Imagine a place where snow-capped peaks meet crystalline waters, where centuries-old villas cascade down verdant hillsides, and where every turn reveals another breathtaking view. Welcome to Lake Como—Northern Italy’s crown jewel and one of the most popular destinations in the world. Whether you’re drawn by its legendary beauty, its rich cultural heritage, or simply the promise of seamless luxury, this guide from Designer Journeys will help you design the perfect trip to explore Lake Como and discover why it’s considered a must-visit destination.
Post Contents
- Understanding Lago di Como: Italy’s Third Largest Lake
- The Art of Exploring: Things to Do in Lake Como
- Como City: Where Your Journey Begins
- Bellagio: The Pearl of Lake Como
- Varenna: The Quiet Jewel
- Menaggio and Other Neighbouring Towns
- Historic Villas and Gardens: Lake Como’s Living Heritage
- Boat Experiences: Discovering Lake Como from the Water
- Outdoor Activities and Mountain Adventures
- Dining: Savouring Lake Como’s Flavours
- Practical Information: Planning Your Visit with Confidence
- Ready to Explore Lake Como?
Understanding Lago di Como: Italy’s Third Largest Lake
Lake Como, or Lago di Como as locals call it, is the third largest lake in Italy, stretching across 146 square kilometres of Northern Italy’s Lombardy region. Its distinctive inverted Y-shape—often described as appearing upside down on maps—has created a landscape of remarkable diversity, where the surrounding mountains provide dramatic backdrops and sheltered microclimates nurture botanical gardens even in Alpine territory. The stunning lake reaches depths of over 400 metres, creating those mesmerising deep blue waters that have captivated visitors for centuries.
The lake is shaped like an inverted ‘Y’ with three arms meeting at the town of Bellagio.
What makes this perfect place truly special is the confidence it inspires to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to discover its treasures by boat, ferry, or car, each method reveals different facets of this multifaceted destination. The lake’s three branches—Como, Lecco, and Colico—each offer distinct personalities and experiences, united by the timeless beauty that has made this region synonymous with Italian elegance.
The Art of Exploring: Things to Do in Lake Como
The beauty of Lake Como lies not just in its famous landmarks but in the freedom to uncover hidden gems and create your own narrative. Expert travellers know that the journey between destinations often proves as memorable as the destinations themselves.
By Boat: The Essential Lake Como Experience
Exploring Lake Como by water isn’t merely transportation—it’s one of the most magical things to do in Lake Como. From the water, you’ll gain insight into why this stunning lake has enchanted everyone from Roman aristocrats to modern celebrities. A private boat tour allows you to craft a personalised itinerary, gliding past gorgeous villas, discovering secluded coves, and accessing waterfront restaurants that seem to emerge from dreams.
Guided tours offer yet another perspective, with expert commentary bringing the lake’s history and architecture to life. These tours often include stops at key landmarks and provide context that enriches every vista. Whether you choose a private boat tour or a shared experience, spending time on the water is essential when you visit Lake Como.
By Car: Freedom and Flexibility
Driving around Lake Como reveals the destination from yet another angle. The lakeside roads—particularly the Strada Provinciale 583 (SP583) along the western shore—deliver one stunning view after another. This route provides the flexibility to stop at scenic overlooks, visit neighbouring towns, and venture into the surrounding mountains for incredible views.
The car option provides easy access to mountain trails, remote restaurants, and viewpoints that reward the effort many times over. However, approach this with realistic expectations. The roads are narrow, winding, and often busy during peak season. Parking in the main towns can prove challenging, particularly in the summer months. Many visitors find that using a car for day trips to more remote locations, while relying on ferries for travel between popular towns, offers the best balance.
By Ferry: Connecting the Lake
The ferry system remains the most popular way to get around Lake Como. Regular ferry service connects all major towns with frequent departures throughout the day. Standard ferries move slowly enough to admire the views, stop at more ports, and evoke a timeless feeling of lake travel. For those wanting to maximise time, fast hydrofoils speed between destinations, though at the cost of some scenic enjoyment.
Consider purchasing a day pass if you plan multiple ferry trips—it provides excellent value and encourages spontaneous exploration. Ferry schedules reduce during off-season months, so check timetables when planning your visit.
