Lake Como Travel logo

LAKE COMO, ITALY the best things to do

Lake Como , locally known as Lago di Como or Lario , is the third largest Italian lake (after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore). Located at the foot of the  Alps , Lake Como offers some of the most romantic and picturesque scenery in Italy.

Its characteristic inverted-Y shape comes from the melting of glaciers combined with the erosive action of the Adda river. This led to the formation of the  two southern branches that culminate in the cities of Como and Lecco , in the middle of which lies the famous Bellagio .

The distances between towns are such that you can visit at least 3 or 4 villages by local transportation, and you can lose yourself among enchanting villas and gardens , relax with a private boat tour or on your favorite beach , and even rejuvenate with a healthy nature walk .

Ready to go?  Enjoy your tour of Lake Como, Italy!

Lake Como, Italy: best things to do

Sights & things to do

Visit the pearls of lake como many destinations to discover.

Riva Grande, Varenna, Lake Como

The perimeter of Lake Como is dotted with charming villages and towns where there is no shortage of opportunities to shop, take nature walks , visit beautiful villas and botanical gardens , or participate in unforgettable experiences .

The most popular – and therefore busiest – destinations are definitely Bellagio , Varenna , and Como , but  don’t limit yourself to visiting only the best-known locations!

Here is a brief overview of my favorite towns in Lake Como : I recommend that you spend some time reading the guides I have put together so that you can find the destinations that best suit your interests.

Como City, Italy

Como , the main city of Lake Como in Italy, enchants with its perfect mix of culture, architecture and natural beauty . The city center is compact and flat , and major attractions and the lakefront are within walking distance from the train stations .

Como's medieval walls enclose charming alleys and squares that are home to traditional restaurants and stores , markets selling local produce, and impressive houses of worship such as Como Cathedral .

In the lakefront area, where the pier is located, you can visit the temple to Alessandro Volta  and the large park surrounding the neoclassical Villa Olmo . On the opposite bank, you can take the funicular railway to Brunate .

If you love nature trails, you'll find several easy ones within Spina Verde Park . From Como you can easily reach the other towns on Lake Como by bus and ferry .

Lungo Lario Manzoni, Bellagio's lakefront

Bellagio , a vibrant gem an hour or two away from Como, dazzles with its lively town center , bustling with typical stores and colorful, step-laden alleys in true Italian style.

Explore the Park of Villa Serbelloni and the Gardens of Villa Melzi , and then stroll through the charming hamlets of Pescallo and San Giovanni , each offering a glimpse into Bellagio's authentic charm.

Reach Punta Spartivento to enjoy stunning views of the three branches of Lake Como and central area towns (such as Varenna , which can be reached in 15-20 minutes by boat).

Passeggiata degli Innamorati, Varenna, Italy

Varenna , a short boat ride from Bellagio and easily accessible by train from Milan , offers a charming lakeside promenade - the famous Passeggiata degli Innamorati - that leads to the small bay of Riva Grande , where you will find plenty of cafes, restaurants and local craft stores.

Spend a few hours exploring the botanical wonders of Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi , whose gardens weave a tapestry of colors along the lakefront.

Nature lovers can take rejuvenating hikes to historic sites such as Castle of Vezio or along the Sentiero del Viandante , experiencing incredible views and discovering local history.

Lenno lakeside promenade and Golfo di Venere

Tremezzina is the union of several large hamlets (including Ossuccio , Lenno and Tremezzo ) each with its own attractions and features, which I invite you to discover in the dedicated guide.

Among other things, Tremezzina is home to two of the most beautiful villas on Lake Como: Villa Balbianello , a museum and set for international films and weddings, and Villa Carlotta , a museum and botanical garden.

If you have a few hours to spare, explore the area along the Lake Como Greenway , an easy walk that also passes through Tremezzina's oldest villages and places of historical and religious interest. The mountains above Tremezzina also offer many more challenging trails.

Menaggio lakeside walk, Italy

Menaggio has a lively town center, which develops around Piazza Garibaldi and leads to the elegant and long lakefront , where there are several bars and restaurants.

Explore the characteristic hamlet  of  Loveno , home to Villa Vigoni , and Nobiallo , a picturesque fishing village.

In addition, if you want to taste the true flavors of the area, you can reach the typical huts and farmhouses of Val Sanagra and Monte Grona with walks that start a short distance from the historic center.

