24th of May 2023

Hi, do you happen to have recommendations for halal places that serve italian food?

Saturday 27th of May 2023

Hi Hasinah, I really wouldn't know, but I am sure you can easily find this information online. Have a great trip!

How to Travel Around Lake Como, Italy

Information and tips for your visit, especially for the first time visitor.

Visiting the A-lister’s paradise, and a beloved destination for tourists but not sure how to travel around Lake Como, Italy ?

Travelling to this upscale resort famed for its dramatic scenery might be a little overwhelming especially if this is your first visit to Lake Como.

Where to stay? Do you need a car? Can you explore Lake Como without a car? How to get around Lake Como without a car? What public transport is available in Como. Are taxis or Uber available?

This article about how to travel around Lake Como is aimed at answering all of the above questions.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read our Disclosure .

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS ARTICLE

During my trip to Lake Como, we experienced all forms of transportation that northern Italy is famous for: the speedy hydrofoils, car and passenger ferries, trains, buses and taxis.

To help you plan your first trip to Lake Como, I share my best Lake Como travel tips in getting around Lake Como. This article includes considerations for exploring the region with or without a car. This practical guide will help you plan your trip by showing you the various public transportation options available on how to get around Lake Como without a car. I have included my best tips about the best things to do in this region as well to help you to plan ahead.

I invite you to read along.

AN OVERVIEW OF WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE

• About Lake Como, Italy;
• How to travel around Lake Como and make the most of your time;
• Where to stay in Lake Como: Western Shores or Eastern Shores?
• How to get to Lake Como from Milan Airport;
• Do you need a car to travel around Lake Como, Italy;
• Lake Como with a car;
• Lake Como without a car;
• How to get around Lake Como without a car;
• Public transportation in Lake Como;
• What to do in Lake Como: Best Things to do around Lake Como;
• What we did about transport;

For timeless experiences

Would you like to experience the best of Lake Como as well as the best off-beat places including taking a dip in the clear waters of this famous lake?

One of the best things to do in Lake Como if you want to use the most of your time when visiting this region is to go on a boat trip. A private boat hire might be best for you so you could experience several places in a short time. If this is the kind of thing you’d like to do, take a look at this private boat trip I found:

This particular private boat trip is flexible where you can curate your own itinerary of places to visit and admire from the waters. You could also hire these guys for a special celebration like a birthday, anniversary or a special couples outing with champagne. They will even do drone photography , if you want them to. However, if you do not want to curate your own itinerary, this private boat trip takes you to see the popular villas from the waters. It includes a trip to the beautiful Comacina Island where you can swim in the clear waters of Lake Como.

You can learn in more detail about this exceptional private boat trip from Viator.

ABOUT LAKE COMO, ITALY

Sitting at the base of the Alps, Lake Como is an A-lister’s paradise and a beloved destination for tourists. The upscale resort is famed for its dramatic scenery of snow-peaked Alps against the shimmering aqua waters of the lake. This corner of the world in the Lombardy region of Italy portrays an undeniable sense of calm and elegance with neoclassical villas at a whole new level of opulence, surrounded by lush gardens.

Inviting lakeside towns, old fishermen villages, narrow winding cobbled lanes and the colourful houses add to the warmth of the fusion of harmony and fabulousness this region is known for.

Lake Como is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best in scenic beauty in Italy and this article will guide you on how to travel around Lake Como, one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

HOW TO TRAVEL AROUND LAKE COMO AND MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME

Depending on how long your trip is for, and if it is for a few days, you may want to make the most of your time.

A boat trip

One of the best ways to get around in Lake Como if you want to use the most of your time when visiting this region is to go on a boat trip. A private boat hire might be best for you so you could experience several places in a short time and still have plenty of time left in the day to do other things. You can view some of the villas and attractions which can only be viewed from the waters and learn about the history of the lake. If this is the kind of thing you’d like to do, take a look at this private boat trip I found at a good price and can accommodate up to 5 people.

A bus trip + cruise

Another best way to make the most of your time is to go on a bus trip and a cruise. One of my personal favourite is to go on a group tour. A group tour by bus takes you to several places, usually the best of the beaten paths and they also include some hidden gems as well along with some local tales not commonly found in guide books. If you would like to see more of Lake Como and the northern lakes in a day, I found this particular day trip that you will like. With this trip, you can relax and enjoy the scenery while someone else does the driving for you.

In this combined experience, which is a great value for money excursion, you will discover two breathtakingly scenic lakes in two countries, a cruise experience, two glamorous shopping districts and a visit to a traditional lakeside town in Lake Como. This really nice trip departs from Como city and it is for most of a day, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy your evening. If you would like to make the most of your time in this way, here is the link where you can find out more and book your date on this top day trip from Como .

Adventure, Culture & A Cruise

This is an experience where you feel like a local. This activity involves walking through the woods on an ancient Roman trail, visiting a traditional commune and enjoying lunch at a classic wooden dwelling. It includes a cruise on Lake Como or a funicular ride to the hillside village of Brunate (summer). This experience is one way to move around the Lake Como area. You explore the various villages, experience the local culture and enjoy the breathtaking views both from the hills and aboard a boat. This activity is suitable for all abilities and does not take the entire day. If this wondrous experience stokes your curiosity, go to this activity about the mountain trek in Lake Como to learn in greater detail.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE COMO: WESTERN SHORES OR EASTERN SHORES

The western shores are more popular than the eastern shores and regarded as the best part of Lake Como. This beautiful area faces the sunrise and is home to several charming small towns such as Cernobbio, Argegno, Lenno, Tremezzo and Menaggio. Several splendid historic and expensive villas are also located here: Villa Balbianello in Lenno, and Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo. Celebrities including George Clooney own a villa in Laglio, situated on the western shore.

The eastern shore has its own charm too. Varenna, renowned as the most colourful and an authentic medieval town is situated here. Varenna is home to the famous Villa Serbelloni, a prestigious grand hotel and Villa Monastero, a beautiful villa with an impressive botanical garden.

Lake Como Towns

I created the below map as an easy guide to give you an idea of where the main towns in Lake Como are. Each and every town on this map is mentioned in this article. The three towns, Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio are highly popular with visitors and are also known as the “Golden Triangle” of Lake Como.

Whichever side of Lake Como you choose to stay at, there are plenty of transportation options that will take you wherever you wish to go.

Recommended read: Where to Stay in Lake Como: Best Towns and Top Hotels + Apartments

HOW TO GET TO LAKE COMO FROM MILAN AIRPORT

The best way to get to Lake Como from Milan Malpensa Airport is to take Malpensa Express to Milan Centrale Station. From Milan Central Station, take the Trenord train to Como S. Giovanni Station. This is the quickest and convenient route.

Most will suggest taking the Malpensa Express to Saronno, and take the regional train to Como city because it is meant to be a shorter journey. We did this on our visit and found that the connecting trains were not regular. We waited for well over an hour at a station which only had one cafe and one amenity. There was no waiting room either. For this reason, I would highly recommend that you take the Malpensa Express to Milan Centrale and then take the speedy Trenord train to Como city. The journey from Milan Centrale to Como S. Giovanni is 40 minutes.

You may like to read about my experience, tips and recommendations about taking the train from Milan Malpensa Airport to Como City.

DO YOU NEED A CAR TO TRAVEL AROUND LAKE COMO?

The answer to this question depends very much on what you want to see. There are some things to consider about Lake Como with a car or without a car.

Lake Como with a car is an opportunity to explore the non-touristy villages and towns away from the central region of the lake. It gives you the flexibility to explore in your own time and schedule. However, you may have to deal with limited parking, and sometimes none at the small towns and villages.

Lake Como without a car is also possible. In fact I recommend it.

The Lake Como region has an efficient public transportation network and can easily be explored without a car. You avoid the hassle of dealing with congested roads and the lack of parking spaces.

That being said, below are my tips about exploring the lake region with or without a car and points to consider.

LAKE COMO WITH A CAR

Lake Como has good road connections to the major cities such as Milan . However, the immediate roads around the lake connecting the towns are rather narrow and congested. You need to share them with the buses, taxis, delivery drivers and pedestrians. Italian drivers seem rather expressive too — lots of horn-honking or sometimes none. Not many use their navigation signals in the town. Then they are there, just a few steps away from your foot!

This is not to say Italians are bad drivers! Far from it. They know what they are doing. They are careful drivers. I guess as a visitor to Italy, the unfamiliarity to local drivers, for instance driving on the left (compared to the right in the UK), and their easy-going attitudes are the differences. In addition the locals are familiar with the meandering roads up the mountains whereas it is all new to a foreign driver. Our bus trip up to a mountain village through several challenging curves and oncoming traffic on a narrow lane fit for one was skillfully managed by our driver.

What to consider when driving around Lake Como

If you consider driving, just know that driving around Lake Como can be ardous and long. The lakeside towns are small, with steep, plenty of bends and curvy roads connecting to the hillsides destinations. These roads are full of surprises which absolutely requires 110% of attention all the time.

Additionally, parking is limited in Lake Como towns. You may be spending more time looking for parking spaces than actually sightseeing.

When booking your accommodation, you may want to ensure that the place you are booked to stay at offers parking facilities to their guests.

Read this comprehensive guide to the best towns and top hotels to stay at in Lake Como . I have included hotels and apartments that offer parking to their guests. This article will also help you decide which area is the best part of Lake Como to visit.

If you decide on driving, there are car ferries that make it easy to get from one town in the lake to another lakeside town. You can check the ferry timetable from their official website of Lake Como Navigation.

LAKE COMO WITHOUT A CAR

I honestly think that if you are visiting just the Lake Como region, you do not need a car to get around.

You can take advantage of the many options in public transportation. The buses are timely, if you wish to explore the towns by road. The ferry and hydrofoil services make it easy to explore the entire Lake Como area without a car. Some towns such as Bellagio , Varenna and Como (due to its strategic location on the lake) have better public transport connections than others.

HOW TO GET AROUND LAKE COMO WITHOUT A CAR

Lake Como is easily accessible without a car. There are several ways to get around the region without a car. Public transportation can take you wherever you want to go around the lake. Private transportation is also available.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN LAKE COMO AREA

You could get around Lake Como by train, boat or ferry, seaplane, bus and taxi.

How to travel around Lake Como by Train

There are two towns in Lake Como with railway connections: Como city on the southwestern shores and Varenna on the eastern shores. Here are some things you need to know as a first time visitor to this area.

The Western Branch of Lake Como

One thing to remember when travelling to Lake Como is that there are no trains on the western branch of the lake. The only main town on the west of the lake with good railway connections is Como City, located on the southwest end of Lake Como.

Como City is served by four railway stations, connecting regional, national and international services. Depending on where you want to travel to, you can access Como San Giovanni, Como Nord Lago, Como Borghi and Como Camerlata.

Como S. Giovanni and Como Nord Lago are the more prominent railway stations in Como. From these two stations, you can take the bus to some of the popular and best Lake Como towns .

If you are planning to visit the popular towns of Bellagio , Como and Menaggio on the western shores, the boat and bus services are the best way to travel around Lake Como .

You can get to Como by train, and take the boat or the bus to travel around Lake Como.

The Eastern Branch of Lake Como

If you plan to visit or stay at a town on the eastern shores such as Varenna , or Lecco, the train service is possibly the better choice. These two towns on the shores of Lake Como are connected by railways and there is good public transportation by boat in Varenna.

From Varenna, you can get to Bellagio in 20 minutes by hydrofoil. From Lecco to Bellagio is a little tricky as the ferry schedules are limited. Also the journey from Lecco to Bellagio is over an hour.

If you want to visit Bellagio from the eastern shores, the best way is to get to Varenna by train and take the hydrofoil from there. This route is convenient, and saves time.

Trenitalia is the train company that manages the train services in Italy. Check the official website of Trenitalia for the latest on routes, schedule and prices. Download the Trenitalia Ticketing App as well if you like.

How to Travel around Lake Como by Boat or Ferry

The best way to get around Lake Como is by boat or ferry. The public boat and ferry service in Lake Como connects all the major towns along its shores with scheduled timetables, allowing for connections as well.

The water transportation in Lake Como works very well.

The ferry service in the central part of Lake Como connects the towns of Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Cadenabbia.

The company that operates the public boat service in the northern Italy Lombardy region is Navigazione Laghi .

Types of boat and ferry in Lake Como

There are three options:

• the slow boat which stops at the important towns. This option is great for those who have time on their hands. The leisurely ride allows travellers to capture scenic towns and landscapes from the outside deck. These slow boats only run in the summer months;
• The hydrofoil or aliscafo is the speedy passenger ferry which stops at the major towns along the lake. This service runs throughout the year. There is a reduced service in the winter months;
• The car and passenger ferry which operates in the central region of the lake. This is not as fast as the hydrofoil but it is a fun ride. You can sit at the top deck and enjoy the splendid scenic views;

The fare for a journey depends on the type of boat you take and the destination. Boat or ferry tickets can be purchased at the ticket offices near the pier. If the ticket office is closed, you can purchase the tickets on board.

Use the search form on the official website of Navigazione Laghi to search for your schedule of boat/ferry departures and prices.

How to travel around Lake Como by Bus

The Lake Como region has an efficient local bus service that connects most of the towns around the lake.

Using the bus as a mode of transport is a great way to travel around Lake Como and save money.

If you are getting to Como city by train, you will see a bus-stop outside the train station at Como S. Giovanni and Como Nord Lago. The buses here will take you to your destination.

ASF Autoline is the bus transport network that provides urban and suburban services in Como City and its provinces. The network connects Como to each of the towns on the western and northwestern branch of Lake Como.

Popular bus routes around Lake Como

C10 >> Como-Menaggio-Colico

This route begins in Como, outside the Como Nord Lago railway station and Como S. Giovanni and heads to Colico, on the northern tip of Lake Como.

The C10 bus service stops at each town on the left side of the western branch of Lake Como.

The most common destinations and journey times for the C10 service are:

Como to Cernobbio and this takes 15 minutes;

From Como to Argegno , the travel time is 40 minutes;

Como to Tremezzo is 60 minutes;

From Como to Menaggio is 70 minutes;

A longer journey from Como to Colico which takes about 2 hours.

C30 >> Como-Nesso-Bellagio

This popular route begins at Como, from the bus stop outside the Como Nord Lago and Como S. Giovanni railway stations. The entire route is scheduled for 1 hour 10 minutes.

The bus stops at each town on the right side of the western branch of Lake Como.

The most common destinations and journey times for the C30 service are:

From Como to Torno, the journey is 20 minutes;

Como to Faggeto is 25 minutes;

Como to Nesso is scheduled for 40 minutes;

The entire journey from Como to Bellagio is estimated for 1 hour 10 minutes.

Go to this official website of ASF Autoline for the latest bus schedule to plan your journey.

D10 >> Lecco-Bellagio

This route is on the eastern branch of Lake Como. The service is operated by two companies: Linee Lecco and Arriva .

The D10 bus route starts in Lecco and the bus departs from the bus stop outside Lecco railway station. It arrives in Bellagio in 50 minutes. The service stops at most towns on the left side of the eastern branch of Lake Como.

Go to this official website of Linee Lecco to check for the latest in their bus schedule. It’s worth knowing that the bus service on the eastern branch of the lake is less frequent.

Private Transportation in Lake Como: Taxi

Taxis are the quickest way to get around Lake Como. It is also the most expensive way to do so.

Taxis are operated by several companies. You can find them located at the main transportation hubs in Como or the main towns.

Rates for taxi services in the Lake Como region usually have a fixed price of approximately 45 Euros and an additional payment of 1 Euro for each additional kilometre. However, prices may be subject to change during high season and holidays.

Uber does not really exist in Como.

Most of the taxi companies operating in the Lake Como region provide private transfer services to Milan and Bergamo airports.

WHAT TO DO IN LAKE COMO: BEST THINGS TO DO AROUND LAKE COMO

Lake Como is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in Italy. The area offers many things to do: hiking, cycling, swimming, shopping, exploring architectural marvels and medieval towns.

A historic city defined by enchantment and elegance framed by natural scenery around every corner is a joy to explore. The city is famous for its silk industry and is home to some of the famous landmarks in the region. The must-visits in the city are the Como Cathedral, and Tempio Voltiano. The must experience are the funicular ride or the hike up to Brunate and a private boat tour around Lake Como. You will find more special things to do in this beautiful city in my article about Como city.

Recommended read: Complete Guide to 17+ Best Things to do in Como City, Italy.

Known as the jewel of Lake Como, Bellagio is the most famous town here. Ideally located for easy water-transport connections, this picturesque town boasts exceptional shorelines, Alpine views, stone streets and wonderful shops and restaurants.

Read my complete guide to Bellagio and the best things to do here along with experienced tips and how much time you may need to spend here.

Recommended read: 18 Best Things to do and See in Bellagio

The colouful town of Varenna is a real gem to explore when visiting Lake Como. Known as one of the best medieval towns in the Como region, this is where visitors walk along a picturesque promenade, extensive gardens and hike up to Castello di Vezio, a hilltop medieval castle with a legend. For more best things to do in Varenna, read my article for ideas to plan your visit to this town.

Recommended read: 10 Best Things to do in Varenna, Italy

Prettiest Towns to Visit

In addition to the above three popular towns, there are other prettiest towns in Lake Como which you must visit: Argegno, Menaggio , Tremezzo and Lecco .

These towns are all worth visiting because of the spectacular vistas over Lake Como, the quintessential fishermen village feel and the beautiful villas.

Can you walk around Lake Como?

Surrounded by mountains, Lake Como is a haven for many short and long-distance trails on either side of the lake. There are easy hiking trails around Como city such as one that begins in Brunate where you could explore by yourself or take an experienced guide with you. You could also explore the hillside town of Pigra in Argegno and embark on hiking trails from there.

Read my guide to Argegno which includes suggestions for a couple of hiking trails that begin from the town and my guide to Como city , which includes suggestions on hiking trails as well. For more and a complete list of hiking trails in Italy, go to this official website of Italy’s most beautiful hiking trails.

Can you cycle around Lake Como?

Cycling is not an activity I do, so I researched this for you. Lake Como is reputed to be a true cycling destination. There are several cycling routes, mountain-biking routes and family rides. A classic ride is one around the perimeter of Lake Como. The ride covers a distance of 160 km with spectacular views and takes you through all of Lake Como’s lake side villages and towns. For more on the cycling routes, take a look at this official website about cycle routes around the lakes, canals and crossing the Alps.

WHAT WE DID ABOUT TRANSPORT

We experienced all forms of transportation that northern Italy is famous for during our trip.

For our trip, we did not drive around Lake Como. We walked. A lot. During our walkabouts, we noticed how congested the roads were, with cars driven very carefully within inches of us! There were very few dedicated areas with parking bays but these were always full.

We took the bus a couple of times, hence we experienced the twists and turns on hilly roads. At all other times, we used the hydrofoil and the car ferry to get around the lakeside towns.

We used the trains, both the fast trains and the regional trains . We loved travelling on the seamless fast-trains to Milan and I would highly encourage you to experience it, if you have the opportunity to do so.

Finally we opted for a private transfer to the airport from Como city. It was a short 40-minute relaxing journey to Milan Malpensa Airport via the A36.

Would you like to visit another famous Italian lake?

If so, here’s my guide to places to visit in Lake Garda:

Prettiest Towns in Lake Garda: The Best 17 You Must Visit;

10+ Top Things to do in Peschiera del Garda, Italy ;

Sirmione Old Town: The Charms of this Quirky Castle Town in Lake Garda, Italy .

Lake Como or Lake Garda: Which Italian Lake is Your Paradise?

My sincere wish is that this article about how to travel around Lake Como has given you a better idea of travelling without a car and by public transportation. With this guide, you could choose where to stay and move around the towns while planning your journeys around the lake by boat, ferry or bus.

If you are considering staying somewhere else, in a nearby city such as Milan, you could still visit this popular region on a day trip .

You may want to check our guide for travel information and tips to this region and other places in Italy:

17+ Best Things to do in Como City, Italy

18 Best Things to Do See in Bellagio, Italy

10 Best Things to do in Vareena, Italy

Argegno: The Perfect Off-beat Charm in Lake Como

The Best Lake Como Towns, Italy

Lake Como Itinerary for 5 Days 

City of Milan

Where to Stay in Milan

12 Very Best Day Trips from Milan

An Overview of Milan Centrale Station

Milan Bucket List: 19 Ideas

The Best of Milan Cathedral

The Best of Milan: Sunset from the Rooftop of Milan Cathedral

Arco della Pace

Parco Sempione Milan

Sforza Castle and Museums

Quotes about Milan that makes the City Irressistible

About the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Getting around Milan like a Local: Best Guide to Public Transportation in Milan

Best of Milan in One Day

Verona City Guide

7 Beautiful Places to Stay in Verona

The Best 16 Traditional Food in Verona to Try or to Know About

Verona Wine: 11 Best Garda Wines

31 Best Things to do in Verona

3 Best Food Tours in Verona

9 Charming Walking Tours in Verona

Romeo & Juliet in Fair Verona

Verona by Bike

Piazza delle Erbe, Verona

About Piazza Bra, Verona

The Lamberti Tower, Verona

Mazzanti House, Verona

Palazzo Maffei, Verona

Getting around Verona: Public Transport and best Ways to Explore

Verona at a Glance

Take a look at my Italy Travel page for travel resources about the best time to travel , people & culture and travel tips about the country.

Additionally, if you like exploring lakes and mountains, you may like to read about Lake Biwa, a calm and tranquil region of Kyoto , Japan .

Have a great time exploring Lake Como, Italy.