By Train: Easy Access from Major Cities
Trains provide excellent connections to Como City from Milan and other major cities in Italy. The journey from Milan takes approximately one hour, making Lake Como an effortless addition to any Northern Italy itinerary. Once at the lake, the extensive ferry network and local buses provide seamless connections to other towns around Lake Como.
Como City: Where Your Journey Begins
Como City, located at the lake’s southwestern tip, serves as the natural gateway to the region. This vibrant city of approximately 85,000 residents seamlessly blends historic charm with modern Italian life, offering first-time visitors an accessible introduction to the lake’s magic.
Piazza del Duomo and the Historic Centre
The heart of Como beats in Piazza del Duomo, the city’s main square and home to the magnificent Duomo di Como. This cathedral represents one of Northern Italy’s finest examples of Italian architecture, combining Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements in a harmony that speaks to centuries of artistic evolution. The cathedral’s façade features intricate sculptures, while inside, stunning stained glass windows cast coloured light across marble floors. The Duomo di Como rewards careful attention—take time to explore its artistic treasures.
Today, it is a major cultural center that hosts exhibitions and events.
The historic centre surrounding the square invites leisurely exploration. Narrow cobblestone streets reveal Art Nouveau-style buildings, designer boutiques, and traditional Italian cafes where locals gather for their morning espresso. This is where you’ll discover the authentic rhythm of Italian life, unfiltered by tourism. Walking through the historic centre of Como City ranks among the most rewarding things to do in Lake Como for those who appreciate architecture and local culture.
Lakeside Promenades and Local Life
Como’s waterfront promenades stretch along the lake, offering views of the lake and people-watching opportunities. Here, locals jog, couples walk, and visitors pause to absorb the panoramic views. Bar Il Molo, perched right on the water, provides the perfect place for sunset drinks with lake views—a moment that captures the effortless elegance that defines this region.
A peaceful path that offers a walk around the Venetian fortress walls of the historic town.
The city also offers funicular access to Brunate, a hillside village offering breathtaking views over Como and the lake. This short journey provides an incredible perspective and, for those interested, walking trails continue even higher into the surrounding mountains for even more spectacular views.
Bellagio: The Pearl of Lake Como
Perched on the promontory where the lake’s two southern branches meet, Bellagio has earned its reputation as the Pearl of Lake Como. This is the town that appears in countless photographs, its colourful buildings tumbling down steep slopes to meet the shimmering water. Many recommend visiting Bellagio as an essential part of any Lake Como trip.
Exploring Bellagio’s Charm
Bellagio’s appeal lies in its maze of steep, narrow streets that climb from the waterfront. Each turn reveals artisan shops, silk boutiques, galleries, and cafes tucked into centuries-old buildings. The town maintains an almost village-like intimacy despite its fame, particularly if you explore early morning or evening when day-trippers have departed.
The center is characterized by brightly colored houses and elegant lakeside structures.
The waterfront promenade offers uninterrupted lake views and easy access to the ferry docks, while the gardens of Villa Melzi provide a serene escape just a short walk from the centre. These elegant gardens, created in the early 19th century, showcase the neoclassical style with exotic plants, sculptures, and a small museum—all enjoyed at your own pace along pathways that follow the lakeshore. Villa Melzi represents one of the most accessible yet enchanting historic villas around Lake Como.
Villa Serbelloni Gardens
While not to be confused with the luxury hotel of the same name, the Villa Serbelloni gardens crown the promontory with spectacular views. These gardens, now owned by the Rockefeller Foundation, can only be visited via guided tours that must be booked in advance. The experience provides insight into centuries of landscape design and offers some of the most commanding panoramic views anywhere around Lake Como.
The trails lead through woods and clearings, offering various picturesque viewpoints.
Varenna: The Quiet Jewel
Directly across from Bellagio, Varenna offers a more peaceful alternative while sacrificing none of the beauty. This small town of pastel houses clinging to steep cliffs feels wonderfully unhurried, inviting visitors to slow down and savour the moment. Many travellers to Lake Como find that Varenna provides the perfect balance of beauty and tranquillity.
The Passeggiata degli Innamorati
Varenna’s waterfront walkway, the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lovers’ Walk), ranks among Lake Como’s most romantic experiences. This elevated pathway, carved into the cliff face, offers views of gorgeous villas and intimate perspectives on the stunning lake. The walk connects the ferry dock to the town centre—a journey that feels crafted for lingering rather than rushing.
The path is built directly above the water, often winding around the rocky shoreline.
Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi
Varenna’s two main villas each offer distinct experiences. Villa Monastero, a former monastery transformed into an elegant lakeside retreat, features botanical gardens that stretch over a kilometre along the shore. The grounds showcase plants from around the world, thriving in Lake Como’s unique microclimate. Inside, period rooms display furnishings and artwork that provide insight into aristocratic life on the lake. Villa Monastero is completely surrounded by these exceptional gardens, creating an immersive experience.
After the convent was suppressed in the 16th century, the property became a private residence.
Villa Cipressi, now a luxury hotel, opens its terraced gardens to visitors. These carefully crafted spaces descend in levels toward the water, each terrace offering new perspectives and hidden corners perfect for quiet contemplation. Both villas offer tickets online, which we recommend purchasing in advance during peak season.
Castello di Vezio
High above Varenna, the medieval Castello di Vezio guards the lake from its hilltop perch. The castle ruins, reached via a steep but manageable walk, reward the climb with breathtaking views over Varenna, the lake, and the surrounding mountains. This is where you’ll truly grasp the lake’s scale and beauty. Castello di Vezio provides some of the most incredible views in the entire region, making it one of the top things to do in Lake Como for photography enthusiasts and anyone seeking panoramic perspectives.
One of the most unique and popular attractions at the castle is its small falconry center.
Menaggio and Other Neighbouring Towns
While Como, Bellagio, and Varenna capture most attention, Lake Como’s magic extends to numerous neighbouring towns, each with a distinct character worth exploring.
Menaggio: Gateway to Adventure
Menaggio, located on the western shore, combines lakeside charm with practical amenities. This town serves as an excellent base for exploring, with easy access via ferry connections and a relaxed, less touristy atmosphere. The waterfront promenade and piazzas invite leisurely meals at the many restaurants, while the surrounding mountains offer walking trails for active travellers.
The Piazza is lined with cafes and restaurants and is a central gathering point.
Tremezzo and Lenno
These adjacent villages on the western shore host some of the lake’s most famous historic villas. Tremezzo’s walkable waterfront and traditional character provide authentic local experiences, while Lenno serves as the jumping-off point for Villa del Balbianello. Both towns offer easy access to some of the most gorgeous villas around Lake Como.
The area has a history as a highly sought-after resort location for Milanese nobility and foreign visitors.
Less Travelled Hidden Gems
For those who love to uncover hidden gems, consider exploring Nesso (famous for its dramatic gorge and waterfall), Torno (a quiet fishing village with authentic trattorias), or Laglio (home to celebrity villas and stunning sunset views). These smaller villages reveal Lake Como’s personality beyond the tourist spotlight, where local traditions continue largely unchanged.
The powerful waterfall at the end of the gorge drops through the village and into the lake.
Historic Villas and Gardens: Lake Como’s Living Heritage
The region’s historic villas represent more than architectural marvels—they’re windows into centuries of art, culture, and the Italian nobility’s love affair with this landscape. These gorgeous villas are among the top things to do in Lake Como. Many require tickets online, particularly during peak season, and several offer guided tours that provide invaluable context.
Villa del Balbianello: Cinema’s Favourite Villa
Perhaps Lake Como’s most photographed villa, Villa del Balbianello (also known as Villa Balbianello), crowns a wooded promontory near Lenno with commanding views in every direction. Built in the 18th century on the remains of a Franciscan monastery, the villa gained international fame through its appearances in Star Wars: Episode II and the James Bond film Casino Royale.
The most recognizable part of the villa is the distinctive two-arched Loggia Durini.
Access to Villa del Balbianello is via boat or a 20-minute walk along a lakeside path (closed Wednesdays). Book tickets online well in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited to preserve this treasure. The experience rewards those who make the effort—this is Lake Como at its most magical. Villa Balbianello is an absolute must-visit when you explore Lake Como.
Villa Carlotta: Art and Botany United
Located in Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta combines spectacular botanical gardens with impressive art collections. The villa itself, an 18th-century masterpiece, houses sculptures, paintings, and period furnishings that tell the story of the aristocratic families who called it home.
The villa was built at the end of the 17th century by the Marchese Giorgio Clerici of Milan.
Villa Carlotta offers flexibility—you can book tickets online or purchase them at the entrance, though online booking ensures entry during busy periods. The site provides excellent accessibility and clear signage in multiple languages, making it particularly welcoming for first-time visitors.
