lake como italy tourist

• 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

Pin It for Later!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to Do in Como (Italy)

15 Best Things to Do in Como (Italy)

Como is a commune in the northern region of Italy with a current population of 84,000. Como is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in Lombardy and the commune itself is often overshadowed by the majestic Lake Como that stretches from the northern edge of the city.

Como has been populated since the Bronze Age by Celtic tribes and during the first century BC it became part of the Roman Empire. Due to its location at the edge of the immense Lake Como, the city has always played an important role in Lombardy and was a centre of commerce and trade during the Middle Ages. During this time of development a defensive network was constructed including a series of watch towers – you can still see one of the towers today (The Baradello). After French and Austrian conquests, Como was eventually incorporated into the Kingdom of Italy in 1859.

Today Como is a world renowned tourist destination and thousands of people flock here to explore the impressive Lake Como and the surrounding natural landscape. The city itself has a multitude of historical buildings, fine restaurants and important museums. Furthermore, surrounding the lake, there is a plethora of beautiful towns and villages such as Cernobbio, Menaggio and Bellagio.

The following is a list of 15 of the top things to do in and around Como :

1. Como Cathedral

The cathedral in Como is undoubtedly the most impressive building in the city and is renowned for its beautiful architecture.

This church is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and was constructed in the 14th century.

It features a Gothic design and was not wholly completed until the 18th century.

The front façade features a plethora of ornate stone work, stone statues and is topped with a series of small decorative towers.

The interior is lavishly decorated and one of the main features is the central dome – this is covered with gold artwork and some simply beautiful decoration.

Furthermore, the interior is vast and the various arches, columns and naves are all striking.

When visiting Como, a visit must be given to this magnificent structure.

Suggested tour to start your trip : Como Walking & Eating Tour

2. Como Archaeological Museum

Located in close proximity to the cathedral you can find the delightful Como Archaeological Museum.

This museum is actually housed in the Palazzo Giovio and features a fantastic range of artefacts that have been found throughout the Como region.

These artefacts and finds date as far back as the ancient Greek times and present a truly interesting look at the history of Como and its inhabitants throughout the years.

You can expect to find a range of pottery, jewellery, stonework, agricultural machinery and more.

Each display is housed with care and features an insightful range of information about the item and its history.

3. Museo Storico Giuseppe Garibaldi

This fine museum is also housed within a former palace and is also located on the Piazza Medaglie where the Archaeological Museum is situated.

The historical museum of Giuseppe Garibaldi has a series of lavishly decorated rooms that have been restored to show traditional living from various eras in Italy.

Furthermore the museum contains a plethora of artefacts such as furniture, lace and clothing from Como and the surrounding region.

This collection and restored rooms are simply fantastic and together with the Archaeological Museum paint a fine picture of Como.

4. Basilica di Sant’Abbondio

The Basilica of Saint Addondio is located a little out of the city centre, but it is a majestic church that is worthy of a visit.

The original church was created in the 11th century and the current Romanesque church was created over it by the Benedictines.

The front of the church is quite plain and features simple stonework and a huge main doorway.

Alternatively, the interior features a set of huge stone columns and an ornately decorated main altar.

The altar has a beautiful series of coloured frescos depicting various religious figures and a gorgeous blue and gold decorative ceiling.

5. Take the Funicular up to Brunate

Brunate is a small town that is located high up in the mountains surrounding Lake Como.

If you travel to the eastern edge of the lake near the city of Como you can take a fantastic funicular train that scales the mountain and stops at Brunate.

When you reach the top the views from this town are simply magnificent and you can see both the city of Como and the Lake in all their glory.

There are several terraces and restaurants that offer stunning views and give you a place to relax and take in the clear mountain air.

For the adventurous, there is a 2 hour hike that takes the intrepid to the summit of Mount Boletto for even greater views of this magical region.

6. Take a boat ride on Lake Como

There is possibly no better way to explore Lake Como and see the beautiful landscape the encompasses this body of water than to take a boat ride from Como itself.

There is a wide range of tour companies and boat operators that provide trips on the lake.

You can take one way boat rides from Como to visit some of the coastal towns such as Cernobbio and Bellagio, or alternatively you can take a scenic boat ride that simply travels on the lake while a guide points out different landmarks and explains the history of this region.

Which either type of ride you choose, you are sure to see the majesty of Lake Como up close and personal.

7. Visit the town of Cernobbio

Cernobbio is a town that is located on the western shore of Lake Como only a short distance from the city of Como.

This is one of the larger towns on the lake and features the amazing Villa d’Este which was originally built for an English Queen.

Down by the shore of the lake you can find the Cernobbio Lido and the Piazza Risorgimento – here you can see some beautiful fishing and sailing boats and also grab a bite to eat in one of the fine restaurants or cafes.

Cernobbio is also known as the starting point of the pilgrimage to Monte Bisbino – this 1310m road leads to the top of the mountain and the top offers panoramic views of the countryside.

8. Villa Balbianello

Punta Balbianello is a promontory that sticks out into Lake Como near the town of Lenno.

This promontory can be reached via a beautiful trail that winds from the bay at Lenno through some gorgeous woodland – this walk is a highlight and is perfect for those who enjoy hiking.

Located on the Punta is the Villa Balbianello – this Baroque villa complex was constructed during the 18th century over the original site of a monastery.

From this villa you are granted with some sublime views of Lake Como – the various terraces open out onto the lake and you can see for miles across to the opposite shore and the towns of Vergonese and Bellagio.

Aside from the gorgeous views, the villa itself has some amazing architecture is an interesting complex to explore.

9. Visit the town of Bellagio

Bellagio is regarded as one of the most beautiful and idyllic towns on Lake Como and it is easy to see why.

This town can be found where the three arms of Lake Como meet therefore the views are unrivalled – you can see each corner of the vast lake and the promenade at La Punta provides one of the best photographic opportunities in the area.

Within the town itself you can find a variety of high-end shops, several beautifully maintained gardens and some amazing restaurants.

Consider taking a boat trip to Bellagio, walking along the promenades and admiring this picture-perfect place.

10. Villa Serbelloni

When visiting Bellagio, you cannot miss out on the spectacular Villa Serbelloni.

This villa is one of the many historical complexes situated on Lake Como that once served as a lavish retreat for the Sfondrati Family during the 16th century.

It is easy to see why this villa was constructed in this location – at the top of the promontory that the town of Bellagio sits; this complex has amazing views of Lake Como and of the Alps in the far distance.

Although the villa is not open to the public, the expansive gardens are and guided tours are available – these Italian gardens feature a number of different enclosures including a Rose garden and several beautiful wooded areas.

11. Visit the town of Menaggio

Menaggio is another beautiful town on Lake Como and is situated on the western shore just above Bellagio.

As with the other towns on the shores of Lake Como, Menaggio offers some amazing views and the ferry port in particular has a wide open square that is a perfect place to take some photos of the water and the mountains.

Menaggio actually has a tunnel that passes through the entire length of the town that acts as a bypass for motorists looking to travel further afield.

Within the town of Menaggio you can find some fantastic restaurants that overlook the lake, and for the adventurous there is also a boat hire service.

12. Try your hand at Canyoning at Porlezza or Lenno

The varied landscape of Lake Como and the surrounding region offers itself to extreme sports.

For those who want to try something different and test their skills, there are companies such as Lake Como Adventures that offer a range of sports and outdoor pursuits.

Lake Como Adventures in particular offers the activity called Canyoning – this involves abseiling, jumping and slinding through a series of canyons and cliffs to reach the ground or water below.

This is a really fun way to explore Lake Como and you can find some truly stunning settings such as the canyons at Porlezza and Lenno.

13. Try your hand at Rock Climbing

If you do not fancy Canyoning then why not try Rock Climbing instead? The mountainous region of Lake Como has many opportunities for rock climbing and has a myriad of fantastic routes for all levels of skill from beginners to experts.

Companies such as Lake Como Adventures provide rock climbing trips from a simple afternoon exploring the likes of Grimsel and Furkapass.

You can climb on a range of different surface such as granite and limestone and explore some truly stunning parts of Lake Como.

14. Enjoy a meal at Trattoria La Costa

This gorgeous restaurant is located in the southern part of Como in the small commune of Albate.

The hosts of this restaurant are extremely friendly and will ensure that your dining experience is a memorable one.

The interior is beautifully decorated and has a traditional feel.

You can choose from a variety of traditional Italian meals, all of which are created using locally sourced ingredients where possible.

Furthermore, for those who enjoy a glass of wine, the patrons of Trattoria La Costa will take you into their wine cellar to select your very own bottle!

15. Enjoy a coffee at Caffe Mazzini

While exploring Como, you may want to relax in a quiet café and enjoy a fine coffee and a snack or a light bite.

Cafe Mazzini is one such establishment and is located in the Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini near the harbour of Como.

This café has a great selection of Italian dishes and light snacks together with a range of mouth-watering desserts and drinks.

In the evening if you visit this café you can also taste a range of delicious cocktails and they sometimes have a happy hour too!

15 Best Things to Do in Como (Italy):

• Como Cathedral
• Como Archaeological Museum
• Museo Storico Giuseppe Garibaldi
• Basilica di Sant’Abbondio
• Take the Funicular up to Brunate
• Take a boat ride on Lake Como
• Visit the town of Cernobbio
• Villa Balbianello
• Visit the town of Bellagio
• Villa Serbelloni
• Visit the town of Menaggio
• Try your hand at Canyoning at Porlezza or Lenno
• Try your hand at Rock Climbing
• Enjoy a meal at Trattoria La Costa
• Enjoy a coffee at Caffe Mazzini

Getty Images

Como (aka Lario) is the most ‘James Bond’ of the Italian lakes, where shiny red Ferraris weave through narrow lakeside towns and neoclassical villas take on a whole new level of opulence. Parts of the 2006 Bond movie Casino Royale were filmed here and many of the fancy lakeside hotels have a 007 price tag.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Lake Como. 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.

Latest stories from Lake Como

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Feb 28, 2018 • 4 min read

Lonely Planet Local Stephanie Ong ended up in Milan like so many foreigners do – by falling for an Italian. Five years later the city feels like home. For…

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

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

Lake Como and beyond

Visiting Lake Como & Como Town: Top Attractions, Hotels & Tours

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Only 48 kilometers north of Italy's commercial capital of Milan, Como's leafy lakeside and stone-paved streets seem a world away. You can see its Roman origins in the orderly grid of streets of its historic center and the remains of the Roman gate, Porta Pretoria . It's more evident in walled medieval Como, a rare example of Romanesque fortifications, with the imposing Porta Torre (tower gate) at Piazza Vittoria.

If your taste runs to something more modern, Como was a hotbed of Rationalist architects, who laid the foundation of Modernism. The poster-child building of this movement is Como's Casa del Fascio , designed in the early 1930s by Giuseppe Terragni.

Como is easy to walk around, and its tourist attractions are within walking distance of the train station and boat landing. Como revolves around its lakefront promenade and the adjacent Piazza Cavour , from which you can follow the short Via Plinio to Piazza del Duomo .

As you stroll past shops, you can't help notice the abundance of silk; Como has a long history as the center of Italy's silk manufacture, so it's a good place to do some shopping. Bookending the harbor are the beautiful gardens of Villa Olmo on the west and the funicular to Brunate on the east, two of the most popular things to do in Como.

Explore this beautiful region with our list of the top attractions, hotels, and tours in Como Town and around Lake Como.

1. Duomo (Cathedral)

2. museo civico, 3. basilica di sant'abbondio, 5. tempio voltiano (alessandro volta museum), exploring lake como's towns and villas, villa balbianello, villa carlotta, abbazia di piona (abbey of piona), villa monastero, villa serbelloni, villa melzi, how to make the most of your visit to lake como, como, italy - climate chart.

The 14th-century façade of Como's cathedral, which nearly fills one side of Piazza Duomo, is pure Gothic, a marble face highlighted by detailed stone carving and statues around a rose window, edged with delicate carved pinnacles. (Oddly, instead of the expected saints, the statues at either side of the main door are of Pliny the Elder and Younger, Roman residents of the lake who were far from friendly to early Christians.)

It isn't until you enter that you'll see why this church is hailed as Italy's finest example of the 14th-century transition from Gothic to Renaissance styles. Polychrome painting and gilding on the side altars "update" the older look of the rose window and deeply carved main altar, but the mix is harmonious. If you're energetic, climb to the 18th-century dome.

Address: Piazza Duomo 6, Como

Near the cathedral, two adjoining palaces house the museums of archaeology and history. The Museo Archeologico is filled with an exceptional collection of Neolithic and Roman artifacts unearthed in local excavations, offering glimpses into the lives of the earliest human inhabitants and the Romans who later settled here.

The Museo Storico Giuseppe Garibaldi features the decisive battle of the Risorgiamento (when Italy gained liberation from Austria) that took place in the hills overlooking Como. The former palazzo includes furnished period rooms and exhibits showing local traditions and history. Especially fine and well-displayed is the collection of handmade lace.

Address: Piazza Medaglie d'Oro 1, Como

It's worth the walk from the center to see this exceptional example of an early 11th-century basilica built in the Lombard Romanesque style. The tall, narrow interior seems more like the earliest Christian basilicas and is decorated in 13th-century Gothic fresco cycles, in quite good condition.

The church is the work of the 11 th -century master stoneworkers respected across medieval Europe as the M aestri Comacini -the Como Masters. You can see most of their intricate stone carving from the exterior of Sant'Abbondio in the Museo Civico, where it was taken to protect it from weather and environmental damage.

Address: Via Regina 35, Como

A funicular from the east end of the lakefront saves the steep climb up to the terrace settlement of Brunate, almost directly above Como. The views encompass the town and southern lake, backed by mountains. Climb higher to reach a terrace (with a conveniently placed café) looking to the north, across a different panorama of lake and mountain views.

Another monument to native son Alessandro Volta, the Volta Lighthouse , stands atop a hill, and when it's open you can climb to the top for even more sweeping views. A two-hour climb from Brunate brings you to the summit of Monte Boletto .

The prominent, white Neoclassical building on the lake is the Tempio Voltiano, a museum commemorating Alessandro Volta , the local resident whose name is given to the electric volt. His invention of the electric battery in 1800 created the first source of continuous electrical current. Built in 1927 to commemorate the centennial of Volta's death, the museum contains equipment used in his research.

Close to the temple is the beautiful and moving monument commemorating the victims of World War II and the resistance movement. Created by Milan sculptor Gianni Colombo, it incorporates stones from Nazi concentration camps and inscriptions of quotes from those who were victims of the Nazis.

The narrow and fjord-like Lake Como (Lago di Como in Italian) is 50 kilometers long and shaped like an inverted Y. But there is little of interest in the southeastern arm, and a ferry conveniently shuttles cars across from the eastern shore to Bellagio , the lake's most beautiful town, sitting at the point of the peninsula where the arms converge.

Como is no stranger to tourists, having been a favorite of upper-crust Romans, whose villas predated those of royalty, and Hollywood stars who have favored it more recently. The lake between its steep, wooded shores is beautiful enough, but on either side rise mountains, and to the north, the Alps, making the views even better.

You can tour the lake on a day excursion for the scenery, with a stop or two at towns. Or if you have a bit more time, you can see the major attractions around the lake by hopping on and off the frequent boats and ferries. To tour at leisure and on your own schedule, take two or three days and drive the 249-kilometer perimeter, crossing on the ferry between Varenna and Bellagio.

Regular boat services connect most towns from early spring through fall, but not all routes stop at the smaller towns. The frequent ferry (car and passenger) across the lake makes getting from Menaggio or Tremezzo , on the west shore, to Bellagio and Varenna easy. These are among the best places to visit on Lake Como.

Before setting out by boat, check the day's schedules carefully, so you'll know when the latest one returns and from what town. Summer hydrofoil service is fast, but don't expect to see anything en route.

Palatial Villa d'Este , built for an English queen and now a luxury hotel, sets a high standard for lake villas, with terraced gardens climbing the steep hill behind it. The rest of the town isn't quite so grand, but it has a nice holiday air, some chic shops (look especially for Como silks), and several outstanding Art Nouveau villas .

The most ornate of these is Villa Bernasconi , a short walk from the boat landing. The exterior is covered in intricate decorations representing mulberry leaves, silkworms, and other motifs related to silk production. The villa was built in the early 1900s for the leading silk manufacturer, Davide Bernasconi. Inside, an interactive museum tells the story of the house and those who lived there.

Il Giardino della Valle is a free botanical garden along a stream, with pools and sculptures. Cernobbio is the starting point for a narrow, winding road up 1,310-meter Monte Bisbino to a pilgrimage church and panoramic views.

On the lake shore underneath steep Monte Crocione, Lenno is best known for the villa and gardens that cover Punta di Balbianello , a long peninsula that curves out into the lake. The Baroque villa, built for an 18th-century Cardinal, is surrounded by terraced gardens, where lake views are framed by columns and balustrades.

The best way to get there is by boat from Lenno, or on certain days, you can walk the trail to the villa. You can see the interior, but only on guided hour-long tours, which fill quickly in busy tourist seasons. The highlight is the garden, though, so don't be too disappointed if you miss a house tour.

Address: Via Comoedia 5, Lenno

In Lake Como's mildest spot, the Tremezzina Riviera, foliage remains green all winter, so it's no wonder one of Italy's most famous gardens is here. Although the 18th-century palace of Villa Carlotta is filled with sculpture and paintings, most tourists come to see its fabulous hillside of gardens. At their best in May, when the camellias and 12-meter-tall banks of massed rhododendrons are in bloom, the gardens are filled with colorful flowers throughout the season.

Set in its own beautiful gardens that rise up the hillside through groves of rare trees to a scenic belvedere, the nearby luxury Grand Hotel Tremezzo has incomparable lake and mountain views.

Address: Via Regina 2, Tremezzo, Como

Official site: www.villacarlotta.it

The 13th-century Cluniac monastery of Piona surrounds the 11th-century church of San Nicola and its beautiful Romanesque cloister. This small enclosure is surrounded by delicate, graceful columns, each with a different stone capital carved in motifs that include plants and animals.

The cloister walls are covered in 14th- and 15th-century frescoes. In a shop near the gate, the Cistercian monks sell herbal lotions, honey, and candies made with products from the abbey gardens.

Address: Via Abbazia di Piona 57, Colico

A long flight of stone stairs leads down into the terraced gardens of Villa Monastero. The formal beds of native and exotic plants that stretch along the shore have their share of statues, colonnades, and miniature temples, but with a relaxed and unfussy air.

The villa is now a conference center, open for tours when it's not in use. The gardens are a short walk south of the town (where you should park, if driving), a charming cluster of pastel houses along steep streets. Look for the parish church, with a giant fresco of St. Christopher on its façade.

Address: Viale Giovanni Polvani, Varenna

Official site: www.villamonastero.eu

There's no question that Bellagio knows it's the prettiest town on the lake, with its setting on the long point where the lake's three arms meet. No matter which way you look, the views are superb and usually framed by gardens or carefully maintained buildings.

Pricey shops line its few streets, one of which is a long flight of stone stairs connecting the upper town with the boat landing. Two gardens, one stretching along the lake and the other high above town, are the main tourist attractions – apart from the picture-perfect town itself.

You can save some climbing and get a good overview of the town and lake on the Bellagio Express, a miniature tourist train. The 25-minute circuit includes panoramic views, and you can get off at various places, such as the Melzi Park.

The elegant Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni sits at the tip of the peninsula, overlooking the lake and mountains.

High above town, the terraced gardens are spread around the historic Villa Serbelloni, which was clearly built to maximize the views of Lake Como and the Alps beyond. The highlight of the gardens, which are carefully landscaped in the 19th-century Italianate style, are the rose gardens set in boxwood hedges.