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Introducing Georgina, the insightful Content Creator behind Timeless Travel Steps. A champion of off-season journeys and cultural immersion for the mature traveller, Georgina has explored 4 continents and over 30 countries. Her blog offers practical tips and personal insights into responsible, comfort-oriented travel along with slow travel destinations. Accompanied by classical, country, and jazz tunes, Georgina's solo adventures and time with her adult children, A & M, enrich her unique travel narrative. Join her for inspiring, immersive global explorations.

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Lake Como & Around

Set in the shadow of the snow-covered Rhaetian Alps and hemmed in on both sides by steep, verdant hillsides, Lake Como (aka Lake Lario) is perhaps the most spectacular of the three major lakes. Shaped like an upside-down Y, measuring around 160km in squiggly shoreline, it's littered with villages, including exquisite Bellagio and Varenna. Where the southern and western shores converge is the lake's main town, Como, an elegant, prosperous Italian city.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Lake Como & Around. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Villa Balbianello

Lake Como West Bank

A 1km walk along the (partially wooded) lake shore from Lenno's main square, Villa Balbianello has cinematic pedigree: this was where scenes from Star…

Villa Carlotta

The star of the show on a lake shore not bereft of elegant touches, the Villa Carlotta is a fabulous fusion of neoclassical architecture and harmonious…

Como’s awesome marble-clad cathedral is one of the most important buildings on the lake, incorporating a variety of styles – Romanesque, Renaissance and…

Passalacqua

This elegant 18th-century villa on the banks of Lake Como was once home to composer Vincenzo Bellini is now an award-winning luxury hotel.

Como is flanked to the east and west by steep and thickly wooded hills (scarred in part by the spread of residential housing). Northeast along the…

Villa Melzi d'Eril

The grounds of neoclassical Villa Melzi d’Eril are a highlight among Lake Como's (many) delightful places. The villa was built in 1808 for one of Napoleon…

Santuario della Madonna del Soccorso

On the heights above Ossuccio, this lavish sanctuary is the destination for devoted pilgrims who make the steep 30-minute climb, passing a series of…

Castello di Vezio

High above the terracotta rooftops of Varenna, the imposing Castello di Vezio offers magnificent views over Lake Como. The 13th-century building was once…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Italy

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of Lake Como & Around with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Lake Como & Around and beyond

• 18 Absolute Best Things to Do in Lake Como, Italy

There are so many things to do in Lake Como, Italy that it can be hard to narrow down the best ones.

I was lucky enough to visit this stunning region three times already and I was absolutely blown away by its beauty and charm every single time. If you’re planning a trip here, you’re definitely in for a treat!

In this article, I’ll share my top recommendations for things to do in Lake Como, from exploring charming towns and visiting gorgeous lakeside villas to cruising the lake and indulging in delicious Italian food.

Let’s get started!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Are you planning a last-minute trip to Lake Como?

If your trip is coming up soon and you still haven’t booked anything, we have you covered! Below you can find our top picks when it comes to hotels, tours, getting around, and more.

Best Day Trips to Lake Como

• From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Guided Day Trip
• From Milan: Lake Como and Bellagio Private Boat Cruise

Best Tours and Experiences in Lake Como

• 1 Hour Private Wooden Boat Tour on Lake Como
• Villa Del Balbianello Entry Ticket (the famous Star Wars villa)
• Lakeside Villas Entry Tickets with Ferries (Villa Monastero, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Melzi Gardens)
• Vintage Vespa Tour Along Lake Como

Best Places to Stay in Lake Como

• Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como (top luxury hotel with stunning pool and views)
• Grand Hotel Tremezzo (the most iconic hotel in Lake Como)
• Albergo Milano (amazing mid-range option in Varenna)
• Domus Bellagio (great budget option in Bellagio with insane views)

Best Things to Do in Lake Como You Can’t Miss

1. wander through the streets of bellagio.

Bellagio is one of my all-time favorite towns in Lake Como . With its picturesque streets, colorful buildings, and stunning views of the lake, it really looks like it came straight from a postcard.

There are many fantastic things to do in Bellagio , but strolling along the winding cobbled pathways just never gets old, and I could happily spend hours doing this every time I visit.

One of my favorite places is the waterfront promenade which is the perfect place to catch your breath and get some peace. It’s especially beautiful when the flowers are in full bloom!

The Old Town of Bellagio is the kind of place where you won’t be able to put your camera away. Traditional Mediterranean buildings in every shade of pink, orange, and yellow, flower-filled balconies, and cozy cafes line the streets, each more beautiful than the last.

This is also where you’ll find Salita Serbelloni, a stunning street that you’ll instantly recognize as it’s among the top things to see in Lake Como.

It features in every other picture you’ll see from this part of Italy, but there’s nothing like seeing it with your own eyes.

2. Tour the famous Villa del Balbianello

Both Star Wars and James Bond have used Villa del Balbianello as a filming location, which is a testament to how incredible this centuries-old mansion is.

Located on the lakefront in the tiny village of Lenno, Villa del Balbianello is oh-so-elegant inside and is home to perfectly maintained gardens, so it’s no surprise that it’s become a popular wedding venue.

You can also visit the inside of the villa if you’re interested in history and architecture.

But even if you don’t go inside, a stroll around its gardens is one of the best things to do in Lake Como. You’ll find centuries-old trees, beautiful flowers, and stunning views of the lake from different vantage points.

And let’s not forget about that famous balcony overlooking the lake, where you can channel your inner Anakin Skywalker or James Bond. It was so unreal to see it in person and I definitely recommend adding this to your Lake Como itinerary .

3. Discover the town of Varenna

Towns like Varenna almost look too amazing to be real, so much so that I felt like I was living in a dream the entire time I was there. For a town so small, you can surprisingly still find lots of things to do in Varenna .

Villa Monastero is Varenna’s biggest claim to fame, but this small village brings so much more to the table.

My personal favorite is the Passeggiata degli Innamorati, a short little walkway right along the water’s edge that you have to check out.

Other spots to explore include the Villa Cipressi and the Church of St. George, and if you’re feeling like hitting the great outdoors, you can hike up to the thousand-year-old Castello di Vezio, but I have more on that a little later.

Even if you’re short on time, a quick visit to the Old Town and lunch on the waterfront is a wonderful way to spend a few hours.

My favorite place to get some drinks and appetizers is at Bar Il Molo, which has an amazing terrace overlooking the lake.

4. Explore Villa Carlotta

The only spot that I think can rival Villa del Balbianello is the regal Villa Carlotta , a huge three-story property with its very own botanical gardens in Tremezzo.

Much like Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta has been renovated into a museum filled with sculptures, paintings, and ornate furniture from the last few centuries.

But the real draw of Villa Carlotta is its expansive gardens. They’re much larger than other villas in Lake Como and have an incredible collection of flowers and plants from around the world.

Make sure to stop at the lakeside gates to witness one of the most jaw-dropping views of Lake Como. It’s no wonder the original owners chose this location for their summer house!

Getting tickets to Villa Carlotta is easy and can be done at the entrance or online. The ticket includes the gardens and the villa, so you can explore at your own pace.

5. Take a ferry ride across Lake Como

One of my favorite memories from my trips to Lake Como is taking a public ferry ride across the lake. It’s definitely the best way to see all the different towns and charming villas along the shore.

All of the main towns are connected by frequent ferries, so moving from place to place is quite straightforward and usually pretty quick.

Not to mention that it’s super affordable! Shorter routes like Bellagio to Varenna can cost as little as €5, and even if you’re traveling from Como to Bellagio which is almost 2 hours, it’ll only set you back around €10.

You can check the official Navigazione Laghi website for the schedules and fares, and I also recommend buying your tickets online, especially during the peak season.

6. Stroll around Menaggio

Menaggio is just as picturesque as the likes of Bellagio and Varenna but is noticeably quieter and has a lovely laidback way of life. It’s the perfect place to go if you want to relax and enjoy some peace.

The town features a lovely promenade with views of the lake and mountains, perfect for an afternoon walk. You can also find excellent restaurants serving up delicious Italian cuisine in Menaggio.

One of my favorite things to do in Menaggio is to sit at one of the cafes along the waterfront, especially around Piazza Guiseppe Garibaldi, and take in the stunning views while sipping on an Aperol Spritz. It’s pure bliss!

There’s not as much to do in Menaggio as in some of the neighboring towns, but that’s part of why it’s so peaceful and easygoing.

7. Tour Villa Monastero

Varenna’s most popular attraction, Villa Monastero is a must-visit when in Lake Como. This former monastery has been transformed into a museum and botanical garden, making it an ideal spot for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.

While the museum is absolutely worth visiting, it was the gardens that really took my breath away. Stretching for almost 2 km (1.25 miles), every corner of the gardens is immaculate, vibrant, and steeped in history.

Strolling through the gardens was undoubtedly one of my favorite things to do in Lake Como!

Even if you’re not usually one for museums, I highly recommend visiting Villa Monastero for its incredible gardens alone.

However, if you have the time, I suggest buying the combined ticket to visit both the villa and the gardens for a well-rounded experience.

8. Take a walk through Orrido di Bellano

One of the most unique and lesser-known spots in Lake Como is Orrido di Bellano, a natural gorge formed by the Pioverna River.

The walk through the gorge is truly breathtaking as you follow a wooden walkway through tunnels, over bridges, and past waterfalls. It’s unlike anything else you’ll see in Lake Como and definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.

What I found remarkable about Orrido di Bellano was how close it is to Bellano town, as it feels like it’s tucked away miles from the center. In reality, a 5-minute stroll from the heart of the town will get you right to the entrance.

Though Orrido di Bellano is quite well known, many visitors often overlook it, and I can’t understand why. It’s also just a 5-minute train ride from Varenna, so it’s very easy to get to.

9. Head out on a private boat tour

Although seeing Lake Como from a ferry or the shore is fantastic, nothing beats experiencing it on a private boat tour. It’s undoubtedly one of the best ways to take in all the beauty and charm of this stunning lake.

You can rent a boat yourself (most boats don’t require a license) or hire a driver to take you around.

Like most private tours, these tend to be significantly more expensive than classic guided trips, but if you’re traveling with a group, it can be quite affordable.

Aside from the obvious beauty, one of my favorite things about taking a private boat tour is that you have complete control over your itinerary. You can stop wherever and whenever you want for photos or to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

There are lots of options, such as this private 2-hour tour  with your own captain, or you can don the captain’s hat yourself and  rent a boat for 2 hours  which gives you the ultimate freedom to explore on your own.

If you’re staying in Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, or Tremezzo, this luxurious Lake Como boat tour will be the best option for you.

Alternatively, you can also find a bunch of skippers offering private excursions from each of the main towns, so it’s possible to do this activity at the last minute if it’s not too busy.

10. Explore the ruins of the Castello di Vezio

In terms of more outdoorsy things to do at Lake Como, it’s hard to beat the hike to the Castello di Vezio. The trail will take you around 30 minutes to complete, so it’s a relatively short but steep hike.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by spooky ghost statues scattered around the grounds, 12th-century ruins, and some of Lake Como’s best views. Anyone with an interest in wildlife will also enjoy checking out the collection of birds of prey that reside here.

This castle has lived many lives, including serving as a military outpost during World War II, and you can read up on the background through the information boards at the top.

As it’s a steep hike, I recommend wearing suitable shoes and bringing plenty of water. I stupidly did this hike in sandals and it was horrible to get down on the slippery paths so I wouldn’t recommend that!

11. Stroll through the botanical gardens at Villa Cipressi

Another stunning garden to explore on Lake Como is at Villa Cipressi in Varenna. This gorgeous villa has a beautiful terraced garden with incredible views of the lake.

Villa Cipressi now operates as a hotel and it’s definitely one of the most stunning Lake Como hotels with lake views !

The building itself dates back to the 15th century and retains all its old-world charm through its outdoor patio, luxury guestrooms, and traditional decor. Sadly, only hotel guests are permitted inside the property.

However, the botanical gardens are open to the public and are just as sensational, packed with hundreds of plant species in the prettiest of surroundings. It’s a lovely place to spend an afternoon, especially if you’re looking for a quieter spot away from the busy towns.

12. Try some watersports on the lake

Lake Como is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway, but it also has plenty to offer for travelers who like to get their adrenaline pumping.

Wakeboarding, windsurfing, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding are just some of the watersports offered along the lake, and the calm waters make it much less daunting for first-timers.

When the warmer weather comes around, towns and villages like Bellagio, Varenna, and Lenno operate a ton of exciting watersports, and many hotels have the likes of jet skis and kayaks available to rent.

This is a fantastic way to experience the lake from a different perspective and add some excitement to your trip.

13. Enjoy a funicular ride up to Brunate

The town of Como is linked to the nearby village of Brunate by a funicular railway that’s been in operation since the late 1800s.

Brunate lies 500 meters (1,640 ft) above Como, making it an excellent spot for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The journey itself only takes around 7 minutes, and during peak seasons, it runs roughly every 15 minutes. After you land in Brunate, you’ll have the Phare de Volta lighthouse and quaint churches like Parrocchia Sant’Andrea Apostolo to explore.

We opted to visit for sunset and I couldn’t recommend it enough. The sky lit up in the prettiest shades of pink, orange, and yellow, with the lake sparkling below us. It was a truly magical experience!

14. Explore the historic center of Como

Como is the capital of the Province of Como, and I’ve always found this city to be terribly underrated.

It’s much larger than cute villages like Bellagio and Varenna, but it has so much to offer in terms of history, culture, and nightlife.

You’ll have no problem catching a ferry to Como for the day, as it boasts fantastic connections to most of the smaller towns, but spending a few nights here is also definitely worthwhile.

The exquisite Como Cathedral is the centerpiece of the city, so a visit here is a must to see frescoes and stained glass windows that’ll blow you away.

Other things to do in Como include visiting Villa Olmo, a palatial property that looks more like a royal residence, plus the Basilica of San Fedele.

Como also has a direct train connection to Milan, so it’s an easy day trip from the fashion capital of Italy if you’re based there.

15. Attend an Italian cooking class

Without a shadow of a doubt, one of the best things to do in Lake Como is to take part in a cooking class.

As well as being a wonderful opportunity to learn the craft of Italian cooking, these classes are such a blast and usually include some local wines to enjoy alongside your home-cooked meal.

This tour equips you with all the skills you’ll need to craft your own pasta at home, and you’ll also learn how to whip up a mean tiramisu. The class is usually only made up of around 10 to 12 people and runs from your local chef’s own home.

An Italian dining experience wouldn’t be complete without an aperitif, and these classes generally offer some prosecco to sip on before your meal, plus some light bites and nibbles.

16. Visit Villa Melzi Gardens

As you’ve probably gathered by now, Lake Como has an abundance of high-end villas and immaculate gardens, and Villa Melzi is one that I instantly fell in love with.

Just a quick stroll from the center of Bellagio, Villa Melzi is actually one of the newer villas in the area, having been constructed in the early 1800s.

The interior of the villa is off-limits to visitors, but the museum, chapel, and gardens are open to the public from March to November each year. 

From the Romanesque and Egyptian statues to the serene Japanese pond and the meandering walkways, these gardens are just magical and really encapsulate the beauty of Lake Como.

Bellagio can be quite hectic during the summer months, and Villa Melzi will check all your boxes when you’re looking for somewhere that’s easy to reach but away from the hustle and bustle of the main streets.

17. Eat in a lakeside restaurant

You won’t have to go far to enjoy dinner with a view in the Lake Como area, as there are more waterfront eateries than I’d even attempt to count.

Classic Italian fare like wood-fired pizzas, arancini, burrata, and bruschetta are available in most restaurants, so you’ll be spoiled for choice no matter where you pick.

Having said that, it’s not uncommon for bistros and cafes with incredible locations to be lacking in quality when it comes to the food, so I have a few suggestions for you to ensure you won’t have to sacrifice on views or taste.

For an upscale experience, make sure to visit Bar Giardino at Hotel Royal Victoria in Varenna. The view from the outdoor terrace is simply incredible, and the food is equally as impressive.

Or for a more casual option, head to Bar Il Molo , just a few steps from Hotel Royal Victoria. I must admit, the food here can be a bit of a hit or miss, but the view from their terrace and the cocktails are top-notch.

Ristorante La Punta is another favorite of mine, and it’s located right on the tip of Bellagio’s peninsula, making it the perfect place for a sunset dinner. With its elegant decor and delicious seafood dishes, this restaurant is a must-visit while in Lake Como.

18. Take a dip in the lake

It goes without saying that one of the most enjoyable things to do in Lake Como is to dive into the refreshing cobalt-blue waters.

Lake Como is a lovely place for a dip, especially when you’ve spent the day under the sweltering sunshine. After all, Italy is no stranger to scorching summer temperatures!

There are many hotels perched right along the waterside with their own stretch of private land, but there are a number of designated swimming areas in most towns.

Unless somewhere is marked as safe for swimming or is a beach area, it’s best to avoid jumping in, as some patches of the lake have less favorable swimming conditions than others.

Some gorgeous spots for a quick splash include Lido di Bellagio Beach Club, Spiaggia Pubblica di Bellagio, or Lido di Varenna.

Where to Stay in Lake Como

The most popular areas for accommodation in Lake Como are Bellagio, Varenna, and Como. These towns have the most tourist attractions and offer great accommodation options ranging from luxurious villas to budget-friendly guesthouses.

Varenna and Como are especially great because they have direct train connections to Milan, so it’s very easy to get to. However, keep in mind that Como is very far from the middle part of the lake where most attractions are located so you’ll spend a lot of time commuting.

If you want to know more about the best places to stay around the lake, check out my in-depth guide about where to stay in Lake Como . It covers all of the best areas and gives you some insider tips on where to find the best deals.

If you’re in a hurry, here are my top recommendations for the best hotels in these towns.

Best places to stay in Bellagio

• Luxury | Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
• Mid-range | Hotel du Lac & SPA
• Budget | Hotel Bellagio

Best places to stay in Varenna

• Luxury | Hotel Royal Victoria
• Mid-range | Hotel Olivedo
• Budget | Hotel Montecodeno

Best places to stay in Como

• Luxury | Vista Palazzo – Small Luxury Hotels of the World
• Mid-range | Hotel Como
• Budget | Residence Diaz

Planning a trip to Lake Como?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Lake Como. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Lake Como hotel guides:

• Where to Stay in Lake Como: 6 Best Towns & Hotels
• 23 Stunning Lake Como Hotels with Lake Views
• 22 Incredible Lake Como Hotels with Pools

Lake Como travel guides:

• 7 Gorgeous Lake Como Villas & Gardens You Have to Visit
• Top 10 Best Towns in Lake Como You Can’t Miss
• 17 Best Things to Do in Bellagio, Italy (+ Practical Tips for Visiting)
• 15 Best Things to Do in Varenna (+ Practical Tips for Visiting)
• 18 Best Things to Do in Como, Italy (+ Practical Tips for Visiting)

Lake Como itineraries:

• Day Trip to Lake Como from Milan: The Best Lake Como One Day Itinerary
• How to Spend 2 Days in Lake Como, Italy
• 3 Days in Lake Como: The Perfect Lake Como Itinerary
• The Ultimate 4 Days in Lake Como Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal

Other Amazing Destinations in Italy: Cinque Terre | Dolomites | Florence | Lake Garda | Rome | Venice

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• Lake Maggiore
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• & Beyond
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Planning tips for your trip to Lake Como

Planning a visit to the enchanting Lake Como? Get ready for a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and cultural wonders. In this guide, we’ll unravel the secrets of traveling around Lake Como seamlessly, ensuring you make the most of your stay.

Traveling around Lake Como: unveiling the marvels

To truly savor the beauty of Lake Como, understanding the transportation options is key. We generally suggest to our clients to prefer private transfers over public transport if the budget allows it as it will make for a much more enjoyable experience, especially during peak season. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered… our guide goes beyond logistics and when you enquire with us we’ll provide you with insider tips by crafting the perfect itinerary for you. With years of experience as the leader DMC of Lake Como we know the best times to visit iconic sites, how to avoid crowds, and the must-try local delicacies along the way.

Transfer from airports to Lake Como: Starting your journey

Landing at Milan’s airports? Kickstart your Lake Como adventure with a seamless transfer, choose among train, bus or private car services for a comfortable journey to your lakeside destination. Remember that international flights mostly land in the early morning while hotel check-in is in the afternoon: this is why our private transfers often include the option to stop and explore before heading to the final destination. Don’t hesitate to write to us for advice!

Following are the must-know about transfers to and from the airport.

Linate Airport:

This airport is within the Metropolitan area of Milan, reaching the city center with tram, bus or taxi is quite easy. Getting to Lake Como involves reaching one of the main train stations (Centrale, Cadorna or Porta Garibaldi) , catching a train connection and, if you plan on staying in Bellagio or Menaggio, a ferry.

Malpensa Airport:

Here is where most international flights land. This airport is about 50 mins away from Lake Maggiore, Milan or the city of Como, while over an hour’s drive from Lecco, Varenna or Bellagio. Malpensa is very well connected by train with Milan and, through connections, with Lake Maggiore and Lake Como. Given this proximity, why not organising with us a stay in Milan first, to move then to Lake Maggiore and Lake Como? Check our tour catalog for inspiration.

Orio al Serio Airport:

Close to the enchanting city of Bergamo, in which we suggest a stop on the way to Lake Como, this airport is the closest to Lecco and the eastern shore of Lake Como from which you can catch connecting ferries to Bellagio and Menaggio. The airport is connected by bus to Bergamo train station from which trains to Lecco and Milan are frequent; or you may also catch a bus directly to Milan.