Villa Melzi: Neoclassical Elegance
In Bellagio, Villa Melzi’s gardens represent early 19th-century landscape design at its finest. Created for Francesco Melzi d’Eril, Vice President of the Italian Republic under Napoleon, these waterfront gardens blend English and Italian styles with exotic plants, sculptures, and a Moorish-inspired pavilion.
The villa itself is a striking example of Neoclassical architecture.
The gardens maintain an intimate scale—you can explore thoroughly in an hour or linger for an entire afternoon. The serene atmosphere and stunning views of the lake create perfect conditions for reflection and photography. The small museum displays Egyptian artefacts and Napoleonic memorabilia, adding historical context to the beauty.
Boat Experiences: Discovering Lake Como from the Water
No visit to Lake Como feels complete without significant time on the water. The lake reveals different secrets depending on how you explore it, and taking a boat tour remains one of the essential things to do in Lake Como.
Private Boat Tour: Ultimate Flexibility
For the ultimate in personalised exploration, a private boat tour offers unmatched flexibility and comfort. Whether you choose a classic wooden boat, a modern speedboat, or an eco-friendly electric battery boat, private tours let you craft your perfect day. Typical experiences might include:
- Circumnavigating the Bellagio promontory to see its famous villas from the water
- Visiting Villa del Balbianello’s boat landing
- Discovering hidden coves accessible only by boat
- Stopping at waterfront restaurants for lunch
- Timing your cruise for sunset with prosecco on board
Local captains bring expert knowledge, pointing out celebrity homes, explaining the lake’s history, and adjusting the itinerary based on your interests. While a private boat tour represents a significant investment, it provides memories and lake views that justify the cost. Many consider a private boat tour the highlight of their entire time at Lake Como.
Ferry System: The Local Way
Lake Como’s extensive ferry network connects all the main towns with frequent, affordable service. The system includes standard ferries (traghetti), fast hydrofoils (aliscafi), and car ferries. Standard ferries move slowly enough to admire the views of the lake, stop at more ports, and evoke a timeless feeling of lake travel.
Consider purchasing a day pass if you plan multiple trips—it provides excellent value and encourages spontaneous exploration. Ferry schedules reduce during off-season months, so check timetables when planning your visit to Lake Como.
Guided Tours: Expert Context
Various operators offer guided tours ranging from one-hour introductions to full-day experiences. These boat tours provide context and information while covering more ground than you might independently. Sunset cruises, often including an aperitivo, capture the lake in its most magical light and offer spectacular panoramic views.
Outdoor Activities and Mountain Adventures
The surrounding mountains and the lake itself offer active travellers countless opportunities to engage with the landscape—essential things to do in Lake Como beyond the villas and towns.
Hiking and Walking Trails
Lake Como’s steep terrain creates networks of walking trails connecting towns, climbing to viewpoints, and traversing ancient mule paths. Popular options include:
- The Greenway del Lago di Como: an 11-kilometre lakeside path connecting Colonno to Cadenabbia through olive groves and historic villages
- The Wayfarer’s Path (Sentiero del Viandante): a historic route along the eastern shore offering incredible views
- Summit hikes in the surrounding mountains for those seeking more challenge and even more breathtaking views of Lake Como
You pass near Villa del Balbianello and can easily stop in various towns for lunch or a coffee.
Many trails are well-marked and maintained, though proper footwear and basic hiking preparation remain essential. Local tourist offices provide maps and current trail conditions. These walks offer some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the entire region.
Water Sports
The lake’s reliable thermal winds make it popular for water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The northern end near Colico offers the strongest winds, while calmer southern waters suit kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Numerous operators offer equipment rental and instruction, making these activities accessible even for beginners.
Swimming is possible from various public beaches and lidos during the summer months, though the water remains quite cold even in summer due to the lake’s depth.
Cycling
For experienced cyclists, the roads around Lake Como provide challenging climbs and spectacular descents. The Madonna del Ghisallo climb near Bellagio has legendary status in professional cycling. E-bike rentals make these routes more accessible, though traffic and narrow roads require caution and confidence. Cycling offers unique views of the lake and easy access to neighbouring towns.
Dining: Savouring Lake Como’s Flavours
Lake Como’s culinary scene balances traditional recipes with contemporary innovation, all enhanced by spectacular settings. Exploring the many restaurants ranks among the most pleasurable things to do in Lake Como.