The villa is not open to the public, but the park is open for 90-minute guided tours (except during bad weather), which you must reserve at the Promo Bellagio office in Piazza San Giacomo.

Address: Piazza della Chiesa 14, Bellagio

As the lake steamer approaches Bellagio, you'll see a swath of green bordering the shore. Those are the gardens of Villa Melzi d'Eril, and a favorite place to stroll. The perfectly landscaped terraces and gardens surrounding the villa are all original to their early-1800s design to frame lake views with cypresses and statues.

Highlights are the water garden, a neo-Moorish pavilion, and the Orangerie. Although the Neoclassical villa is not open to the public, there are often changing art exhibits in the Orangerie.

Address: Lungo Lario Manzoni, Bellagio

Official site: http://www.giardinidivillamelzi.it/GIARDINI_DI_VILLA_MELZI/HOME_PAGE_ENG.html

The town of Como, at the southern end of Lake Como, is an hour from Milan . You can get here by train, then board one of the regular boats that stop at towns around the lake. A convenient way to see both the town and lake from Milan is to take a tour with a professional guide who can point out the highlights.

• Full-Day Tour to Lake Como from Milan: A Lake Como Day Trip from Milan includes transport to Como by air-conditioned coach, a boat tour of Lake Como, free time for shopping in Como, and visits to the town's highlights. From April to October, tours include time to explore picturesque Bellagio, while tours from November through March include a funicular ride up to the village of Brunate for views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• Touring Lake Como and the Swiss Alps from Milan: Combine a visit to Lake Como with one of the world's great train rides and magnificent Alpine scenery, on the 12 ¾-hour Bernina Scenic Train & Lake Como tour . Travel along Como's eastern shore, stopping to visit Varenna, one of its prettiest little towns, then ride along the valley of the Adda River to Tirano, where you board the Bernina Express to travel over the spectacular Bernina Pass in Switzerland.
• Visiting Lake Como on Your Own: Two different train lines leave Milan for Como, arriving at different stations, both within walking distance of the boat landing for lake ferries. These boats have varying routes, some stopping at more towns than others, but all offer unparalleled views of the lake, lakeside towns and villas, and mountains. You can ride the whole circuit or hop off to explore or stay overnight in lakeside towns.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Italy's Lakes Region : To see more lake scenery, and several more of the most beautiful gardens in Italy , travel west to visit the attractions of Lake Maggiore . Between the two larger lakes is lovely Lake Lugano, which you can explore in the Swiss Ticino region .

Where to Go from Lake Como: Lake Como is within easy reach of many of the best places to visit in Italy. The Duomo and other top attractions in Milan are a short train ride away, and from here, you can take a direct train to visit romantic Verona , perhaps stopping to explore the towns around Lake Garda .

More on Italy

Only Lake Como Itinerary You’ll Need for 2024: An Expert’s Guide

March 18, 2024

Paula Martinelli

Wondering how to plan a perfect Lake Como itinerary?

This Lake Como Itinerary is perfect for anyone visiting from 1 to 3 days itinerary. It will take you to the best of this idyllic destination in Northern Italy’s Lombardy region, with a shimmering blue lake sitting at the base of the Alps.

Trust me, I have been to Italy many times and have always traveled there on my own. Plus, my grandparents are from Italy so I like to go back every chance I get. And out of all of the amazing places in Italy, Lake Como has a special place in my heart. Therefore, I can’t wait to introduce you to my itinerary for Lake Como so that you can fall in love with this place just like I did.

This Lake Como itinerary is not your typical guide. It is packed with insider tips that will help you to make your experience as memorable as mine. Here you will find the best ways to get to Como, the best places to stay in Lake Como , how to get around, and much more useful information . So, without any further ado, let’s discover the very best of Lake Como with this awesome itinerary.

You may also love these articles ❤️ :

• 11 Amazing Lake Como Boat Tours to Take in 2022
• How to Travel from Milan to Lake Como
• Breathtaking Italy Coastal Towns That Will Blow Your Mind!

Day 3 Lake Como itinerary: Explore Menaggio & Tremezzo

📍what else…, do i need a car in lake como.

Read More: 11 Most Amazing Boat Tours in Lake Como

Lake Como Italy Itinerary Overview

Before you jump into this amazing Lake Como Italy Itinerary and vist this amazing Italian landmark , let’s talk about trip planning and make sure you are prepared for the best experience. I highly recommend coming to Lake Como with a well-defined Lake Como itinerary with the top things you want to visit, see and do, in order to maximize your time here. Yeah, it’s the same for most major cities in Italy, like Rome .

The good news is that if you are short on time, you can visit Lake Como in as short a trip from Milan , or if you have more time, I recommend at least 3 days in Lake Como to get the best out of your trip. However, I understand if you can only manage to spend 2 days in Lake Como.

Make sure you choose accommodation in a good area , where you can easily walk around and explore the main attractions. Making your reservations in advance is also part of a well-planned visit, as Lake Como is a popular destination and it may be hard to find last-minute accommodations.

Lastly, I recommend  booking your tickets to attractions in advance , such as a boat tour of Lake Como , as the city is very busy throughout the year. The advantage of a guided tour is that you will spend a short time in line, and with a local guide, you will learn and appreciate Lake Como’s history better.

BEST GUIDED TOURS

Private helicopter tour (⭐️ 4.8/5) Lake Como Highlights  (⭐️ 5/5) Private Boat Tour  (⭐️ 5/5) Lake Como Day Trip From Milan  (⭐️ 4.8/5)

MY TOP PICK FOR YOU

🌟   My Top Tip: Private Lake Como Tour (⭐️ 5/5) 🍕 Food Tour: Lake Como Food Tour (⭐️ 4.7/5) 🍷 Wine Tour: Domaso Wine Tasting  (⭐️ 5/5) ✈️ Transfer: Private transfer from Milan Airport (⭐️ 5/5)

How To Get To Lake Como

For centuries, Lake Como has been a glamorous resort for the rich and famous, but catching a glimpse of your celebrity should be the least attractive thing in Italy’s most famous lake. The lake itself is shaped like an inverted ‘Y’ and comprises picturesque little towns set against imposing mountains, rolling hills, and dramatic natural scenery.

The easiest way to get to Lake Como is from Milan. The southern shore of Lake Como is about 51 km (32 miles) from Milan, and the journey is usually a 40-minute train ride. To get to Lake Como from Milan , take a train from Milano Centrale to either Varenna-Esino or Como San Giovanni. The trains run every hour, check the schedule and tickets here .

This isn’t the only option available, there are other options, such as taking the bus or renting a car to make the drive yourself. Or you can hire a private driver or go on a day trip tour from Milan . Just be sure to find a way to make even a one-day Lake Como itinerary happen since this place is absolutely stunning.

🚊 BY TRAIN:  The easiest way to get to Lake Como is from Milan. The southern shore of Lake Como is about 32 miles (52 km) from Milan, and the journey is usually a 40-minute train ride. To get to Lake Como from Milan , take a train from Milano Centrale to either Varenna-Esino or Como San Giovanni. The trains run every hour, check the schedule and tickets here .

🚌  BY BUS:  Another option is to get to Lake Como by bus. The good news is that this is a budget-friendly option, with the ticket costing around 5 USD. Normally the bus is direct and will take you to the S. Giovanni Bus Station located in Como.

🚖  BY PRIVATE DRIVER:  Hiring a private driver is a great option to visit Como. You can enjoy the comfort and convenience of a private luxury vehicle with a driver at your disposal for the whole tour, with a local and private guide.

🚗  BY RENTAL CAR:  If you are driving from Milan, it will take you only around 1 hour to get to Lake Como around one hour to get to Como. When choosing a car rental online, my number one pick is always Discover Cars . I personally use them and love them since they meticulously search through local and international companies to get you the best deal every time.

Read More: How to get from Milan to Lake Como

Lake Como Itinerary: 1-3 Days in Lake Como

Day 1 lake como itinerary: explore the best of como.

Take your first day on this Lake Como itinerary to explore its biggest town. Como is a magnificent city known for its Gothic Cathedral, lakefront promenades, delightful streets, stunning mountain views, scenic funicular rides, and amazing piazzas.

The Piazza Cavour is the town square with many restaurants and cafés, Piazza San Fedele was originally a wheat market and hosts the beautiful 12th-century Romanesque church; Basilica di San Fedele. If you are visiting Lake Como for the first time, I recommend finding accommodation here .

You can also start your day with a delicious brunch at Babi Como. It’s a great place to begin a day in Lake Como since this epic eatery is located right in the center of town. Plus, it is brimming over with incredible, pastel-pink decor that makes it an epic place for photos.

However, aside from the ambiance, the food is also delicious. In particular, the margaritas and Eggs Benedict are top-notch. Plus, this restaurant is super kid-friendly and they take cards too. After brunch, there is so much to do and see in Como. So, here are some attractions you don’t want to miss:

1. Marvel at the Como Cathedral

⏰ Opening Hours: Mon-Fri from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm

📸 How to Visit it: Free to visit | The Como Cathedral is located near Lake Como, within the magnificent setting of Piazza Duomo.

The Como Cathedral is one of the most magnificent buildings to behold on the entire Lake Como. This 14th-century Roman architecture is nothing short of awe-inspiring and spectacular. The cathedral is from 1396 and it took almost 400 years to build it! Besides its age, this cathedral is in excellent condition, and it is a great place to start your Lake Como Itinerary.

The Catholic Cathedral is an exotic structure with stunning gothic designs, a tour of this impressive Cathedral will most certainly leave you in awe. Pay attention to the mosaic artwork on the ceilings and the stunning stainless glass windows. Most of the sculptures on the façade are made in the Gothic style , but some of them have Renaissance features.

2. Stroll through the Piazza del Duomo and Broletto

After visiting the cathedral, spend some time exploring the Piazza del Duomo. A stroll through the beautiful streets of Como city and a tour of the Cathedral wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the remarkable trade center; Piazza del Duomo.

And just by the Cathedral and the Bell Tower is the ancient Broletto , an old town hall that was once used for hosting public assemblies. It was built in the Gothic-Romanesque and Renaissance style, while elements of the façade date back to the fifteenth century. When I visited it, the streets were nearly empty, offering an excellent opportunity to admire the buildings, and take pictures.

3. Explore Villa Olmo

⏰ Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 10 am to 6 pm and gardens open daily from 7 am to 7 pm

📸 How to Visit it: Free admission except for temporary exhibitions and events – Visit this site for more details

A 10-minute walk from the Piazza will take you right to the historic Villa Olmo and its brightly colored gardens. The Villa Olmo is one of the most impressive villas in Lake Como, with an exotic structure that dates back to the 1780s. Nowadays, Villa Olmo is home to a museum with exhibitions, gardens that are open daily for visitors, plus a pool and café.

This was one of my favorite places to visit in Lake Como, and should definitely be on your Lake Como itinerary. And if you like photography, you can spend a couple of hours exploring and taking great photos.

4. Visit the Museum of Silk

⏰ Opening Hours: from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Closed on Mondays.

📸 How to Visit it: € 10.00 – Check this website for ticket

If you love history and don’t mind learning something new, then you should totally visit the museum of silk. Here you will learn about the amazing history of Como’s silk industry and the various stages of silk-making; from silkworms to heritage looms and clothing samples.

The Silk Museum opened in 1990, to preserve, while there was still the opportunity, a true account of the history of the silk industry in Como. It is a tangible sign of the continuity, from past to present, of an industry that use to operate an absolute worldwide monopoly.

5. Ride the Como-Brunate Funicular

⏰ Opening Hours: April to September, Mon-Sun, 08:00 – 00:00 | Sep-Apr 14, Mon-Sun, 08:00 – 22:30

📸 How to Visit it: € 2.80 – Check this website for tickets

End your tour of the town with a scenic 7-minute funicular ride up to the mountain town of Brunate. This ride will take you up 700 m (2,300 ft.) above sea level, with jaw-dropping views of gorgeous landscapes, the experience is exhilarating. 

Brunate is also the ideal starting point for pleasant walks amidst greenery. From this viewpoint, you can see the outline of the historic center, the ancient Roman castrum, and a view over the Alps and the Brianza plain. You can combine the Brunate Funicular with Villa Olmo with this tour.

6. Optional: The Life Electric Monument

If you have time, add the Life Electric Monument to this Lake Como in a day itinerary. It’s easily one of the most unusual things to do in Lake Como and is a quirky sculpture, by Daniel Libeskind, that was finished in 2015.

It won’t take you too long to visit since you’re just having a look. But, it’s a great place for some photos as you gaze out onto the water.

It’s also a contemporary piece of art that was created as a gift to Como by the artist. So, stop by during your Lake Como 3 days itinerary and see if you can figure out the real meaning behind this statue of two sine waves facing one another.

Read More: The most beautiful towns in Tuscany

DAY 2 Lake Como itinerary: Visit Bellagio & Varenna

The second day of your 3-day Lake Como Itinerary will probably be the busiest, and I am giving you excellent details of some of the most fantastic places to visit in Lake Como. But it is also, one of the most popular destinations in Lake Como – so I recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds.

I suggest that you start your day 2 with a boat tour of the astounding Lake Como . The best place to begin your boat tour is at Bellagio, and prepare to momentarily lose your breath during the tour. The views are splendid! If you are planning to stay in Bellagio, I recommend reading this article about the top accommodations.

1. Stop at Bellagio

Your next stop should be the beautiful and compact town of Bellagio. This town is small and studded with delightful cobblestoned streets, colorful houses, lovely little shops and restaurants, and wonderful views of the lake.

Bellagio can be visited in half day, and while you’re there, here are my suggestions of what to do:

3. Wander the streets of Bellagio

📸 How to Visit it: One of the best spots to visit to get the best views of the Lake is the streets of Salita Serbelloni and Salita Antonia Mella.

Bellagio is known for its narrow pedestrian-only streets, which are perfect for casual strolls and aimless wandering. Via Giuseppe Garibald i is the only main road in Bellagio, with very colorful buildings and dozens of shops to explore.

4 . Visit the Basilica di San Giacomo

⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily | Sunday mass 8:00 am and 11:30 am

📸 How to Visit it: The basilica is free to visit, but any donation is welcome

At the heart of the town, you will find the picture-perfect Piazza del Chiesa which houses the Basilica of San Giacomo, a historic Roman Catholic Church dating back to the 12th century. The rest of the structure has undergone numerous restorations, especially during the 18th century.

Marvel at the gorgeous interior of the Basilica, with rich decoration and amazing brick exposed everywhere. Inside are valuable works including a painting of the Deposition, attributed to Perugino, a large statue of the Dead Christ, of Spanish workmanship, and a fine triptych depicting the Virgin Mary with Saints Roche and Sebastian

5 . Admire the beautiful Villas in Bellagio

⏰ Opening Hours: Gardens are open for visitors daily from 10 am to 7 pm

📸 How to Visit it: Villa Melzi Gardens € 6.50 – Check ticket here | Villa Serbelloni € 10 – Check tickets here

Villa Melzi Gardens and Villa Serbelloni are two elegant structures you wouldn’t want to miss.

Villa Serbelloni is a stunning 15th-century luxury hotel, you can gape at the exterior or book a tour and walk through the 50 acres of park and garden. From the park, you can enjoy  unique views  of Bellagio and discover the fascinating history that lies behind this almost magical place. We are sure that it will conquer you with all its paths immersed in vegetation and embellished with terraces and statues

Villa Melzi is a historic property with an exotic garden that is open to the public. Take a refreshing walk through the garden and appreciate the colorful flowers. It is famous for its surrounding gardens, containing a variety of botanical specimens from around the world interspersed with statues, promenades, and period architecture

6. Visit Pescallo

⏰ Opening Hours: By now you should be hungry, and I recommend the La Punta restaurant for lunch.

📸 How to Visit it: Free admission

After reveling in the beauty of Bellagio, take a short 10 to 15 minutes walk through a stepped pathway from the Bellagio town hall, and you’ll find yourself in Pescallo; a picturesque fishing village, overlooking the Lecco branch of Lake Como.

Here you will be rewarded with charming lakeside views and a quaint atmosphere. Arriving in Pescallo will be enchanted by this ancient little hamlet nestled between the green and the lake, rich in many romantic spots to be discovered that offer the visitor wonderful views.

7 . Stop At Varenna

After Bellagio, your next stop should be the splendid town of Varenna. It is only a 14-minute ferry ride from Bellagio, it’s a pretty lakeside village with many ancient structures to discover. Once in Varenna, here are some interesting things to do:

8 . Tour the town center of Varenna

Piazza San Giorgio is the town center and home to a magnificent 13th-century Romanesque and Gothic-style church, the Church of San Giorgio . The church was built on a small temple dating back to the 12th century and reworked in later periods, it was rediscovered after several restorations in the second half of the 20th century as an example of  Lombard medieval architecture .

When you visit the interior you will notice that the church is preserved with some frescoes dating from the thirteenth century. The floor is made of Varena’s black marble, just stunning!

Just opposite that, you will find the San Giovanni Battista , a smaller and much older church. San Giovanni Battista is the first church built in Varenna and one of the oldest in Lake Como, dating back to the 11th century.

9 . Visit the Villa Monastero

⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:30 am – 8 pm in summertime | 10 am – 5 pm in low season

📸 How to Visit it: € 10.40 – Check tickets here

Villa Monastero is a stunning lakeside complex that dates back to the 12th century and was originally used as a Cistercian convent. The property is surrounded by an enchanting botanical garden worth visiting. Within the villa is a historic house museum displaying historic furnishings from four centuries.

During summertime, the Villa Monastero opens every day from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm, and during wintertime from 10 am to 5 pm. You can buy the tickets to visit the Villa or combine them with the Botanic Gardens too. Tickets for the Botanic Garden and the House Museum can be purchased online.

10 . Wander the gardens of Villa Cipressi

⏰ Opening Hours: The garden opens every day from 9 am to 7 pm

📸 How to Visit it: € 8 to visit Villa Cipressi Gardens and € 15 to visit Villa Cipressi + Villa Monastero combo.

A visit to the stunning hotel Villa Cipressi should follow your amazing experience at the Villa Monastero. Villa Cipressi literally means “house of cypresses” and it’s named so because of the beautiful ancient cypress trees in the garden. The entire villa is surrounded by a magical terraced garden, which is fortunately open for public tours.

The Villa Cipressi enchants visitors with its botanical gardens overlooking Lake Como. The entire building is actually nestled in a large green space right alongside the shores of the lake itself. You can buy a ticket to visit the gardens or you can buy a ticket to visit both, Villa Cipressi and Villa Monastero combined .

11. Walk the lovers’ promenade

The charming lakeside promenade with the suggestive name “Walk of Lovers” is very popular among visitors and for good reasons. It’s a scenic boardwalk built over the lake, with the shimmering waters of Lake Como to the left and rocky walls and a beautiful garden to the right.

It is a short pedestrian path that leads from the wharf of Varenna to the center of the village; a footbridge of a few hundred meters jutting out onto the water from which it is possible to admire the lake, the mountains, and the stunning colorful houses perched at the foot of the rocky wall.

12. Hike to the Castello di Vezio

⏰ Opening Hours: Castle is open daily from Mar-Nov 10:00 – 18:00

📸 How to Visit it: € 4.00 

The Medieval Castle of Castello di Vezio is in a strategic location with incredible vistas of the expansive lake up to the Alps. The beautiful hike to the castle is certainly worth it and rewards you with the best views of this Lake Como Itinerary. The castle dates back to the 11th century and is an important historic site.