Want to start your journey hassle-free? Enquire about our private transfer services from airports to the desired location. If you’re still in doubt we can help you find the best option tailored to your needs.

Trains, Buses, and Ferries: public transport in Lake Como

Lake Como boasts an extensive and mostly efficient public transport system, including trains, buses and ferries criss-crossing the lake. Commuting or moving around Lake Como is quite easy but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it is the best way to get around Lake Como.

Milan has several train stations (Milano Centrale, Cadorna and Garibaldi are the main ones) with local trains to Como and Lecco and also has a train line (towards Sondrio – Tirano) that runs all along the eastern shore of the lake stopping in Monza, Lecco, Mandello and Varenna. Local trains, buses and ferries are frequent and the journey is relatively short offering convenient access to all iconic landmarks, so they might be an option to consider BUT.. yes but… there are a few down sides:

• Trains and buses are frequently packed as they are used mostly by commuters in and out of the main cities (Milan, Como and Lecco);
• If you are traveling with heavy luggage, strollers or wheelchairs, know this: most train stations are old and have lots of stairs, sadly elevators are not always available.
• Even though train stations are always located walking distance from the city center, reaching your hotel or final destination most likely will include a 15/20 min walk or catching a bus or ferry connection – this is especially true if your hotel is in Bellagio or Menaggio.
• It’s internationally known that public transport in Italy is not exactly always on time… so missing the connections or having to run for it is definitely a risk…
• Strikes are unfortunately frequent in Italy and while commuters are well informed and know how to avoid them, you might be caught unprepared.

Should I Rent a Car? Which is the best way to see Lake Como?

So if public transport is not the most comfortable way to get around Lake Como … should I rent a car? Renting a car offers flexibility, but it comes with its drawbacks: narrow roads, limited (and expensive) parking and traffic congestion can dampen the experience. Consider your itinerary and preferences before deciding.

NCC Rental & Private Boats: adding a touch of luxury

What is the best way to see Lake Como? For hassle-free travel we often suggest a combination of private transfers with a driver and in some rare cases public transport. For example, prefer a private driver to transfer you to and from the airport, a private boat ride during a full day tour of the Lake ( you can browse ours here ) or to enjoy a day trip to one of the many destinations we offer (browse them here) . From chauffeured rides to bespoke boat excursions, indulge in luxury while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Yes to catching the ferry if you want to “live Lake Como like a local” and move around the main Lake towns on a relaxed day when your only objective is experiencing “la dolce vita” switching from Gelato tastings and Aperitivo time!

As you plan your Lake Como escapade, remember to prioritize convenience and comfort in order to enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, away from the crowds with our tours and private transfer options!

Best way to see Lake Como: A personalised approach

At Lake Como for You, we specialize in creating tailor-made experiences. Uncover the best-kept secrets of the region with our private and small group tours. Our boat excursions and exclusive villa visits promise a journey beyond the ordinary. Dive deeper into the Lake Como experience with our multi-day itineraries, meticulously crafted for a personalized and memorable stay.

Let us design your Adventure

As you map out your Lake Como adventure, think of Lake Como For You not just as a DMC but as your dedicated travel companion. Whether you have queries about logistics, desire bespoke experiences, or need assistance planning a single tour or a comprehensive itinerary, we’re here to transform your Lake Como dreams into reality. And the journey doesn’t stop there – venture beyond Lake Como with us, exploring enchanting destinations like Lake Maggiore, Milan, Bergamo, Monza, or the Valtellina wine region! Your exploration knows no bounds with us by your side.

Learn more here

• Browse our tour catalog here
• Find inspiration in our Travel Ideas here
• Contact us for a private or bespoke experience here

Please remember that we are here to help you with any questions regarding Lake Como and its surroundings. We love designing incredible experiences for you all year round!

We collected all the best travel tips and curiosities about Lake Como & Beyond, for you. Find out exciting experiences you may not have considered on our socials:

• Art & Culture (14)
• Boat & Villas (5)
• Food & Wine (12)
• Planning Tips (25)
• Sport & Fun (8)

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Do not hesitate to give us a call. Whether it’s an inquiry about tour or a request for customisation, our team of local experts is happy to talk to you!

(+39) 349 560 0603 [email protected]

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Home » Europe » Italy » Lake Como

EPIC LAKE COMO Itinerary! (2024)

“Making the most” out of a holiday is an unnecessary pressure that affects us all. That said, the time we truly get to spend under our own steam is precious, and (especially if you rock a 9-5 badboy) wasting it is frankly a crime…

…SO DON’T!

My top-tier Lake Como Itinerary  is set-up to help stimulate your imagination, kick those cogs into gear, and provide an outline to what’s out there.

I don’t expect you to adore every activity or place I’ve mentioned (though you probably will) – so ditch what you hate, steal what you love, and enjoy this chart-topping northern Italian destination!

Let’s craft you a first-rate holiday itinerary!

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A Little Bit about this 3 Day Lake Como Itinerary

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Backpacking Italia ? up for Lago di Como ?

Then you’re going to need a plan! And whilst I’ve piled up on both the tourist attractions and hidden gems, I strongly suggest that at least one day is spent tackling a mountain hike because the views are sensational!

In this itinerary, you will find a very full 3-days. It’s feasible to complete each day as I’ve set them up, but if you skip a pick for an extra lunch hour or a couple of drinks, I will not be offended at all!

The structure I’ve chosen to go with is great for active vacationers, who like to be occupied and really engage with their surroundings. I’ve included routes, times, and helpful tips for each stop, but feel free to switch my choices around!

3-Day Lake Como Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Bellagio Town Center | Punta Spartivento | Pescallo | Bellagio Water Sports | Menaggio | Sunset Drink
• Day 2: Varenna | Walk of Lovers Promenade | Hike to Castello di Vezio | Villa Monastero | Orrido di Bellano | Bellano
• Day 3: Tremezzo | Villa Carlotta | Lenno | Villa del Balbionello | Isola Comacina

Choosing where to stay in Lake Como is no easy task. A significant portion of the lake’s charm stems from the dozens of historic towns and villages set on its banks. Many of these gorgeous communities offer accommodation for travelers, so the options are plentiful!

The three most popular towns for a Lake Como itinerary are Menaggio, Bellagio, and Varenna, each with its own unique charm.

Bellagio is the most well-known. It’s glamorous, classy, and admittedly a little pricey, but it’s also absolutely stunning! Menaggio is one of the largest towns on the lake, with good accommodation and public transport options!

Varenna is gorgeous. It’s smaller and more laid back than the aforementioned towns, with a relaxed vibe and bountiful tranquility. We think Varenna is the best place to stay in Lake Como in 3 days.

Another option for a weekend in Lake Como is the city of Como itself. Set on the southern tip of the lake’s western arm, Como is a little far removed from the romantic towns of Lake Como, both in location and in atmosphere. However, it does offer some ‘big city’ advantages and comforts, as well as more affordable accommodation!

That being said, pretty much any town on the Lake could act as a comfortable base for a 3-day itinerary in Lake Como. Just make sure the town you choose is well connected to the other towns, and caters well to tourists.

Best Hostel in Lake Como – Ostello Bello Lake Como

There aren’t many hostels on Lake Como , but the few that exist are outstanding, and none are better than Ostello Bello Lake Como. Located in the city of Como, this hostel is set right next to the lake!

The design is a funky blend of traditional and modern, and there are some amazing places to chill. Try the sun-soaked terrace, hammock lined courtyard, and well-stocked bar!

Best Airbnb in Lake Como – Lake views at an affordable price

Make the most of your first time by Lake Como and go full-on with the regions rich and glitz vibe. This Airbnb in Lake Como boasts a private lake view terrace that would be great for socialising, and we’d personally love soaking in the views that straight through the window from the queen-size bed.

Well situated just on the edge of town, you’ll have no problem exploring on foot.

Best Budget Hotel in Lake Como – Andirivieni Bellagio Guest House

Located just a 10-minute walk from the historic heart of Bellagio, this guest house offers affordable and comfortable accommodation on Lake Como.

The property boasts beautiful views of the lake, and each room is well equipped with a private bathroom, satellite TV, and air conditioning! The garden is lush and the dining area is light and spacious.

Best Luxury Hotel in Lake Como – Residence L’Ulivo

Luxury is something that Lake Como does well. If lavish comfort is something you enjoy, Residence L’Ulivo is a stunning option. Set right on the banks of the lake, this hotel is perfectly situated near the center of Bellagio, ideal for our Lake Como itinerary.

A large pool overlooks the lake and a private lake beach is at your disposal! Also enjoy the Turkish baths, fitness center, and indoor pool. This is one of the best places to stay in Lake Como.

Okay, I’m not going to hold back any longer- this is my pretty-much-perfect lake Como itinerary!

Bellagio Town Center | Punta Spartivento | Pescallo | Bellagio Water Sports | Menaggio | Sunset Drink

Day 1 of your 3-day Itinerary in Lake Como offers a blend of activity and relaxation! We think this is a great way to start your trip to Lake Como.

8:30 am – Explore Bellagio Town Center

Bellagio is undoubtedly the best-known village on Lake Como. It’s a quaint and gorgeous lakeside paradise, steeped with a rich and far-reaching history. Nicknamed ‘The Pearl of Lake Como.” The town of Bellagio exudes glamour and class, with a lavish lifestyle at its core!

Exploring Bellagio is a necessary addition to any Lake Como Itinerary, and if you only have one day in Lake Como, we suggest you make Bellagio your first stop. Set on a lakeside hill, the narrow lanes of Bellagio meander gracefully down toward the lake, winding their way in a picturesque fashion.

The quaint cobblestone streets and staircases pass between pastel buildings and plant-filled terraces, converging in sun-soaked squares.

Bellagio is set in a famously wonderful location on the broad triangular peninsula that splits Lake Como in two! It overlooks the northern arm of the lake, with the sloping lanes offering impossibly romantic views.

After walking through the village, soak up the lakeside atmosphere with a gentle stroll along the waterfront promenade and stop for a cup of coffee with a view.

• Cost – Free
• How long should I stay here? If you go for breakfast you could spend 2-3 hours here.
• Getting there – ferry from a nearby ferry port

Insider Tip: Head to the Bellagio Tourist Information Office and organize a Lake Como walking tour of Bellagio. Doing so is a great way to learn more about the town and the lake!

11:00 am – Punta Spartivento

Punta Spartivento is a park situated at the very tip of the peninsula. Just a 10-minute scenic stroll from the center of Bellagio, the park offers entirely unobstructed views of the lake!

From here, the vista is expansive; you can see the surrounding villages and the lake stretching out in front of you, topped by the Swiss Alps in the distance.

The scenery at Punta Spartivento is well worth the short uphill walk! It’s a wonderful place to kick back and enjoy some scenic tranquillity. Pack a picnic and some drinks or pay a visit to Restaurante La Punta.

• How long should I stay here ? 1-2 hours (although if you bring a book who knows)
• Getting there – walk from Bellagio!

11:30 pm – Pescallo

Pescallo is a tiny hamlet just a short walk from Bellagio. Known as a peaceful fishing village, the hamlet is separated from Bellagio by a hill. This makes it a great escape from the crowds of Bellagio, and one of our favorite things to do in Lake Como!

While the walk isn’t long, taking only around 10 – 15 minutes, it’s not exactly simple; the mostly uphill journey entails several stairways and some uneven ground. However, the walk is beautiful and well worth the reward.

Pescallo is gorgeous; Ivy-drenched houses in muted colours wrap around a cosy harbour. You’ll mostly find locals here, going about their tranquil lives. The atmosphere is quaint and authentic, making this a perfect spot to discover what life is really like on Lake Como!

There’s only one restaurant in Pescallo: La Pergola. Enjoying brunch or lunch here, overlooking the lake, is an amazing way to reward yourself after the walk from Bellagio!

• How long should I stay here ? 1-2 hours (worth having lunch here!)
• Getting there – a short walk from Bellagio!

2:30 pm – Bellagio Water Sports

Pescallo may be quaint and peaceful, but it’s not lacking in recreation. Bellagio Water Sports, located in Pescallo, offers an awesome range of water-based activities! In fact, they’re considered one of the best water sports providers on the whole of Lake Como!

On top of that, we don’t think there are many more scenic places to glide along the lake than around Pescallo.

The specialities here are kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding (SUPing). You may choose to rent your own kayak or SUP board and explore the tranquil waters on your own; but, if you want an experienced guide to enhance the experience, you could book onto one of the available tours!

The various tours take you on a journey of discovery, ducking into hidden corners and past little-known gems of the lake. You’ll get to explore a different side of Lake Como and experience the sights from a whole new perspective!

Kayaking and SUPing might just be our favourite methods for exploring the lake. Paddling offers an enchanting combination of scenery, fun, and tranquillity, with a healthy dose of interesting stories and information if you decide to book a tour! An itinerary for Lake Como wouldn’t be complete without some kind of water-based fun.

• Cost – guided tours start from around $60 per person
• How long should I stay here ? 2-3 hours is perfect to get
• Getting there – walking (again!)

Insider Tip: Advanced booking is required, so be sure to book your rentals or tour ahead of time. Also, note that Bellagio Water Sports is generally closed on Sunday afternoons.

4:30 pm – Menaggio

Around mid-afternoon, it’ll be time to make the journey over to Menaggio. Head to the ferry port, and embark on the beautiful 15-minute journey across the lake.

Menaggio was once a walled city, with roots stretching back thousands of years! The town is larger than Bellagio but shares much of the village’s elegant charm. You’ll find a similar array of pastel buildings, but in Menaggio, they’re separated by broader streets and larger squares.

It’s well worth spending some time exploring Menaggio. Start by heading to Piazza Garibaldi, the main square of the town. Here you’ll find several eateries and cafes, where you can enjoy some afternoon refreshments in the sun!

Next, walk along Via Calvi, where you’ll find boutiques and craft stores selling beautiful, locally produced crafts, from clothing to food! On the same street, you’ll come across Chiesa di Santa Marta, a small but beautiful church with exquisite detailing and centuries-old paintings.

From Piazza Garibaldi stems Menaggio’s celebrated lakefront promenade. Set off on the promenade from the square and meander along the lake, passing lush trees, colourful flower beds, and pastel houses. Enjoy the gentle sounds of the lake and take in the beauty of the scenic surroundings.

If you have time, perhaps hike up to the medieval part of Menaggio higher up the hill, with steep staircases, narrow alleyways, and stone buildings.

• How long should I stay here ? 2-3 hours
• Getting there – the ferry!

8:00 pm – Sunset Drink

When the sun is hanging low in the sky, it’ll be time to find a picturesque lakeside bar or restaurant where you can enjoy the scenic sunset drink of a lifetime! Sunset is a beautiful time on the lake. The daytime energy fades into the ambience of the night, with the air still warm from the heat of the sun. Your Lake Como itinerary wouldn’t be complete without experiencing it!

Most of the towns and villages on the lake are home to a lakeside bar or restaurant; just head to the water’s edge of the town you’re staying in and pick one that looks appealing!

If your base village doesn’t have any waterside bars or restaurants, enjoy a drink at one of the following before heading back to where you’re staying. Just be sure to check the ferry and bus schedule for the evening!

Varenna is just a 13-minute ferry ride from Menaggio and home to some of the most spectacular sunset spots on the lake! Try Ristorante La Vista, with its elevated lakeside terrace, for a sunset aperitif and some exquisitely prepared food. Bar Il Molo also offers sensational lakeside views and tasty local dishes!

A good option for sundowners in Bellagio is Ristorante La Terazza Belveder. Perched high up in the town, this restaurant offers incredible panoramic views and delectable Mediterranean dishes. You’ll also find a good selection of local wines!

• Cost – depends on how thirsty you are
• How long should I stay here ? All evening? All night? Lap it up while you can…
• Getting there – Ferry back from Menaggio

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Varenna | Walk of Lovers Promenade | Hike to Castello di Vezio | Villa Monastero | Orrido di Bellano | Bellano

If you’re spending just 2 days in Lake Como, it might be hard to pack in all the best bits, but we highly recommend hitting all of the following stops!

8:30 am – Varenna

There are dozens of towns and villages on Lake Como, but Varenna is often cited as a favourite among those who have visited. Smaller and quieter than its popular neighbours, (Menaggio and Bellagio), Varenna is overflowing with undeniable rustic charm!

As your ferry pulls up to Varenna , your breath will be taken by its beauty. The colourful buildings are painted in autumnal colours, stacked cosily between the mountains and the lake! The village is steep, set against rugged cliffs, and surrounded by an unspoiled natural landscape.

There isn’t a whole lot to do in Varenna, but we find that to be part of its charm; a sleepy village that lazes peacefully in the sun. Your morning in Varenna will mostly consist of relaxing and wandering aimlessly, admiring the picturesque scenes and fairytale charm! Enjoy a peaceful portion of your Lake Como itinerary.

• How long should I stay here ? 1-2 hours
• Getting there – Ferry

10:00 pm – Varenna’s Walk of Lovers Promenade

The villages and towns of Lake Como are not short on charming lakeside boardwalks, but perhaps none are as romantic as Varenna’s ‘Walk of Lovers’. The village is fronted by a winding waterside footpath, that’s extremely popular amongst visiting couples!

With rough rocky walls and lush villa gardens to your right and the expansive lake to your left, the path meanders elegantly along the water. Beautiful green plants tangle from the walls, trees arch overhead, and the path takes you through a charming tunnel of ivy. The views are amazing and the atmosphere is incredibly romantic!

If you’re visiting with your partner, strolling the promenade is a vital addition to your Lake Como Itinerary, but the walk is a wonderful experience for any kind of traveller.

• How long should I stay here? 1 hour or less
• Getting there – walk from Varenna

11:00 am – Hike to Castello di Vezio

Castello di Vezio is a castle perched on the hill above Varenna. Originally built in the 11th and 12th centuries, the now dilapidated castle is a beautiful and important historic site. It’s well worth a visit during your time in Varenna, and the walk-up is incredible in its own right!

The best route up to the castle can be found right next to Albergo Ristorante Montecodeno. You’ll see a sign next to the staircase that says ‘Castello di Vezio’, with an arrow pointing up the hill!

The route is well-signposted along the way. Just look for the signs that say ‘ via per Vezio ’ meaning ‘road to Vezio’.

The hike is steep but relatively short, taking around 20 – 30 minutes. It’s also exceptionally gorgeous! You’ll wind up the hill over moss-covered bridges and ivy-draped buildings. The trail also immerses you in spectacular natural beauty; rugged rock walls and lush greenery to one side, and stunning lake views to the other.

Once you get to the top, panoramic views of the lake will open out in front of you! Spend some time exploring the castle, admiring the view, and sipping on a coffee from the hilltop cafe before heading back down to Varenna.

• Cost – entry is around $5
• How long should I stay here? 1.5-2.5 hours
• Getting there – Hike the via per Vezio

2:00 pm – Villa Monastero

Resting on the shores of Varenna, Villa Monastero is a gorgeous lakeside villa complex, surrounded by a terraced botanical garden. The site originally housed a 12th-century Cistercian convent, which now lies beneath the villa.

Villa Monastero houses a number of famous rooms, 14 of which belong to the Casa Museum. This museum allows visitors to explore four centuries of history by immersing them in fully furnished historic rooms! The rooms are furnished in various styles, housing opulent decorations and precious materials.

Also worth noting is the magnificent Fermi Hall. The hall is well-known thanks to Nobel Prize winner Enrico Fermi holding numerous physics classes here during 1954!

The gardens feature flora from around the globe, resulting in a colourful and exotic scenery, with a variety of scents wafting through the air. Wander around the estate and admire the waterfront views amongst the lush gardens.

• Cost – around $10
• How long should I stay here? around 2 hours
• Getting there – walking!

4:30 pm – Orrido di Bellano

Orrido is a natural gorge, that has been carved by the Pioverna river over the past 15 million years! Set in the comune of Bellano near the central area of Lake Como, the gorge offers some of the most spectacular natural scenery on the lake and you can even go geocaching there .

Accessible via an old suspension bridge, Orrido di Bellano features a walkway fixed in stone. The turquoise waters snake between rugged canyon walls draped in greenery, and the sound of rushing water fills the air! The walkway winds its way along the gorge wall, high above the water below and past a wonderful natural waterfall. The scenery really is incredible!

Bellano is easily accessible from Varenna via train, bus, and ferry.

• Cost – around $5
• How long should I stay here? around an hour
• Getting there – Ferry, train or bus! Bellano is super accessible, and then it is a short uphill hike.

5:30 pm – Bellano

After you’ve checked out the Orrido di Bellano, it’s time to get stuck into the town itself. Boasting some fantastic restaurants, bars, and cafes, it’ll be easy to find something to put away before grabbing the last ferry home.

Bellano is a little off the traditional tourist track, and as such is a great place to find cheap accommodation right on the edge of Lake Como. If you’re looking for a lake view at a bargain, this is where to find it!

This charming town has some sensational architecture and is host to some great lake-and-beachside bars, so definitely time to grab a beverage of choice before concluding the day’s activities!

• How long should I stay here? Around 2 hours
• Getting there – walk down the hill from Orrido di Bellano

Ostello Bello Lake Como

There aren’t many hostels on Lake Como, but the few that exist are outstanding, and none are better than Ostello Bello Lake Como. Located in the city of Como, this hostel is set right next to the lake! For more awesome hostel options, check out our favorite hostels in Milan. Milan is super close to Lake Como, and you’ll probably be passing through on your way to the lake.