Piazza XX Settembre - Lecco's town center

Lecco , less frequented by international tourists than other Lake Como’s towns, is an ideal destination for those who want to experience Lake Como away from the typical high season crowds .

The city, perfectly connected to Milan by train , boasts one of the most beautiful walks along the lakefront. Its historic center, full of bars and restaurants, encloses buildings with obvious traces of its history.

The city is famous for its various ‘ Manzonian locations ‘ mentioned in the renowned Italian historical novel The Betrothed by Alessandro Manzoni .

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

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

TAKE A BOAT TOUR Board a boat and enjoy your trip

Ferries on Lake Como, Italy

Boat trips and tours  are something that I’d definitely recommend to anyone who wants to experience Lake Como at its best.

Boat tours are basically of two types: public  or  private . Here’s how they work.

  • Public boat service

The local public navigation company ( Navigazione Laghi ) provides several routes that connect all of the most popular towns along Lake Como’s shores, at a convenient price . The ideal service for getting from one city to another during your Lake Como vacation. Learn more about public boat service on Lake Como !

Private boat tours

With a driver at your disposal, you have the chance to choose your favourite itinerary and the length of your cruise. If you are traveling with your better half or with your friends, take a private boat tour and experience Lake Como at your own pace , maybe at sunset and with a fine bottle of prosecco!

RELAX ON A BEACH Beaches in a breathtaking scenery

A beach on Lake Como

If you visit Lake Como in the summer, be sure to visit the beautiful beaches on its shores.

Lake Como’s beaches are the perfect place to relax during hot summer days and, in some cases, also offer the opportunity to go sailing or windsurfing (particularly on the northern branch of the lake).

Beaches can be found in every corner of Lake Como, but if you are looking for clean and pure waters , I recommend going to the central and northern parts of the lake.

Of course, the public beaches in the most popular towns are especially busy during the summer, not only by tourists but also by locals.

Therefore, if you want to reserve a cozy spot, you’d better get up early and get to your favorite beach before it is full. Alternatively, reserve your sunbed at one of the lake’s many lidos to experience your day in total comfort.

A few tips for your stay in Lake Como

VISIT A HISTORIC VILLA The best Lake Como's villas and gardens

Villa Balbianello, Lake Como, Italy

If you come to Lake Como between mid-March and mid-November, you’ll be able to visit  Villa Balbianello , Villa Melzi , Villa Monastero and many other historic mansions.

A paradise for those who love gardens in bloom and magnificent historic residences!

In the summer, these villas very often host classical music events or guided tours that will introduce you to the history of the place and trivia related to the people who lived in the villa or contributed to its construction.

Sometimes these mansions have special openings in the off-season as well, so if you plan to visit Lake Como in winter I recommend that you check their official websites.

Villa Balbianello, Tremezzina

Villa del Balbianello , in Lenno (hamlet of Tremezzina) is one of the most famous and fancy villas on Lake Como.

Not only a location for luxury events and weddings , but also the set of incredible movies such as Star Wars and Casino Royale .

The villa is mainly  open from mid-March to end of November , and it’s closed on Mondays and Wednesdays (except on holidays). 

Gardens of Villa Melzi, Bellagio

The Gardens of Villa Melzi , in Bellagio, welcome visitors among centuries-old trees, Japanese-style ponds, colorful plants from around the world and more.

Also not to be missed are the distinctive Arab-style temple and the museum , which traces the history of the villa and surrounding area through the centuries of its existence. 

Villa Melzi and its gardens,  open from March to October  and located at a  ten-minute walk  from Bellagio's town center.

Villa Monastero, Varenna

Villa Monastero , located in Varenna, was once an old monastery that later became a patrician residence.

The villa attracts tourists from all over the world because of its beautiful botanical garden  which contains  many species of rare plants  and stretches for more than a mile along the lake shore.

When visiting this famous villa, you will also have the opportunity to see  Casa Museo , a museum that collects four centuries of history in an elegant setting with fine decorations and furnishings.

Villa Carlotta, Tremezzina

Villa Carlotta , in Tremezzo , is surrounded by a vast botanical garden full of ancient trees and exotic plants, palms, rhododendrons and azaleas .

I’d suggest you to  visit Villa Carlotta in springtime , during the blossom period. This is definitely the best time to soak up the scents these beautiful gardens can offer!

Villa Carlotta is also famous for its  art collection . An important museum original neoclassical furniture, as well as valuable masterpieces by Antonio Canova ,  Francesco Hayez , and  Bertel Thorvaldsen .