Explore the castle is something you don’t want to miss during your Lake Como itinerary. It is considered one of the most beautiful hikes in Italy , offering amazing opportunities for some impressive shots and relaxation at the hilltop café. The hike is not long and it can be done in only 30 minutes, with approximately 1 mile long only and it has signs clearly marked along the trail.

If you decide to visit the Thousand years old castle, make sure you look for the impressive handmade ghost statues that surround the castle.

13. Stop at Orrido di Bellano

⏰ Opening Hours: Summertime is open daily from 10:00 am to 7 pm

📸 How to Visit it: € 3.00  per person and you can buy your ticket online .

Orrido di Bellano is a hidden gem natural canyon with an old suspension bridge and a turquoise river flowing below. The scenic walk along a suspended walkway with the thunderous sound of the waterfall below is certainly worth it. From Varenna to Bellano is a 5-minute train, ferry, or taxi ride.

This incredible natural gorge was created 15 million years ago by the erosion of the River Pioverna and the Adda glacier which, over the centuries, have shaped the rock into gigantic potholes, dark ravines, and suggestive caves.

If you are planning to have dinner in Varena I recommend the Bar Il Molo , for breath-taking views overlooking the landscapes of Lake Como.

14. Optional Stop at Nesso

If you have extra time during your three days in Lake Como itinerary, you could visit Nesso which is an amazing local waterfall. It’s well-located near Bellagio and is about a 36-minute drive away.

Just note that if you are using Google to find this spot then you might drive right past it since it is mislabeled. So, be on the lookout for signage that says “Orrido di Nesso” as you approach the area. This cute little place should be right near the road.

There is also very limited parking so leave your car a bit far away and be prepared for a walk to the waterfall. However, if it’s easier you could just take a boat from Lecco directly to Nesso during your itinerary for Lake Como.

Upon arrival, follow signs that will have you descend a set of rocky stairs that will lead to a swimming area where locals like to relax. Be forewarned that that water is cold, even in warmer months. So, definitely bring a towel to help you warm up.

On the third and last day of your Lake Como 3-day Itinerary, I recommend that you take some time to explore Menaggio and Tremezzo . Make sure you book a boat tour in advance – you have the option to go on a private or group tour.

Menaggio is an awesome historic lakeside town in Lake Como, it’s one of the largest on the western shore of the lake. This beautiful town is best known for its quaint square and elegant lake promenade. If you are staying in Menaggio, don’t forget to check the best accommodations here . Here’s a list of what to do:

1. Wander through Via Calvi and Visit the Church of Santa Marta

Start your tour from Via Calvi and admire the small shops and boutiques along the street.

Continue your stroll to the Church of Santa Marta , an ancient church that was renovated in the 19th century. Take your time to admire the interior of the church and the ancient paintings. Even if this church has so much history, it was rebuilt 100 years ago, and you still can find many historical remnants of the church.

2. Visit the town center in Menaggio

Your next stop should be at the town center, Piazza Garibaldi. Enjoy the serene atmosphere with beautiful views of the lake. The Piazza has gorgeous stonework on the ground, and it is worth it to admire it while you walk around.

The piazza is surrounded by shops and eateries where you can grab a coffee or ice cream while soaking in the beautiful views of the lake. If you have time, stop for some fresh coffee at the Cafe Del Press.

3. Chill at Lake Promenade

From the Piazza Garibaldi, proceed to the elegant lakeside promenade . This beautiful walkway is flanked by gorgeous flowers, lush green trees, and pastel-colored houses. Enjoy the amazing scenery and the soothing sounds of the lake. 

Take your time and chill around the Lake, while you enjoy the gorgeous waterfront views before you continue your busy Lake Como 3-day itinerary.

4. Walk through the Mennagio Medieval Town

Next, head up to the medieval part of the town. This part of Menaggio is higher up in the hills, and you will have to follow a stepped path and walk through narrow alleys and ancient buildings.

Taking a walk through the old town of Menaggio is akin to taking a walk back in time. Finally, follow Via Strecium to take a walk over the Senagra Stream and enjoy the sound of the cascading waterfall below.

5. Stop At Tremezzo

Continuing your Lake Itinerary, the next stop is Tremezzo. It is only a 9-minute bus ride from Menaggio. Or you can take a ferry departing from Menaggio and arriving at Tremezzo, with services that depart hourly, and operate every day. The journey takes approximately 50 min. Or you can hire a private taxi boat to take you.

Tremezzo is a beautiful lakeside town known for its historic villas, the medieval Tower of Rogaro , and awesome views of the lake. Here’s what to do in Tremezzo:

6. Visit the famous Villa Carlotta

⏰ Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 7 pm

📸 How to Visit it: € 12.00 and you can check here for tickets

Villa Carlota is one of the most popular places to visit during a Lake Como itinerary, and for a reason!

The Villa is a magnificent property with very gorgeous and expansive gardens. This property dates back to the 17th century and was originally built as a neoclassical villa. A walk through the gardens will leave up in awe of the amazing beauty of nature. But don’t stop there, get inside the villa to wow at the collection of arts and masterpieces, and do a complete tour of the museum.

7. Stop for a cocktail at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo

The Grand Hotel Tremezzo is only a 4-minute walk from Villa Carlota and it is a great place to admire the views and to enjoy a cocktail at the T Bar – I recommend a Spritz here. This iconic hotel features a floating swimming pool.

8. Tour the Villa Balbianello

⏰ Opening Hours: Opens daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

📸 How to Visit it: Make sure you don’t miss your ferry – the last one departs at 6:40 p.m. You can check the

Villa Balbianello is a famous villa that has appeared in many great movies, including Star Wars and Casino Royale. This property is surrounded only by nature, a lush manicured garden, and a brilliant lake. You should definitely request a guided tour and discover all the intricacies of the villa.

To visit  Villa del Balbianello , you have to take the ferry to Lenno; then you can reach the Villa in just about 15 minutes by walking, or by a taxi boat .

Best Places to Stay in Lake Como

Here is the best overview of the best places to stay for your Lake Como Itinerary! I also recommend you to read my complete article on the 5 Best Villages + Hotel Review in Lake Como for a complete guide to help you choose the perfect destination and accommodation for you!

Lake Como is shaped like an inverted ‘Y’ and comprises picturesque little towns set against imposing mountains, rolling hills, and dramatic natural scenery. If you are wondering where is the best place to stay in Lake Como, you cannot go wrong choosing one of the 4 towns: Como, Bellagio, Varenna, or Tremezzo.

You can also choose any of the smaller villages around the lake, but keep in mind that you would need to rent a car to get around during your Lake Como itinerary. I have selected the best hotel options, all with great locations, and very high ratings and that fit all budgets: 

GREAT VALUE: Ostello Bello Lake Como

⭐️  Rating:  9.1/10 (2,427 Reviews) |  Details:   Read more on booking.com now!

If you are looking for great value accommodation, Ostello Bello Lake Como is a great option. Every room is fitted with a private bathroom and shower and free Wi-Fi. Excellent location, close to the Ferry Terminal, and the Cable Car.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL:  Hotel Villa Flori

⭐️  Rating:  8.7/10 (1,476 Reviews) |  Details:   Read more on booking.com now!

This restored 19th-century villa is set on the western shores with amazing views of Lake Como. It offers elegant rooms and a private park and you will love the Venetian stucco work and frescos.

BEST RATED: Como Lake Suits

⭐️  Rating:  9.2/10 (242 Reviews) |  Details:   Read more on booking.com now!

This hotel has an excellent location with the best views. Very close to the Broletto and the Como Cathedral, the apartments have a balcony with lake views, a seating area, a satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and free bikes so you can easily explore Lake Como.

TOP LUXURY: Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como

⭐️  Rating:  8.9/10 (308Reviews) |  Details:   Read more on booking.com now!

Now if you are looking for luxury, you cannot go wrong with the Mandarin Oriental. The rooms are elegantly decorated with 2 stand-alone villas, in Blevio. With a fine restaurant, free indoor and outdoor pools, free parking, and vast gardens. The wellness center includes 2 massage rooms and 2 private Spas.

Read More: The 20 Best Hotels to Stay in Lake Como: 2023 Review

What are the best tows to visit during your Lake Como Itinerary?

Lake Como is the third largest lake in the country and one of the top Landmarks in Italy to add to your bucket list. It is very easy to visit from a short 1-hour trip from Milan or Malpensa Airport.

It is an easy 10-minute downhill walk from the train station to the boat dock. It is also the best place to stay in Lake Como if you are planning to visit the other villages around the lake, and the boats and ferries operate all year long, with departures from Como to the parts of the Lake. Como is a magnificent city known for its Gothic Cathedral, lakefront promenades, delightful streets, stunning mountain views, scenic funicular rides, and amazing piazzas.

Bellagio is considered the “Pearl of Lake Como” and it is probably the most famous town in Lake Como. Bellagio is located at a picturesque junction where the Y-shaped lake divides into two branches. It is a quiet and small town that can be visited in only a few hours. Some boat tours stop here for a quick visit, while others will only pass through this village.

Varenna is a picturesque and traditional village, located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Italy, and it is an essential stop for anyone wishing to visit one of the most   typical and quiet towns on the lake.

Tremezzo is the best Region in Lake Como for families. This beautiful small town is centrally located in Lake Como. It sits on the western shores of the lake, across from Bellagio and just south of Menaggio, and is most well-known for its stunning waterfront and splendid botanical garden.

Many people consider the steep hillside village of Varenna to be the most heavenly of all the towns on Lake Como, preferring the charming fisherman’s houses to the showier villas and grandeur of neighbors like Bellagio

Menaggio is a town with very ancient origins and in its historical center, characterized by a beautiful central square and a splendid lakeside promenade, there is no lack of important artistic heritage, all to be discovered.

This is a great place to spend your time, all within one of the most charming towns of Lake Como. The beach is suitable for the whole family, with   two swimming pools and some games for children.

If you are looking for some hidden gems around Lake Como, you can also visit some uninhabited areas like Isola Comacina or meander down the Adda River which branches off south from Lecco.

In this area, the number of tourists drops off substantially, and you will be able to explore these areas without having to share with the crowds, but make sure you hire a private Lake Como boat tour if are planning a visit.

How to Get Around Lake Como

To get the best experience during your Lake Como 3-day itinerary, you should be able to easily get around without any confusion. And in this section, I discussed all the different ways to move from town to town , discovering all the towns and the treasure they hold. Lake Como has both private and public transportation services, including boats, buses, ferries, and trains. Check here for the best Lake Como boat tour options.

Best Tour Options for your Lake Como Trip

Below are my recommended best tours to take in Lake Como. You can also check here for the top Lake Como Boat Tours for all preferences and budgets, where I explain in detail all the top tours, what they include and what is the best fit for you.

Private Helicopter Tour Over Lake Como

This private helicopter tour over Lake Como will take you on a journey to see the gorgeous gardens and villas and provide the opportunity to see the ” Y” shape of the magnificent Lake Como.

Private Boat Tour on the Lake Como

This Private Boat Tour includes one hour on an elegant private boat experience around Lake Como, villas, and towns. Bring your group or family, and this tour can customize the itinerary to include the sites you prefer to see.

Lake Como Highlights: Villa Balbianello & Bellagio

Rated as a five-star tour, this private tour around the Lake Como Highlights will take you to the postcard-perfect villages. The whole tour takes approx. 8 hours and you will see the best of Lake Como with a local, friendly, and knowledgeable guide.

What to Pack for your Lake Como Italy Itinerary

I visited Lake Como in July, and it is hot during summertime. If you are also visiting during the hot months, think about light clothes and comfortable shoes to walk and explore during the day. Leave your pair of high heels at home, as the villages are hilly, and you won’t need them.

Don’t forget your sunblock , and sunglasses and consider a hat too. If you are planning to go on a boat tour at Lake Como , bring your bathing suit 😉

For the evening, especially if you are planning to have dinner at one of the nice restaurants, you can think about a comfortable summer dress and sandals . Or if you are not into dresses, a pair of jeans and a nice top and a nice pair of sandals .

The climate can be mild in Lake Como, because of its location close to the Alps, so consider bringing a pashmina for the evening.

Lake Como Itinerary Frequent Asked Questions

How many days do you need in como lake.

You need at least 3 or 4 days for your Lake Como itinerary. After all, Lake Como is extremely picturesque, with many small towns that you’ll want to take time to explore.

Is 3 days itinerary too long for Lake Como?

No, 3 days is not too long for Lake Como. There are plenty of amazing things to do in Lake Como that could easily occupy you for a week or more as you enjoy Northern Italy. So, if you have the time then definitely enjoy a longer Lake Como Italy itinerary.

What is the best month to visit Lake Como?

The best month to visit Lake Como is any time between April and October. This is when the weather is nice and pleasant, making it the perfect time to get out on the lake or go for a swim (at least in the summer).

You can definitely visit Lake Como without a car since there are plenty of boats that will take you to a wide variety of towns. However, having a car is nice since you have the freedom to come and go as you please.

However, if you do rent a car please be aware that driving during your Lake Como itinerary can be tricky and that parking can be extremely limited. Also, check to see if your hotel offers parking before booking your room. Otherwise, you’ll have nowhere to put your car.

Lake Como Itinerary Conclusion

Lake Como is so unique, and after many trips to Italy, I finally got the chance to visit it – and guess what? it didn’t disappoint me. With incredible views, stunning architecture, and lots of history to explore, Lake Como is a must-visit in Italy.

Ideally, you will plan a Lake Como Itinerary for 2 days or even add more days, to get the most out of your Lake Como trip.

I hope you enjoyed this Lake Como Itinerary and that this helps you to plan your visit. If you have any further questions, just leave me a comment below and I will be happy to answer.

If you are planning to visit Italy, you may also enjoy reading the following:

• Best Hikes In Italy + Insider Tips
• Best Places To Stay In Tuscany
• Where To Stay In Florence, Italy
• Epic Florence 3-day itinerary
• Renting a Car in Tuscany: Everything You Need to Know
• 2-Day Itinerary Venice: Expert’s Guide
• How to Travel From Rome to Tuscany by Day Trip, Car, Bus & Train!
• 90+ Inspiring Quotes about Tuscany (Sharable Images)

Follow + Share

If you found this guide useful, follow me on Instagram to stay up to date with my travels & Subscribe to my YouTube Channel to keep you with my workout videos.

I would love it if you could follow me on Pinterest and share this guide on my social media.

Plan your Trip

You can plan your trip with  this easy guide  and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices.

Where to Stay in Florence Italy: 24 Amazing Spots to Enjoy in 2023

Milan for 2 days: An Expert’s Incredible Guide for 2023 and Beyond

Is Renting a Car in Tuscany Worth It in 2024?

7 thoughts on “only lake como itinerary you’ll need for 2024: an expert’s guide”.

Lake Como looks so beautiful & I’d especially like to visit Tremezzo. It looks like such a pretty historic village! Thanks so much for sharing!

Lake Como is such a dreamy place.

Wow this looks stunning! I haven’t been to Italy in over a decade and I hope to change that soon. So many gorgeous places like this there!

There are so many fantastic things to see and do here, I think I’d like to stay three or more days to explore it all. This is going to be a great guide to use when I eventually visit Lake Como!

Your posts are always so insightful and the photography is on point! I’ve been dying to get to Lake Como forever, so I will definitely keep your advice in mind. Also, Tremezzo is definitely calling to me!

Hello, I’m curious if there is a high-speed train from Milan to Como and then a high-speed ferry from Como to Bellagio. If yes, what is the best way to book or navigate that journey as we are looking for the fastest trip to Bellagio for a day from Milan? Thank you for your information.

Hello Andrea – I have a complete article on how to travel from Milan to Lake Como and here you can also find information on the high speed ferry to Bellagio – https://www.paulapinstheplanet.com/train-from-milan-to-lake-como/ – You will find all you need to know for your one day trip from Milan to Bellagio. Have a safe trip 😉

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Bed & Breakfasts
• Farm Holiday
• Other Accommodations
• Restaurants
• Music & Art
• Other Tastes
• Tourist Guides
• Food & Wine
• Enjoy our Destinations

Ambassadors

Lake Como – a World within a World!

Lake Como  is a destination with a pure beauty, a marvelous nature and breath-taking views, from where you can walk, relax, discover the peace and enjoy the calm of an holiday.

Because we wish to see all of you here on Lake Como, a world within a World.

The upcoming events around Lake Como

START FROM THE DISCOVERY OF OUR DESTINATIONS

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Live Lake Como Experience

Privacy Overview

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 .

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

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!

VisitComo.eu

In evidenza

Coronavirus: how to visit Como and its Lake

All useful information to better organize your holiday

Construction of the Tremezzina bypass

SS340 Regina has reopened

Como in 24 hours

A day to explore the city

Como City of Crafts & Folk Art

Como joins UNESCO Creative Cities Network

Como in 48 hours

Two days to explore the city and the lake

Lake Como Event Calendar

Find the best events around Lake Como

Don't let your guard down!

To travellers entering Italy

UFirst service: get in line remotely for the public boat service ticketing

At the Como Piazza Cavour ticket office

Como’s museums, from ancient times to thematic exhibitions

A new service provided by Navigazione Lago di Como

Ticket on line is now available

Itineraries in town

History, culture, architecture. A simple and easy way to wander around and discover Como

Lake Como seen by Yann Arthus-Bertrand

Aerial video that shows Como and Lake Como in a new light

Como in time lapse

Exploring the relationship between Como and its lights. A video by Giuseppe Sigrisi

Como city Map

Download Como city map

The beauty of Lake Como: its villas, beaches, treasures and gardens. Boat trips to discover the lake

Cult City inLombardia

11 Cities of art. 110 Masterpieces. Twelve months of events. Experience something extraordinary

Apps and technology services to visit and enjoy Como

Discovering Lake Como on two wheels // Cycling, MTB and more

THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE LAKE COMO

Lake como travel.

• https://www.facebook.com/timelesstravelsteps/
• https://twitter.com/timelestravstps

Ultimate Travel Guide Lake Como

“ …charms of a life of love so natural… “

Away from the intensity of Milan and only minutes away from Switzerland is Lake Como, or Lago di Como in Italian, an exclusive beauty of natural wonder. Affectionately known as “Lario”, to the locals, this scenic lake is the deepest glacial lake and the third largest in Italy, after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore.

Swaddled in hazy atmosphere, crisp breeze along with snowcapped Alps and lush green valleys, this wondrous area in the gorgeous region of Lombardy in northern Italy is a perfect destination for relaxing and active holidaymakers. This article about the Ultimate Travel Guide to Lake Como is exactly what you need before packing your bags and boarding that flight to the Italian Lakes.

In this guide, you have an overview of this splendid region and its people . This is followed by detailed experience based guides curated with fervour to support you in discovering the best of Lake Como region, Italy.

LAKE COMO: A PLACE OF LUXURIOUS RETREAT AND TRANQUIL BEAUTY

The old fishermen houses in a multitude of hues rises straight up from the shores while seductive overgrown vines in centuries old grand villas tumble into the peaceful and skyline-silver waters. The shore, aged with grace has taken on all weather that this part of northern Italy has thrown at it. In the midst of dreamy views of bobbing boats, there is an air of endearing playfulness here that seduces you to slow-down and simply get lost in the tranquility and mesmerising serenity of the centuries old charm . You can’t help but fall in love with its captivating allure.

The tranquil beauty of this upscale resort was well-captured by the Hungarian composer and writer, Franz Liszt who described Lake Como as:

“I do not know of any place which is more demonstrably blessed by heaven; I have never seen another one where the charms of a life of love can appear more natural”

Liszt wasn’t the only one who thought so. Lake Como has inspired residents from its very first settlers all those centuries ago to the Romans who turned it to be an aristocratic romantic resort for their elite.