• Free Breakfast

Tremezzo | Villa Carlotta | Lenno | Villa del Balbionello | Isola Comacina

8:30 am – Tremezzo

By far the most popular attraction in Tremezzo is Villa Carlotta, but the small town is worth exploring in its own right as you pass through! Villa Carlotta is located north of the town, but you should explore the town first, and stop for some brekkie.

The views from the walk along the water are spectacular! Along the way, you’ll pass the magnificent Grand Hotel Tremezzo, as well as a series of lakeside restaurants where you can stop for a bite or a drink.

Make the short journey on foot to The Tower of Rogaro, a medieval tower perched on a hill. Surrounded by greenery, the tower’s location offers some incredible views out over the lake!

You may also choose to stop by at the Church of Saint-Bartholomew. With roots stretching back to the 1100s, this tiny baroque-style church features some stunning paintings.

• How long should I stay here? 1.5 hours

Insider Tip: You’ll find a series of narrow lanes and alleyways in Tremezzo, so take some time to get lost and appreciate the quaint charm.

10:30 am – Villa Carlotta

Completed in 1745, Villa Carlotta is a beautiful 18th-century villa, surrounded by exotic botanical gardens. While the villa was once a residential estate, it’s now a museum open to the public! Housed within its walls you’ll find artworks in a variety of mediums, including paintings, marble statues, and decorative ornaments.

The art collection includes work from notable artists such as Hayez, Canova, and Migliara. The museum also offers visitors a trip back in time with the private apartments on the 2nd floor, filled with antique furniture.

Venture outside the villa and you’ll discover the incredible exotic gardens that surround it! The variety here is astounding; from bamboo forests and succulent rock gardens to romantic roses, citrus tunnels, and classic Italian gardens.

You’ll find over 500 plant species, embarking on a journey that takes you through the flora of the world!

• Cost – Entry is around $10
• How long should I stay here? 2 hours
• Getting there – A short walk from Tremezzo

12:00 pm – Lenno

Together with a couple of other villages, Lenno and Tremezzo make up the comune of Tremezzina. You’ll be marching down the coast to find the top villas and towns!

Just like Tremezzo, it’s one of Lenno’s prized villas that attracts most of its visitors. Villa del Balbionello may be the main attraction, but it’s worth taking some time to enjoy Lenno first, for some lunch.

Set on the slopes of Mount Tremezzo, the village offers many of the same charms as the other lakeside villages; A beautiful waterfront promenade, narrow alleyways, and historic buildings.

You’ll find a myriad of restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias, where you can sit and enjoy the views. Lenno is quieter than many of the neighbouring towns, making it a good place to enjoy some peace.

Lenno is also well known for its incredible olive oil, so be sure to pick up a bottle to take home with you or enjoy while touring Lake Como! The best place in Lenno to buy some is Oleificia Vanini Osvaldo.

• How long should I stay here? 2-3 hours (or longer, for dinner and a drink)
• Getting there – Walk or bus from Tremezzo (not far from villa Carlotta)

1:30 pm – Villa del Balbionello

Situated on the tip of a quaint, wooded peninsula, the 18th-century lakeside villa is gorgeous and grand. Surrounded by ornately carved statues and ivy draped stone walls, it boasts exceptional views of the lake, as well as perfectly pruned terraced gardens.

It is more than just a beautiful villa; Villa del Balbionello ’s picturesque charm has made it a movie star! A number of feature films have used the villa as a shotting location.

Its first notable on-screen appearance was in the 2002 film Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones . Next, it solidified its film star status when it appeared as an important shooting location for Casino Royale !

Perhaps the most recognizable feature of the villa is the perfectly dome-shaped tree sitting in the lake-facing garden. The 200-year-old tree has been hand-pruned to this shape each November for several decades, as a way to preserve the villa’s view of Bellagio!

• Cost – $ 11 USD for the gardens only, or $22 USD for a guided tour of the whole property.
• How long should I stay here? 1.5-2 hours
• Getting there – Walk from Lenno

Insider Tip: The villa closes at 4:30 pm each day and is closed on Mondays and Wednesday. Be sure to plan your time accordingly during day 2 of your Lake Como Itinerary!

4:30 pm – Isola Comacina

A small wooded island in the western arm of Lake Como, Isola Comacina is an important historic site. It’s the only island in Lake Como, and it has a fascinating history that stretches back thousands of years!

Throughout the centuries, the island has been both a principal political and religious centre. It hosted the ancient Roman military and the Lombards of the 6th century.

After a series of invasions and disputes, the island’s buildings were mostly destroyed in 1169. It remained uninhabited and left to decay for many centuries thereafter until it was eventually given to Belgium after the first world war!

The island has been described as among the most interesting archaeological sites in Northern Italy, specifically for the early middle ages. A series of ancient ruins can still be explored on the island!

But a fascinating history isn’t all that Isola Comacina has to offer. It’s a beautiful green island, covered with flourishing vegetation. Lakeside walkways guide you around the island, past patches of history, beauty, and spectacular vistas!

Also, be sure to pay a visit to the island’s only restaurant, Locanda dell’Isola Comacina. The views from the terrace are out of this world! The island can be reached via private boat or ferry from Ossuccio, which in turn, is easily accessible from the main towns of the lake.

• How long should I stay here? 2-3 hours
• Getting there – private boat/ ferry from Ossuccio (double-barrelled boat journey)

If you’re chilling on a week or two, then you can afford to break up the first 3 days a little more and make the most of each location mentioned. However, if you are a bit of a monster tourist, then knowing about these juicy extras will give you a little more inspiration!

The city of Como, located at the tip of the Lake’s western arm, is often overlooked by those travelling to Lake Como. Granted, it doesn’t quite have the same charm as the small towns and villages at the lake’s centre, but it does offer its own attractions and appeal!

The city is often considered among the most beautiful spots in the Lombardy region. It features similar pastel houses to some of the lake’s villages, as well as stellar views of the lake, historic architecture, lakeside promenades, and the comforts of a city!

Perhaps the most impressive building in Como, if not the entire lake, is the magnificent Como Cathedral. Renowned for its spectacular architecture, this 14th-century Roman Catholic cathedral features a gothic design.

The imposing facade stands tall in a city square, boasting detailed ornate carvings and incredible stonework. The interior is equally awe-inspiring, with swooping arches and a famous domed ceiling.

The city is also home to a number of museums, such as the Museo Storica Giuseppe Garibaldi, and the Como Archaeological Museum. Both are worth a visit if you have time!

In Como, you’ll also find a much wider range of evening establishments than in the villages. It’s a good spot to find a bit of nightlife in Lake Como if you’re craving drinks and dancing! There are also some great cooking courses to be had- I mean, when in Rome…

• How long should I stay here? It’s big, so 3-4 hours
• Getting there – Ferry, bus or train.

Como Brunate Funicular

Brunate is a tiny town set high up in the mountains above Como. Taking the historic funicular up to Brunate from the city is by far one of the most popular excursions from Como! 

Opened in 1894, the funicular has been hoisting locals and visitors up to 700m (2,300 feet) above sea level, on a track with a gradient as steep as is allowed! For those who are unfamiliar, a funicular is like a tram or a streetcar but set at an angle on a hill.

The 7-minute funicular ride is packed with gorgeous scenery and is an amazing experience in itself. You’ll pass through tunnels and rocky gorges as the city slowly recedes below. Trees and vegetation are plentiful, and the views are wonderful.

The best views, however, will be enjoyed once you reach the top! Scenic lookout points in Brunate offer incredible vistas, covering the lake, mountains, and Como itself. Wander around the town and pick one of the many restaurants for a scenic lunch or drinks.

The relaxed ride back down to the city is just as scenic as the way up!

• Cost – About $6 dollars for a return
• How long should I stay here? 1.5 – 2 hours
• Getting there – Walk from Como, bus

If you’re wondering when to visit Lake Como, Italy, we would recommend the warmer months (May – October). During these months, the temperatures are perfect for lake-side relaxation and water-based activities. The Lake is usually at its warmest and busiest around July and August, but the tourist crowds are often well worth the weather!

Lake Como is celebrated for its wonderful Italian weather ; the area surrounding the lake enjoys an average of 200 days of sunshine per year! The climate is mild and consistent, with small variations in temperature both daily and throughout the year.

Despite being perched in the mountains, winters at Lake Como aren’t as frigid, and summers are not as sweltering as in other areas of a similar altitude! This is largely due to the lake acting as a thermal reserve.

In winter (November – March) tourism on the lake somewhat shuts down, with many of the Lake Como attractions and activities being closed off or not viable in winter. Many hotels and restaurants close their doors, but those which stay open usually offer significant discounts for the offseason.

Within each of the towns on Lake Como, getting around on foot is the best method of transportation. Each town is small enough to explore almost entirely on foot, and generally, there aren’t many alternatives!

When travelling between the towns, you’ll have a few more options. Buses and trains connect many of them, and the best way to get between the central and most popular towns on Lake Como is by boat.

These towns mostly sit across the water from one another on three distinct landmasses: the east and west banks of the expansive lake and the chunky peninsula that divides it in half! Thus, water transport is generally the shortest and quickest method for getting between them, perfect for a 3-day itinerary in Lake Como. It also offers some incredible scenery!

You can also opt to take private boats or taxi boats between destinations. These privately owned boats allow you to carry out your Lake Como itinerary with greater flexibility but come with a higher price tag than public transport. Most choose to travel to Lake Como via train or rental car from Milan.

Generally speaking, Lake Como is a very safe place to visit. Most of the towns and villages around the lake aren’t prone to the usual dangers associated with big cities! That being said, there are some general precautions you can take in order to ensure a smooth and safe trip!

As with pretty much anywhere on Earth, particularly where tourists congregate, there’s always a slight risk of petty theft. When you’re out in public, keep your personal belongings close and try to stay aware of your surroundings. Don’t venture out with large amounts of cash, and don’t bring unnecessary attention to yourself by wearing or carrying flashy or expensive items.

Be aware that in around 2010, the lake experienced some issues with pollution, which made it mostly unsuitable for swimming. The lake’s cleanliness has since been restored, but it’s worth checking with a local tourist office that the water is swimmable at the time of your visit.

If you’re swimming or partaking in water sports on the lake during your 3 days at Lake Como, make sure you take common safety precautions. Such as wearing a lifejacket and having someone keep an eye on you!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Lake Como

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Lake Como itinerary.

What are the best things to do in Lake Como?

Like any other lake, there are a bunch of water-based activities that you can get involved in, like sailing, windsurfing and fishing. Lake Como is quite unique in that it is surrounded by great hiking trails too, which are undeniably gorgeous. The towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio are worth visiting too, for their almost Venetian charm.

What should you include on a 2-day Lake Como itinerary?

We wouldn’t dream of letting you construct a 2-day itinerary without considering these Lake Como highlights: – Bellagio Town Centre – Piaza Garibaldi, Menaggio – Castello di Vezio – Varenna’s Walk of Lovers Promenade – Tremezzo

What is the best time to visit Lake Como?

Visiting between May and October will ensure tourist attractions and hotels are open. Visiting at the beginning or end of this period will mean lower prices, smaller crowds, and milder weather. Italy in July can fry you! Mind you, that is less of a problem when you have access to a massive awesome lake.

Where is the best place to stay in Lake Como?

I would recommend Residence L’Ulivo , or Lake views at an affordable price (a top-tier Airbnb).

Lake Como is drenched with quintessential Italian charm. It’s quaint, beautiful, fun, and relaxing, and a perfect place to spend a few days in the sun! A vacation in Lake Como is arguably the most peaceful and romantic on Earth.

Get ready for a trip filled with amazing food, picturesque scenes, and spectacular vistas. Spend your 3 days exploring tiny villages, soaking up some history, and enjoying the wonderful weather! Lake Como is an amazing destination for all kinds of travellers.

Visiting Lake Como may not be an action-packed adventure, but we think it’s one of the most enchanting experiences of a lifetime!

If you’re in the midst of planning a trip to Lake Como, we hope our Lake Como itinerary has helped smooth out the process. Don’t forget to use our Italy packing list too! Most of all, we hope you have an amazing trip!

Short on time but still want to visit lake Como? It makes for a fantastic day trip from Milan if you plan the day properly to include many highlights.

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Lake Como Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Lake Como

Posted on Last updated: May 16, 2023

Planning a Lake Como 3-day itinerary, but not sure where to start? You’ve come to the right place! In this article you will find everything you need to know to spend three incredible days in Lake Como!

Including how to get around the lake, where to stay, what to pack, the most beautiful places to visit and all the nitty gritty details to make sure your Lake Como trip is as smooth as possible.

Nestled at the foot of the Alps in Northern Italy, Lake Como (or Lago di Como in Italian) is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and for good reason.

With its sweeping views, cute lakeside towns, beautiful villas and stunning nature, there’s no other place quite like it.

Exploring the picturesque streets of Bellagio in Lake Como, Italy

I have to admit that, despite growing up in Milan , I only visited Lake Como for the first time very recently.

I made up for lost time though, and thoroughly explored the main sights of Lake Como, as well as the smaller villages and the stunning hiking trails.

In this Lake Como itinerary I have captured all of my knowledge, both as a local and a tourist, and want to share it with you.

So what are you waiting for, want to know what to do in Lake Como for 3 days? Read on for my ultimate itinerary!

• 1.1 How many days in Lake Como?
• 1.2 How to get around Lake Como
• 1.3.1 In Como
• 1.3.2 In Bellagio
• 1.4 What to pack for three days in Lake Como
• 1.5 Do you need travel insurance for three days in Lake Como?
• 2.1 Arrive in Como by train
• 2.2 Discover the city of Como
• 2.3 Take the Como-Brunate funicular
• 2.4 Back down to Como & take a ferry to Bellagio
• 2.5 Discover Bellagio
• 3.1 Start the day with a boat tour around the lake
• 3.2 Ferry to Villa Carlotta & Villa del Balbianello
• 3.3 Discover Menaggio
• 4.1 Ferry to Varenna
• 4.2 Enjoy the view from Castello di Vezio
• 4.3 Sentiero del Viandante
• 4.4 Cool off at Spiaggia di Lierna

Views over Lake Como from Essentia Guest House

Bellagio as seen from the ferry

Logistical tips for your Lake Como itinerary

Before we dive into my step-by-step Lake Como itinerary and the best things to do there, I wanted to go over some logistical tips.

These are the details you might otherwise forget to think about, but which are actually pretty important to ensure a smooth trip.

How many days in Lake Como?

Well, it depends! The amount of days you want to spend in Lake Como totally depends on the kind of holiday you want.

If your Italy itinerary is already packed with visits to the main cities, like Milan , Rome and Florence , then you might be better off visiting Lake Como on a day trip .  

Exploring the streets of Varenna in Lake Como, Italy

While it might not be enough to see the whole lake, I would say a day trip is enough to whizz through the main towns, see the highlights and get a feel for the unique vibe of this charming Italian lake.

If you have longer, then you could equally easily spend a week (or more!) in the Lake Como area, travelling all over the Y shaped lake, discovering small villages and soaking up the beautiful atmosphere of this part of Italy.

In my opinion, to see it properly, the bare minimum amount of time for a good Lake Como itinerary is three days, or a long weekend.

That’s enough time to see the main towns, discover the main attractions, visit some of the historic villas – and, of course, take your time while doing it all, relaxing and lapping up the dolce vita vibes!

Beautiful summer views in Lake Como, Italy

How to get around Lake Como

The best way to get around Lake Como is by ferry.

All the main towns are connected by a reliable ferry service, which is cheap and convenient – and a good way to enjoy all those beautiful lake views while going from one town to another.

The ferries are easily the most popular and cheapest way to get around the lake. The services are regular, and particularly frequent during peak tourist season (i.e. summer in Italy ). 

They’re also very scenic, allowing you to enjoy some pretty beautiful views over the towns and green hills from the lake.

Unless you’re planning on staying for longer than a week, and want to explore beyond the main towns (eg. for hikes), or want to go to spots that aren’t on the ferry or public transport system, then I’d say don’t go by car.  

Parking and traffic during the high season is horrendous. If you only have three days in Lake Como, you don’t want to waste them sat in your car looking for parking.  

I would recommend travelling to Como by train from Milano Centrale train station, and then from there exploring Lake Como by ferry.

Both train tickets and ferry tickets are very affordable, which makes this both the cheapest and easiest way to explore Lake Como.

Cruising around Lake Como with the ferries

Varenna at sunset as seen from the lake

Where to stay for this Lake Como 3-day itinerary

The best place to stay in Lake Como  ultimately depends on your travel style. Each town in Lake Como has its distinctive vibe, and is best suited for different types of travellers.

For example Como is a bigger town, with a more buzzing nightlife for young travellers, whilst Bellagio, with its iconic Lake Como sights, is the typical luxury stay for couples.

If you have a car, you could also venture out of the main tourist towns and stay in more local and off the beaten track towns.

For example, on my last Lake Como trip, I stayed at Essentia Guest House , a lovely guest house in Faggetto Lario, an unknown town on the shores of Lake Como.

Essentia Guest House has stunning views over Lake Como, a friendly host, a huge outdoors area and even a hot tub where you can sit, relax and enjoy the views.

Click here to see prices and availability at Essentia Guest House!

The outdoors area and view at Essentia Guest House in Lake Como

If you don’t plan on having a car, and want to stay in the main towns of Lake Como, I have listed below some options for all budgets in different towns.

Budget: Spazio 77 – By House Of Travellers –  This budget-friendly option is a great place to stay for groups of friends or families. It’s right in the town centre of Como with bars, restaurants, and public transport in easy walking distance.  

Click here to see prices and availability at Spazio 77 in Como!

Mid-range: The Kitchen Gallery  –  This is the perfect place for a couple or a solo traveler who wants to unwind during their trip. Amenities include a well-equipped kitchen, comfy lounge, and a romantic balcony.  

Check out prices and availability at The Kitchen Gallery in Como here!

Luxury: Sweet Cannoli  – If you want to treat yourself, this central Como apartment is the place to do so. Located in the historic city centre, the property has been designed with the utmost style.

Click here to book your stay at Sweet Cannoli in Como!

The bedroom at Sweet Cannoli – photo by Plum Guide

The kitchen at Sweet Cannoli – photo by Plum Guide

In Bellagio

Budget: Bellagio Holiday Home –  Bellagio doesn’t have to break the bank! This vacation apartment is the ideal place to stay in Lake Como if you’re looking for a budget friendly option.

Check out the prices and availability at Bellagio Holiday Home here!

Mid-range: Hotel Florence –  Sit back and relax in style at this beautiful Bellagio hotel. Located steps from the shores of Lake Como, the ferry dock for transport around the lake is merely moments away.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Florence in Bellagio!

Luxury – Fade into You : If your Italy trip budget allows for it, go for this stunning high-end villa! Perched on a hill above the lake, the house is surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and has its own private pool.

Don’t miss out, book your stay at Fade into You here!

The pool at Fade Into You – photo by Plum Guide

The interior lounge and dining area at Fade Into You – photo by Plum Guide

What to pack for three days in Lake Como

Beyond your usual travel essentials  and whatever is already on your Italy packing list , you don’t really need anything terribly spefici for three days in Lake Como. That said, here are a few things you shouldn’t forget!

Camera – Given how beautiful Lake Como is, you want to make sure you capture it in all its beauty!

Reusable water bottle – There are water fountains in all the main towns in Lake Como, so you can easily refill your water bottle throughout the day. Even if you’re visiting Italy at Christmas time , or just generally in winter , it’s important to stay hydrated!

Walking shoes – You will end up walking a lot, so make sure you have comfortable shoes!

Enjoying the view over the distinctive Y of Lake Como from the peak of Monte San Primo, Italy

Do you need travel insurance for three days in Lake Como?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your Italy travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

As a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Lake Como itinerary: Day 1

So, here’s the start of my Lake Como 3-day itinerary. Of course, the exact order of the activities I’ve listed below totally depends on where you’re staying in Lake Como.

To maximise your travel times and to make sure you don’t waste time going back and forth, you should adapt this Lake Como itinerary to suit your travel arrangements.

To give you a general idea, I’d say it’s possible to see one or two towns per day, so the itinerary below is really more of an indication of what you can do in a day, rather than the order you should do it in.

Feel free to adapt it as you wish!

Exploring the streets of Como in Italy

Arrive in Como by train

Many people’s first entrance to the Como area is by train into Como San Giovanni train station. This small station gets surprisingly busy, welcoming around 1.5 million passengers a year.

It’s connected to the centre of Como and other towns around the lake via a bus station and several different bus routes.  

Discover the city of Como

This is probably the best time to start looking around Como. Situated a stone’s throw from the Italian-Swiss border, the town of Como is on the southwest shores of the lake.

Tempio Voltiano in Como, Italy

The rooftop of Saint Mary Assunta Cathedral in Como

Although this isn’t the most beautiful town in Lake Como, there are still a handful of sights to see here that you can spend a few hours discovering.

Some of the main sights that you can discover in Como include the Saint Mary Assunta Cathedral – built in 1396 on the site of an older Romanesque church, and the often bustling Piazza Cavour, set along the water’s edge.

There’s also Villa Olmo (1797), which has housed a long list of notable figures from Napoleon to Garibaldi and Franz Ferdinand, or Tempio Voltiano, a museum dedicated to electricity pioneer Alessandro Volta.

The imposing facade of Saint Mary Assunta Cathedral in Como

Take the Como-Brunate funicular

After seeing all those sights, it’s time to head up to the neighbouring village of Brunate.

The funicular is an attraction in itself; opening in 1894, the Como-Brunate funicular has been a tourist draw for more than a century.

It had a makeover in 2011, with new air-conditioned cars and more space for passengers.