Local Specialties
The lake’s cuisine reflects its geography—freshwater fish feature prominently alongside mountain ingredients. Look for:
- Missoltini: sun-dried and grilled lake fish (agoni), a traditional speciality
- Risotto con pesce persico: risotto with perch from the lake
- Polenta dishes: cornmeal preparations that reflect mountain heritage
- Fresh lake fish simply grilled or prepared al burro (with butter and sage)
Where to Eat
The many restaurants around Lake Como range from simple trattorias to Michelin-starred establishments. Lakeside locations naturally command premium prices, but the views often justify the investment. Some suggestions for confident planning:
- Book advance reservations at popular waterfront restaurants, especially for sunset tables with lake views
- Explore the side streets and upper town areas for more authentic, less tourist-focused options
- Ask your accommodation for local recommendations—hotels and B&B owners know which restaurants deliver genuine quality
The main towns all offer excellent dining options, while neighbouring towns often provide better value with equally authentic cuisine.
Aperitivo Culture
Don’t miss experiencing aperitivo—the pre-dinner drinks and snacks ritual that’s central to Italian social life. Many lakeside bars and cafes offer aperitivo service from around 6-8 PM, providing drinks with complimentary snacks and the perfect place to watch the sunset over the stunning lake.
Practical Information: Planning Your Visit with Confidence
Getting to Lake Como
From Milan and Major Cities: The most common way to get to Lake Como is by taking multiple connections.
- Train: Direct trains from Milano Centrale or Milano Porta Garibaldi to Como San Giovanni station (approximately 1 hour)
- Car: About 50 kilometres, 1 hour, depending on traffic
- Private transfer: Many luxury hotels arrange seamless transfers
- The airports serving Milan (Malpensa, Linate, Bergamo) all connect to Como via train, bus, or private transfer
From Other Cities: Direct trains connect Como to Switzerland and other Italian cities. The region’s easy access makes it an effortless addition to broader Northern Italy itineraries. Lake Como is well-connected to all major cities in the region.
When to Visit Lake Como
- Peak Season (June-September): Summer brings the warmest weather, fullest schedules, and largest crowds. July and August see the most visitors during peak season, with accommodation at premium prices and advance booking essential. The lake comes alive with events, open gardens, and perfect weather for water activities during the summer months.
- Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): These months offer excellent weather, fewer crowds, and better value. Spring brings blooming botanical gardens (Villa Carlotta’s azaleas peak in April-May), while autumn delivers harvest festivals and golden light. This timing provides the best balance for most travellers who visit Lake Como.
- Off Season (November-March): Winter brings quiet, lower prices, and a more local atmosphere. Many restaurants, attractions, and hotels close or reduce hours during the off-season. Ferry schedules are limited. However, if you prefer solitude and don’t mind cooler weather, this can be magical. Christmas markets in Como add seasonal charm.
Where to Stay
Lake Como offers accommodation at every level, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options:
- Luxury Hotels: Historic properties like Villa d’Este, Grand Hotel Tremezzo, and Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni deliver world-class service, spa facilities, and unforgettable settings. These luxury hotels provide seamless experiences where every detail receives expert attention.
- Boutique Hotels: Smaller properties combine personal service with design-focused interiors and often more accessible pricing than grand hotels.
- Apartments and Villas: For longer stays or groups, renting an apartment or villa provides space, privacy, and the chance to live like a local.
- Location Considerations: Como City offers the most accommodation options and best nightlife, but it feels more urban. Bellagio provides central positioning for exploring, but commands the highest prices. Varenna offers charm and value. Menaggio balances accessibility with a local feel. Consider what matters most—views, restaurants, authenticity, or convenient transport—when you visit Lake Como.
Ready to Explore Lake Como?
Lake Como awaits your discovery. Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fifth, each trip to this remarkable destination offers new insights and cherished moments. From organising private boat tours to securing tickets online for historic villas, from recommending the perfect neighbouring towns to arranging guided tours with expert local knowledge, every detail matters.
The lake’s timeless beauty, combined with easy access from major cities, makes it one of Italy’s most accessible yet rewarding destinations. With proper planning—booking luxury hotels in advance, purchasing tickets online for popular attractions, and understanding the differences between peak season and off-season—you can craft the perfect experience.
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