Not much has changed since. The preserved medieval villages dotted along the shores, tucked into the base of the craggy mountains exude a romantic charm unlike any other, displaying an authentic version of its historical roots. Lazy cafes and hole-in-the-wall shops in the hills, accessed only by stone-stairs draw you to their somewhat laid-back culture. Every narrow alley, every gelato-coloured house framed with wrought-iron balconies and wisteria ache with stories to tell. A tour of the lake’s perimeter, an enchanting experience tells more of this region’s rich historic past. Lake Como still is a much-sought after luxurious retreat for both the famed and everyday travellers.

The information in this ultimate travel guide to Lake Como prepares you for what to expect, have fun and a timeless vacation.

LAKE COMO TOWNS

Bellagio is the leading resort in Lario. Elegance and style intertwined with tradition and quirkiness, this town offers something for everyone.

Varenna, the wonderfully quaint and delightful well-preserved medieval town has a tiny harbour and a welcoming avenue of arches guarded by wrought iron and wisteria. A perfect place to watch the comings and goings of the boats over a spritz or two.

Como, the administrative centre of Como region brings history and elegance together with renowned hotspots for nightlife.

THE PEOPLE AND CULTURE OF LAKE COMO

In this picturesque and romantic Lario in the shadow of the Alps, the people are passionate about their native land. They tend to take life a day at a time and move at a more leisurely pace. They enjoy the company of good friends and family.

Each town, village and hamlet is splendidly unique in its own culture and tradition. The area is rich in folklore. There are many local festivals and musical celebrations. Each and every resident participates in their local events, fostering a bond with their native culture and land. They consider these events as rituals of sorts that are passed down from generation to generation. An example of a popular event here is the Carnival of Schignano , a carnival parade that dates back to ancient times.

FOOD & DRINKS IN LAKE COMO

Much of Lake Como’s cuisine culture is focused on the sparkling aqua waters, and the adjacent mountains and valleys of Como. While you can enjoy the much favoured Italian pasta and pizza dishes at most trattorie or grotti (caverns) along the lakeside, they also offer unique dishes deeply connected to the history and cultural legacy of the Lake Como region. These unique culinary specials can truly only be experienced where they were invented and preserved until now.

Fish is a staple of the region. Many of the freshwater fish caught in Lake Como are cooked, dried, baked or fried. They are then served in a number of ways and accompany local dishes.

The most popular fish is considered to be lavarello, a light lake fish which is completely without bones. Other commonly consumed fish include shad, perch, pike fillets and eel. Many towns in Lake Como usually offer the same types of fish but each has a unique way of preparing them.

A popular fish based dish to try is fritto misto di lago. This is a fried mix of lake fish, eaten as a stand alone dish, much favoured by the locals. Another popular local dish is the risotto with perch fish, which goes well with fruity white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.

Surrounded by the rolling green hills and mountains of Como, the region is home to olive tree groves, mountain cheeses and fresh fruits along with vegetables. These compliment much of the local cuisine.

The d’Alpe Grasso cheese is a hard-cooked cheese made with the whole milk of cows that graze exclusively in the mountain pastures.

Polenta, is a dish of boiled cornmeal and is one of the oldest dishes in Italy. The dish is deeply rooted in the cultural identity of Italians. It was a staple food in Italy for a long time and made its presence at every Italian dinner table.

Polenta can be made with eggs or potatoes. The most popular polenta dish is polenta uncia , made with lots of butter, mountain cheese, sage and garlic.

BEST TIME TO VISIT LAKE COMO

The best time to visit Lake Como is from April to October.

The average temperature in the Lake Como region is -5°C to +5°C (23°F to 41°F) in winter and 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) in summer.

The Lake Como region has a subcontinental climate. This gives rise to cold winters and sultry summers along with high humidity throughout the year.

July is the hottest month and the coldest is January. Summer months are hot, humid and wet. The winter months are very cold, snowy and windy.

Lake Como is characterised by Mediterranean conditions and allows for pleasant weather for much of the year. The temperatures are perfect for the green foliage and subtropical plants to grow in abundance all year long.

SKIP-THE-LINE TICKETS, TOURS AND DAY TRIPS

Lake Como is an incredible destination in Italy and popular amongst tourists. Many tourist attractions sell-out fast especially in the high season. If you absolutely want to experience an attraction or an event, it is essential to book skip-the-line tickets, tours and excursions in advance.

For my own trips, I pretty much book all of my activities, tours, and day trips with Get Your Guide . This is my family’s and my favourite one-stop shop for all of our tickets and tours. We use them because they offer wide ranging activities at a destination, their customer service is always helpful, and they have one of the most flexible cancellation policies that I have known.

You can book directly with a local company. This means that you may not always be able to cancel for free, let alone receive a refund in case something goes wrong at the last minute. For this reason, using a well-established intermediary in the travel industry is helpful and Get Your Guide is the best one I know.

If you would like to get involved in some activities while visiting Lake Como, you can read about the best things to do in the popular Lake Como towns. You can find these articles listed below. In the meantime, you can also browse through the following much in-demand activities in Lake Como.

ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION IN LAKE COMO

Accommodation.

Depending on how long your visit to Lake Como is for and when, you may have to book your accommodations early. Lake Como is a sought-after holiday destination both by the Italians and travellers. Best priced and high quality accommodations are always gone first. For this reason, and especially if you are travelling in the high season between April and October, book well in advence of your travels. This is so to secure the best price and good starred accommodation that offers everything you are looking for during your stay.

For almost all of my trips, I book my accommodations through Booking.com and the only other alternative has been with British Airways because of Rewards I have accumulated. Booking offers a wide selection of hotels, B&B’s and privately owned accommodations. They also have the most transparent booking system along with excellent flexibility terms for payments and cancellations.

Transportation

Lake Como is well connected to public transportation . The main modes of transport here are by boat and bus. The region has good roads too but I’d suggest leaving the driving to people who know the roads best!

Read my guide about transportation in Lake Como. The guide sets out in detail what you need to know about travelling on the western shores as well as the eastern shores of Lake Como . This includes my experienced tips on the local transportation which I used when visiting Lake Como.

THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE TO LAKE COMO

For the best in scenery, old aristocratic romantic charm and the Italian la dolce vita, go to Lake Como. You will surely fall in love with this natural wonder that vibrates the hum of enjoyment and simple pleasures in life. The stories and experiences will tug your heart strings long after you’ve left the region.

Read these articles before your trip

Read all about the famous towns before your trip.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO VISIT ANOTHER ITALIAN LAKES DESTINATION?

FOR MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATIONS

For more travel inspirations on England, Scotland, and Japan, head over to the following dedicated pages:

Share to Social Media

I would love it if you could share this article on your social media, or bookmark the page for later reading and follow me on Pinterest . Thank you so much for your support.

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.

Similar Posts

10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN VARENNA [2024], LAKE COMO

ARGEGNO: THE PERFECT OFF-BEAT CHARM IN COMO

How to Travel Around Lake Como, Italy

TOP THINGS TO DO IN PESCHIERA DEL GARDA, ITALY

11 Thrilling Outdoor Adventure Activities in Lake Como for 2024

Where to Stay in Lake Como: Top Towns + Hotels

COMO CITY Lake Como

Located on the Italian-Swiss border, the  city of Como in Italy  overlooks the southwest end of its  lake  and is surrounded by green ridge hills, resulting in unparalleled, natural scenery.

Como is home to some of the best attractions in the Lombardy region, and it is worth a visit even for a simple stroll through the streets of the city center. It is an ideal destination for those visiting Lake Como for a day and those staying longer .

Ready to hit the road? Here are what to do during your visit to Como and the best experiences you can have!

THE TOWN CENTER Perfect combination of architecture, history and culture

Enclosed within imposing medieval walls – of which Porta Torre , overlooking Piazza Vittoria , is one of the most scenic gates – the Como’s city center is home to fascinating squares , each with its own personality.

Piazza Duomo, Cathedral and Broletto

The main square is Piazza Duomo , which houses the imposing Como Cathedral ( Duomo di Como ): an eclectic building, combining Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. The Duomo is open for visits on weekdays from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on holidays from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Just between the cathedral and its bell tower is the Broletto , the former town hall that now often hosts art exhibitions and assemblies. It is a visually striking building, with a facade banded with Lombard marble in three different colors: white, gray and red.

Piazza San Fedele and its Basilica

Just a 3-minute walk from Piazza Duomo is Piazza San Fedele . This square, originally a grain market, is home to a beautiful Romanesque church dating back to 1120: the Basilica of San Fedele . 

If you happen to pass by this little square on a Saturday, you will have the chance to come across numerous stalls, where you can find antiques and handicrafts .

Piazza Volta and Piazza Mazzini

If you arrive in Como at the San Giovanni station and head downtown, Piazza Volta will be the first square in the historic center you encounter (less than a 10-minute walk). Piazza Mazzini is the adjacent square.

These two squares are the center of Como’s nightlife . Among elegant Art Nouveau buildings and stores selling typical products are numerous restaurants, wine bars and pubs to satisfy all tastes.

Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll along the nearby Via Vitani , one of the richest vestiges of the medieval city of Como that is home to historic trattorias and fine stores.

Are you looking forward to visiting Como, Italy? Find your ideal stay before it’s too late!

If you do not see the Booking.com search form, please disable your AdBlock !

A WALK ALONG THE LAKEFRONT The best places to take pictures

The historic center overlooks the lakefront with Piazza Cavour , where the office for purchasing boat tickets is located.

I recommend you go left, because the promenade leading to Como Lago station is under renovation and does not allow you to fully enjoy the experience. Here are a few attractions not to be missed on the lakefront!

Life Electric

As you walk along the lakefront you will see Life Electric , a monument by archistar Daniel Libeskind.

The  avant-garde work is located at the bottom of a small artificial dam (called Diga Foranea) and is a homage to the voltaic pile invented by Alessandro Volta .

Follow this Volta tour if you want to discover other places in the city of Como related to the scientist’s life!

Lakeside gardens, Volta Museum & War memorial

Talking of Alessandro Volta, don’t miss the nearby Volta museum , which collects evidence of his work and even the  first version of the electric battery . The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The regular admission ticket costs €5.

Next to the museum is the garden area overlooking the lake , a popular place for tourists and locals, especially during the summer season. Festivals and musical or culinary events are often organized here.

This area is also home to the imposing War Memorial ( Monumento ai Caduti ), a 33-meter (108-foot) tall rationalist-style building dedicated to the 650 fallen Como soldiers of World War I. From the top of the monument there is a magnificent view of Lake Como and the city. It is usually possible to climb to the top of the monument on Sundays, but currently it is only possible to do so during specific occasions as the structure is undergoing restoration.

Do you love architecture? Read more about Rationalism in the city of Como!

VILLA OLMO A neoclassical villa surrounded by a large park

If you love historic villas , stroll along the romantic Passeggiata Lino Gelpi (which starts a few steps from the War Memorial) and reach the impressive Villa Olmo , a neoclassical building dating back to 1780.

The park is open daily from 7 am and closes at 11 pm in the summer season (early April to late September) and at 7 pm in the winter season (early October to late March). 

Villa Olmo is also the starting point of a simple and beautiful walk among villas and botanical rarities : the Chilometro della Conoscenza .

A few tips for your stay in Como

BRUNATE & SPINA VERDE To admire the city of Como from above

The Como-Brunate funicular

Want to enjoy a  breathtaking view  of the city of Como? Visit  Brunate , a town that overlooks Como from the top of a hill 715 meters (about 2,345 ft) high.

The  Como-Brunate funicular – which runs from Piazza Alcide de Gasperi , very close to the Como Lago train station – will take you to Brunate in a few minutes (see timetables and fares ).

Once in Brunate, you can walk for about 20 minutes and reach the Volta Lighthouse ( Faro Voltiano) , that can be visited every day except non-holiday Wednesdays, from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (closed in case of bad weather).

There have also been reports of inefficiencies in dealing with people with disabilities (particularly regarding the return to Como from Brunate). If you have special needs, I recommend that you contact the company in advance through its official website.

Spina Verde park

Spina Verde Park is a protected forest which covers an area of 1000 hectares (3.86 square miles). The park is located southwest of Como and collects many sites of panoramic, historical, and natural interest .

One of the most interesting attractions is the tower of Castello Baradello , which stands on a hill overlooking the center of Como. It is a military fortification built in the 6th century by the locals (who were under the Roman Empire) and later restored by Frederick Barbarossa, the Holy Roman Emperor.

The easiest way to reach Castel Baradello is by following a path that starts from Piazza San Rocco and leads to the tower in about 30 minutes .

My friends at Slow Lake Como offer a very cool experience: a 3-hour tour that will give you exclusive access to the castle and also includes an aperitivo with wine and local products and breathtaking views of Lake Como. Find out about it here !

BOAT TOURS & BEACHES Sit back, relax and enjoy the view!

Private boat tours.

If you are looking for private boat tours from Como, here are some options that may be right for you!

Public boat tours

❗Looking for information about public boat service? Read my guide to boats and ferries on Lake Como !

Como’s main pier and ticket office are located in Lungo Lario Trento . Plan your trips on the  Navigazione Laghi website and, when possible, purchase tickets online to avoid standing in line under the sun. During the peak season the turnout at ticket offices can be indeed very high.

Public boat service is perfect if you are on a day trip and want to reach other towns such as Argegno ,  Bellagio ,  Tremezzina  or other towns of the lake.

Beaches in Como

If you want to relax on a beach, you can go to Lido Villa Olmo , a beach with two swimming pools and a bar that offers a beautiful view of Lake Como and the opposite coast.

Otherwise, on the opposite shore (at the end of Viale Geno) is the recently opened Lido Giulietta al Lago , which offers all the services you need for your day and often organizes events in its very popular bar and restaurant.

Discover the best beaches in Como !

Places to stay in Como

Top reviewed on Booking.com from travelers

Are there any golf courses in and around Como?

Hello Anthony! I don’t know any golf clubs in the city of Como. The closest ones are the Circolo Golf Villa d’Este, in Montorfano, and the Monticello Golf Club, in Cassina Rizzardi. If you are interested in something closer to Lake Como, I can recommend Menaggio and Cadenabbia Golf Club.

Hello Alessandro, We are exploring our first trip to Lake Como in the off-season 2024. Your site is very comprehensive and greatly appreciated. Could you touch on medical facilities on the Lake should an emergency arise? We’d be traveling from the US.

Hi Bella, thank you for your appreciation! Here are some hospitals / ER around Lake Como:

• Como hospital + ER
• Menaggio hospital + ER
• Bellano hospital + ER

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

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

Lake Como In Italy – A Complete Guide

Posted on Last updated: 8 March 2024

Categories Italy

This popular tourist destination, famed for its spectacular setting, has so much to offer. Here’s my Lake Como in Italy guide for visiting.

Table of Contents

How To Get To Lake Como

Lake Como is located in the Italy’s northern region of Lombardy, at the base of the Alps and close to the Swiss Border.

There are various ways of getting to Lake Como depending on where you start from including:

I was based in Milan and Lake Como is a straight forward drive from there on the A9 motorway. Taking approximately 2 hours.

If you have access to a car this would also allow you to explore all the beautiful towns, villages, beaches etc around the shores of this famous lake.

There are various pay-and-display car parks around Lake Como. However, be aware that the roads get pretty busy during the summer months.

If you are based in Milan, one of the best ways to get to Lake Como is by train. The ride is only 40 minutes from Milano Centrale Station to Como San Giovanni Station, right in the town centre.

It is actually pretty easy to get to Lake Como by train from most areas of Italy.

For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on  Get Your Guide  available to book in advance.

For example, the From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Day Tour is a good option. This takes you by luxury coach to some of the best spots and includes a 1 hour cruise.

Lake Como Entrance Fee

It is free to visit Lake Como.

Lake Como Opening Times

Lake Como is open all day, every day.

Best Time To Visit Lake Como

The best time to visit Lake Como and the surrounding areas is between April and October when the weather is warm/hot.

Weekends and the summer months of July and August is when Lake Como is at its busiest with tourists. So work around these times if you prefer less crowds.

However, during the summer season there are more things on offer like concerts, boat excursions and festivals. It is also a great time for swimming in the lake!

Many Italians also tend to head for Lake Como during the heat of the summer as the temperatures usually drop away in the evening giving cooler nights.

Don’t forget your raincoat as Lake Como gets a few summer showers.

If you fancy a day in the city, ‘Metropolitan’ Milan is less than 2 hours away by car from Lake Como. Or, if you are already based there, a Milan Itinerary might give you some ideas.

What To Pack

Photography Camera

Reusable Water Bottle

Lightweight Rain Jacket

Quick Dry Towel

Lifeproof Phone Case

Lake Como History

Dating back to the ice age, Lake Como takes the shape of an inverted letter Y, created by the movement of an enormous glacier.

The end of the two southern legs of the lake have the city of Como at one and the city of Lecco at the other.

The famous village of Bellagio (known as the pearl of Lake Como) sits on the promontory that divides the two legs.

Historically, the area of Lake Como has been home to many different races, including the Romans. Eventually joining the kingdom of Italy in 1859.

Due to its stunning scenery, Lake Como has attracted and inspired many poets, artists and composers over the years, including Shelley, Wordsworth, Byron and Verdi.

Furthermore, some of its historic villas have been seen the world over after appearing in the famous James Bond and Star Wars movies.

Things To Do In Lake Como

Lake Como in Italy is a stunning location with its 170km perimeter full of beautiful, towns, villages, beaches, buildings, and not forgetting the breathtaking scenery.

There is so much on offer at Lake Como including:

Situated at the southern tip of Lake is the vibrant and popular city of Como. Full of beautiful squares, interesting shops, lively restaurants and bars along with some breathtaking view points.

As well as historic monuments and buildings, including Villa Olmo, the Volta Museum and the impressive Gothic cathedral to explore, there is a scenic funicular railway and a delightful waterfront promenade.

Surrounded by picturesque views of lakes and mountains, Como is the perfect place to stroll around and take in all the amazing sights. 

If you would like to learn more about this historic city the Guided City Walking Tour with Cruise Ticket would be perfect. You also get to choose a boat trip that suits your timetable.

Volta Museum

You will find the Volta Museum inside the Volta Temple, a stunning neoclassical building close to Lake Como on the edge of Como City.

Built in 1927, this small museum is dedicated to the Italian scientist Alessandro Volta who was born in Como in 1745. He is famous for inventing the first electric battery and the museum has many exhibits relating to his experiments and work.

Apart from the museum, the actual building is worth visiting to see its beautiful tiles and carvings. As well as take a stroll in the pretty gardens.  

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm, with admission costing €5. (You may need to make a reservation.)

Silk Museum

Como, once called Silk City, is famous all over the world for its high quality silk, an industry that was hugely important to the economy of the area.

Located near the Como Borghi railway station in the outskirts of the city, the Silk Museum documents Como’s history of silk production. From silk worms to the spinning, dying and loom work, right to the finished product.

Everything is documented and displayed very clearly and attractively. With an amazing array of beautifully restored machines, from looms to bobbin winders set up to show how they would have worked. 

The museum is open Tuesday to Friday 9:00-12:00 and 15:00-18:00. Entry €10.

There are many historical villas that you can visit around Lake Como. However, the neoclassical style Villa Olmo, on the edge of the city of Como, is definitely one of the most majestic.

The sumptuous interior has large stucco figures and paintings, walls richly decorated with stucco-work and gilding, grand frescoes, fabulous paintings and much more.  

The huge park behind the villa is the main public park for the city of Como and covers about five hectares. This is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll. 

Full of beautifully landscaped gardens, trees, statues and even a temple, it has amazing views of Lake Como and the mountains.

The park is open from 7am – 11pm in the summer season. The interior is open Tuesday to Sunday 10am – 6pm. Entry to the villa and grounds is free.