After soaking in views as you go up, you get to see yet more views from the “balcony” of Brunate. There’s a lovely relaxed atmosphere up here; I’d recommend sitting for a coffee or lunch with a view.

View over Como from the Como-Brunate funicular

Back down to Como & take a ferry to Bellagio

Your next step is heading back down to Como on the funicular and taking a ferry to Bellagio. There’s a couple of options for boats.

The hydrofoil (the fast boat) takes around an hour, which is probably better if you’re pressed for time; the slower boat takes 2-3 hours.

Discover Bellagio

The town of Bellagio is a charmer. Simply wandering around the narrow streets of this cute town feels like a dream.

The picturesque streets and views of Bellagio in Lake Como, Italy

Situated on a promontory of land between the “Y” of the lake, it’s well known for its luxurious villas and elegant architecture.

One of the main sights here is the Punta Spartivento, the exact spot where the three branches of Lake Como meet. It’s an attractive part of town with lawns, benches and beautiful views.

A short walk away there’s also the Basilica di San Giacomo, an 11th century structure with a Romanesque-Lombard design; the interior hosts artwork from across the centuries.

Elsewhere there’s the stunning Giardini di Villa Melzi, built between 1808 and 1815, and famed for its lakeside landscapes.

The views over Lake Como from Punta Spartivento in Bellagio, Italy

Lakeside views in Bellagio, Italy

Lake Como itinerary: Day 2

It’s the second day of your long weekend in Lake Como. And what better way to enjoy a relaxing day than jetting around the glistening waters of the beautiful lake itself by boat!

There are a number of different Lake Como boat tours you can take, but here’s what I recommend…

Start the day with a boat tour around the lake

A boat tour such as this two-hour jaunt around the lake will give you a great insight into the highlights of this sumptuous region.

On this tour, you’ll be able to see some of the most famous villas and other attractions that dot the lake.

The tour leaves from Como, so it’s a plus if you’re staying in this main town. It’s a private tour, and there’s enough room for five people to enjoy the trip.

There’ll be a captain on board to cruise you around, who’ll also act as your guide and tell you interesting information and anecdotes to help you learn about the region.

In the summer months you can even stop for a refreshing dip in the waters of the lake. Nothing better on a hot day!

Click here to book your private boat tour in Lake Como!

Or check out prices & availability below!

A sailing boat in Varenna, Lake Como

Ferry to Villa Carlotta & Villa del Balbianello

After the above tour, which loops you back to Como, you can then embark on your very own independent ferry tour. First of all, you’ll take the ferry around 15 minutes from Como to Villa Carlotta.

The approach to this grand building from the water is the best way to see it.

This villa was originally built for the wealthy Clerici family in 1745, and has passed through the hands of various aristocratic families through the ages.

The famous Villa Carlotta in Lake Como, near Menaggio

Situated on the shores of the lake, the beautiful garden here is terraced and dotted with fountains and sculptures.

Villa Carlotta also hosts an art museum in its walls. The entrance fee for the villa and gardens is €12 for adults. From here, you can catch the ferry to Villa del Balbianello – another elegant Lake Como abode.

Built at the end of the 18th century, on the grounds of an earlier 13th-century Franciscan monastery, it’s been in a number of films including Star Wars: Attack of the Clones and Casino Royale .

It costs €22 for entrance to the villa and gardens (€11 for just the gardens).

View over Lake Como and the gardens of Villa Carlotta from the higher floors of the villa

Discover Menaggio

Feel like some time at the beach? Then spend your late afternoon lounging around on the beach at Menaggio; Spiaggia Lerai. It’s great for a swim to cool down and enjoy some lake views.

There’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular beaches near Milan !

Menaggio itself is a charming little town, surrounded by mountains on the west shores of the lake, and definitely worth a wander. It can be reached via water taxi, or by bus from Villa Carlotta.

Relaxing at Spiaggia Lerai, one of the beaches in Menaggio

Lake Como itinerary: Day 3

It’s the final day of your Lake Como itinerary, and a good time to explore further afield and tick off some lesser-visited attractions.

Ferry to Varenna

The ferry to Varenna from Como takes about an hour and costs just a few euros per person. The town of Varenna was founded by local fishermen, and dates back to around 769.

Historically, it has been a rival with Como, which attacked and destroyed Varenna in 1126.  

Today, though, it’s another beautiful town on the shores of this sparkling lake – and you can spend time wandering around its pretty streets and taking in some of its must-see sights.

A good place to start is Lover’s Walk. This lakeside promenade begins at Varenna Pier and runs for a few hundred metres over the water’s edge itself.

It’s perfect for soaking up views across the lake and the surrounding mountains. Here you can stroll under cypress trees and enjoy vistas of colourful houses along the lake shore.

Walking along the famous Lovers Walk in Varenna

The main square, Piazza San Giorgio, is overlooked by the Chiesa San Giorgio.

This sun-soaked spot is the ideal place to sit for a while and soak up the ambience of the town, people-watching and having a coffee or a refreshing drink.

There’s also Villa Monastero. Set in the south of the village, this gorgeous villa is known for its botanical gardens and boasts eight centuries of history.

It was first constructed in the 12th century as a convent, but was renovated in the late 19th century and donated to the public by its aristocratic owners in 1936.

It features beautiful gardens and a museum showcasing the interiors (garden admission €8; €10 for gardens and museum).

Exploring Varenna in Lake Como, Italy

Some of the beautiful lake views along the Lovers Walk in Varenna

Enjoy the view from Castello di Vezio

If you’re up for a hike, then you might want to visit the ruins of Castello di Vezio.

It takes around 30-45 minutes or so to walk here, but it’s worth visiting it for the amazing panoramic view. From here you can see the lake, mountains in the distance, the town below and the headland of Bellagio.

You can also explore the exhibition inside the castle, as well as the olive groves surrounding it. The view from Castello di Vezio was one of the highlights of my three days in Lake Como.

Views over Varenna and Lake Como from Castello di Vezio

Sentiero del Viandante

Speaking of hiking, if you want to get out and enjoy the landscape even more, then you can hit the Sentiero del Viandante.

Typical Lake Como weekend breaks don’t usually include hiking – for many people it’s more about the boat trips and the villas – so heading out to see the lake from a different perspective is a worthwhile experience, for sure.

This ancient route actually connects Milan with Switzerland, running across the eastern coast of Lake Como on its course, pointing towards the region’s historic significance in terms of trade.  

As you walk along it, you can see the changing landscapes, learn about the history and gasp at views around every corner. It’s a great option if you’re feeling adventurous, and is well signposted.

From Varenna, the Sentiero del Viandante runs across an old bridge before rising to the famous Lake Como town of Regalo.

Views over the Lake Como shores from Castello di Vezio

Cool off at Spiaggia di Lierna

If all that hiking sounds like a bit much for you, or if you have been hiking and you need to cool off, it’s time to take a break.

The ideal place for this is Spiaggia di Lierna, a beach near Varenna in the hamlet of Castello di Lierna.

Also known as River Bianca Beach – named after its fine white sand – this is one of the most well known beaches in the area.  

For when you want to take a refreshing dip, the water is clear and calm, and there’s a designated swimming area for safety. There’s even the option to kayak if you feel like a paddle!

The 500-ish-metres-long beach itself isn’t equipped with many facilities, but there are public toilets and trees for shade, plus a bar and a pizzeria along its edge, so you won’t have to worry too much if you get hungry.

It can get very crowded on the weekends and on public holidays, but otherwise this is a very local spot where you won’t find many other tourists other than Italian ones.  

Spiaggia di Lierna in Lake Como, Italy

Final thoughts on how to spend three days in Lake Como

There you have it, the ultimate Lake Como itinerary! Have you visited Lake Como before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

When it comes to Italian lakes, there’s no denying that Lake Como is possibly the most famous.

Some people compare it to Lake Garda or Lake Maggiore, or the cute towns to Cinque Terre , but I personally think you can’t compare Lake Como to anywhere else in the world.

Like many Italian quotes say, Lake Como is a place that makes people fall in love with Italy, amongst which the famous actor George Clooney, who owns one of the many neoclassical villas in Lake Como.

It’s a place that features on every Italy bucket list  and Italy itinerary , and rightly so. I hope you will find my Lake Como itinerary useful in planning your three days in Lake Como!

If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below.

Click here to see the web story of my Lake Como itinerary!

Enjoyed reading my ultimate Lake Como itinerary? Pin it!

Lake Como – A Local Guide

• Lake Como Hotels
• Lake Como Rentals
• Lake Como Luxury Villas

Getting Around Lake Como

Steamers, boats and buses all serve the lake with good connections to towns and villages all over Lake Como. A frequent boat service. The frequency of the services increases in peak season i.e. from May to September but also operates in the winter months. A less frequent but faster boat travels the full length of the lake from Como (with stops at most of the above). Buses run approximately hourly all the way up the west coast from Como round to Colico at the north-east point.

Boat Rentals

We would thoroughly recommend renting a boat. This is a fantastic way to see the Lake and experience a completely different perspective. In the summer months this is also a quick way of getting from point to point! we have created a separate Boat Rental page. The following link takes you to an external site with information on Booking and boat hire.

This is by far the best way to see Como. Roam the old streets, do some serious shopping, hike up the local hills and you can relax in the cafes or dine in a traditional Italian restaurant with local wines and produce.

The main locations of the lake are connected by a widespread vessel service, carried out by motorboat, using the services of fast hydrofoils and catamarans that can significantly reduce travel times and also by ferryboat car transport services, which sail and the four towns of Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Cadenabbia on Lake Como.

Getting around Lake Como by bus is a good method of transport, relatively easy and saves you the hassle of driving. To find the closest stop along your route, check Google maps along the main lake roads.

The Funicular Railway has linked Lake Como and Brunate since 1894 and is still the quickest way of travelling between these two towns. A trip on the railway offers stunning views and an opportunity to see panoramic views of rural Como, all whilst having an enjoyable jaunt on a train!

Car Hire in Lake Como is an excellent idea for those confident to drive in a foreign country and for a few the wrong side of the road. Foreign citizens however will need to be aware that this is the left hand side of the road. Lake Como car hire information is shown below, to help you decide on who and when and how to hire a car in Lake Como.

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25 Best Things to Do in Lake Como, Italy (With Maps, Travel Info, and Practical Tips)

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 15th March 2024

Categories Lombardy

Here are the best things to do in Lago di Como – Italy’s most famous lake.

A popular tourist destination, lake como has a lot to offer no matter your travelling style..

This is a place where you can do lots and see lots even within the span of a day. As the lake is quite big though, it’s important that you know in advance exactly what you want to focus on during your visit.

This could be enjoyable moments spent in picturesque lakefront towns, hikes in lush nature, or explorations of historic sights – from medieval fortresses to lavish villas surrounded by centuries-old botanical gardens. Alternatively, you may simply want a little bit of all! Ideally coupled with a nice meal.

Here is where this blog post will come in very handy. It lists the best things to do in Lake Como organised in easy to browse through categories. This way you can scroll through it and pick just the things that correspond to your personal interests and wants.

And, you never know! If you are feeling adventurous, this blog post will give you plenty of ideas for new things to try at the lake – from panoramic trips by seaplane to visiting the abbey featured in the background of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper!

So, this is how we are going to proceed today. First, I will show you a map with the main lakefront towns and the most exciting sights around Lake Como pinned to it. This is followed by a detailed list of the 25 best things to do around Lake Como.

Finally, you will find an extensive section packed with practical tips about visiting Italy’s most famous lake. How to reach Lake Como and travel around it? How long to spend on its shores? What type of accommodation is best to book? What to pack? All these and many more topics are covered so as to help streamline your travel planning.

All the information in this blog post is based on my first-hand experiences of visiting Lake Como numerous times over the last five years. I hope that you will find it all of use and that you will have the type of experiences at the lake that travel memories are made of.

For more information about Lake Como, also have a look at the following blog posts:

• Best Towns on Lake Como
• The Beauty of Lake Como
• Lake Como in Winter
• How to Get to Lake Como

Otherwise, let’s start!

Map of lake como – best lakefront towns, sights, and things to do around italy’s most famous lake.

Lake Como has the somewhat unusual shape of an upturned letter Y. Surrounded by steep mountains, it looks a lot like a fjord with the important distinction that it’s landlocked.

Lake Como (or Lago di Como – as they call it in Italian) is in  Northern Italy . Part of the Northern Italian region of  Lombardy , it often is affectionately called  Il Uomo  – or The Man – by the locals. The lake’s outline does in fact look a bit like a man taking a large step with one of his feet resting on the town of Lecco and the other – on the town of Como.

Lake Como has three thin branches which meet at Punta Spartivento. This beautiful promontory is next door to the town of Bellagio and opens sprawling views over the lake.

The three branches are named after their main lakefront towns. As such, the northern branch of Lake Como is known as Colico, the eastern as Lecco, and the western one as Como.

The mountainous area locked between the Lecco and the Como branches of the lake is called the  Triangolo Lariano  – the Larian Triangle (from Lake Como’s ancient name – Lario). Punta Spartivento is right at the tip of this natural triangle.

The above map shows the exact location of Lake Como in Italy. You can use it as any other map in Google Maps. For example, you can zoom in and out, calculate directions to Lake Como from anywhere in Italy and abroad, and check distances between the different lakefront towns and sights. To open the map in a new browser tab, click on the last icon in its top right corner.

A click on the first icon in the top left corner of the map will open a list of the towns, sights, and other locations pinned to it. For ease of use, here they are organised in alphabetised categories:

Main Lakefront Towns (pinned with a red star): Bellagio, Bellano, Cernobbio, Como, Gravedona, Lecco, Menaggio, Varenna (there are many more lakefront towns around Lago di Como. You can use the map to zoom in on them).

Villas (pinned with a green star): Villa Bernasconi, Villa Carlotta, Villa del Balbianello, Villa Manzoni, Villa Melzi, Villa Monastero

Funiculars and Cable Cars (pinned with a yellow star): Argegno-Pigra Cable Car, Como-Brunate Funicular, Piani d’Erna Cable Car

Castles, Churches, Forts, and Museums (pinned with a purple star): Abbey of St. Mary of Piona, Basilica of San Nicolo’ (Lecco), Castello Baradello, Castello di Vezio, Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, Duomo di Como, Forte Montecchio-Nord, Moto Guzzi Museum, Museo Barca Lariana, Museo della Seta, Pinacoteca Civica (Como), Torre di Orezia, Volta Temple

Other Sights (pinned with a blue star): Aeroclub Como, Lido Villa Olmo, Life Electric, Orrido di Bellano and Ca’ del Diavol, Orrido di Nesso and Civera Bridge, Punta Spartivento

1. Get to Know the Beautiful Towns Dotted Around Lake Como in Italy

The shores of Lake Como are dotted with a myriad of beautiful small towns. Some of them are famous all over the world. A case in point is Bellagio which charms with its historic centre where steep cobbled streets are flanked by old tall houses. The town stands right next to Punta Spartivento – the small promontory jutting deep into the meeting spot of Lake Como’s three branches. The coveted end destination of most day trips to the lake, Bellagio is picture-perfect although it can get suffocatingly busy in summer.

Como and Lecco are Lake Como’s main towns. Spanning respectively the bottom tips of the western and the eastern branches of the lake, they have pretty harbours, long lakefront promenades, and a handful of must-see sights and museums. Connected by train to Milan and taking less than three-quarters of an hour to reach from the Milano Centrale train station, Como and Lecco make for a great base from which to explore everything that Lake Como has to offer.

Varenna, Cernobbio, and Menaggio are three of the most picturesque towns on Lago di Como. Popular with visitors to the lake, they are easy to reach by public transport. Varenna, for example, has a railway station served by direct trains from Milan. Menaggio is just a short hop across the water by ferry from Varenna. Cernobbio is a short bus ride away from the town of Como. All three are great for a relaxed day of sightseeing and taking in the beauty and history of Lake Como.

Then, there are dozens of hidden gems of small towns and cute little hamlets here. Right off the beaten track, it is where you can experience the beauty and the traditions of Lake Como in the most authentic way.

The town of Bellano, for example, is just up the road from Varenna. It has its own railway station and a very pretty historic centre. More excitingly though, it is here that you can walk around a huge gorge – Orrido di Bellano. It has been excavated over hundreds of thousands of years by a series of mighty waterfalls. Standing on the walkway suspended high above the waters gushing into the gorge’s depths is one of those breathtaking travel experiences that forever stay in your mind.

So, in terms of towns, Lake Como has a lot to offer – from popular touristy destinations to veritable secret spots. Seeing as many of them as you can during your visit will help you make the most of your time at the lake.

2. Visit Lake Como’s Elegant Historic Villas and Lush Botanical Gardens

Lake Como is widely known for hosting a gaggle of historic villas on its shores. These lavish summer residences date centuries back in time and often are surrounded by exquisite botanical gardens that are a pure delight to take a walk in.

Housing aristocratic families and renowned composers, singers, and writers in the past, nowadays, several of Lake Como’s villas function as museums while others have been converted into exclusive luxury hotels and resorts.

With frescoed rooms furnished with elegant pieces that will make you want to have an unlimited budget to redecorate your own home, Lake Como’s villas are a must-see. The most famous ones that are open for visits are:

• Villa Monastero near Varenna – it has a beautiful botanical garden, offers sprawling views of the lake, and has the most beautiful historic bathroom with a plunge pool I have had a chance to see.
• Villa del Balbianello near Lenno – this is easily one of the most romantic places in the world on account of its architecture and location on the lake. It is here that many iconic film scenes have been shot throughout the decades. Most importantly, the villa provided the setting for Padmé Amidala’s and Anakin Skywalker’s romance in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones.
• Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo – this lavish Neoclassical villa has a priceless collection of paintings and sculptures. It stands at the heart of a beautiful botanical garden where you can spend many happy hours just taking the lake views in.
• Botanical Garden of Villa Melzi in Bellagio – another stunningly beautiful garden with hundreds of varieties of roses and camellias as well as many rare plants. Throughout the centuries it has attracted many illustrious visitors and it’s a great place to explore on a sunny morning in spring or a hot summer day.

Of the historic villas here that have been turned into exclusive hotels, a mention deserve:

• Villa Roccabruna in Blevio – rebuilt several times throughout the years, in the 19th century this villa was owned by the renowned opera singer Giuditta Pasta. Nowadays, you can see a sculpture of her in the museum of La Scala Theatre in Milan. Giuditta loved spending summers on Lake Como and hosted many famous Italian composers – from Gaetano Donizetti to Vincenzo Bellini. Nowadays, the villa has been converted into the posh Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como Resort .
• Villa d’Este in Cernobbio – surrounded by a meticulously landscaped 10-hectare private park and with a pool floating in Lake Como, this is one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. It’s housed in a palatial villa first built in the 16th century by the Cardinal and papal secretary Tolomeo Gallio.
• Villa Passalacqua in Moltrasio – an 18th-century grand villa built in a former property of Pope Innocent XI. The celebrated composer Bellini was a regular visitor and composed his opera Sonnambula here. After an extensive restoration, nowadays, the villa functions as a luxury hotel.
• Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio – this five-star grand hotel is nestled in a beautiful garden facing Lake Como. Built between 1850-1854 as a holiday home for an aristocratic family from the city of Bergamo, it was converted into a luxury hotel in 1873. It impresses with its blend of Empire, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau styles as well as with its impeccable service.

3. Explore Lake Como by Ferry and Boat

One of the best ways to experience Lake Como is to see it from the water. The easiest way to do it is to catch a ferry from one lakefront town to another. Particularly famous is the pedestrian ferry line that connects the town of Como to the town of Bellagio.

The slow ferry service takes about two hours and stops at many small lakefront towns on both sides of the Como branch of the lake. This gives you a chance to take in their beauty offset by the deep waters of the lake and the blue sky above. The fast ferry service costs more but covers the same distance in about an hour stopping only at the larger towns along the way.

Alternatively, you can get the pedestrian and car ferry that circulates between the towns of Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna in the central portion of the lake. The crossing from one town to the other lasts only 15 minutes. Yet, it affords some of the best views of the three branches of Lake Como and their meeting point at Punta Spartivento.

For more details on how to get around Lake Como by ferry, have a look at point 4 of this blog post:

• How to Get to Lake Como and 9 Ways to Travel Around Italy’s Most Famous Lake (With Maps and Practical Tips)

If you don’t want to depend on the ferries’ timetables and routes, then you can hire a sleek motorboat and explore the most beautiful corners of Lake Como in style.

There are many companies all around the lake that charter boats for visitors. You can ask for recommendations at your accommodation or simply head to the promenade to chat directly with the boat reps there. Alternatively, you can book a boat online in advance for  two hours  or  four hours .

If you don’t have any experience with motorboats, you can hire  a boat with a skipper  to take you places and show you many hidden corners. Alternatively, you can choose to  share the boat  with other people for a cheaper yet fun experience.

A serious word of warning here, however!  The lake water can get very cold very quickly. Especially, the further away from the shore you are. Lake Como is the deepest lake in Italy. Its waters drop to a depth of 425 m! The risk of drowning is real.

The boat chartering company should provide you with life jackets and advise you specifically where it’s considered safe to anchor and how close to the shore you can get.

During the high season, there is a high level of boat traffic in Lake Como. Many luxury boats here travel at full speed. You need to observe proper distances from other boats, yachts, and the shore at all times.

4. Ride Funiculars and Cable Cars to Enjoy Lake Como’s Panoramas from Headspinning Heights

Another great way to see Lake Como is to take in its beauty from above. The surrounding steep mountains provide many high-elevation points that open breathtaking views of the lake. You don’t even need to hike for hours to reach the best ones. Funiculars and cable cars will take you uphill so that you can enjoy the sprawling panoramas as they slowly open in front of your charmed eyes.