TAKE A WALK IN NATURE Discover the lesser-known side of Lake Como

The tower of Castello Baradello, Como

Not everyone knows that the hills surrounding Lake Como hide hundreds of trails of various types and suitable for walkers with varying degrees of experience. In a great many cases, there are typical restaurants along these trails where you can taste the true flavors of the area.

I have just created a section on hikes and walks around Lake Como (continuously being updated) that I invite you to look at. Each route I have described offers information about highlights and facilities you can find along your walk.

Here are some areas and walks you might explore during your stay in Lake Como:

Spina Verde Park (Como area)

Spina Verde Park is a protected forest located southwest of Como , and gathers many sites of  panoramic , historical , and natural interest .

The perfect place to escape the hottest hours of summer and taste traditional dishes at one of the area’s huts.

One of the most interesting attractions is the tower of Castello Baradello , which can be reached by following a path that starts from Piazza San Rocco , near the town center, and leads to the tower in about 30 minutes .

Lake Como Greenway (central area)

The  Greenway del Lago di Como  is a walking route of  11.5 km  (7 mi) in one of the most picturesque areas of western Lake Como.

It follows the ancient  Via Regina , the road that was built by the Romans to connect Como with territories beyond the Alps.

The Greenway, which passes through the villages of  Colonno, Sala Comacina, Tremezzina  and  Griante , offers splendid views and examples of  architecture, villas and gardens  (e.g., the unmissable  Villa Carlotta ). 

A great opportunity for anyone to see Lake Como from a different perspective.

Val Sanagra (central-northern area)

Val Sanagra , also known as Val Senagra, is a vast area rich in flora, fauna and ancient rural settlements included between the municipalities of  Menaggio  and Grandola ed Uniti.

It takes its name from the  stream  that flows through the valley and creates  beautiful waterfalls  often topped by fascinating Romanesque  stone bridges .

Val Sanagra is  an ideal place to retreat  on hot summer days, sheltered from the crowds that characterize Lake Como‘s most popular destinations in high season.

In fact, in addition to offering  trails suitable for most people , the valley is also home to a  farmhouse  where you can taste local products or stay overnight, and an  eco-museum  for a different kind of day out.

Stays & experiences

Places to stay in lake como.

Top reviewed on Booking.com from travelers

como travel

Hotel Belvedere, Bellagio ★★★★

Villa Cipressi, Varenna

Villa Cipressi, Varenna ★★★★

Hotel Filario, Lezzeno

Hotel Filario, Lezzeno ★★★★

Grand Hotel Menaggio

Grand Hotel, Menaggio ★★★★

Want to see more hotels, apartments or villas? Check out my entire selection of the best places to stay in Lake Como!

Experiences & tours

Make your trip a unique experience !​

Venetian Limousine

LEARN HOW TO GET AROUND All the info you need to plan your transfers

Train from Malpensa to Como

There are many different ways to get around Lake Como. In general, I recommend that you avoid moving by car and carefully plan your travel with the different services offered by public transportation.

First of all, how to get to Lake Como?  As you can imagine, it all depends on where you start from and where you want to get to. Read this article to find out how to get to Como, Bellagio and Varenna from the main airports and stations in Milan.

I mentioned these villages because they are the most visited, but it is still possible to reach the other lake destinations by the following means of transportation (note: in the following articles I provide an overview of the various services, but then I recommend that you use services such as Google Maps and official company websites to plan your commute):

  • Bus service
  • Taxi service

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS About Lake Como, Italy

Where is lake como in italy.

Lake Como is located in the northern part of Italy , in the region of Lombardy .

It is situated approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) north of Milan , one of Italy's major cities. Discover how to get to Lake Como from Milan .

Why is Lake Como so famous?

Lake Como is famous for several reasons, including its stunning natural beauty , charming lakeside villages , and historic villas .

Lake Como has long been a favorite destination for celebrities, including actors ( such as George Clooney , who owns Villa Oleandra in Laglio), musicians, and other prominent figures.

How many days do you need in Lake Como?

The number of days you might want to spend in Lake Como can vary based on your preferences, interests, and the pace at which you like to travel.

However, many visitors find that spending 2 to 4 full days in the Lake Como region allows for a fulfilling experience. Here's a suggested breakdown:

2 days: with two days, you can explore the main towns around the lake. This allows you to enjoy the charming streets, visit historic villas and gardens, take a boat ride on the lake, and savor local cuisine.