If seeing lots of beautiful villas is your thing, the Lakeside Villas Entry Tickets with Ferries is a must. This tour takes you to some of the most iconic villas around Lake Como.

C omo – Brunate Funicular

Running from Como City (close to the Como Lago train station) this scenic, 7 minute funicular railway takes you up to the village of Brunate, also known as the ‘balcony of the Alps.’

From here you have fantastic views of Lake Como, the city of Como and the Alps. Known as a favourite destination of hikers and bird watchers, Brunate is also a good place to escape the summer heat.

Picturesque Brunate village is mainly residential, with narrow, winding, cobbled streets and pretty churches. It is also home to the Voltiano Lighthouse.

There is a nice restaurant not far from funicular that has a balcony area, giving you great views over the lake as you enjoy your meal.

The cable car runs daily from 6.30am to 10.30pm and Departs every 30 minutes in both directions. Fares are €3 one way or €5.50 return.

The Easy Mountain Trek with Funicular & Boat Ride includes a trip up to Brunate on the funicular railway.

Lake Como has many beautiful beaches on its shores that are the perfect place to relax or partake in some water activities like sailing or windsurfing.

Found around every corner of Lake Como and varying in what they offer, you are sure to find one that suits your needs.

If you are looking for the cleanest waters, the central and northern parts of the lake are said to be the best.

Alternatively, if you are looking to relax in the sun, you could always reserve a sun bed at one of the lake’s many lidos.

Lido Villa Olmo, for example, has a beach with two swimming pools, a bar and beautiful views of Lake Como.

You can’t visit Lake Como in Italy and not venture out onto the famous lake. One of the best ways to explore the lake or reach other towns around the lake, is to take one of the various boat trips.

The Como: 2-Hour Lake Como Scenic Boat Tour & Sightseeing is highly recommended.

There is, as you can imagine, a vast assortment of different boat trips on offer, so you should be able to find one to suit your itinerary and your budget.

You have the local public navigation company Navigazione Laghi, who run several routes connecting all the most popular towns along Lake Como’s shores.

As well as private tours that will cost more but allow you to plan your trip. Along with smaller boats for private hire.

A boat trip is definitely one of the most popular and ‘must-do’ activities in Lake Como in Italy.

Located in its unique position in the middle of Lake Como, Bellagio is a popular and pretty little town to visit and is possible to reach via boat.

From Como, the Lugano & Bellagio Day Trip & Scenic Lake Cruise would be an ideal way of visiting if you have plenty of time.

Also known as the Pearl of Lake Como, it is famous for its beautiful villas overlooking the water. Including Villa Serbellon and Villa Melzi.

However, it is also loved by tourists for its charming, small alleyways, full of quirky shops, high-end boutiques and vibrant restaurants and wine-bars.

Bellagio is a very quaint and pretty town that you really cannot miss when visiting Lake Como in Italy. 

Dine At Crotto Dei Platani

If you are looking for a perfect, high-end lunch stop, I can highly recommend Crotto Dei Platani. Literally built into the rock at the base of Mount Gringo, on the shores of Lake Como.

This lakeside restaurant has two levels with panoramic verandas and outdoor tables. All divided between a dock, a pier and a garden.

Offering locally sourced, delicious meat, fish and vegetarian dishes, they are happy to try an accommodate any dietary requirements. They are also famous for having a very large selection of the finest Italian wines.

For impeccable service, delicious fresh food, super ambience and breathtaking surroundings, Crotto Dei Platani ticks all the boxes.

If you are real foodie, you might like the Lake Como: Food Walking Tour . Offering lots of tasting opportunities to help you ‘discover the true essence of Lake Como’.

Where To Stay In Milan

Sonder Missori

Well located in Milan, Sonder Missori provides a buffet breakfast and free WiFi. Built in 2022, this 4-star hotel is within 900 yards of Museo Del Novecento and 0.9 miles of Darsena. The property is non-smoking and is located 750 yards from Palazzo Reale.

Guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a coffee machine, a bath or shower, free toiletries and a desk. All guest rooms include a private bathroom, a hairdryer and bed linen.

Popular points of interest near the hotel include San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, San Babila Metro Station and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. The nearest airport is Milan Linate Airport, 5 miles from Sonder Missori.

43 Station Hotel

43 Station Hotel is located in Milan city centre, 100 yards from Milan Central Train Station, and offers modern rooms with free WiFi.

All rooms come with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a bath or shower and free toiletries.

There is a 24-hour front desk at the property. The hotel also offers bike hire and car hire.

43 Station Hotel has excellent public transport links around Milan by bus, metro and tram. The cafes and restaurants of Brera are 1.2 miles away, while Milan Cathedral is 5 metro stops away.

Situated within 2.5 miles of San Siro Stadium and 3.1 miles of CityLife in Milan, Lucca 22 features accommodation with a kitchenette. 

The property is around 3.2 miles from Fiera Milano City, 3.4 miles from Santa Maria delle Grazie and 3.4 miles from The Last Supper. MUDEC is 3.6 miles away and Darsena is 3.7 miles from the guest house.

All units come with a fridge, kitchenware, a kettle, a shower, free toiletries and a wardrobe. Featuring a shared bathroom with a bidet and a hair dryer, units at the guest house also boast free WiFi.

For more places to stay in Milan, you can check the latest prices on  Booking.com .

Planning Your Trip

Book your flight.

Use  Skyscanner  to find a cheap flight. 

They search websites and airlines around the globe to find you the best possible routes and prices.

Book Your Accommodation

Use  Booking.com  to find the best accommodation deals.

They consistently return the cheapest rates on everything from guesthouses to hotels for all of your budget needs.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Use SafetyWing to find the best travel insurance for you.

They provide travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads.

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Book Your Tours & Activities

Use GetYourGuide to book your activities in advance.

They sell the best tours, excursions and activities to attractions around the world.

Conveniently book, download and access your tickets on the move all from your mobile. 

Book Your Rental Car

Use RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars in the area.

They compare all major car rental companies and allow you to easily book the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Buy Those Last Minute Bits

Use Amazon to buy everything you need for your adventure.

They offer next day delivery and you can use my travel packing checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

Pin It For Later

The Ultimate Travel Guide For Lake Como, Italy

• Last Updated On: August 1, 2022

Lake Como, with its timeless appeal and stunning landscapes, is one of Italy’s most prized destinations. It’s been a vacation destination since the time of the Romans and has been popularized in recent years as George Clooney’s hideaway. It’s famous for its medieval remnants and cobble stone streets in towns like Varenna and Bellagio, as well as its natural appeal as mountains tower all around it.

Traveling to Lake Como means exploring the dozens of quaint villages, eating your dream Italian meal, and exploring impossibly beautiful villas of the rich and famous.

Lake Como is large lake at 146 square kilometers and is the deepest lake in Europe at 450m in depth. It’s a rather large lake and it’s impossible to cover it properly without at least a few days of travel. The lake is surrounded by mountains with the highest peak being Mt.Legnone (approx. 2700m high) which dominates the town of Colico at the northern tip of the lake.

Visiting Lake Como in the era of Coronavirus

I spent a week in Lake Como and it was the first place I traveled to after the inter-Schengen travel ban ended in the era of Coronavirus . It was a bit surreal to come here, not so much the beauty of the lake (which it is of course amazing), but because I was able to travel again and so soon. Italy was incredibly hard hit in the beginning but with a very tough lockdown, they were able to get cases under control and deserve to open up its tourism to Europeans.

People wear masks indoor and outdoor and you could see the impact it had on the psyche of the people.

I explored as much of the lake as I could in my week here. I came in mid June and the weather was largely perfect. In normal times, you’d be greeted by huge tour buses, traffic jams, and crowded streets. Because I was one of the first foreign tourists to come, I was able to enjoy it with relatively no crowds to speak of, restaurants that didn’t require reservations, and a feeling like I had the place to myself. It was a bit surreal!

How to get to Lake Como

Since I live in Germany, it is quite easy for me to drive from my home in Frankfurt. Simply drive south through Freiburg , into Switzerland, and Lake Como is right near the border of Switzerland and Italy.

However, for most people, it’s likely you’ll be coming through on a trip in Italy. The closest major city to Lake Como is  Milan  which makes Lake Como a very easy to reach destination since Milan is a large airport.

From Milan, there are a few methods to getting to Lake Como

Take the train from Milan to Varenna

Probably the quickest way to get to Lake Como from Milan is the train ride to the town of Varenna. This train is only 90 minutes and runs every hour of the day. It’s also very cheap as a one way fare on this train starts around €6.50.

From the train stop, you can walk right into Varenna town and thereby continue to take the ferry to other towns like Bellagio and Menaggio. This is certainly the best way to see Lake Como if you want to do a day trip from Milan.

If you’re looking to come straight from the Milan Bergamo Airport, then simply take an Uber to the Milan Centrale train station and continue onwards

Bus from Milan to Lake Como

There are numerous bus lines that also make this trip but it much more time consuming and more expensive. Take the train and never look back!

Getting around Lake Como

I think most people that visit Como are on short day trips or guided tours. However, if you want the freedom to really explore Lake Como without much hassle, than a car is necessary. You can rent cars for very cheap from the Milan airport. I had a car the entire time and it made exploring towns much easier. In addition, we stayed in a house up on the hills with an absolutely spectacular view of the Lake but this meant we were far from really anything so a car is required.

Driving in Lake Como

Driving in Lake Como is quite straight forward. The main towns of Lake Como are well…right on the lake. There is a main road that encircles the entire lake and you can visit all the towns from this road.

The road itself is mostly one lane which means during high season you can expect to have some serious traffic jams. In some towns like Argegno, the road really narrows in Italian fashion and for the inexperienced, it may be a bit scary to drive fast.

There are parking lots in every town that you can pay for at the rate of €1 per hour. Again, during high season, it will be harder to find parking. As we visited during the Coronavirus era, we had no problems at all.

Driving around the entire lake Como in a day

If you have a car, you can feasibly drive around the entire lake in a day. It’s roughly 2.5 hours to encircle the lake without making any stops. If you make a detour to drive to Bellagio, add another 1.5 hours onto the trip. With stops, you can feasibly see 3-4 towns in a day without much issue.

Getting around by Ferries and buses

If you don’t plan on renting a car, there’s no need to worry. The towns are largely connected by buses and ferries. However, the ferries only really run between  Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio.  If you don’t plan on renting a car and want to explore the whole area, then I’d recommend staying in these three towns or in towns that are nearby.

The ferries run every hour or so between the three towns in a triangle. Each leg of the trip is only 10-15 minutes as it is very close. These ferries are also the main method to transport cars between different sides of the lake. If you look at Lake Como on a map, you’ll see that it is long and thin with no bridges anywhere. Therefore, if you are in Menaggio and want to get to Varenna on the other side of the river, your only options are to take the ferry or drive half of the lake which will take you 1 hour.

There is also a high speed ferry that runs between Domaso in the north to Como city in the very south and it makes numerous stops.

Lake Como by boat

Last but not least, and without a doubt the best way to get around the lake, is by speed boat. My friends happened to just have one lying around and we used this boat as our main method of transportation between towns.

Not only was it the fastest way to get around, but you get a very unique perspective of the lake from being on the water. There isn’t much traffic on the lake at all and there was always ample space to dock the boats when we arrived at a town we wanted to visit.

Plus you’re on a boat, enough said.

If you don’t have a boat handy, then you can always rent a boat. There are numerous companies that will rent a boat by the day assuming you have a boat license. You can also rent a boat for the day with a personal driver. Although this is not cheap, it would be quite reasonable if you’re a larger group.

Different parts of Lake Como

Lake Como is a huge lake. It takes roughly 3.5 hours to drive around it in its entirety. If you don’t have a car, where you stay will dictate which area you explore.

For the most part, the towns in the south are more expensive. They attract the weekenders from Milan and it’s a place for people to live posh. Think of it as the Milanese Hamptons. The towns in the middle like Bellagio, and Varenna are still quite posh and sees much larger numbers of tourists. It’s not hard to see why Bellagio attracts the amount of foreigners as it does.

Finally, the towns in the north are far less touristy with cheaper accommodations to boot. Towns in the north are also still quite picturesque even if it’s not as iconic as the towns in the south.

Bellagio, the Pearl of Lake Como, is famous worldwide for its beautiful  villas  overlooking the water (like Villa Serbelloni or  Villa Melzi ), but also for its small yet charming alleys, full of shops, boutiques and restaurants. Bellagio is probably the most well known and visited town in Lake Como. it’s certainly one of the most picturesque Its old town is in fantastic conditions and they alleyways are perfect to walk and get lost in.

Funny enough, I had always thought Bellagio was just the name of a hotel in Las Vegas. I’m ashamed to admit that I discovered Bellagio is a medieval town that predates the Vegas hotel by a thousand years.

The best part of Bellagio is walking through its beautiful streets. The old town center of Bellagio has one main road,  Via Giuseppe Garibaldi , which gets to Punta Spartivento (tip of the village) in less than 10 minutes.

It’s quite a small town and I could see how during normal non coronavirus times, it would be extremely packed. However, this wasn’t really the case during my visit. We had amazing gelato at Gelateria del Borgo before having some afternoon aperitivos at Bstyle Bellagio.

Unfortunately, the iconic villas that Bellagio is famous for were closed.

After walking on the romantic lakeside Lungo Lario Manzoni, you will reach the world famous Villa Serbelloni, a  luxury hotel  built in the 15th century and currently owned by the Rockefeller Foundation.

If you’re not a guest of the villa, you cannot visit the interior. However, you can  book a visit  and enjoy a walk into the  50 acres of park and gardens  that surround the villa (contact  Promo Bellagio  for more information).

Varenna is an essential stop for anyone wishing to visit one of the most  typical and quite towns  of the lake. A must if you are in  Milan  (from where you arrive after an hour train ride) or in  Bellagio , which is just 15 minutes away by ferry. The town is absolutely picturesque especially if you’re on the water looking at it with the mountains in the background. The town is incredibly well preserved and every corner you turn you’ll find something new and charming.

A visit to  Villa Monastero  is definitely one of the best things that you can do in Varenna. The villa was once an old monastery, that later became a patrician residence.

Besides being an international conference center, Villa Monastero attracts tourists from everywhere because of its beautiful  botanical garden  that collects  many rare plant species .

Menaggio is a beautiful town on the western shore of Lake Como in Lombardy. Unlike many of the lake’s small towns that literally “climb” on the banks, Menaggio is in a larger area, which allowed it to expand more than the others. It is therefore not difficult to find something to visit or do in Menaggio.

The waterfront is a pleasant stroll with impressive indoor squares, fountains, bars, ice cream parlors and pizzerias. This tourist wealth can help make Menaggio less authentic than Bellagio and Varenna, which are linked to Menaggio by a picturesque harbor. The quay and the small modern harbor full of yachts give it a certain charm.

As soon as you enter the historic center of Menaggio, the beauty of this small but extremely fascinating village will delight visitors. The heart of the city is Piazza Garibaldi, where you can see the facade of the Santa Marta church, enriched by the presence of a Roman plaque. Another medieval testimony is the church of San Carlo, built in the 18th century.

You cannot stay in Menaggio without visiting the beautiful Villa Mylius Vigoni, a house museum from the first half of the 19th century, surrounded by a garden of rare beauty.

A few kilometers from Como resist Cernobbio, a city known for its historic houses. You see yourself in a convenient location, in the heights of the Bisbino mountain and on the shores of Lake Como. Despite the rights to Como, Cernobbio has very personal rights. The landscape can also be heard on foot as well as by boat and various vacation conditions north.

The promenade, which Como and Cernobbio removed, is a 5 km long bike path that is also accessible and is characterized by an enchanting panorama.

Among the many people’s villas from Cernobbio from the 19th century, the religious Villa d’Este is of public artistic interest. The villa now houses a luxury hotel and was built by Pellegrino Tibaldi in the 16th century. It is part of its beautiful gardens. Along the stream dominated by the villa you will get a promontory on which the Villa Pizzo stands, an interesting and interesting example of a historic house from the 19th century.

Do not miss Villa Erba, which was built in the 16th century as a women’s monastery and is now a congress center at an advanced level. Villa Bernasconi was built in Liberty style and now houses art exhibitions and major cultural events.

Located in the north of Lake Como, Cremia is where I stayed for the week. Cremia is much quieter than other towns with fewer bars and restaurants. Nevertheless, it was a great place to base ourselves to explore the lake. It’s much cheaper and doesn’t see the crowds that towns in the south do.

In addition, if you’re a water sport fan, this is where you’ll want to be if you are keen for kite surfing or windsurfing.

Argegno is a small town located in a large cove on the western shore of Lake Como; despite its small dimensions, there are many interesting things to see and visit here. The village is also the starting point of the famous cable car which takes only five minutes to take you to Pigra, which is located at 1000 meters above sea level; from this place you can admire breathtaking views of Lake Como and the Alpine foothills and also make excursions to Mount Galbiga, Tellero and Alpe di Colonno. Argegno is also the outer municipality of Val d’Intelvi, whose roads connect Lake Como to Lake Lugano.

The city is very picturesque and is characterized not only by the magnificent lakeside with fascinating houses overlooking the banks, but also by the ancient village divided in two parts by the Telo stream and connected by an old bridge with pointed arches, dating from to the Roman-medieval times. Many remains of fortifications still present in the historic center bear witness to the Roman origins of Argegno, which owes its name to the consul Publio Cesium Archigenes.

The most beautiful churches are the parish of the SS. Trinity, built at the beginning of the 20th century in the neo-Roman style, the Sanctuary of Saint Anne of the 17th century, which preserves precious works of art by Barberini and Isidoro Bianchi, and the Romanesque church of San Sisinnio, considered a real gem.

Located in the southeast part of Lake Como, Lecco feels like a real town. It has 50,000 inhabitants with schools, shops, and the like. Lecco is perhaps one of the most geographically stunning towns on the lake. The mountains here are more rocky reminding me of the Dolomites or the Western Cape in South Africa rather than the more tree-dense mountains on the other side of Lake Como.

Simply walk along the waterfront for sweeping views of the picturesque town with the alps in the background. The old town one street in from the harbor is also quite beautiful. The baroque style buildings are beautifully maintained and there is a plethora of restaurants to eat at.

I had some of the most delicious gelato of my life at  Cape Horn Artisanal Gelato.  You know it’s good when there’s a huge queue of Italians waiting on a hot summer day.

Laglio is a small town located on the west shore of Lake Como, just 15 kilometers north of Como. The village is an excellent starting point for walks along the lake and across the surrounding hills, from where you can admire a panorama of rare beauty. The slopes above the village are rich in vineyards, olive groves and laurel plants, one of which once extracted laurel oil, famous for its medicinal qualities. After years of incredible anonymity, Laglio gained notoriety when famous actor George Clooney bought the historic Villa Oleandra in 2002, making it in his summer home.

Since then, this small town on Lake Como has indeed become a favorite place for paparazzi, fans or simply the curious, to the point that the city council had to approve a specific by-law in order to protect the privacy of Clooney (and that of its extremely famous guests), prohibiting everyone from standing in the immediate vicinity of the villa. Villa Oleandra is located near a picturesque harbor and it was built on an ancient Roman colony; it is also part of a larger property with three other adjacent buildings, all connected to each other by elegant scaffolding.

Where to eat

Of course one of the main highlights of any Italian trip should be focused around food! Expect to eat very well in Lake Como with all of your favorite Italian specialties. Also expect to drink on the regular as Northern Italy is the birthplace of the aperol spritz. Aperitivos are a way of life in this part of Italy and it’s quite an easy lifestyle to embrace.