Here are some of the most popular places around Lake Como to get a funicular or a cable car ride so as to see what the birds get to enjoy on a daily basis:

• Como-Brunate Funicular – the most popular funicular at Lake Como. A short walk away from the historic centre of the town of Como, it will take you up to the hilltop village of Brunate where you can enjoy a walk by its splendid Art Nouveau villas or hike to the tall Volta Lighthouse. Expect long queues for the funicular during the high season.
• Piani d’Erna Cable Car – completely renovated in 2008, this cable car connects Malnago (near the town of Lecco) to the mountain resort Piani d’Erna which stands at a height of 1375 m.
• Argegna-Pigra Cable Car – one of the steepest cable cars in Italy and Europe. In 4 mins, it takes you 648 m uphill to a beautiful terrace in the Comasche Prealps where you can enjoy a fantastic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

5. Learn About Lake Como’s Silk-Making Traditions and Shop for Exclusive Silk Accessories

Nowadays, Lake Como is predominantly a tourist destination attracting people with its beautiful setting and charming corners. For many centuries, however, the towns on its shores have been known as important producers of prized silks. As such, they were instrumental in the growth of Italy’s high fashion.

Walk through the historic centres of the towns of Bellagio and Como and you will see plenty of small boutiques selling silk accessories – from scarves and ties to lovely handbags. One of the most famous ones is  Pierangelo Masciardi – a local designer whose silk creations are worn by numerous celebrities including several Presidents of the United States.

A spot of shopping for silk products is always a very enjoyable thing to do at Lago di Como. At the same time, make sure that you delve deeper into the lake’s silk-weaving traditions by visiting the Museum della Seta in the town of Como and/or Villa Bernasconi in nearby Cernobbio.

The former showcases the production of prized local fabrics from silkworm to silk thread. It’s a great place to visit with children as the museum organises many family-friendly events and activities.

The latter is a splendid Art Nouveau villa originally built by a rich silk producer next to what once were his factory buildings (nowadays converted into residential flats). The displays in Villa Bernasconi include several silk-weaving artifacts. There is even a textile loom to try your hand at.

The architecture of the villa is absolutely beautiful, too. If you look closer at the tiles which decorate its facade, you will recognise the image of a stylised silkworm – the humble insect that guaranteed the riches of Lake Como for many centuries.

Silk-weaving is such a significant part of the heritage of Italy’s most famous lake that as you walk around its towns you may even come across streets named after the people who were instrumental in its development and growth. A case in point is Via Pietro Boldoni in the historic centre of the town of Como. Boldoni was a local businessman who introduced silk-weaving to the area back in the 16th century.

6. Visit the Shops and Workshops of Local Craftsmen Around Lake Como

If you like shopping for unique handmade items, Lake Como is a great place to visit. Many artisans and craftsmen have set up their workshops in the towns dotting the lake’s shores. There is something so special about buying directly from a person who has invested their soul and skills in the making of beautiful and useful items.

So, here are some of my favourite designer and maker shops around the lake:

• La Bottega del Legno di Mario Tacchi – the splendid shop of a master carpenter.
• I Vetri di Bellagio – a glass maker producing beautiful decorations and ornaments.
• Acqua del Lario  – maker of perfumes, candles, and home scents inspired by the towns and vistas of Lake Como.
• AquaDulza – maker of exquisite jewels and inspired silk accessories .
• Mia Moltrasio – designer of elegant shoes made of silk velvet produced around Lake Como.

7. Get to Know the Stories of the Historic Personalities Who Called Lake Como Home

Throughout the centuries, Lake Como has inspired many of Italy’s most significant historic personalities. Some of them were born here and some visited the lake in search of inspiration. This resulted in works of literature, music, science, and art that today are famous all over the world.

Spending a bit of time at Lake Como getting to know the stories behind the personalities is a great way to immerse yourself in this beautiful corner of Italy on a more personable and authentic level. Among them are:

• Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger – uncle and nephew, these Ancient Roman authors were born in the town of Como. Nowadays, their statues flank the main entrance of the town’s majestic Cathedral. Pliny the Younger also used to have two villas – called Tragedia and Commedia – in what today we know as the lakefront town of Bellagio.
• Sigismondo Boldoni – this 16th/17th-century writer and philosopher was born in Bellano and wrote one of the earliest descriptions of the history and traditions of Lake Como. Curiously, he plays an important part in the multimedia visit to the Orrido di Bellano and Ca’ del Diavol (see points 8 and 9 below).
• Alessandro Volta – this 18th/19th-century physician invented the voltaic pile which gave rise to the electric battery as we know it today. You can visit the Neoclassical Volta Temple in the beautiful town of Como to learn more about his life. Don’t miss the Life Electric monument – the contemporary sculpture just off the town’s promenade. Designed by the architect and sculptor Daniel Libeskind, it celebrates Volta’s achievements.
• Alessandro Manzoni – born in the lakefront town of Lecco, this 18th/19th-century author wrote one of Italy’s most seminal novels – I Promessi Sposi (translated in English as ‘The Bethrothed’). Nowadays, you can visit Villa Manzoni – the house where the writer spent the first 20 years of his life.
• Giuseppe Verdi , Vincenzo Bellini , Franz Liszt , Ruggero Leoncavallo – many famous composers spent long periods of time on Lake Como where they created some of their most famous works. Among them are Bellini’s La Sonnambula and Verdi’s La Traviata .

Many famous names from the worlds of politics, acting, fashion, and writing have holidayed on Lake Como, too. Among them were Mary Shelley, Winston Churchill, and Gianni Versace.

Nowadays, Italy’s most famous lake continues to attract A-list stars and celebrities. Among the famous people who have stayed on its shores are Madonna, Jennifer Lopez, and Richard Branson. And, of course, George Clooney has two villas on Lake Como!

8. Discover the Legends of Lake Como

A quaint way to experience Lake Como is to get to know it through its quirky corners and local legends.

To start with, don’t miss a visit to the Devil’s House – Ca’ del Diavol . This is a small medieval tower in the lakefront town of Bellano. Its exterior walls are decorated with faded frescoes of a large horned creature and witches. It is thought that in the past, the structure was used for devil-worshipping rituals and libidinous activities. Nowadays, Ca’ del Diavol can be visited as part of your tour of Orrido di Bellano – a deep gorge excavated throughout the millennia by a series of waterfalls on the river Pioverna.

Hunters of the Holy Grail may want to head to Lake Como, too. A local legend claims that the cup with which Jesus celebrated the Last Supper and in which his blood was collected after the Crucifixion, used to be kept in a specially erected chapel on Isola Comacina – the only island on Lake Como. In 603AD, the monks, fearing attack, secluded the cup in the nearby Val Codera. Later on, a landslide obscured forever the hiding place of the legendary cup.

Mythical animals are not amiss at Lago di Como, too. According to the locals, a night creature called Cincirunbel haunts the town of San Siro on the western shore of the Colico branch of the lake. Half-bird, half-goat, it tries to get inside rooms where people with unclear conscience sleep.

Many locals also believe that a huge serpent-like animal lives in the depths of Lake Como, not unlike the well-known Nessie of Loch Ness in Scotland. People call it Larrie from the ancient name of the lake – Lario.

With Lake Como being the deepest lake in Italy and one of the deepest in Europe, it’s easy to let your imagination run free with visions of what may lurk beneath the dark waters. In fact, during the Triassic Period, they were inhabited by the Lariosaurus – a marine reptile that would grow to about a meter in size. Its fossils were first discovered around the lake in the 19th century and nowadays can be seen in the museum of Castello di Vezio (see point 12 below).

9. Marvel at Powerful Waterfalls on the Shores of Lake Como

One of the best things to do in Lago di Como is to see the splendid waterfalls that tumble down the steep slopes surrounding the lake. Two of the most spectacular waterfalls here are right in the heart of a small lakefront village and a small lakefront town. So, they are very easy to visit!

They are called Orrido di Nesso and Orrido di Bellano . In Italian, orrido has two meanings – horrid and gorge.

Orrido di Nesso is in the small village of Nesso on the eastern shore of the Como branch of the lake. The bus which connects the towns of Como and Bellagio stops right next to the top portion of the waterfall. You can pop into the local bar for a quick coffee and some waterfall views. Then you need to follow the steep cobbled stairways that curve down through the village to the lakefront. There are 300 steps in total!

The effort is worth it though. At the bottom of the steps, you will find the centuries-old Civera Bridge. It affords beautiful views over Orrido di Nesso on one side and Lake Como on the other. It’s one of the most photographed spots on the whole lake.

If you catch the ferry from Como to Bellagio, it passes by the Civera Bridge and Orrido di Nesso so that you can still see them and snap a photo without having to deal with the steep cobbled steps.

Orrido di Bellano is in the small town of Bellano on the eastern shore of the Colico branch of Lake Como. There is a small fee to see it (and if you pay a bit extra, you can also visit the adjacent Ca’ del Diavol from point 8 above). Long walkways are attached at a significant height to the vertical rocks surrounding the waterfalls. They are on the fast-rushing River Pioverna which has excavated the huge gorge.

The views are splendid and the water is an incredible emerald green or turquoise blue depending on the time of the day. Bellano really is a hidden gem on Lake Como and its Orrido di Bellano is one of the best natural settings to experience here.

There are several other waterfalls around Lake Como. Some of them – for example, the Cascata del Cenghen and the Cascata del Cam – can be reached as part of a woodland hike. Others are firmly off the beaten track and only locals in the know can tell you how to reach them safely.

10. Hike Through Beautiful Pristine Nature and Follow Ancient Trails Around Lake Como

Surrounded by verdant mountains, Lake Como is the perfect destination for walkers and hikers. Paths and trails accommodating different abilities crisscross the slopes and are particularly numerous in the Triangolo Lariano – the triangular mountainous area that juts between the Como and the Lecco branches of the lake.

As you explore the many lakefront towns, you will soon notice small signs pointing to the trailheads of well-established hiking paths. Some of them are multi-stage hikes like the Strada Regia , the Sentiero del Viandante , and the Ridge of the Triangolo Lariano . There are hundreds of day- and half-day hikes, too. For example, Sentiero delle Espressioni , Greenway dei Patriarchi , and the hike to Sasso San Martino . This very useful website lists many of the best local hikes organised by difficulty.

Walking has been one of the main ways to reach the small towns and hamlets here since Roman times. Lake Como was on the route connecting the north of modern-day Italy to northern Europe and as such the roads around it were instrumental for the transport of goods and quick communications.

Nowadays, walking on the centuries-old cobbled mule tracks – known as mulattiere in Italian – is a great way to get to know the lake on an intimate level. Your hike will take you across verdant slopes and past historic chapels with precious frescoes, beautiful villas, and small hamlets that preserve ancient traditions. You will also get to enjoy deep peace and quiet with only the song of birds soaring high over the waters of the lake.

Just make sure that you always wear suitable walking shoes as traversing the cobbled paths can be hard on the feet and you need your ankles supported at all times.

11. Spend Time in Lake Como’s Wonderful Museums and Quirky Sights

There are many wonderful museums and quirky sights around Lake Como. Visiting them gives you a chance to delve into the local culture and feel truly connected to this beautiful corner of Italy beyond the tourist cliches.

Expect archaeological museums with ancient artifacts and art galleries with numerous masterpieces. Don’t miss the small local expositions exploring the lake’s folkloric heritage and even its dairy-making traditions. All in all, there is lots to see and learn about here.

At Lake Como, you can also visit one of the best motorcycle museums in Europe. You will find it in the pretty as a picture lakefront town of Mandello del Lario – just a few minutes by train up the road from Lecco. The famous Italian motorcycle brand Moto Guzzi was established here in 1921. Nowadays, the Moto Guzzi Museum tells the company’s story and showcases some of Italy’s most iconic motorcycles.

The excellent Pinacoteca Civica in the town of Como has a wonderful art collection encompassing many masterpieces of Lombardy’s medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. It’s here that I saw a series of splendid canvases depicting the Fall of the Rebel Angels. Painted by Paolo Pagani, they were so impactful that I was both terrified to look at them and couldn’t stop staring trying to imbibe every little detail – from the bodies of the angels angrily twisted in their Fall to the curly tails sprouting at the bottom of their backs to mark the irreversibility of their transformation into demons.

The top floor of the Pinacoteca has a must-see exhibition exploring the area’s Razzionalismo architecture. Dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, it is a reflection of the political and cultural aspirations of Italy during the period between the two World Wars.

Here are some more must-see museums and quirky sights to visit around Lake Como:

• Museo Barca Lariana – this very well-curated museum in Pianello del Lario tells the stories of the different types of boats that have been used on Lake Como over the centuries. From the typical for the area Larian boat to swish Venetian gondolas, this is a must-see heritage collection.
• Museo Studio del Tessuto – free to visit, this textile museum near the town of Como has 3,300 pieces and 2,500 books on the history of fabrics.
• Museo del Paesaggio del Lago di Como – this small museum in Tremezzina showcases a collection of prints representing the lake’s natural and urban landscapes as they looked centuries ago.
• Museo del Ciclismo Madonna del Ghisallo – this beautifully presented museum in Magreglio explores in detail one of Italy’s biggest passions – cycling. It stands right next to the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Ghisallo – the patron of all cyclists.
• Casa dei Presepi – this small museum in Azzano has a precious collection of Nativity scenes . Come here to learn more about the traditions of this typical for Italy Christmas craft.
• MUU Museum of Milk and History of Muggiasca – this ethnographic museum in the small village of Vendrogno is dedicated to all things milk and milk processing. The emphasis is on the unique local traditions.

Before heading to one of the smaller museums around Lake Como, make sure that you check its opening hours. Some of them remain closed during the low season while most of them close for the long Italian lunch break known as riposo .

12. Visit Lake Como’s Forts and Castles

Lake Como’s lands are dotted with dozens of must-see forts and castles. Some of them date back to the early Middle Ages. Others were erected during the two World Wars. Each one of them has numerous stories to tell and more often than not affords stunning views of the lake. So, make sure that you visit at least one of Lago di Como’s castles and forts during your explorations of this beautiful corner of Italy.

Here are some of the most striking:

• Castello Baradello – this castle with an ancient history crowns the top of a small hill next to the town of Como.
• Castello di Vezio – this hilltop castle overlooks the town of Varenna and has a small natural history museum where you can see the fossils of the Lariosaurus (see point 8 above).
• Torre di Orezia – the remains of a once mighty medieval castle that dominated the area around the town of Dervio in the upper branch of Lake Como.
• Forte Montecchio-Nord – this is Europe’s best-preserved large fort from the First World War.

13. Discover Lake Como’s Centuries-old Churches and Monasteries

There are many centuries-old churches and monasteries around Lake Como that are a must-see on account of their history, architecture, and precious art and artifacts. The best course of action is to pop into every small or large church and chapel you come across during your explorations of the lake’s shores You never know what curious stories and unique local traditions you are going to discover.

Otherwise, here are just a few of the truly unmissable religious sights to see for yourself at Lake Como:

• Duomo di Como – officially known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, this is the main church of the town of Como. It’s also the third-largest religious building in the northern Italian region of Lombardy . With an imposing body – a mixture of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements – it keeps many priceless works of art and has a beautiful facade decorated with many sculptural groups, bas-reliefs, and carvings.
• Church of Santa Maria Maddalena – standing in the village of Ossuccio, this is the church with the most iconic bell tower on Lake Como.  
• Basilica of San Nicolo’ – the main church of the lakefront town of Lecco has Lombardy’s second-tallest (and Italy’s sixth-tallest) bell tower. Built of bricks and housing nine bells, it is the same height as England’s famous Big Ben clock tower – 96 m.
• Abbey of St. Mary of Piona – a blessed place of peace and quiet built on the edge of a small promontory with striking views across the Colico branch of Lake Como. The medieval cloister with its centuries-old frescoes and carved capitals is a must-see. A curious fact – art historians state that this is the abbey painted in the background of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. The bell tower visible in the world-famous fresco, however, was replaced in the 18th century with a new structure.

14. Have Fun at Lake Como’s Lively Events

All throughout the year, many of Lake Como’s towns hold spectacular events and reenactments recalling important episodes of local history. Attending one or more of these festivals is a wonderful way to get close to the local traditions and understand better what makes the lake so special beyond the usual touristy reasons.

The event calendar of Lake Como starts on 5th January when the town of Bellano celebrates the Pesa Vegia . This large-scale reenactment fuses Epiphany with an important local event of the 17th century.

Between the end of January and the start of March (with the exact dates changing every year) you can enjoy the local celebrations of Carnival. The one in Schignano – a small village in the mountains above the lakefront town of Brienno – is particularly famous. It follows ancient traditions and has its own local masked characters – Bello and Brutto (the Beautiful One and the Ugly One) – which are the focus of the celebrations.

In July, enjoy the large-scale fireworks for the Sagra di San Giovanni – a major festival in Lago di Como’s calendar. It reenacts the historic attack on Isola Comacina. Another historic reenactment takes place in October at the Forte di Fuentes in the town of Colico.

Joining a local celebration during your time at Lake Como is a great way to add a special experience to your host of travel memories. Ask in the local tourist information office what’s on during your visit and then make time to go and see it for yourself. It could be a food fair, a music festival, or an event with historic roots. Have fun!

15. Tuck into Lake Como’s Delicious Local Food

Lake Como has many local dishes that make exploring its culinary traditions worth your time. Above all, you will want to taste the lake fish – from the famous tench (usually served with a risotto) to missultin (also spelled as missoltini ). The latter is a type of shad fish (locally called agoni ) which are caught between May and June, salted in brine, sundried, and preserved with laurel leaves in a traditional wooden container called missolta . The container is then covered with a lid with weights on top and left over several months. Finally, the missultin is served grilled, drizzled with oil and vinegar, and accompanied with polenta and red wine.

Other delicious types of fish to try at Lake Como are alborelle (bleak), luccio (pike), and cavedano (chub). Order a nice plate of fritto misto for a selection of battered and fried pieces of lake fish often served with polenta and battered vegetables.

Lake Como is also well-known for its locally produced olive oils. For the best quality, search for bottles with the DOP Laghi Lombardi-Lario sign. DOP or Denominazione di Origine Protetta translates into English as Protected Designation of Origin. It’s a sign used for locally produced foodstuffs that follow strict procedures and satisfy stringent quality requirements.

Then, if you are a dairy lover like me, Lake Como will offer a seemingly endless variety of cheeses to try. For the best experience, I suggest popping into a local deli – the historic Macelleria Salumeria Butti Enrico in the town of Bellagio is perfect – and buying a selection of cheeses to taste. Many of them are made with goat milk.

Don’t miss taleggio (which is typical for the whole of the region of Lombardy), semuda , zincarlin (spiced with herbs and black pepper), and triangolo del Lario .

Polenta is another typical for Northern Italy food you can enjoy at lake Como. Tuck into a nice portion of polenta taragna (prepared with buckwheat and corn), polenta uncia (enriched with buckwheat, butter, garlic, and a variety of cheeses), and polenta toc (also enriched with butter and cheese) . For more information about polenta, have a look at this blog post:

• What Is Polenta or 10 Reasons Why You Should Eat Polenta in Northern Italy

In terms of local sweets and desserts, give these a bite:

• miascia – this is a cake with ancient roots in Lake Como’s farming communities. It is prepared from stale bread, milk, eggs, sugar, butter, apples or pears, pinenuts, raisins, crushed amaretti biscuits, bitter chocolate, and lemon peel.
• masigott – prepared with white flour and buckwheat, it’s quite crumbly, and it’s flavoured with candied orange peel.

16. Enjoy Peace and Quiet on the Shores of Lake Como

Lake Como is a very popular tourist destination and yet – due to its sheer size – still offers many hidden corners where you will be far from the maddening crowds. As such, the northern end of the lake as well as the western shore of the Lecco branch are traditionally overlooked by the mass tourist. Come here in any season for a chance to be left with just your thoughts for company.

Then, in winter, peace and quiet spread over the whole lake. While some large-scale Christmas events take place on the waterfront, in general, the local towns and villages embrace a much slower pace of life. So, it’s very easy to find seclusion – even in tourist hotspots that in the high season heave with people – and thus experience Lake Como on a deeper level.

In the bosom of gorgeous nature and with sprawling views to enjoy in solitude, you get to truly disconnect and experience a more fulfilling relaxation – something that is otherwise difficult to achieve in our modern stressful world.

Learn More:

• Lake Como in Winter – 10 Reasons to Visit Italy’s Most Famous Lake in the Off-Season (With Maps and Practical Tips)

17. Marvel at Lake Como’s Varied Architectural Heritage

Lake Como is a wonderful place to visit if you have a particular interest in architecture. Many different architectural styles – from the historic and ornamented to the modern-day and pragmatic – are represented here thus making the lakefront towns curious and eclectic places to explore.

As you walk around, there is always something unexpected and exciting vying for your attention around every corner. This could be a medieval castle like the one in the town of Varenna, a group of splendid Art Nouveau villas like the ones you can walk past in the hilltop town of Brunate, or a Neoclassical structure like the Volta Temple in the town of Como and Villa Carlotta in Tremezzina.

It’s not all about distinguished architectural styles and worldwide famous buildings here though. At Lake Como, you will also get to see Italy’s most pragmatic and utilitarian approaches to construction. Surrounded by vertical slopes and steep cliffs, the lake’s shores are not easy to build on. Yet, somehow, people have adapted their lives and abodes to this otherwise strenuous environment and made it all look if not necessarily beautiful in all cases then at least quaint and quirky.