3 days: adding an extra day gives you more time to explore the surrounding areas, perhaps taking a longer boat trip to more distant parts of the lake or venturing into the nearby mountains for some hiking. You can also dedicate more time to visit additional villas and museums.

4 days or more: if you have more time, you can delve deeper into the Lake Como region, visit smaller villages, and experience a more relaxed pace. Additionally, you might have the opportunity to take day trips to nearby attractions, such as Milan or the Swiss border towns.

What is the best time of year to visit Lake Como?

  • Ferries and buses to their fullest potential : between May and September
  • Opening of villas and gardens : between April and October
  • Best months for swimming and water sports : between June and September
  • Best months for trekking : April, June, September, October
  • Best months for skiing : between December and February
  • Months of great tourist chaos : July and August
  • Cheapest months : between November and March (excluding the Christmas period)

Which airport is closest to Lake Como, Italy?

It depends on the area that you want to reach. If you want to reach  Como city ,  Milan Malpensa Airport  is probably the best choice (read here  how to get from Malpensa to Como ). 

Milan Linate Airport  is probably the best if you want to get to  Bellagio , Lecco and  Varenna . However, all the Milan airports allow you to reach Lake Como’s towns quite easily.

This Post Has 2 Comments

' src=

I am looking to visit the Lake Como area towards the end of March. Looking to see if shops and restaurants will be open as well as if there will be ferry service available to get around to the different towns, namely from Bellagio to Menaggio. Thank you.

Kevin Sullivan

' src=

Hi Kevin, yes you don’t have to worry! Stores and restaurants will be open, and ferry service regularly operating. Wishing you a good vacation on Lake Como!

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

An Efficient 3-day Lake Como Travel Itinerary for 2024

What’s the first thing you think about when you hear “Lake Como”? For me there are a few things that come to mind: money, George Clooney, money, villas, money, Aperol Spritz, and oh…did I mention money? Luckily it’s possible to see a lot of Lake Como, Italy on a budget, without spending too much money.

I came to Lake Como to celebrate my 27th birthday, and in a lot of settings, I was still the youngest person present (YES!). But that doesn’t mean that coming to Como is going to mean you’re kicking it with grannies the whole time – a lot of areas are also popular with families on vacation and couples looking for a time-out on the weekend.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, I hope you won’t pass up Lake Como – it totally exceeded my expectations in terms of how beautiful it was and how much I enjoyed myself. Here are some quick facts to get you started on your trip!

Here’s what you’ll see in three days on Lake Como, Italy

  • Menaggio , Villa Carlotta , & Villa Balbianello
  • Como , Nesso , & Bellagio
  • Varenna & Bellano

Duration: 3 days Dates traveled: 16 June - 19 June Recommended Accommodation on Lake Como: Of the places we stayed near Lake Como, these were my favorites and places I would love to return to:

Hotel Il Perlo Panoramico was our favorite place we stayed at on Lake Como. Fabulous premises with an amazing view over Bellagio . It’s too far to walk into town, but they offer a shuttle several times a day. If you go around sunset, you’ll have no trouble finding parking a 15 minute walk outside of town. They have wine tastings, a lovely breakfast, and the best view over Bellagio in my opinion.

Hotel Bellavista Located very centrally in Menaggio , and provides a beautiful view over the lake and excellent A/C for those summer months. Skip the hotel restaurant and go into town instead. Very convenient location for driving to Villa Balbianello and Villa Carlotta first thing in the morning 😉

como travel

My top tips for where to stay in Lake Como: Specific hotel recommendations, tips for choosing accommodation, what to look for, and the best towns to stay in near Lake Como.

Where to eat around Lake Como My favorite meal on this trip was at Ristorante Bilacus in Bellagio! It’s not on street level, so if you can find it, it’s unlikely to be too busy. Solid prices, good portions, and perfect for people watching.

Before you go Although it’s not strictly necessary to rent a car to explore Como, it will change your experience quite a bit! Without a car, you will have to stick to the main towns or haul around your luggage on a bus. I recommend DiscoverCars for your car rental in Italy (and when driving in Italy always get insurance).

How to get there There are a ton of cheap flights into the Milan airport at Bergamo, you can get here for $30 with Ryanair or other low cost carriers. This is also a great reason to come for an extended weekend – you can fit everything you’ll need into a carry-on!