Prices in Lake Como are generally higher than the Italian average. You’d expect to pay more for visiting places in Northern Italy than say somewhere in the south like Puglia. Also, Lake Como can be quite a fancy place depending on which area you’re in so you can pay for some really high end michelin starred tastings that will rack up a bill quickly.

Nevertheless, for every fancy upscale restaurant, there are 10 more that just serve solid Italian cooking in a relaxed environment for a reasonable price. I was never shocked at the prices I paid for any of my meals.

There are way too many restaurants to count and you could spend years experiencing them all. Here are some of the restaurants that I really enjoyed:

Hotel Du Lac – Varenna

While walking around Varenna, we discovered this beautiful hotel with a terrace that has views of the entire lake. This is the perfect place to have an aperitivo while watching the sun set over the mountains.

In addition, this hotel/restaurant also has a private dock so if you have your own boat (wink wink), then this is the perfect place to roll up like a VIP and go to your dinner. The food is fine dining style and also quite delicious albeit more expensive than other similar restaurants.

Da Luciano – Laglio

While we were in Laglio searching for George Clooney’s house (just kidding), we found this fantastic tapas style bodega right on the waterfront. This is definitely a lesser touristy spot that serves amazing cheeses, meats, breads, and wine. We got a little bit of everything including their lunch menu which were meatballs to die for.

The view from our little bench was breathtaking. Would definitely go back here.

Located in Cremia where we stayed, this is by far the best cocktail bar I found around Lake Como. They are located right on the docks with perfect views of the lakes and even the alps at the very north of the lake.

They make one of the best negronis I’ve ever had. This was an aperitivo time regular for us!

Continue Reading:

How to get from naples to the amalfi coast: everything you need to know, the ultimate travel and wine tasting guide for montepulciano, italy, the ultimate piedmont travel itinerary and guide: italy’s most underrated wine region, most beautiful towns on the amalfi coast: my favorite places to visit.

• The Perfect Naples, Capri And Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Visiting Matera: Italy’s Most Unique And Beautiful City

The perfect tuscany, italy road trip itinerary: florence, montepulciano, chianti and more.

• Skopje And Lake Ohrid: The Perfect North Macedonia Trip
• The Perfect Road Trip Travel Itinerary For Sicily, Italy
• The Perfect Puglia, Italy Road Trip Itinerary
• The Perfect One Day And Two Day Itinerary for Zurich, Switzerland
• Visiting Corvara in Alta Badia: The Dolomites’ Most Picturesque Town
• Guide To Visiting Lake Atitlán, Guatemala – Heaven On Earth
• The Ultimate Dolomites, Italy Travel And Skiing Guide

Related Posts

One comment

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

 Yes, add me to your mailing list

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

Post Comment

Amazing Photos! great to see people traveling again in Italia!!

Northern Italy’s Enchanting Escapes: 12 Unmissable Vacation Destinations

Northern Italy is known for its mountain ranges, beautiful coastlines, rich cuisine, deep history, and gorgeous architecture. Northern Italy cities are simply breathtaking.

Each major region of Italy (northern, central , and southern ) is quite unique. Northern Italy is made up of 8 different sub-regions, which include Piedmont, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Liguria, Aosta Vally, Veneto, Fruili-Venezia, and Trentina-Alto.

From hiking the Italian Alps and Lake Como boat tours to handmade pasta and vineyards, the northern region of Italy is a diverse vacation destination you shouldn’t miss! Check out our favorite places to visit in Northern Italy– with things to do!

[This article contains affiliate links to trusted partners.]

Cinque Terre, Liguria

Recommended by Pafoua of Her Wanderful World

Cinque Terre, meaning “Five Lands,” is a charming, must-see UNESCO destination located in Liguria’s capital city, La Spezia, off the Mediterranean coast in Northern Italy. Listed north to south, these beautiful coastal towns are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

Each town has its own unique beauty to explore, but all of them offer scenic views of colorful houses that line the hills. The ambiance, culture, and people in the Cinque Terre make a stop here unforgettable even though there aren’t traditional tourist sites such as churches or museums to visit.

Monterosso is the largest of the five and is known for its long stretch of sandy beach. Vernazza is the most beautiful of all the towns, with a smaller beach to swim in and a piazza to view the harbor below.

Sitting as the highest of all five villages, visitors will need to climb over 300 steps to reach the town center of Corniglia. Visit Gelateria Corniglia to find the best gelato. A popular activity in Manarola is sunbathing on the rocks or swimming in the sea since it doesn’t have a beach.

Riomaggiore is known for being the first town introduced to tourism, and nightlife is more lively. There is also delicious fried seafood found here.

A well-maintained train system connects the towns so visitors can easily travel between towns by hopping on and off. To take the scenic route, you can hike the trails and receive even more picturesque views, although keep in mind that some of the trails may be challenging.

Vehicles are discouraged in the Cinque Terre, so the easiest way to arrive is by train. Visitors can also arrive by boat, but schedules can change depending on the weather. The busiest times in the Cinque Terre are June and July, which also offer the sunniest, longest days.

To miss the crowds, visit during September or October to get cooler weather and still enjoy this beautiful area. Whenever you decide to visit the Cinque Terre and Northern Italy, you will not be disappointed!

Genoa, Liguria

Recommended by Sarah of A Social Nomad

Genoa, located in Northern Italy, is really easy to travel to – some buses and trains make it easy to reach this city on the Mediterranean, which is also a major cruise port, which means that a lot of visitors spend one day in Genoa . Genoa has one of the largest harbors in the Mediterranean, which means it sees a lot of yachting traffic too.

Genoa’s most famous son is Christopher Columbus, who spent much of his childhood here, and it is still possible to visit his home in the city. The maze of tiny, narrow streets makes the historic center of Genoa a delight to wander around in, safe from traffic, and the series of UNESCO World Heritage-listed palaces will delight all who visit.

Foodies, too, will love Genoa. The region is the birthplace of pesto and focaccia bread, and it’s also a city where street food is awesome – a paper cone of freshly fried seafood is absolutely not to be missed. To learn more, consider a Genoa food tour .

There are walking tours and open-topped Hop on Hop off bus tours to explore, but this is also a city where it’s easy to wander and discover hidden areas. Endless pavement cafes, bars, and restaurants suit all budgets and rest from the day’s heat. Genoa also caters well with accommodation options from five-star hotels to hostels and apartment rentals – all types and budgets of travelers are catered for.

Portofino, Liguria

Recommended by Alex and Leah on Tour

Portofino is an absolutely beautiful village on the Italian Riviera coastline in northern Italy. It’s extremely popular with celebrities worldwide, and once you visit, you’ll know why!

The best way to get to Portofino is by taking the train from Genoa to Saint Magherita before hopping on a direct bus to the village. The bus trip is an experience; snaking along the cliffside, you’ll see magnificent views across the Tyrrhenian Sea. 

Despite being a small fishing village, there is much more to do than meets the eye. Firstly, if you have the budget or just fancy a nose, you definitely need to pop into all the designer shops that line the cobbled street.

We’d then recommend going for a wander around the harbor before settling down for an alcoholic beverage, coffee, or even some food. Whilst (obviously) expensive, the food is fantastic, and you MUST have an Aperol Spritz!

If you’re more of an adventurer, you definitely need to hike up to Castelletto or Faro di Portofino, as the views are unbelievable.

Don’t worry if that doesn’t appeal to you; you can always sit on the edge of the Marina di Portofino pier, look back at Portofino’s beautiful, multi-colored buildings, and watch the world go by.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Veneto

Recommended by Morgan of Crave the Planet

You don’t have to be a mountaineer and eat dried food to experience out-of-this-world hiking with breathtaking views– even with your kids or mobility-impaired friends and family. Everyone should travel to Italy to experience the magnificent cities, but it’s a hustle and touristic bustle that can leave you or your family well-fed but drained. Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled high in the Dolomites in northern Italy, is a must-see for people who love nature with a dose of good food and wine.

Fortunately, it’s only a 2-hour drive or bus ride from the international airport in Venice to the stunning mountain village of Cortina d’Ampezzo, filled with history, great food, and luxury spas. The incredible thing about Cortina d’Ampezzo and the Italian Dolomites is the chance to walk easily at high elevations with minimal effort and no special training.

Gondolas and chair lifts run in summer for those not inclined to hike to the top so that everyone can experience some of the most spectacular views in the world, like the Cinque Torri Rock formation.

Directly on these trails sit mountain huts called “rifugios,” like Rifugio Lagazuoi. These huts serve delicious cuisine, great local wines, and views that make you think you’re on top of the world.

Best things to do: Rent bikes, people watch in the village center, do an exciting Via Ferrata, do a day hike around Lago di Braies, or do a hut-to-hut hike and feel like a mountaineer without having to rough it by staying in gorgeous huts each night.

Cortina merges Italian and outdoor culture like no other place. It’s a great winter and summer destination for skiing, hiking, or doing a spa on the top of a mountain. Stay at Cristallo’s luxury spa overlooking Cortina d’Ampezzo, which has no details left out. It’s pure luxury.

Venice, Veneto

Recommended by Angela of Where Angie Wanders

Venice is a must-visit destination in northern Italy; once you have experienced its history and beauty, you will want to return time and time again. Italy’s floating city is the only place in the world fully pedestrianized, and the only traffic jams you will find here are caused by boats.

Getting around Venice by water can seem complicated on a first visit; however, with waterbuses, water taxis, and gondolas, you can be sure to get around the city easily and quickly. Arriving in the city center from the airport by water taxi is a fantastic experience reminiscent of a James Bond movie! Looking for somewhere to stay? Click here for places to stay while in Venice .

St. Mark’s Square is the main tourist area in Venice, and visitors arrive to admire the centuries-old Venetian/Roman architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica. In the square, you will also find the Bell Tower and Doges Palace. This area is always busy, but walk away from it, and within 10 minutes, you will find yourself in quiet backstreets where you can wander freely without the crowds.

Finding good Italian cuisine should definitely be on your Venice itinerary . Don’t buy food and drink in St. Mark’s Square – the prices are extortionate – instead, find one of the numerous cafes that sell cicchetti. This is the traditional food of Venice – similar to tapas – and can be accompanied by local wine. It is a cheap and tasty way of eating in Venice, with dishes usually costing no more than €2 each. Here’s a

If you have time, make a day trip from Venice to Burano, the Italian island famous for its incredible rainbow-colored houses, freshly caught fish, and lace-making.

Alba, Piedmont

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise

Alba in the Piemonte region should be on your must-visit list when traveling to northern Italy. Just an hour and a half south of Turin, you will find some of the best wines of Italy and, of course, their world-famous white truffles. This picturesque village is easily walkable in an hour or two. This is definitely a foodie town with quaint squares, a pink church, and many restaurants.

The traditional dishes in Alba are not usually marinara sauce based. Think mushrooms, truffles, olive oil, and cream. You should not leave Alba without ordering a mouthwatering truffle dish unless you are allergic.

If truffles make you swoon, visiting the International White Truffle Fair from mid-October to mid-November is like a trip to heaven. Special dinners and tastings of these culinary diamonds abound.

But even if you cannot make it to the festival, truffles will be on offer at any time of year. Make sure to purchase some truffle oil and truffle paste to take home. They make great souvenirs and gifts and will last longer than any you buy at home.

Also, try one of the most famous dishes of Alba and the Piemonte region, Brasato al Barolo—tender beef marinated in Barolo wine with vegetables and herbs. If you think the wine can’t be good if they’re cooking with it, think again!

Alba is a great hub for visiting local wineries and enotecas (wine bars or shops). Barolo is not just a wine varietal; it’s a village and a short drive from Alba. You can easily visit Barolo and Barbaresco, where Nebbiolo grapes are grown in one day. Enjoy a beautiful ride through rolling hills and vineyards. Enjoy sipping the local wine, then stroll through the charming villages.

Val di Susa, Piedmont

Recommended by Linda of Insieme-Piemonte.com

Being the symbol of the Piedmont region, you will have to visit the impressive Sacra di San Michele when traveling in northern Italy. It is also known as Saint Michael’s Abbey. Sound familiar? That is because author Umberto Eco was inspired by the powerful abbey for his bestselling book “The Name of the Rose.” 

Located only 40km from Piedmont’s capital, Turin, the massive Sacra di San Michele is high above Susa Valley. At 962 meters above sea level, it is not only rich in history but also offers fantastic views of the Italian, Swiss, and French Alps—and even Turin. 

Built between 983 and 987, the ancient abbey had its best years in the 13 th century. During that time, there were about 1000 monks living in it permanently, plus pilgrims from the north traveling to Rome. 

Via the QR code on the self-guided tour, you will get all the essential and interesting information on the abbey’s history directly to your cell phone. This will allow you to discover the gigantic building at your own pace. 

You will pass the “stairways of the dead” to reach the main church from the 12 th century. Several members of the Savoy, one of the oldest royal families in the world, are buried in it.  

The Sacra di San Michele area offers some fantastic hiking trails and a via Ferrata for climbers. You will have outstanding views of the abbey, the valley, and the Alps.  

Turin, Piedmont

Recommended by Teresa

The first capital of the Kingdom of Italy was built between 1861 and 1865. Today, Turin is a fantastic city. Turin, located in Northern Italy, is a combination of various European styles and modernity that must be added to your bucket list. In the past, Turin was famous as the house of the Italian monarchy; today, it is famous for industries such as FIAT and many others.

The Chapel of the Holy Shroud is a really important cathedral famous for housing the Holy Shroud. The Pope decides when to expose the Holy Shroud, and the expositions usually last 45 days.

The most critical and principal square of Turin is San Carlo Square. The square is very nice and elegant, with two twin churches at the end, the Equestrian monument wanted by the leader of the Savoy dynasty in the middle and beautiful arcades with historical and chic cafes all around.

If you are looking for a breathtaking view and a splendid church, visit the Basilica of Superga.

The Egyptian Museum houses the most extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities. It was founded in 1894 by King Carlo Felice di Savoia and has grown.

The symbol of Turin is the Mole Antoneliana. From the top, you can have a 360-degree view, and inside, there is a stunning and exciting museum of cinema.

The Reggia di Venaria, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a beautiful day trip not too far away from Turin. You can spend a whole day wandering through rooms and the palace’s beautiful gardens.

Like all of Italy, Turin is known for its delicious food. Find a traditional restaurant and try the Agnolotti or the Vitello Tonnato, all accompanied by wine.

Val Chisone, Piedmont

Recommended by Linda of HikingTheAlps.com

When traveling in northern Italy, you will see several fascinating medieval forts and castles, but none is as impressive as the Forte di Fenestrelle. 

Located in the middle of beautiful Val Chisone, 85km west of Piedmont’s capital, Turin, the powerful fort can be admired from afar. It is the largest Alpine fortress in Europe! 

The fortified complex, covering an area of about 1.3 million square meters, consists of three different forts. They are joined by a tunnel inside the massive fortress wall, which runs the longest covered staircase in Europe. You will have to climb 4000 steps, 3km from Fort San Carlo in the valley to Fort delle Valli at 1800 meters above sea level, and overcome a 635-meter height difference. 

The mighty fortification, which was built starting in 1728, took 122 years to complete. It was intended to defend against foreign invasions, but it was mainly used as a garrison and prison. 

Abandoned after the Second World War, that outstanding construction can be visited today. There are full-day guided tours (only in Italian) or a short self-guided option. To experience and appreciate the dimension of that stunning building, you should combine an inside tour with a fantastic hike to Usseaux , one of the most beautiful villages in Piedmont. 

Lake Como, Lombardy

Recommended by Krisztina of SheWandersAbroad.com

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Northern Italy, don’t miss out on Lake Como! This beautiful destination is perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. With its stunning scenery and lovely towns, Lake Como will surely please everyone.

It’s one of the biggest lakes in Italy, and since it’s located only a one-hour train ride away from Milan, it’s a great day trip opportunity. However, if you want to explore the area properly, it’s worth spending at least 2-3 days at Lake Como.

Bellagio is one of the most popular towns on Lake Como, and it’s easy to see why. With its beautiful buildings and stunning views, Bellagio is a must-see when you’re in the area, and it’s also one of the best places for first-timers to stay in Lake Como. Be sure to walk around the town center to admire the architecture, and don’t forget to take a boat ride on the lake for some truly breathtaking views.

If you’re looking for a more low-key town, Tremezzo might be the place for you. This town is known for its pretty gardens, and it’s a great place to relax and take in the scenery. There are also some great restaurants here if you want to try some local cuisines.

Milan, Lombardy

Recommended by Greta of Greta’s Travels

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Northern Italy, add Milano. Milano is known as the City of Fashion; it’s the economic capital of Italy and the capital of the Lombardy region of Italy.

Milan is an iconic destination, both for its historical and cultural aspects and the modern pull of fashion and innovation. From the new trendy skyscrapers of Piazza Gae Aulenti to the cobbled streets of Brera, Milan has something to offer every type of traveler.

You could live in Milan and still not see it all. However, most travelers consider one day in Milan a good amount. In one day, you’ll be able to see all the highlights of the city, starting from Piazza del Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, going on to Brera neighborhood, Castello Sforzesco, Arco della Pace, and then ending your day with a Milanese aperitivo at Navigli.

The best time to visit Milan is in late spring or early summer when the weather is good, the days are long, and you can easily get around the city on foot. You can still visit at other times of the year, but in summer, it gets very hot, and the weather in winter won’t make for a fun experience.

You can’t miss visiting the rooftop of the Duomo Cathedral . From here, you will get stunning views over the Piazza del Duomo and the rooftops of Milan. Head there at sunset for the most gorgeous golden light!

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

Recommended by Lori of Italy Foodies

Bologna, in northern Italy, is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings and the magnificent UNESCO porticoes stretching across the city. But for all that, Bologna is also known as the “culinary capital of Italy” for producing some of the country’s most unique foods, including prosciutto, parmigiano reggiano cheese, and balsamic vinegar, all found locally on every menu.

The city is not as flashy as its neighbors, Florence and Venice, and therefore is undoubtedly one of Italy’s most under-visited cities. But there’s plenty to keep you occupied for a week or more.

A favorite activity is strolling the Piazza Maggiore in the heart of Bologna. Centuries-old medieval buildings, including the main cathedral, Basilica di San Petronio, surround the huge piazza. Here, you’ll find coffee shops and outdoor cafes serving pastries, sandwiches, and, of course, excellent regional wines.

If you’re a foodie, next door to the Piazza Maggiore is the oldest market in Bologna, the Quadrilatero, where you can walk the narrow cobblestone streets and shop for local Italian bread , meats, and cheeses or dine at some of the city’s best eateries.

Bologna once boasted 125 medieval towers, but only about 25 remain. One of the tallest is the Asinelli Tower, the only one you can climb—and you should! The panoramic views over Bologna are worth the climb.

Bologna is also home to fast-performance cars; a day trip to the “Motor Valley” should be on your list. The world headquarters of Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati are fascinating places to visit for car buffs or anyone looking for a true Bolognese experience.

Visiting Northern Italy

When planning a trip to northern Italy, there are many different cities and attractions that you must not miss. Milan, of course, is at the top of the list, with its beautiful architecture and buzzing cultural scene. There are also many lovely small towns in this region to explore.

And just outside of Milan is Lake Como, one of the most breathtaking destinations in the region. With its deep blue waters and snow-capped mountains in the distance, it is truly a sight to behold. Whether looking for great food and wine or incredible natural beauty, northern Italy is truly amazing!

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

Tackling Over-Tourism: Como Considers Tourist Tax for Foreign Visitors

The city of Como, located in the northern part of Italy , is introducing a tourist tax system.

According to Euronews , the city of Como, Italy, is considering imposing a tourist tax on foreign tourists to address the problem of overtourism.