As such, expect to see tall houses that seem to have grown – one floor at a time – over several decades. This results in some strangely angular constructions that make use of every available space and corner. In some of the small towns and villages around the lake – Nesso being a great example – multi-storey houses have been inserted between large boulders protruding from the slopes.

Following the cobbled streets and stairways that crisscross the small hamlets on the lake shores, it’s quite fascinating indeed to see how inventive people have been here over the centuries. Many brave architectural decisions have been made by many resourceful people in order to build a house here. And who could blame them?! The views and the natural setting are simply one of a kind!

18. Stay in Lake Como’s Exclusive Luxury Hotels

If you have ever wanted to really treat yourself (and have worked hard for the means to afford it), Lake Como is the perfect place to truly spoil yourself and your loved ones.

Hotels, villas, and resorts offering exceptional levels of luxury are in their dozens here. Many of them, like Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni , are housed in architecturally splendid historic mansions and villas. Others occupy purpose-built facilities that have become the standard of luxury accommodation all over the world. The magnificent Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a case in point. This is a place where you can spend time in the outstanding spa, tuck into culinary elevated meals, and zip around the lake courtesy of the hotel’s mahogany water limousines.

From hiring a private villa – carefully restored and tastefully furnished – to staying in elegant houses tucked in the grounds of exclusive resorts , there are many ways to enjoy refined luxury at Lake Como in Italy.

19. Take a Flight in a Seaplane Over Lake Como and the Comasche Prealps

A truly exciting thing to do at Lago di Como is getting to see Italy’s most famous lake from above. From morning til dusk, you will spot seaplanes flying parallel to the mountain peaks and descending all the way down to the limpid waters.

Standing by the Volta Temple on the town of Como’s lakefront promenade, you can observe a steady sequence of seaplanes flying out of their hangar and gliding up. They are operated by  Aeroclub Como  – the oldest seaplane organisation in the world which also runs a flight school.

While it may cost a pretty penny, a seaplane flight over Lake Como is the stuff that memories are made of. So, consider it a special treat! For sure, it’s the type of travel experience that will provide food for conversation (and bragging rights!) for years to come.

20. Photograph Iconic Corners Around Lake Como

Lago di Como is famous all over the world. On social media, there is a constant stream of stunning photographs showing its most iconic corners in the best possible light. It’s only fair then that you may want to photograph the lake at its best. Here are a few of the most beautiful corners here to see through your lens:

• Salita di Serbelloni – a curved cobbled street made of wide steps in the heart of Bellagio. Flanked by tall houses, it affords a gorgeous view of the lake and the mountains that surround it.
• Como-Brunate Funicular – as the funicular slowly goes up the steep slope, the panoramic view of the town of Como provides endless opportunities for photos with the wow factor.
• Ponte Civera in Nesso – this Romanesque curved bridge overlooks both Orrido di Nesso and Lake Como. A favourite spot of the hip crowd in summer, it’s absolutely deserted during the low season .
• Villa Monastero – one of the most famous villas on Lake Como has a beautiful botanical garden that stretches along the shore and provides many spots for iconic photos with twisted pillars, citrus trees, and endless chains of mountains.

These are some of the places that reveal the most stunning angles of the lake. It’s not surprising then that during the high season, there are queues of professional and amateur photographers at these spots. Armed with top of the range cameras and mobile phones people from all over the world are desperate to replicate the most iconic images of Lake Como.

In a way, there is nothing wrong with this! So, join them, too. Take lots of photos of Lake Como and all the visual delights it has to offer. Once you have ticked off all of the popular places, try to find your own angles to photograph the lake from. It’s a really inspiring place offering many hidden gems, unexpected viewpoints, and sprawling panoramas.

It really helps develop your sensitivity as a photographer. So, don’t miss any opportunities to see it your way through your lens. Seek lesser-visited corners, capture the lake’s centuries-old churches, the steep cobbled steps that go up the vertical slopes and stand in for streets in many hamlets and towns here. Pan out to shoot the lake’s indomitable nature.

In many social media posts, Lake Como comes across as this perfect, almost saccarine place. Instead, show it as it is – powerful, with hidden depths, and surrounded by mountains that reach for the sky. Even if you have never thought of yourself as an especially good picture taker, Lake Como – if you give it a chance – can turn you into a naturally born photographer.

21. Swim and Sunbathe at Lake Como’s Beaches and Lidos

During the hot months, Lake Como is a great place for a spot of sunbathing and swimming. Many small beaches – some grassy, some sandy, and some covered with pebbles – dot the lake’s shores. They attract both locals and tourist crowds, so, head there early to get a nice spot.

Here is a word of warning though! Lago di Como is the deepest lake in Italy. Its waters drop to a depth of 425 m. The further away you are from the shore, the colder the water may feel, even at the height of summer. Especially, if you decide to hire a motorboat and jump into the lake for a swim. The risk of thermal shock and potential drowning is real. Exercise caution and common sense.

Something else to consider. According to the Italian news agency ANSA, the water at certain points of Lake Como may be polluted.  This article  (in Italian) has more details or you can try to search for other sources of information, too.

So, a better option is to head to an open-air swimming pool. The luxury hotels around the lake – from Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni to Villa d’Este – have gorgeous pools flanked by perfectly lined sunloungers, each providing a spectacular lake view.

Still, you don’t have to pay hundreds and thousands of euros per night to enjoy swimming in an open-air pool at Lake Como. Villa Olmo – a palatial historic building next door to the town of Como – has a lido with swimming pools open to the public each summer for a very reasonable price. You can find more details on the official website of Lido Villa Olmo .

22. Take a Day Trip from Lake Como to Many Exciting Destinations in Italy and Switzerland

If you have picked Lake Como as a base for your Italian holiday, you are in luck! Apart from offering a long list of things to do on its shores, the lake is also a great point of departure for many day trips in Northern Italy .

Only 40 mins away by train from Milan and right next door to Switzerland, you can travel every day from Lake Como to a nearby sight or city for exciting explorations and memorable travel experiences. That’s it if you can bear to leave the lake behind.

Here are some of the best day trips you can enjoy from Lake Como:

• Italian cities and towns – Milan , Monza , Pavia, Bergamo , Varese, Brescia , and Novara are only some of the exciting urban destinations to explore within a short travel distance away from Lake Como in Italy.
• Italian lakes – Northern Italy is generously blessed with some of the most beautiful lakes in the world. An easy distance away from Lake Como, you can also visit Lake Lugano, Lake Iseo, Lake Maggiore, and even Italy’s largest lake – Lago di Garda .
• Italian theme parks – many fun and exciting theme parks are an easy drive away from Lake Como. Among them are Leolandia , Gardaland (with Sealife Aquarium ), and AcquaWorld . In addition, there are many adventure parks right next to Lake Como. Among them are Lake Como Adventure Park and three Jungle Raider Adventure Parks .
• Italian UNESCO sights – if you are all about history and heritage, then don’t miss Crespi d’Adda Workers’ Village, the Sacred Mountain of Osuccio , and the Sacred Mountain of Varese .
• Swiss destinations – get the train from the town of Como for the short journey across the border to Lugano in Switzerland. Alternatively, travel there by bus from Menaggio.
• 15 Must-See Towns and Cities in Lombardy, Italy

23. Celebrate a Heartfelt Italian Christmas in the Festively Illuminated Towns of Lake Como

Lake Como is a great place to enjoy  Christmas the Italian way . The festive season in Italy starts on the 8th of December – the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary – and lasts all the way to Epiphany on the 6th of January when  Befana  brings sweets to the well-behaved Italian kids.

Expect Christmas markets selling delicious food from all around the country, tasteful decorations, beautiful  Nativity scenes , and Befana dolls. You will find all this and more in Como’s lakefront towns all throughout the festive season.

The lake is particularly famous for its lavish festive illuminations. The multi-day event  City of Toys  in the town of Cernobbio, for example, is where you can enjoy Christmas with beautiful lights, an arts and crafts market, an ice rink, and exciting performances.

In any case, each of the larger lakefront towns stages its own Christmas events. The historic centres get decorated in such a way as to emphasise the beauty of the centuries-old houses. As you travel around Lake Como in the evenings, your eyes delight in the colourful lights that – like strings of gemstones – stretch for miles along the shores.

The local churches hold concerts and festive masses. The lake communities flock to them all throughout the Christmas season to enjoy the traditional  presepi  and religious celebrations. Everyone’s invited! All in all, Lake Como is the place where you can experience the real atmosphere of the Italian Christmas.

• Italian Christmas – 15 Best Things to Do, Eat, and Enjoy for the Holidays in Italy
• Christmas in Italy – 50 Fun Facts About the Italian Holiday Season
• Italy’s Five Christmas Gift-Bearers

24. Experience a Disappearing Way of Life in the Medieval Hamlets of Lake Como

Fueled by stunning imagery on social media, Lake Como exists in our collective imagination as a verdant, luxury destination dotted with exclusive places to visit. Certainly, this is one of the lake’s most beautiful and sought-after facets.

At the same time, this is a place where you can experience small-town Italy truly authentically and beyond the travel cliches and thus immerse yourself in a disappearing way of life.

With towns made of tall houses clinging to the steep slopes where many streets are in fact stairways of cobbled steps, living around the lake year-round can be rather physically taxing. Out of breath after scaling yet another endless flight of jagged steps, I complain to the lady running a small shop in one of the lakefront towns: ‘I don’t know how you do it every day!’

‘It’s easy!’, she says while demonstrating a perfect high kick and touching her toes with her fingers.

Yet, as you walk around it’s easy to come across the faded fascias of small shops and restaurants that are no more. A former trattoria here, a long-closed textile shop there, the streets of the smaller towns around Lake Como can feel empty and quiet on a winter day.

Glamourous boutiques and elegant historic shops thrive in the larger lakefront towns like Lecco, Como, and Cernobbio which are also built on flatter ground. Nowadays, the lake’s main fortunes depend on tourism but in the near past, the production of prized textiles was the main industry here.

As you explore around, it’s easy to come across the vestiges of past glories. A case in point is the empty body of the large cotton mill that once employed most of the inhabitants of Bellano. With plans to regenerate it into an art centre, this impressive structure will certainly inject a new lease of life into this underrated town on Lake Como.

25. Circumnavigate Lake Como by Public Transport

Lago di Como has a lot to offer to the curious traveller. Yet, most people who come to visit, choose to spend their time in three main spots – the towns of Como, Bellagio, and Varenna. They may also visit a villa or two and that’s it.

If you want to really get to know Lake Como, then challenge yourself to see the most of it. Its unusual shape and steep shores may seem to make travelling around the lake very difficult. Yet with a bit of information and some advance planning, you can easily circumnavigate the whole lake by public transport. This way you will get to experience it fully and enjoy many of its corners that remain strictly off the beaten path.

Here is one way to do it: get a train from Milan (or anywhere you may be in Italy) to the town of Como. Once there, get the local bus C10. It will take you all the way up the western shore of the lake to the town of Menaggio and then along the northwestern shore and around the northern tip of the lake to the town of Colico. Along the way are such iconic places as  Villa del Balbianello  and  Villa Carlotta . You can also explore beautiful lakefront towns such as Cernobbio, Laglio, Menaggio, and Gravedona. The bus takes around 1 h 10 mins from Como to Menaggio and it covers the full itinerary in about 2 h 15 mins or so.

Once in Colico, you can get the fast ferry back to the town of Como. Or (and even better), you can get the train that skirts the eastern shore of Lake Como and travel all the way down to the town of Lecco in about 44 mins. There is also a slower train which covers the same distance in just over an hour. Along the way, the train stops in such beautiful towns as Bellano, Varenna, and Mandello del Lario.

In Lecco, you may choose to get the local bus C40 which in about an hour will take you back to the town of Como. This will complete your circumnavigation of Italy’s most famous lake.

If you want to challenge yourself further though and have the time to spare, in Lecco you can get the local bus D10 which will take you up to Bellagio in about 45 mins or so. Once in Bellagio, you can get bus C30 down to the town of Como. This way, you will also travel along the edge of the Triangolo Lariano – the mountainous triangle between the Como branch and the Lecco branch of the lake.

You can travel around the whole of Lake Como in one long, exciting day. Or you can decide to split the experience over several days and spend the night in some of the beautiful lakefront towns along the way. You can find information about Lake Como’s buses on the website of ASF Autolinee . Otherwise, in this blog post , I explain in detail how to get around the lake. Points 2, 3, and 4 are particularly helpful.

Practical Tips About Visiting Lake Como in Italy

How to Reach Lake Como and Travel Around it by Car and Public Transport?

For exhaustive details about reaching Lake Como and travelling around it by car, train, bus, ferry, and even seaplane, have a look at this blog post:

When Is the Best Time to Visit Lake Como in Italy?

Lake Como has a lot to offer in all seasons. Summer is the busiest time of the year here. This is when hundreds of thousands of people flock to the lake to enjoy day trips and longer holidays on its shores. On summer weekends, half of Milan decamps to Lake Como, too as many of the Milanesi have villas here or simply come to hike, relax, and enjoy the stunning natural setting.

If you are planning to visit Lake Como in the summer expect large crowds of both Italians and people from all over the world. On the plus side, however, all sights – from historic villas to quirky museums – are open, lots of fun events take place, and there’s nothing like taking a cooling plunge in the water, ideally in an outdoor swimming pool floating on the lake.

In winter, the lake is very peaceful and offers great opportunities to experience its heritage and nature more authentically. While some of the historic villas and several hotels either close for the low season or operate with greatly reduced facilities, there is still plenty to do around Lake Como during the cold months. Christmas is a particular highlight with festive illuminations, markets, and events. Find out more in this blog post:

• Lake Como in Winter – 10 Reasons to Visit Italy’s Most Famous Lake in the Off-Season

To best experience what Lake Como has to offer, try to come here during the shoulder seasons. Late March to May and then late September to October are the best periods of the year to visit. Crowds are just starting to form in spring and already dispersing in autumn. The lakefront towns are full of life. From April onwards, gorgeous rhododendrons, camellias, and roses bloom in their thousands in exquisite botanical gardens and private courtyards.

The temperatures are decidedly pleasant and vary between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. So, you can comfortably sightsee and hike around without being scorched to a crisp by the sun. The only downside to the shoulder seasons, however, is the bigger chance of rain! April and May can have respectively up to 10 and 12 rainy days while September and October usually have around eight rainy days each.

Where to Stay at Lake Como, Italy?

There is a huge selection of places to stay at Lake Como in any season.

You can choose from lavish historic villas that nowadays function as exclusive hotels. You can opt for a cosy B&B in the centre of a lakefront town. Or you may prefer a self-catering accommodation to enjoy a home-from-home experience.

If you are arriving by car, then make sure that your accommodation also offers parking spaces or can recommend a nearby car park. Especially, if you are planning to stay outside of the larger lakefront towns like Como and Lecco. Parking spaces in the smaller lake towns may be difficult to come across and are usually taken by the locals.

If you are relying on public transport and your accommodation doesn’t provide transfers, then make sure that you have easy access to the nearest bus stop or ferry port. You don’t want to have to walk for miles luggage in hand or depend on taxis every time you want to go to the town centre.

Here are some suggestions for places to stay at Lake Como. All come highly recommended:

Luxury:   Grand Hotel Victoria concept & spa by R Collection Hotels ,  Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

Mid-Range:   Casa sull’Albero ,  Hotel Lenno

Budget:  Locanda Alberti ,  Valle dei Mulini – Lake Como

Alternatively, have a look at this map giving you a quick visual idea of the available accommodation options around Lake Como, Italy. You can zoom in and out, type in your specific travel dates, and then click on the different price points for detailed information about the hotel you are interested in:

In addition, have a look at this blog post which explains the different types of accommodation you can book in Italy. It will give you plenty of ideas to look into for the best and quirkiest places to experience here:

• Where to Stay in Italy – 19 Types of Accommodation to Suit Any Budget

How Long to Spend at Lake Como?

Lake Como has a lot to offer no matter your style of travel. You may be after a peaceful and relaxing holiday with stunning lake views, a pampering experience with spa procedures and some pool lounging, an active nature break with lots of hiking, or an unforgettable day trip. Or you may just want to be able to say that you’ve been to Lake Como and understand what all the fuss is about. Any reason to visit is valid!

So, how long to spend here depends entirely on you and on the amount of time you have at your disposal.

Let’s say that this will be your first visit to the lake and you just want to test the waters. Then you can easily take a self-organised or  guided day trip  from Milan to Lake Como and see one or a few of the most popular lakefront towns like Como, Varenna, and Bellagio. You can also book a guided day trip around the lake taking you to some of its best sights ( this one  comes highly recommended).

Alternatively, you can pencil in a weekend break or an even longer stay at Lake Como. It’s a big place that easily caters to all types of travellers.

What to Pack for a Visit to Lake Como?

Lake Como has its own microclimate with moderate temperatures which vacillate around 26 degrees Celsius in summer and drop to around 4 to 8 degrees Celsius in winter. May and June are the wettest months in terms of rainfall and snow days in winter are very rare. Nights can get chilly in any season.

As such, no matter when you choose to visit, make sure that you pack plenty of layers. A light jacket or a cosy jersey may come in very handy during the high season. I am speaking as someone who got caught in a cold downpour in Varenna in July without a jacket because I had wanted to pack light and had assumed that summer is always warm in Italy. At the same time, don’t forget your sun cream, a hat/sunglasses, and a swimming costume.

In winter, you will want to be able to peel off a layer or two on one of those not-rare days when the sun shines bright at lunchtime and it feels like it’s spring already. At the same time, don’t forget your hat, scarf, and gloves as wrapping up warm in the evenings feels so nice.

Bringing my padded hat with ear flaps (similar to  this one ) was my best packing decision during my last visit to Lake Como over ten days this past Christmas. It kept me really cosy during festive market explorations and hiking around.

Always pack a pair of good walking shoes for Lake Como. Plus, hiking shoes/boots are a must when you go exploring in nature. With many of the towns and villages around the lake having steep cobbled streets and often flights of steps instead of streets altogether, your ankles need to be well supported at all times.

Unless you are planning to visit just the towns of Como, Lecco, and Cernobbio (the central parts of which are flat), make sure that you bring an appropriate pair of shoes to allow you to safely navigate uneven surfaces and steep slopes.

Which Are the Best Towns to Visit on Lake Como?

There are easily dozens of small towns and villages clustered along the waterline and clinging to the steep slopes above Lake Como. Some of them – like Bellagio – are famous worldwide. Others are much less known yet they have beautiful historic centres, several curious sights, and are on numerous hiking paths crisscrossing the lake’s lush natural setting.

Have a look at this blog post to pick the Lake Como towns that appeal the most to you based on your own interests and travel plans:

• 18 Best Towns to Visit on Lago di Como – Italy’s Most Famous Lake (With Maps, Itineraries, and Essential Travel Guide)

If you only have a limited amount of time to spend at the lake, here is a shortlist of four of the prettiest lakefront towns. All of them are easy to reach by train or by train/bus/ferry from nearby Milan. This makes them great destinations for day trips and weekend breaks as well as for longer stays on Italy’s most famous lake.

Como  – one of the largest towns on Lake Como. Come here for the imposing Duomo, the sights dedicated to Alessandro Volta (the inventor of the prototype of the electric battery), and the funicular taking you up a vertiginous slope to the town of Brunate. Regular trains link Como to Milan all throughout the day. Once in Como, you can also take a bus to nearby Cernobbio (another beautiful lakefront town) or a ferry up to Bellagio.

Bellagio  – this is easily the most famous town on Lake Como. It stands on the tip of Punta Spartivento – the meeting point of the lake’s three branches. Bellagio is very picturesque and has a number of easy to see in a day sights – from the botanical garden of Villa Melzi to the cobbled streets of its historic centre populated by silk shops and craft workshops. You can reach Bellagio by bus or ferry from Como, by bus from Lecco, and by ferry from Varenna.

Varenna  – the most charming town on Lake Como is a delight to explore. It has a cute little harbour, a waterfront promenade with far-reaching lake views, medieval castle, and next door to it stands the magnificent  Villa Monastero  with its delightful garden. Regular trains connect Varenna to Milan all throughout the day. Ferries link this lakefront town to the towns of Menaggio and Bellagio, too, so that you can see them all in a day.

Bellano  – this is Lake Como’s hidden gem of a town. With a beautiful promenade, a cute harbour, and a dramatic gorge with a series of powerful waterfalls, Bellano has a lot to offer. You can easily see it all in a few hours or over a very leisurely day. Even better! Bellano is on the same train line as Varenna, making it possible to visit both towns as part of the same trip.

What Are the Very Best Things to Do in Lake Como?

As you saw above, there are many things to do and enjoy around Italy’s most famous lake – Lago di Como. If you are pressed for time and can’t do it all, then take your pick from this handy shortlist:

Sightseeing  – the shores of the lake are studded with historic villas, centuries-old churches, and excellent museums. The most well-known are the Duomo, the Volta Temple, the Civic Art Gallery, and the Silk Museum in Como, Villa Balbaniello near Lenno, Villa Monastero next door to Varenna, Villa Melzi in Bellagio, the Moto Guzzi Motorcycle Museum in Mandello del Lario, and so many others.

Hiking and Nature Exploring  – it is so very easy to get close to nature around Lake Como. Hiking paths (some of which follow ancient Roman roads) crisscross the steep slopes and link the small towns and villages here. Powerful waterfalls rumble through vertiginous gorges and flow into the lake. Don’t miss Orrido di Nesso and Orrido di Bellano. You don’t even need to break a sweat to get out and about in nature here. A number of funiculars and cable cars offer the chance to enjoy sprawling lake views from the comfort of a smoothly ascending cabin.