Reaching Lake Como as a day trip

I want to mention just briefly two options for boat tours around Lake Como, which you can keep in mind while you’re reading this itinerary. Many of the places I’ve listed are also accessible as part of a boat tour, particularly my favorite towns and a few off-beat spots.

Especially if you’re not renting a car, you may want to take a boat tour to see a few places mentioned in this guide:

Lake Como, Italy 3-day itinerary

Day 1: menaggio, villa carlotta, & villa balbianello.

Lake Como is shaped like an upside down Y. On our trip, we will start on the west side of the lake, and drive down the coast to reach our various destinations.

There are three main places you’re going to want to see on Lake Como, Italy: Menaggio, Bellagio, and Varenna. These three are well-connected by ferry, and provide some of the best options for food and accomodation around the lake. It’s also possible to stay in one of the many smaller towns, especially if you’re driving by car.

When you’re in Menaggio, don’t miss grabbing an ice cream on the main square and taking a walk down the promenade. There are some churches in town as well which you can check out, but nothing too spectacular. Most of your time will be spent sitting at a cafe, enjoying the sunshine, and possibly taking a boat ride out on the lake.

Most of the things to do near Menaggio are further down the coast, in the form of two villas: Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello.

Villa Carlotta

The thing that stands out about Village Carlotta is its expansive gardens. While the interior is pretty similar to many other villas, the gardens stretch out for ages, and there are a lot of different paths you can take depending on how much time you want to spend there.

You’ll find huge hubs of hydrangeas, panoramic lookout spots, even a gorge that looks like an overgrown jungle. Giant rhubarb also flourishes here, looking like something out of prehistoric times. Hours pass by quickly as you weave between bushes and snap photos of flowers framing the lake.

Besides the gardens, there’s also an exhibit about the process of making silk. You can learn about silk worms themselves, how silk is made, and the history behind silk. In addition, of course, is a lot of rennaissance art and classical-style statues.

Villa Balbianello

This place has an incredible story. You probably know it best from the set of Star Wars or a James Bond flick, but besides being a filming location, it was also the home of an Italian explorer. Count Guido Monzino, the last person to live in this villa, was the first Italian to lead an expedition to Mount Everest.

With a guided tour, you can go inside the house and try to discover all its secrets.You’ll find secret passageways, hidden compartments, and trapdoors in this maze of a home. Tours are offered in English, and cost about 20 EUR to access the interior and the gardens.

One of its many oddities is the dome-shaped tree, which is trimmed by gardeners by hand every winter over the course of three weeks. It was specifically designed this way to preserve the view from the lake from inside the villa.

The last person to live in the villa, Count Guido Monzino, lived a life of adventure and decadance. This was his smoking room, with walls lined with wood that would absorb the smell of smoke. It’s hard to believe that he was living somewhat that looked like this in the 70s . Clearly a man from another time!

If you’re inspired by the location, you can get on a two-year waiting list to be married here – with a minimum downpayment of 15,000 euros for the venue alone.

After a long day of viewing villas, crash for the night in Menaggio and wake up the next morning for three completely unique adventures around Lake Como!

Day 2: Como, Nesso, & Bellagio

Today is one of our busiest days, as we hit three very different locations: Como, the largest city on the lake, Nesso, a tiny village you can easily drive past which is perched atop a waterfall, and Bellagio, a glamourous and historical town known as the “jewel of Lake Como”.

A lot of guides will tell you to skip Como, as it’s kind of a bigger city and you’re at Lake Como to explore towns instead, right? To be honest, I was unfairly biased against Como. Even though it’s much more populated, there’s no shortage of gelato or beautiful Italian alleyways in this ciy.

Perhaps its most famous sight is the Cathedral of Como, which becomes visible almost as soon as you approach the city by car or boat. In fact, it’s one of the few cathedrals around the lake with a notable interior. I’m not a huge “church person” but if you enjoy a good cathedral, don’t miss popping in while you’re here.

Second to the cathedral, Como is also famous as the home of Alessandro Volta. This guy invented the modern battery, and is memorialized in a monument along the pier. It costs money to go inside so we simply skipped it, but it surely made for a nice photo backdrop 😉

Tempio Voltiano, Como, Italy

Next is Nesso, one of the cutest spots along Lake Como – if you can find it. Nesso is a bit mislabeled on Google Maps, and if you follow where the map labels and Nesso, you’re likely to go up some steep and curvy italian roads and end up at a dead end. Nesso is actually right along the road, and you can accidentally drive right through on your quest to find it.