The mayor of Como, Alessandro Rapinese, stated that residents are suffering due to the influx of tourists, and the city council decided to introduce a tourist tax to solve this problem.

Editor's Pick

• Türkiye’s Mount Nemrut Named One of the World’s Eight Wonders
• Spicy Sauce Secrets Revealed: How Much Salt Is Hiding in Your Favorite Sauces?
• Catching Waves and Caution: The Unseen Risks of Surfing
• Wellness Trend Swaps Coffee for This Calming Cup of Tea

Read more: The Surprising Health Benefits of Sleep

Alessandro Rapinese continued to explain that the exact time of introduction and the specific amount has not yet been determined, and the city council is likely to introduce a policy similar to the tourist tax system in Venice.

Venice imposes a tourist tax of 5 euros on daytrippers, excluding children under 14 years old. The tax is collected only on specific dates, such as weekends or peak seasons.

Como is a small city near Milan, a representative city in northern Italy known for its honeymoon and resort destinations. It boasts a mild climate and beautiful natural scenery. Many tourists visit to see Lake Como, which was created by the melting of the Alps glacier.

Most Viewed in ViewusGlobal

• Could Your Heartburn Meds Be Giving You Headaches? New Research Reveals Surprising Link
• Cancer Treatment Revolution: Unexpected Role of Vitamin D
• Lisbon Doubles Tourist Tax: What Visitors Need to Know

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

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 15th March 2024

Categories Lombardy , Travelling in Italy

How to get to Lake Como?

This is the million-dollar question that crosses the minds of thousands of people planning to visit what easily amounts to the world’s most famous lake during their italian holidays..

Shaped as an upturned letter Y and surrounded by vertiginous mountains, Lago di Como – as it’s known in Italian – looks very much like a landlocked fjord. It has a circumference of 171 km and the road that connects the dozens of towns and villages on its shores curves and turns – often at almost vertical to the water heights – with rarely a straight line in sight.

About 50 km or so away from Italy’s second-largest city – Milan – Lake Como is easy to get to and get around. Yet, to make the most of your time at the lake, there are many travel details that it’s best to know in advance. Especially, considering how popular the lake is and how many people from all over the world flock to it during the high season.

Fear not! In this blog post today, I will share with you nine ways to explore Lake Como, its prettiest towns, and its most stunning sights. In easy-to-browse-through chunks of information, I will lay out how to get to and around Italy’s Lake Como and make the most of it. Even if you are visiting just for the day!

You can choose to visit Lake Como by car, train, ferry, and even by seaplane! Or a combination of some or all of these modes of transport. Alternatively, you can also explore it on foot. It’s all covered below, so just scroll down and have a look at the options that fit your travel style the best.

It’s all padded with many practical tips about the lake. Plus, at the end of this blog post, you will also find a detailed section about how much time to spend here, what to expect in terms of weather, and where to stay depending on your budget. It’s all based on my first-hand experiences of visiting Lago di Como several times over the last five years and it’s designed to make your travel planning as smooth and easy as possible.

For even more information about Lake Como, have a look also at these blog posts:

• Best Things to Do in Lake Como
• Best Towns on Lake Como
• Lake Como in Winter – 10 Reasons to Visit
• The Beauty of Lake Como
• 3 Best Airports for Lake Como

Otherwise, let’s start!

Where is lake como – italy’s most famous lake.

First things first! Let’s pinpoint on the map where exactly Lake Como is in Italy and Europe.

Known as a hotspot for famous people, Lago di Como 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. One of his feet rests 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.

Here is a map showing the exact location of Lake Como in Italy. You can zoom in and out and use it to calculate directions from anywhere in Italy and abroad.

I have pinned both the city of Milan and the following lakefront towns to the map: Como, Lecco, Colico, Bellagio, and Varenna. The first three, as already mentioned, are the largest towns here. The other two are the most popular destinations for day trips and tourist visits.

How to Get to Lake Como and 9 Best Ways to Travel Around Italy’s Most Famous Lake

1. Explore Lake Como by Car

Having a car at your disposal is the most convenient and yet the most taxing way to explore everything that Lake Como has to offer. 

On the plus side, being able to drive around the lake gives you the immense freedom to visit a myriad of picturesque towns, medieval villages, historic villas, botanical gardens, small beaches, must-see museums, and so many other wonderful places on the shores of Italy’s most famous lake. Not to mention all the hidden gems and secret corners you will be able to reach and explore.

At the same time, however, driving around the lake can be incredibly stressful. Here is why!

First, Lake Como is connected to Milan by Autostrada A9. This is the oldest motorway in Italy and the world. It’s also known as the Autostrada dei Laghi (Motorway of the Lakes) and it was built in 1924. It’s a toll road. The outskirts of Milan are very industrial and the rush hour seems to be never-ending. Thankfully, this usually is a short and fast drive. Not so much on summer weekends when it seems, half of Milan decamps to the lake.

Once you reach the lake, there is a lakeside road which skirts the whole outline of Lago di Como providing stunning panoramic views and breathtaking viewpoints. If you are the driver, however, keep your eyes on the road at all times as it is incredibly sinuous and often very narrow. There are also sharp corners, old houses angling onto the lane, and many blind spots.

The road runs through many of the lakefront towns and villages. Several of them have limited or no pavements at all. Expect to see locals and visitors strolling down the road as cars and buses pass by them. On occasion, people also go jogging along the road, so as a driver you need to be alert at all times.

Some of the local drivers – very used to the roads – drive in a very assertive manner. As such, they may encroach into the opposite lane and even try to pressure you to drive faster than you are comfortable with. If you can, don’t be too proud to let them pass and maintain a sensible speed at all times.

On the plus side, however, the eastern shore of the Lecco and the Colico branches of the lake is very easy to explore by car as it’s served by the Italian highway SS36. This fast road runs through a series of tunnels. From Lecco, it takes just half an hour to reach Colico (at the upper northeastern shore of Lake Como). Travel times from Lecco to Varenna and Bellano, for example, are only about 20-22 mins depending on the time of the day. Just make sure that you keep an eye out for the right exit. If you miss it (as it happened to us once), you will need to follow the highway for quite some time before you can turn back.

When you explore Lake Como by car, the biggest issue you will face is finding parking. In the larger lakefront towns like Lecco and Como, there are multistorey car parks. The smaller towns here though often have very few parking spaces the majority of which are reserved for the locals. The problem is only exacerbated during the high season when thousands of people travel to Lake Como on a day trip or for a longer holiday.

Here are a few practical tips if you decide to get around the lake by car:

• Rent a small car. Space on the road around Lake Como is limited. A small vehicle will make things so much easier.
• Be courteous to other drivers. Some portions of the road are so narrow and bendy that you may need to stop to let the oncoming traffic pass first.
• Be mindful of pedestrians (and joggers). Often, there are simply no pavements for them to use.
• If you are staying at a local accommodation, ask if it provides parking spaces (ideally, for free). If not, it may be difficult to find a nearby place to leave your car at.
• Never park in a reserved parking space (usually held by the locals). Towing is active 24/7 and they are strict about it.
• Parking can be pricey around Lake Como, so budget accordingly.
• If you are visiting just for the day, consider parking in a multistorey car park in one of the main lakefront towns and then use the ferries or the local buses to get around.
• If you see a sign with the letters ZTL on it, don’t drive beyond it. ZTL stands for Zona di Traffico Limitato in Italian or a zone with limited traffic. Such usually are the historic centres of centuries-old Italian towns and driving through one incurs a heavy fine. Bear in mind that if your accommodation is in the historic centre and provides parking spaces, it may give you a special temporary pass allowing you to drive through the ZTL. Ask in advance!
• The narrow windy roads here don’t really allow high and moderate speeds. Don’t be surprised if a short journey of 15 km takes over half an hour to do. The distance from Como to Bellagio, for example, is only 30 km or so. It usually takes just under an hour and even longer during the high season.

Having said all that, driving around Lake Como is still a very convenient way of exploring as much of the lake as possible. Especially the eastern shore of the Lecco and the Colico branches. So, do weigh the cons and pros very carefully in order to make the right decision for yourself and your travelling companions.

2. Reach Lake Como by Train

You can easily get to Lake Como by train from anywhere in Italy and abroad. Several of the lakefront towns have railway stations which makes them easy to reach and thus provide quick access to the lake from Milan and the nearest large international airports (see point 9 below).

It works like this:

On the Como branch of the lake, the town of Como is the only one linked by railway. It has three train stations:

• Como San Giovanni  – the town’s main railway station is about a kilometre away from the Duomo and the lakefront promenade. If you are arriving from either Milano Centrale (Milan’s main railway station) or Milano Porta Garibaldi (a smaller railway station in Milan) get off here and either walk or take a local bus to the historic centre. The journey from Milano Centrale lasts around 40 mins with three intermediate stops. The journey from Milano Porta Garibaldi is between 50 mins and an hour with either a change in the city of Monza or 11 intermediate stops on the direct train.
• Como Camerlata  – a small railway station serving the town’s southern suburbs. Arriving from Milan, it precedes Como San Giovanni.
• Como Nord Lago  (also known as Como Lago ) – a small, end-of-the-line railway station. It stands just off the lakefront promenade, next door to the majestic Duomo, and very close to the station of the Brunate funicular. Get off at this stop if you are arriving from Milano Cadorna (a small railway station in Milan) or from Malpensa Aeroporto T1 or T2 (the railway stations of Milan Malpensa Airport). The journey from Milano Cadorna lasts about an hour with 13 intermediate stops. The journey from Malpensa Aeroporto T1 or T2 is 1 h 20 mins with a change in the town of Saronno.

Once you’ve reached the town of Como, you can easily get to the other towns on the Como branch of the lake by local bus (see point 3 below) or ferry (see point 4 below).

Getting to the eastern shore of Lake Como by train is much easier. A railway line spans its whole length from the town of Lecco to the town of Colico and connects it to Milan’s main railway station – Milano Centrale. As such, you can easily reach the many lakefront towns here by train in around an hour on average. Here are some sample travel times:

• Milano Centrale to  Lecco  – 39 mins
• Milano Centrale to  Mandello del Lario  – 51 mins
• Milano Centrale to  Varenna/Esino  – 1 h 4 mins
• Milano Centrale to  Bellano/Tartavalle Terme  – 1 h 9 mins
• Milano Centrale to Colico – 1 h 26 mins

The direct train from Milano Centrale stops at all of the above destinations. Alternatively, you can change in Lecco and get on a slower regional train that stops at these plus several other towns dotted between them.

This makes the eastern shore of the lake a very convenient arrival point by train and ideal for day trips. Once in Lecco, for example, you can easily get the local bus to Bellagio – the main point of tourist interest at Lake Como. If you stay on the train until Varenna, then Bellagio and Menaggio are only a short hop by ferry across the lake. And if you continue to Colico, you can get a bus that will take you down to the town of Como via the northern tip and then the whole western shore of the lake.

To check train times and book train tickets in advance, I find the following three websites very useful:  Omio ,  ItaloTreno , and  TrenItalia .

Otherwise, see this handy map below showing the exact locations of the train stations you can use for Lago di Como. You can zoom in and out to get a better idea of their geographical positions on the shores of Italy’s most famous lake. If you click on the grey star next to the map’s name, this will add the map to your account in Google Maps. This way, you can consult it as and when you want.

Here are the locations pinned to the map:

Railway Stations in Milan: 1.  Milano Centrale  2.  Milano Porta Garibaldi  3.  Milano Cadorna – with  red  pin

Railway Stations on Lake Como:   1.  Como San Giovanni  2.  Como (Nord) Lago 3. Lecco 4. Abbadia Lariana 5. Mandello del Lario 6. Olcio 7. Lierna 8. Fiumelatte 9. Varenna/Esino 10. Bellano/Tartavalle Terme 11. Dervio 12. Colico – with  green  pin

Other Nearby Railway Stations   –  1.  Malpensa Aeroporto T1 and T2 2. Saronno 3. Monza – with  purple  pin

3. Travel Around Lake Como by Bus

Taking the bus is a great way to travel around Lago di Como. The drivers skillfully navigate the sinuous road and you just need to sit back, relax, and take in the sprawling panoramas. The route will take you through several picturesque lakefront towns thus enticing you to be spontaneous and see even more places around Italy’s most famous lake.

Numerous bus lines connect the many destinations here and are operational all throughout the year. You can check the current timetables and prices for the different bus lines serving Lake Como on the website of  ASF Autolinee  (in Italian). You can buy a single or a return ticket to a particular destination as well as a one-day or multi-day ticket to travel around the lake. The current prices are published here . This  handy map  gives you a visual idea of the bus routes you can take.

In a nutshell, however, the main bus lines are:

• C10 – taking you from Como all the way up the western shore of the lake to the town of Menaggio and then along the northern end of the lake to the town of Colico. Catch it if you want to visit such iconic places as Villa del Balbaniello and Villa Carlotta and 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.
• C30 – taking you from Como along the eastern shore of the Como branch of the lake all the way up to Bellagio. The bus stops at all the small towns and villages that dot the shore here. Nesso is particularly well known on account of Orrido di Nesso – a powerful waterfall that rumbles in a steep gorge. The journey from start to end lasts around 1 h 10 mins.
• D10 – taking you from Lecco to Bellagio in about 45 mins or so. Once again, the bus stops at many lakefront towns and villages along the way and opens panoramic views over the much less visited western shore of the Lecco branch of Lake Como.

Exploring Lago di Como by bus is very convenient. However, during the high season, this type of transport can get very busy, especially during the weekends and rush hours. You may need to queue to get on the bus or even need to stand up during a portion of or the whole journey. Different people may react differently when the bus arrives. Some may be pushy trying to get on board first! Be polite but stand your ground.

Another thing to be aware of is that outside of Como and Lecco the bus stops are often right on the narrow and sinuous lakeside road with not much space for a shelter or even a spot to stand. Be mindful of the passing traffic. Hold children by the hand. When you get off the bus, check to see if there are cars waiting behind the bus before starting to cross the road.

4. Town-Hop Around Lake Como by Ferry

Crossing Lake Como on board a ferry is a great experience. 

The beauty of the many lakefront towns and the lake’s vertiginous natural setting is best enjoyed from the water. Sitting on the deck, feeling the fresh air on your face, and taking in the sprawling panoramas is what travel memories are made of.

Elegant villas, lush gardens, centuries-old churches, and even a gorge with a rumbling waterfall glide past you offset by the dark waters of the lake and the tall mountains filling the horizon on all sides.

Plus, taking a ferry is an easy way to reach lakefront towns that are on opposite shores thus avoiding circumnavigating the lake by road and any potential traffic jams along the way. By all means, take the ferry at least once during your time at Lake Como. Here is how it works:

In a nutshell, here are the types of ferries operated by Navigazioni Laghi (the company which also runs the ferries on Italy’s largest lake – Lago di Garda ):

• Regular pedestrian ferries connecting Como to Colico and stopping at many small and large lakefront towns on both sides of the Como and Colico branches of the lake along the way. This is a slow service (for example, the journey from Como to Bellagio lasts around 1 h 30 mins to 2 h), that takes hours from start to end but provides beautiful panoramic views along the way. In winter, the timetable of the regular ferries is heavily reduced.
• Fast pedestrian ferries connecting Como to Colico and stopping only at the most important lakefront towns on both sides of the Como and Colico branches of the lake along the way. This is a speedy service (for example, the journey from Como to Bellagio takes around 45 mins to 1 h), however, it costs more than the regular ferries.
• Car/Pedestrian ferries in the central part of Lake Como . They ferry both vehicles and pedestrians between the towns of Varenna, Bellagio, Menaggio, and Cadenabbia. The crossing from Bellagio to Menaggio, for example, lasts only 15 mins. The crossing from Varenna to Bellagio is also only a quarter of an hour. These ferries are very convenient, open beautiful panoramic views, and most importantly, you are not stuck on them for hours. During the high season, there is also a shuttle boat for pedestrians connecting Bellagio, Tremezzina, Varena, and Bellano. This is very convenient if you want to visit some of the most famous historic sights here, for example, Villa Carlotta and Villa Monastero . The waterfall of Orrido di Bellano is also a must-see.
• Pedestrian ferries connecting Lecco to Bellagio . These are usually operational only during the high season.

You can buy ferry tickets online in advance or on the day from the ticket kiosks at the ferry terminal in each town (which usually is right next to the town’s lakefront promenade). You can purchase a one-way or a return ticket to a specific destination. Alternatively, you can opt for a one-day or a multi-day pass which gives you a chance to hop on and off the ferry so as to visit the many different lakefront towns along the way.

For updated ferry times, prices, and tickets, always refer to the official website of  Navigazione Laghi . 

5. Explore Lake Como on Foot

Often, your own two feet are all you need to explore Lake Como from the most advantageous viewpoints.

There is a large number of hiking paths all around Italy’s most famous lake. Not to mention the gorgeous promenades that stretch along the waterfront in many of the lakefront towns and open beautiful views over the lake and the mighty mountains that hold it in a tight embrace.

Just make sure that you wear your most comfortable shoes! If you decide to explore the trails around the lake, these need to be proper hiking boots with a good grip. Plus, many of the lakefront towns are built on steep cliffs and their centuries-old streets are often covered with jagged cobbles which are difficult to walk on in flip-flops or sandals. In many cases, the streets here are actually long and sinuous stairways with an endless number of irregular cobbled steps. The towns of Nesso, Varenna, and Bellagio have plenty of these. So, make sure that your feet and ankles are supported at all times.

There are, roughly speaking, three ways to get walking around Lake Como:

• Gentle walks around some of the flat lakefront towns – if you don’t enjoy uneven surfaces, the towns of Como, Lecco, Cernobbio, and Menaggio may be just what you need. With plenty of even ground here – both in their historic centres and along their promenades – you will still get to see some of the most beautiful corners of Lake Como without really having to go uphill. While Bellagio has some steeper streets, the walk to Punta Spartivento where the lake’s three branches meet follows a generally flat road. Another easy walk to do is in the hilltop town of Brunate where you can follow the road from the funicular station past many beautiful villas in the Art Nouveau style to a fantastic panoramic viewpoint over the Como branch of the lake.
• Exploratory walks around the steeper lakefront towns – often Lake Como’s towns are made of small frazioni – or hamlets in English – connected by centuries-old cobbled paths. Called mulattiere – or mule tracks in English – they go across steep slopes and open splendid panoramas. The town of Nesso is a case in point. Here you can walk from the ferry terminal to the town’s centuries-old hamlet of Borgovecchio along one such mulattiera.
• Hikes for all abilities – the hills and mountains around Lake Como are crisscrossed by numerous hiking paths. Some of them follow ancient Roman roads. Others take several days to complete. Among the most well-known hikes here are the Sentiero del Viandante and the Greenway del Lago di Como . Every town here, however, is the starting point for many short and long hikes. You can find information in the local tourist information offices where leaflets with maps and routes are usually available for visitors to the lake.

6. See Lake Como on Board a Sleek Motorboat

Crisscrossing Lago di Como on board a sleek motorboat is the poshest way to travel around Italy’s most famous lake.

There are many companies all around the lake that charter boats to visitors. You can ask for recommendations at your accommodation or simply head to the promenade to chat directly to 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 410 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.

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.

7. Take a Taxi at Lake Como

Taxis in Italy are white by law and while they may cost a pretty penny, they offer a convenient way to get around Lake Como and explore the many exciting sights on its shores. Especially, if you don’t want to bother with a rental car or with public transport. And, especially, if you don’t have much time to spend at the lake but you want to see as much as possible.

You can book a taxi even before your arrival as many taxi companies that serve Lake Como have websites in several languages. You just need to search for ‘taxi Lake Como’ or ‘taxi  the name of the lakefront town you want to visit ‘ and your favourite search engine will return dozens of results.