Shopping  – Lake Como is a great place to indulge in some shopping no matter if you are after the latest fashions of the best Italian brands or artisan items by local craftsmen. The area is also famous for its locally designed silk accessories. Silk has been produced around the lake for centuries and nowadays you can get beautiful silk bags, scarves, and ties for yourself and your loved ones. Don’t miss the local brand  Acqua del Lario  which makes perfumes, candles, and home scents inspired by the towns and vistas of Lake Como.

Where to Find More Information About Lake Como and the Region of Lombardy?

If you are considering a trip to Lake Como in particular and the Northern Italian region of Lombardy in general, you may want to also have a look at the following categories and posts on my blog:

• Lake Como  – a full list of all my blog posts about Italy’s most famous lake
• Lombardy  – a full list of all my blog posts about this must-see region in Italy
• Lake Como – The Beauty of Italy’s Most Famous Lake in 25 Photos
• 10 Reasons to Visit the Region of Lombardy in Italy
• 15 Must-See Cities and Towns in Lombardy, Italy

They are based on my first-hand experience of visiting these destinations in Italy and provide lots of practical information to help you plan your travels.

In addition, for the most up-to-date information about events and local sights, keep an eye on the official websites of  Milan , the  Region of Lombardy , and the major towns on Lake Como, for example,  Como ,  Bellagio ,  Varenna ,  Lecco , and so on.

Finally, if you want to invest in a good guidebook,  this one  covers Lombardy, Milan, and the Italian lakes. This makes it very handy to carry around with you during your travels.

Where to Find More Information About Visiting Italy?

I have been blogging about travelling to and within Italy for eight years now providing detailed and first-hand tried and tested information about the best things to do in this beautiful country. It’s all based on my close to twenty years of visiting Italy solo and with my family. Six of these years, we actually spent living in  Vicenza  in the  north of the country .

If you are after in-depth researched and illustrated with dozens of pertinent photos articles about Italy, have a look at the following categories and blog posts:

• Italy  – a full list of all my blog posts about Italy
• 10 Reasons to Visit Northern Italy
• Veneto ,  Trentino ,  Emilia Romagna  – full lists of all my blog posts about these Italian regions
• Venice ,  Padua ,  Lake Garda ,  Milan  – full lists of all my blog posts about these must-see destinations in Italy.

In addition, right at the end of this blog post, you will find a list with links to some of my most popular blog posts about many beautiful and exciting cities, towns, and regions to visit in Italy. So, just scroll down and then click on the ones you are interested in.

Finally, Italy’s  official tourism website  is a great source of the latest news about travel in Italy. Otherwise,  this is one  of the best guidebooks about Italy.

In Conclusion

With a stunning natural setting, Lago di Como is deservedly Italy’s most famous lake. Shaped like an upturned letter Y and looking very much like a land-locked fjord, the lake attracts millions of tourists each year eager to enjoy its beauty and visit its most famous towns and sights.

At the same time, Lake Como has many hidden corners where one can get to experience the history and heritage of this part of Italy in the most authentic way.

So, in this blog post today, I gave you a long list of the best things to do in Lake Como – from the most popular activities to the numerous secret gems that only people in the know get to enjoy here. From specific must-see sights to exciting activities and large-scale events, it’s all covered in detail. I hope that this list will give you lots of fun ideas for unique things to do during your stay at the lake.

Plus, it’s all coupled with first-hand tried and tested practical tips about visiting and travelling around Lake Como. Together with the handy maps included in this blog post, I hope that they will come in very useful during the planning stages of your visit to Italy’s most famous lake.

I wish you a great Italian adventure getting to do lots of exciting things around Lake Como!

Enjoy it and all it has to offer to the discerning traveller, travel tools, now, get ready for your trip to lake como in italy.

Get a guidebook from Amazon. Buy plane tickets , train tickets , and bus tickets through Omio. Rent a car from Europcar. Research accommodation on Booking.com. Select local tours and activities on GetYourGuide , Viator , and Tiquets .

More Helpful Italy Info for You

Best of Italy:  Italian Piazzas ,  Italian Markets ,  Accommodation for Every Budget ,  Best Times to Visit Italy ,  Italy in Summer ,  Italy with Kids Italian Food:  Best Italian Food Gifts ,  Cheap Italian Food ,  Rules of Italian Breakfast ,  Italian Breakfast Foods Italian Coffee:  Italian Coffee Culture ,  Italian Coffee Drinks ,  History of Coffee in Italy Christmas in Italy:   Fun Facts ,  Things to Do ,  Italian Nativity Scenes ,  Panettone ,  Christmas Guide Northern Italy:  Best Cities to Visit ,  Major Airports ,  Reasons to Visit Lake Como: How to Get to Lake Como ,  Reasons to Visit in Winter , Inspiring Photos ,  Nesso Lake Garda Towns and Villages:   Best Towns ,  Desenzano del Garda ,  Riva del Garda ,  Malcesine ,  Torri del Benaco ,  Punta di San Vigilio ,  Campo di Brenzone ,  Borghetto and Valeggio sul Mincio Visiting Lake Garda:  Map of Lake Garda ,  Getting Around Lake Garda ,  Lake Garda with Kids ,  8 Best Airports ,  Venice to Lake Garda ,  Verona to Lake Garda ,  Milan to Lake Garda ,  Bologna to Lake Garda Verona:  Things to Do in One Day ,  Verona Opera Festival ,  Day Trips from Verona ,  Romeo and Juliet Itinerary ,  Verona to Venice ,  Verona to Milan Padua:  Things to Do in One Day ,  101 Facts About Padua ,  10 Reasons to Visit Padua ,  Day Trips from Padua Vicenza:  Things to Do ,  Day Trips from Vicenza ,  Best Museums ,  The Beauty of Vicenza Veneto:  Top Places to Visit ,  Unique Adventures ,  Most Colourful Places ,  Mysterious Places ,  Most Beautiful Lakes ,  Reasons to Visit ,  Main Cities ,  Prettiest Small Towns ,  Most Beautiful Villages Lombardy:   Best Cities and Towns ,  Reasons to Visit ,  Brescia Friuli Venezia Giulia:   Venzone ,  Most Beautiful Villages Emilia Romagna:  Bologna ,  Ravenna ,  Comacchio ,  Most Beautiful Villages Marche:   Reasons to Visit ,  Gradara ,  Frasassi Caves ,  Temple of Valadier Umbria: Reasons to Visit Perugia

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• Experiences
• Trails & Walks
• Attractions
• Village Markets

Before Travelling

Getting to lake como.

• Getting Around

Useful Numbers

Tourist offices, maps and brochures, holy masses times, getting around lake como.

There is a bus system operating from Como city to the western lake shores. The main lines that run along the shores of Lake Como are the C30 , which connects Como with Bellagio via Nesso and the C10 line that connects Como with Colico, passing through Tremezzina and Menaggio.

C30 – Como > Nesso > Bellagio

Wintertime (from 12/09 to 08/06) / Summertime (from 09/06 to 11/09) / Bus Stops

C10 – Como > Menaggio > Colico

Complete list of routes and stops →

Map of the suburban public transport network →

Map of the urban public transport network →

Stops with the main Points of Interest on Lake Como

Explore the main points of interest of Lake Como →

A great way to explore the lake area is by boat.

There are three types of boats: slow boat ( battello ), great for leisurely travellers and for taking photos from the outside deck; rapid-service by hydrofoil ( aliscafo ); and car ferry ( traghetto ) service in the central lake area, which also takes pedestrian passengers.

Navigazione Lago di Como – Ferry and Boats Schedules and Routes

Mid-Lake Shuttle

The Mid-Lake Shuttle is available until October 1st with a “north” and a “south” run (first departure at 8:35 a.m. from Bellagio) and guarantees a constant connection between the various piers of the Lake Centre, from Lenno to Varenna.

See additional timetables

Trains cover the easternmost shore of Lake Como. To get to Central Lake Area you can take the line from Milan to Sondrio and stop at Varenna .

Trenitalia – Book your ticket →

Trainline – Book your ticket →

Omio – Book your ticket →

During weekends you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Lake Como aboard the Trombetta Express turistic trains, running from Menaggio to Lenno (Tremezzina), from 9:50 to 18:40.

For more info : + 39 331 3434154 –  info@trombettaexpress – Facebook Page

Getting around

Local markets, sign up to our newsletter and stay updated on the events of the week.

HIKES & WALKS around Lake Como

When you visit one of Lake Como ‘s most popular destinations, look at the hills and villages in front of you: they are all crisscrossed by hiking and walking trails that offer, each in its own way, a glimpse of the area different from how it is usually described.

🌳 On this page I have just begun to collect some of the trails I have been hiking over the past few months.

So far they are all fairly easy trails suitable for everyone (except for people with particular disabilities), plus you will find them divided in such a way that if you are short on time you can still do at least part of the route.

🥾 Discover the most beautiful hikes and walks around Lake Como that I have broken down by area :

Are you afraid to gest lost? 😱

Don’t forget to download the Komoot app and follow my steps with the maps I recorded!

Hikes & walks in the Como area

Spina verde park.

Starting point: Piazza San Rocco, Como

Enjoy a gentle stroll through Spina Verde Park , a protected forest southwest of Como that brings together many sites of scenic, historical and natural interest. As well as several huts where you can sample traditional dishes !

Chilometro della Conoscenza

Starting point: Villa Olmo, Como

A route that connects the parks of three beautiful Como villas ( Villa Olmo , Villa del Grumello and Villa Sucota ) through paths dotted with greenhouses, chapels, lemon houses and botanical rarities.

Sentee de Sort

Starting point: Rovenna (upper hamlet of Cernobbio)

The Sentee de Sort trail is a wooded, mid-hill path that connects Rovenna to Moltrasio , offering incredible views of Lake Como. Although it is fairly easy, it is not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo.

Hikes & walks in Lake Como's central area

Lake como greenway.

Starting point: Via Cappella, Colonno (or Griante , if you do it the other way round)

A walking route through the villages of Colonno , Sala Comacina , Tremezzina and Griante . It follows the ancient Via Regina and offers splendid views and examples of architecture, villas and gardens (e.g., the unmissable Villa Carlotta).

Castle of Vezio from Varenna

Starting point: Piazza San Giorgio, Varenna

With a short walk from the center of Varenna , you can reach the top of the hill that houses the Castle of Vezio , a medieval fortress that allows you to discover the history of the area and enjoy a great view of Lake Como.

Val Sanagra

Starting point: Loveno (upper hamlet of Menaggio)

The Val Sanagra is a large green area between Menaggio and Grandola ed Uniti . The valley is traversed by the Sanagra stream and long wooded trails, and is also home to a farmhouse and an eco-museum .

Hikes & walks along multiple areas

Strada regia.

Starting point: Brunate funicular railway stop

The Strada Regia is an ancient route connecting Como to the southern border of Bellagio . It is a multi-day itinerary on mule tracks, forest paths and carriage roads to discover the most authentic side of the area.

Experiences & tours

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LAKE COMO Beaches Weather and climate Accommodations Experiences

LAKE COMO’S TOWNS Como Bellagio Varenna Tremezzina

LAKE COMO’ VILLAS Villa Balbianello Villa Melzi Villa Monastero Villa Carlotta

GETTING AROUND Boat trips Bus service Train stations Get to Lake Como

Lake Como Travel | A personal blog by Alessandro Manzi

GET IN TOUCH

Fantastic Things to Do in Lake Como

L ake Como is a beautiful lake area in northern Italy , less than an hour north of Milan. The beautiful mountainous landscapes surrounding the beautiful inverted Y-shaped lake are a slice of paradise. Some of the best-known towns are Como, Bellagio, Menaggio, Lenno, Tremezzo, and Varenna, but there are many more to explore around the lake. In this article, we used Varenna as our base and used the ferry in Bellagio, Lenno, and Tremezzo to discover the best things to do in Lake Como .

Stay in Varenna

Rick Steves and many other travel experts have noted that Varenna is an ideal base when visiting Lake Como. This small, picturesque town sits along a hilly cliff overlooking Lake Como, with views of both branches of the lake and the town of Bellagio. Another huge factor for its growing popularity is Varenna’s convenient central location. Local attractions include Castle Vechio, Villa Montero, Villa Caprissi, and old town Varenna.

With a railroad stop (Varenna Esino) and a ferry stop in town, tourists can easily bop over to Bellagio, Lenno, Menaggio, Tremezzo, Como, and other prime destinations on the lake fairly easily and quickly. By combining the many wonderful attractions of Varenna with easy access to other popular stops, Varenna has become a not so secret secret. 

We stayed in the lovely Varenna Guest House , just a five-minute walk from the train station. The ferry stop is another five minutes from this family-owned lodging. There is a convenience store and also plenty of bars and restaurants within easy walking distance, and taxi service is available if needed.

Some apartments here have lovely lake views. Note that Varenna Guest House does not have air conditioning, which is common in this area. Since the weather in mid-May was rather mild, the evenings were cool and comfortable with our ceiling fan on.  Book your room here>>

Wander in Bellagio

Bellagio is probably the most recognized name on Lake Como. Located where Lake Como and Lake Lecco meet, the ideal location, hilly vistas, beautiful lakefront, and fabulous restaurants and shops all make Bellagio a favorite of visitors worldwide. Just be aware that there are many other wonderful towns with their own character on Lake Como that deserve a traveler’s time and interest. 

Gardens of Bellagio and Melzi Villa

The famed gardens in Bellagio feature acres of sloping green grasses and trees and a wide variety of flowers and plants. We were amazed at the bright reds and pinks of roses and begonias on the walk from central Bellagio towards the fabulous gardens of Melzi Villa .

We stopped and rested on one of the many benches, relaxing and taking in the beautiful views of the gardens and the lake. Many other people, including a man walking an enormous Mastiff, were also having a great time enjoying Mother Nature at her best in beautiful Bellagio.

Dine With Luigi at the Fabulous Salice Blu in Bellagio

With so many great restaurants in Bellagio, Salice Blu stands out because of Luigi, the young, enterprising owner, and head chef. This iconic Bellagio landmark was started by Luigi’s parents, and since a young age, Luigi has been creatively and actively involved.

On our first night in Lake Como, a ferry whisked us away from Varenna and delivered us to the dock in Bellagio in a mere 15 minutes. We took advantage of the fantastic views from the water in anticipation of our dinner at Salice Blu. Luigi himself picked us up near the Bellagio ferry stop and drove us the one mile up the scenic, winding road to his restaurant.

From the start, we could see Luigi was a special person with an enormous passion for food, wine, and making his customers feel special. The restaurant’s décor, the menu, the service, the staff, personalities, and the whole experience were all outstanding. We sat on the outside terrace with a lovely view of the mountains as a backdrop. This elegant but casual restaurant was one of our favorites during our time in Italy.

We ordered the Good Memories Tasting Menu. One of my favorite dishes was the Bellagio Black Truffle Pappardelle creamed with alpine cheese. Delicious! The presentation was flawless, with the thinly sliced truffles combined with the flavorful cheese sauce and pasta for a wonderful dish. We paired this pasta with a fabulous Costamolino, a crisp Vermentino from Sardinia. 

We also enjoyed a delicious tomato soup and a flavorful egg dish served on a bed of spinach with baby tomatoes. In addition to our Black Truffle Pappardelle, our main included a Trio of Lake Como fish, consisting of salmon, steamed zander, and lake trout. To complete our fabulous meal, we had the Crisp Puff Pastry Millefeuille with mango sauce for dessert. The light, flaky crust combined with the flavorful custard, fresh fruit, and sauces was superb.

Eat at Osteria Quatro Pass in Varenna

On our second night in Lake Como, we were treated to another fabulous meal at Osteria Quatro Pass . Nestled in the old town of Varenna just a five-minute walk from Varenna Guest House, Quatro Pass is one of the highest-rated restaurants in Varenna.

Vaulted ceilings with exposed stone walls make for a refined setting suitable for romantic dinners, family, or group dining. Chef Giuseppe has put together a small but awesome menu, using the freshest local ingredients.  An extensive wine list of 120 labels, focusing on some wonderful local wines, accompanies this excellent menu.

From the time we entered this charming restaurant to our final bite, my wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Quatro Pass. Our welcome by Chiara, our friendly and capable waiter Stefano, and the fantastic dishes prepared by Chef Giuseppe and his staff combined to make this a most memorable evening.

We started with a tasty bread puff with burrata and creamed lentils accompanied by a crisp Benjamin Leroux Chardonnay. This intimate setting has an elegant, comfortable, welcoming feel – the perfect spot for a romantic meal in Lake Como. 

My wife loved her Ravioli della casa con robiola di capra di asparagi, riduzione al parmigiano e riccioli di asparagi fritti. Translation: Home-made ravioli with goat cheese, robiola, parmesan cheese reduction, and fried asparagus curls. I also enjoyed my very flavorful, tender Iberian pork cooked at low temperatures with seasonal vegetables. Both mains were artistically displayed and were as pretty as they were tasty.

For dessert, we had a delicious chocolate mousse with fresh berries. So fresh, so flavorful, so yummy. Having spent the previous few days in Venice, Varenna and Osteria Quatro Pass provided a more peaceful, serene view of Italy. Varenna is now one of our new favorite Italian destinations (along with many others!), and Quatro Pass is our go-to place to dine. We can’t wait to return.

Hike the Greenway Walk 

To get some exercise and to take in some of the beautiful scenery on foot, we decided to hike part of the gorgeous Greenway Walk . On the west side of Lake Como, this scenic walk covers about 10 miles in total, starting in Colonno and ending around Griante.

Because of time constraints, we covered about half of the walk, starting in Lenno and walking to Villa Carlotta, just south of Griante. It was a beautiful walk along the lake, through neighborhoods, rural areas, and old downtowns.

From Varenna, we arrived at the Lenno ferry stop around 10 am. Looking southwest we could see parts of Villa del Balbianello, sitting at the tip of a peninsula jutting out into Lake Como. We then made our way northeast along the lake towards Griante, enjoying the views of the lake, the mountains, pollarded plane trees, pine trees, and flowers. Around noon, we arrived at the wonderful wine bar Cantina Follie in Tremezzo. 

Cantina Follie

Cantina Follie is a popular wine bar in Tremezzo owned by Deborah and Joost. Natives of The Netherlands, this enterprising couple has created the perfect wine bar and shop. Just uphill away from the main drag, the main shop of Cantina Follie is in a cellar in the center of the old town. This super friendly couple speak fluent English and were very accommodating in explaining the menu and answering our many questions.

With suggestions from Deborah and Joost, we each ordered a wine flight consisting of the following wines (only 14 Euro each):

• Emozione Brut Villa
• Lugana 2008 pas dose Zenato
• Curtefranca Ferghettini
• Le Calderine Angelinetta
• Le Prudenze Marsetti

We ordered a meat, cheese, and bread plate to go along with the wines. The four white and one red wines were a perfect pairing with the fresh food selections. The seven cheeses included Goat cheese, Caprino, Piattone, and Parmigiano. Flavorful meats were 24-month cured ham, dried beef, pancetta, spec, and salami. In addition, fresh-baked bread and three spreads – fig, honey, and onion – completed our tasty board. Such fantastic flavors!

Our two hours at Cantina Follie were full of fun, flavors, and friendly conversation. Sitting in the shade of the grape vines growing overhead, the cozy terrace and the friendly smiles of Deborah, Joost, and their son was the perfect setting for enjoying some of the great foods and wines of Lake Como. If you are lucky enough to visit the area, I would definitely put Cantina Follie on your must-do list of things to do in Lake Como. Tell Deborah and Joost that Scott and Julie said hi.

Grand Hotel Tremezzo and Villa Carlotta

After saying our goodbyes at Cantina Follie, we made our way down the steps and back to the path along the lake. Turning left towards the ferry stop, we passed several beautiful villas and hotels. Among them were the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and its sister property Villa Sola Cabiati , two gorgeous properties on the lake. We took a peek into the lobby and the grounds of these lovely properties and would love to stay some time in the future.

Villa Carlotta

Just past the Grand Hotel Tremezzo sits the beautiful Villa Carlotta . Located at the top of a terraced garden, with sweeping views of Bellagio and Lake Como, Villa Carlotta is currently a museum and botanical garden open to the public. Inside, artwork includes works by Francesco Hayez, Antonio Canova, Bertel Thorvaldsen, and Giovanni Migliara.

The beautiful gardens encompass about 20 acres surrounding the villa. Within several sections of the gardens are colorful flowers including rhododendron, camellias, and azaleas. There is a bamboo garden as well as numerous palms, cedars, redwoods, intricately sculpted plane trees, and other exotic plants. After spending some time exploring Villa Carlotta, we went to the ferry stop, conveniently located directly in front of the villa.

Lake Como Ferries and Trains

There are several helpful websites to help visitors navigate the excellent ferry system in Lake Como. One is the Lake Como Travel site, which includes tips, maps, and ferry schedules. We also found the Rome2Rio app to be very helpful in planning for transportation in Lake Como and throughout our European trip. For train travel, the Omio app was also very useful.

So Many Fun Things to Do in Lake Como

Our three days in Lake Como passed by so quickly. We are very thankful we had the opportunity to experience one of the most beautiful areas of Italy. There is so much to see and do. Now that we have had a small taste, we will be sure to return for another helping.

Thanks to IC Bellagio, Salice Blu, Cantina Follie, and Osteria Quatro Pass for graciously hosting us. All opinions are my own.

Story and some photos by Scott Kendall written for EuropeUpClose.com.

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