Otherwise, you can get a taxi at the train and bus stations in the larger lakefront towns. You can also ask your hotel to call you one or to recommend a local taxi company for you to use.

Ask the taxi driver in advance approximately how much it will cost you to reach your destination. Be prepared that on Sundays and public holidays, a surcharge may apply.

The main inconvenience of travelling by taxi here is the cost of the service. At the same time, getting a taxi here may be a necessity. Especially, if you need to reach a corner of Lake Como that is off the beaten track. Or if you need to return to your accommodation late at night when public transport is not running.

Taxi companies may also offer customised tours of Lake Como or of certain towns and sights around it. This gives you a chance to explore a branch or two of the lake in a day and to stop exactly where you want on its shores.

8. Book an Organised Tour to and Around Lake Como

Finally, you can easily book a guided tour to take you to and around Italy’s most famous lake – Lago di Como. This option works well if you want to see the most and yet you don’t have much time to spend here. It is also the best option if you prefer to be shown all the best corners of the lake by an experienced tour guide instead of trying to do it all by yourself.

This  guided day trip  from Milan to Lake Como comes highly recommended. It takes you to several of the prettiest corners around the lake. It also combines travel by coach and boat for the best views and the maximum range of experiences.

You can also book a guided trip starting from the town of Como itself. This one  packs a lot of activities in a day and takes you to the two most popular lakefront towns – Bellagio and Varenna.

While you can also do it all by yourself using the tips shared in this blog post and have a wonderful time, sometimes, it pays to be shown around. Especially, if it’s your first visit to Lake Como, if you have only a short amount of time or you find it overwhelming to find your way around in a country where you don’t speak the language.

9. Get to Lake Como by Plane and See Italy’s Most Famous Lake from Above

Finally, let’s talk about getting to Lake Como by air. The nearest to Lake Como large international airports are:

Milan Malpensa – more convenient for the Como branch of the lake. From the airport, you can get the Malpensa Express train to the small town of Saronno. Once there, take the train to Como Nord Lago – a small end-of-the-line railway station next to the town of Como’s lakefront promenade. Along the way, the train also stops at Como Camerlata and Como San Giovanni – two other railway stations serving the town of Como. Total travel time by train is around 1 h 20 mins.

Bergamo Orio al Serio  – more convenient for the Lecco branch of the lake. From Bergamo Orio al Serio airport take the shuttle bus to Bergamo railway station. Once there, take the train to Lecco. Total travel time starts from just over an hour.

Milan Linate  – convenient for both the Como and the Lecco branches of the lake. From Milan Linate airport get the  Airport Bus Express  to Milano Centrale railway station (25 mins travel time). Once there, you can continue by train to Como, Lecco or another lakefront town with a railway connection.

Alternatively, you can get bus line 73 from Milan Linate Airport to Milano Forlanini railway station. Once there, you can continue by train to Como, Lecco or another lakefront town with a railway connection. Travel times are longer than taking the train from Milano Centrale and you will need to change trains along the way in the city of Monza.

Plus, if you really want to have a one-of-a-kind travel experience at Lake Como, consider seeing it from above. All throughout the day, seaplanes crisscross the skies above Italy’s most famous lake.

Standing by the Volta Temple on the town of Como’s lakefront promenade, you will see them 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.

Learn More:

• 3 Best Airports for Lake Como, Italy (With Transfer Options, Travel Times, and Maps)
• 11 Major Airports in Northern Italy

Practical Tips About Visiting Lake Como in Italy

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 it feels so nice to be wrapped up warm in the evenings.

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, a number of curious sights, and are linked to 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)

Otherwise, here is a shortlist of four of the most gorgeous towns on Lake Como to explore during your visit. All of them are easy to reach by train or by train/bus/ferry from 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 first 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 cut through over millions of years by a powerful waterfall, Bellano has a lot to offer. Yet, 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 Best Things to Do at Lake Como?

There are many things to do and enjoy around Italy’s most famous lake – Lago di Como. For an extensive list, have a look at this comprehensive travel guide:

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

Otherwise, here is a 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 crash through tall canyons 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 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
• Lake Como in Winter – 10 Reasons to Visit Italy’s Most Famous Lake in the Off-Season
• 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 which 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

Lago di Como is a must-see destination in Northern Italy . The lake is internationally famous for its beautiful natural setting, long list of historic sights, and strings of charming lakefront towns and villages. It’s not in vain that for decades it has been a favourite place to relax for famous people from the worlds of acting, fashion, music, and even politics.

If Lake Como is on your bucket list and you are starting to look into a possible visit to it, this blog post will help streamline your Italy travel planning. It explores in detail the nine best ways to get to Lake Como and navigate around it. From road and railway to air and your own two feet, all available modes of transportation are covered.

It’s all based on my own first-hand experiences of visiting and travelling around Lake Como over the last five years. To help you even further, I have also condensed a section with practical tips about the best places to stay at the lake, the best towns to visit here, and the best things to do during your visit.

I hope that all this information will come in handy and that will allow you to get the most out of your time at Italy’s most famous lake.

Enjoy Lake Como!

Travel tools, now, get ready quick 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: Best Things, to Do ,  Reasons to Visit in Winter , Inspiring Photos ,  Best Airports , 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

Thank you for reading! Please, leave me a comment, pin the images or use the buttons right at the top and at the end of this blog post to share it on social media.

For more useful information like this, please, like my blog’s page on  Facebook  and Instagram and  subscribe  to my strictly no-spam newsletter.

Email address:

Melissa Glorioso

Sunday 15th of January 2023

I wish you had included how to get to Lake Como from Venice! I do not know why, but I thought I had read an article you had written a couple of years ago about it. I suppose I am mistaken. I used lots or your information when I went to Lake Garda 2 years ago from Venice. I will be in Venice 6 weeks and have rented a house on Lake Como for a week this coming May. Please give me a heads up if you did do a story about getting to Como from Venice before, and I just cannot find it! Thank you so much..I have been following you for a few years now and your writings about Italy. So very helpful!

Monday 16th of January 2023

Thank you for your kind words, Melissa! I hope you have a wonderful time in Italy this coming May. I don't as of yet have a separate article about getting to Lake Como from Venice. At present, I have such an article for Lake Garda. In any case, it's not difficult to get to Lake Como from Venice. You can travel by train or by car. If you travel by train, you can get either the direct high-speed train from Venice to Milan or the fast regional train from Venice to Verona and then change to the regional train to Milan. (It's all explained in some detail in this blog post.) The train station you'll need in Milan is called Milano Centrale. Once at Milano Centrale, you can get the train to Lake Como as explained under point 2 in this blog post above. Just pick the train station that is nearest to your accommodation on the lake. The map shows the train stations around the lake. Once at the lake, if need be, you can continue by local bus or ferry (as covered above). If you travel by car, your GPS will calculate the best route and the tips under point 1 above, hopefully, will come in very handy. I hope this helps!

Best wishes,

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Lake Como’s little sister is ‘most underrated’ spot to visit in Italy with £27 flights

Share this with

Crystal clear blue water, charming cobbled streets, picturesque buildings, and brightly coloured blooms everywhere.

This could be a description of Lake Como or Lake Garda , which are two of the most popular lake destinations in Italy . But it’s not. 

Lago d’Orta, or Lake Orta as it’s also known, is the little sister of Lake Como and is often overlooked for the more famous destinations, but as a smaller spot, it’s much more budget friendly and easier to explore in a short amount of time. 

Lake Orta is roughly an hour’s drive from Milan airport, located in Piedmont in northern Italy, a region of the country which borders France and Switzerland. The area is known for having a sophisticated cuisine and wines, meaning you’ll eat and drink very well during a visit here.

You’ll also be treated to a real feast for the eyes, with stunning views and architecture. On Tripavisor, those who’ve visited have hailed the lake ‘beautiful’, a ‘hidden gem’, and like something out of a fairytale such as Cinderella.

If this hasn’t already tempted you to visit, then perhaps a closer look at what the area offers will…

Things to do at Lake Orta

The main town is known as Orta San Giulio and is a quaint spot filled with cobbled streets, old stone walls, and little squares. Shops and businesses are crammed into the narrow lanes, with a number of boutiques, antique shops, cafes, and restaurants for you to peruse at your leisure.

Walking around the town, taking in the views from different spots will be a highlight, leaving you feeling like you’re in a movie. 

As well as the main town, there’s an island in the middle of the lake known as Isola di San Giulio, which is known as the island of silence. There is a silent walk around the island, and visitors are urged to respect this, muting phones, not speaking, and enjoying some peace and tranquillity.

During the walk, you’ll come across the stunning Basilica di San Giulio, a Benedictine monastery. The interior of the Romanesque style church is adorned with many frescos painted between the 14th and 16th century, plus various carvings, all depicting saints.

@theposhbackpacker There’s more than just Lake Como! #italy #lakes #northernitaly #piedmont #traveltok #como #orta #italianlife #summerholiday ♬ Little Things – Adrian Berenguer

@sagelining Risposta a @shaunak_980 💸 Budget-friendly alternative to Lake Como: Lake Orta, Piemonte, Italy. ‼️More info: with this, I don’t want to discredit Lake Como: i’ve been there, it’s beautiful and I definitely want to go back. But, as the lake is really big and needs at least 2 days to be fully explored (so you will be spending on the accommodation) i think #lakeorta is a valid day-trip alternative. Way less famous, you only need half a day to fully visit this little gem, it’s really small and there are many free or low budget activities to do. I will make a detailed video later. :) #summerinitaly #italiansummer #italyaesthetic #travelitaly #italytravel #ortasangiulio #lagodorta #summer2023 ♬ Glisten by the Wind – nick leng

@travelwithmansoureh you probably never heard of this Italian #lake it is one of the most beautiful lakes in #Italy #lakeorta #hiddengems #traveltiktok #bucketlist #traveltoitaly ♬ original sound – Mansoureh

There’s only one restaurant on the island (Ristorante San Giulio) and a small souvenir shop for those wanting to remember their time there. 

Visitors to Lake Orta can take a boat from the town to the island from Piazza Motta, the main square in Orta San Giulio, where you’ll also be able to stop and get some ice cream, as well as pasta spots, Italian charcuterie, or enjoy a glass of the Barolo wine the region is famous for.

Wine lovers staying in the area may also want to consider taking a drive to Langhe to visit some of the Barolo vineyards. The trip will take a little over an hour, but you’ll be spoilt for choice once you arrive with wine tastings galore.

For the most part Lake Orta will be a great place to visit for a little R&R, and those wanting to relax can do so at Spiaggia Miami, a sandy beach in the corner of the lake, flanked by lush green trees. The views are dreamy, as is the space which has its own bar and restaurant, offering everything from sandwiches to cocktails. 

You can kick back on a sun lounger, spritz in hand and feel as if you’re at the seaside. Or if you’re feeling a bit more active, guests are also able to hire pedal boats, canoes and boats. 

It’s worth noting that the beach isn’t free to visit, and guests are charged €32 euros for a full day with two people, two sunbeds or deckchairs, and an umbrella, or €22 for a half day. Children’s admittance (aged 2 to 10) costs €4 euros each, and any additional adult guests are €10 each. Half day tickets are valid from either 9am to 2pm, or 2.30pm to 7.30pm.

Food and drink in Orta San Giulio

It’s no secret that there’s an abundance of incredible food and drink in Italy, and this is no exception in the town or Orta San Giulio. Although the region’s specialities might not be for everyone.

Liver will be found on many menus, as well as Piedmontese Beef (Fassona), hazelnuts, truffles, and plenty of cheese.

There’s three Minchelin star dining to be enjoyed at Villa Crespi, a luxury five-star hotel which houses chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo’s signature restaurant.

The menu features dishes such as burnt sea bass with lettuce salad, squid linguine, pigeon with pineapple, liver and Verjus sauce, and a unique Raspberry and horseradish dessert. Prices here start from €190 for two courses fom the à la carte menu.

Other fine dining options include Locanda di ORta, Ristorante Teatro Magico, and AM Bistrot. Those looking for more affordable options might head to Ristorante San Giulio, Birreria il Cantuccio, or La Motta.

Of course, there’s also plenty of gelato to be enjoyed, and various other Italian sweet treats including buns filled with pistachio, ricotta, or dark chocolate, sweet focaccia breads, and a selection of pastries.

How to get to Lake Orta

Lake Orta doesn’t have an airport, so in order to visit travellers will need to fly in to Milan and then either drive an hour to the town, or utilise public transport.

You can take a train from the airport to Milano Centrale Railway Station where you can then get a train to Pettenaso. From there it’s a 20 minute walk to the town, and this journey takes just under four hours in total.

Flights from London to Milan can currently be purchased very cheaply, with Skyscanner showing one-way flights in May for as little as £12-£15 each way. One deal with Ryanair costs £27 for a return trip between 15 and 21 May. In June Wizz Air is also offering flights from £48.

The flight from London is non-stop and takes two hours.

Direct flights to Milan usually depart from London Gatwick Airport, London Stansted Airport and Manchester Airport.

What’s the weather like at Lake Orta?

Lake Orta is best to visit between April and October, when the weather will be warmer. Like most spots in Italy, the town will be warmest in the summer months of July and August when temperatures hit highs of 29C.

These sunny summer months will also be the busiest time of the year to visit Orta, so if you’re looking to go at a quieter time then Spring or autumn might be better, as the weather will still be relatively warm. In April and October temperatures still reach around 17C.

Five fab hotels to stay at in Lake Orta on Booking.com:

• Casa Fantini – Lake Time – £423 per night
• Relais & Chateau Villa Crespi – £430 per night
• Hotel Bocciolo – £142 per night
• Hotel Madonna di Luciago (in nearby Armeno, a 20 minute drive) – £34 per night
• Hotel La Bussola – £123 per night

Where to stay in Lake Orta

There are numerous hotels listed on booking.com in Orta San Giulio meaning you’ve got plenty of options to choose from. But if you hate the thought of making that decision, we’ll make it a little easier for you.

These are some of the top hotel picks on the website, which range from more luxurious stays to affordable rooms in neighbouring locations.

Booking.com’s top choice is Casa Fantini — Lake Time, a five star rated boutique hotel with gorgeous lake views. The establishment combines modern design with natural materials in all its rooms, with each one containing a balcony or terrace overlooking the iconic island on the water. A stay here doesn’t come cheap though with prices starting from £430 a night. 

Their mid-range price suggestion is Hotel Bocciolo which is located near the shore of the lake, close to the main town square. Rooms here will start from £142 a night. 

Your Daily Horoscope

What does the week have in store? Your tarot horoscope reading for May 6 to May 12

But if you’re looking for a budget stay, then Hotel Madonna di Luciago should be top of your list. Room prices start from £34 a night, but this one isn’t actually in Lake Orta, it’s a 20 minute drive away in Armeno, so if you want to stay here, you’ll need a car or be willing to fork out for a taxi. 

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

MORE : 2024 is the year for stargazing – here are the best places to see the skies

MORE : The ‘grim’ thing you should avoid doing on your holiday this summer

MORE : Escape London with a trip to the UK’s ‘best’ national park, with ‘striking’ countryside and classic pubs

Get need-to-know travel news, inspiration and advice from Metro every week.

Sign up here....

Privacy Policy

You were the handsome American fella standing next to me, wearing a brown…

To the beautiful blonde in the white T-shirt with black stripes and fluffy…

Enter your birthday for your free daily horoscope sent straight to your inbox!

Get us in your feed

Venice launches world first tourist entrance fee in bid to fight overcrowding

VENICE, Italy — Ancient and beautiful, this city is sometimes referred to as an open air museum — and now visitors to Venice will have to pay an entry fee after the tourist hub on Thursday became the first in the world to introduce a charging system for day-trippers.

In a bid to thin out the crowds that throng to see the canals, bridges and striking architecture during vacation season, day-trippers will have to pay 5 euros ($5.35) to enter the lagoon city on 29 peak days, mostly on weekends, as part of a trial phase until July 14. 

Tourists who have booked at least one night at a hotel in the city will be exempt from the charge, as will residents, workers and students in the city. Visitors under age 14 will also be exempt. But like the day-trippers, they will also have to ensure they have registered online and received QR codes.  

Those without smartphones will have to go to the city’s Santa Lucia train station to buy tickets. 

Among the thousands of people lining up at the station for a ticket Thursday was Donna Porter-Mutchler, a tourist from Tennessee, who told NBC News she thought the charge was “a wonderful idea.”  

“Venice deserves to be taken care of,” she said. “I think it’s more than worth it. I come here often, and I’ll pay every time.” 

While there will be no limits on the number of people who can register, officials hope the fee will put people off on days it applies. 

“We are not looking to collect money, tax people or introduce a police state,” Simone Venturini, Venice’s tourism councilor, told NBC News. “We are being democratic about it, but the important message is: ‘Please, if you are a day-tripper, choose another day.’”

While there are no turnstiles at the city’s entrance points to make sure people have passes, inspectors will make random checks and issue fines of 50 to 300 euros to anyone who has failed to register.

Prominent signs across the city and a TV and newspaper advertising campaign have been launched in Italy and some other countries to let people know about it. And with the help of artificial intelligence , Mayor Luigi Brugnaro has also recorded a video message in several languages to inform tourists about the charge.  

Officials in the city estimate an average of 50,000 people a day visit Venice, an influx that almost matches the resident population, some of whom are unhappy about the new charge.  

“Venice has turned into Disneyland, where tourists are catered more than residents, and charging $5 is not going to stop anyone,” Federica Toninello of the Social Assembly for Housing and the Solidarity Network for Housing in Venice said Thursday. “It’s just propaganda.”

Others, like tourist guide Luisella Romeo, said they were concerned about the use of personal data collected by the new system. “That’s an invasion of privacy. Those details will remain in the system for five years and could be given to third parties, public and private,” she said. 

But officials in the city, which narrowly escaped being placed on UNESCO’s “World Heritage in Danger” list last year, in part because the United Nations body decided that it was not addressing concerns that its delicate ecosystem risked being overwhelmed by mass tourism, have insisted that something needed to be done. 

Three years ago, large cruise ships were banned from sailing into the Venetian lagoon , and the city has also announced limits on the sizes of tourist groups.

While the charge in Venice is still in its experimental stage, other popular Italian tourism destinations, like Lake Como, which has struggled with overcrowding for years, are watching closely.

Only time will tell whether it ends up dead in the water.  

Claudio Lavanga is Rome-based foreign correspondent for NBC News.

Skip to Content

2025, 07/01: Italy's Magnificent Lake District

Discover northern Italy’s lake district, where sparkling lakes mirror emerald hills and craggy slopes. From your base in Stresa by Lake Maggiore, spend indulgent days exploring beautiful islands and elegant shores dusted with sunlight. Witness a Romanesque basilica on Isola San Giulio, and stroll through charming Bellagio, where poets and writers from around the world have found inspiration. Cruise aboard a private boat to the Borromean Islands, home to a lavish island estate and a quaint fishermen’s islet. Glide across Lake Como, passing fairy-tale villas and colorful villages, and learn the secrets of northern Italian cuisine during a cooking lesson and an indulgent lunch. In Milan, feast your eyes on Leonardo’s “The Last Supper” and visit the legendary La Scala, Italy’s opulent opera house. Handcrafted for your enjoyment, this small group journey features a first-class hotel, an extensive meal plan and a series of lectures to enhance your understanding of the region. 

Trip Details:

Dates : July 1—9, 2025 Activity level :

3 buffaloes: Active. High level of physical activity that may be optional. May involve traveling in small boats or other vehicles.

Tour operator : AHI To book call : 800-323-7373 Pricing : From $4,195

Travel Brochure