FINDING NESSO: Look for signs while you approach for Orrido di Nesso , or, on Google Maps, Falls and Orrido for the waterfall and Ponte Della Civera for the bridge itself (accessible only by foot). You may have to park a ways outside of town, and walk, in order to have somewhere to put your car, as there is very limited parking in town. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour to Nesso directly from Lecco.

After arriving in Nesso, you’ll find signs that direct you to the base of the waterfalls down a long set of uneven, rocky stairs.

At the bottom is an area is popular for swimming with the locals, despite the fact that Lake Como is freezing in June. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even swim to the foot of the waterfall through the ravine.

After your adventure to the bottom, you can stop at the top for a tiny beer to relax and spend a little time out of the sun. After that we’re going to Bellagio!

Bellagio is a very beautiful town, and easily the most famous on Lake Como – for this reason it’s also the most touristy, and can be packed full of people during the peak hours of the day. To avoid crowds, come to Bellagio around 6pm as the town starts to empty out. It’ll be much easier to park your car and still early enough to get a seat at a restaurant in town.

PARKING NEAR BELLAGIO: There are a number of parking lots outside of town, many of which will let you park for free. You just have to walk 15 minutes or so into the center. Ideally your hotel will have a nice map for you of where you can park.

What makes Bellagio so special is definitely its narrow alleys and stony streets. You can grab a gelato almost anywhere and enjoy exploring all the parts of town - which honestly won’t take you that long, since Bellagio is so tiny.

The town has two main areas to explore - the inner town and the area on the lakefront. When you arrive, you’re likely to come into down and have a lot of small streets to explore (and/or share with motorcyclists trying to bust through the crowds). Once you find the most famous street around the entire Lake (pictured below), you can walk down to the promenade where you’ll find even more restaurants with beautiful views.

A post shared by Monica @ notanomadblog.com (@notanomadblog) on Jun 24, 2017 at 2:24pm PDT

My one recommendation for food on this trip is found in Bellagio, called Ristorante Bilacus It’s not on street level, so if you can find it, it’s unlikely to be too busy. That said, it did fill up when we were there between 7 and 8pm so do be punctual if you want to compete for a spot for dinner!

Aperol Spritz with every meal – I’m not complaining!

Where to stay in Bellagio We loved Hotel Il Perlo Panoramico . It’s outside of town, so you can’t walk there, but you can either take one of their shuttles during peak hours or simply drive in yourself afterhours. The rooms were super stylish and the view was out of this world. They have nightly wine tastings as well - I wish we had stayed longer!

Day 3: Varenna & Bellano

If there’s somewhere I really would’ve liked to have spent more time, it would be Varenna. People seem to miss it, favoring Bellagio instead, while I found the town just as charming without being overrun by tourists. It still has all the things you expact from one of these cute lakeside villages: narrow passageways, colorful buildings, and delicious pizza. Check check check!

If you’re coming to Varenna by car from Bellagio, it’s most effective to do so by ferry. You can check the timetable of the ferries the day before when you’re in Bellagio, and plan to be in the row for the right destination at least 20 minutes in advance (I’d rather recommend 30-40 minutes depending on if you’re here during the high Summer season). You can buy a ticket for yourself and the car, and pop out to grab an ice cream while you wait for your boat to arrive.

Approaching Varenna by boat doesn’t take long, but be sure to have your camera out – these are views you can’t get of the town from anywhere else on land!

There’s not so much to do in Varenna besides walk around and explore. If you fancy a bite to eat, there are tons of places to go along the lakefront. When you arrive by ferry, follow the promenade to the right to find more of the town and more activities.

After a solid afternoon in Varenna, it’s time to wrap up our trip to Lake Como by visiting Bellano! Hop in the car and get driving.

Quick tip: How to use the ferry at Lake Como

Using the ferry at Lake Como is pretty simple. You just want to be early (about 30 minutes early) for your boat ride, and you can pay the same morning to either ride across the ferry as a person or even with your car. It is not possible to make a reservation. Taking a car costs just 4 € plus the cost for each passenger, 1,80 € each. You can find more details about the ferry timetable and detailed fare information online.

Similarly to the Orrido di Nesso , here you’re going to want to look for the Orrido di Bellano . Again - don’t trust Google Maps, just pay attention to the signs that will lead you to the best place to park.

There’s a small entrance fee to access the gorge, but I think it’s well worth it. Inside you’ll find walkways that connect canyon walls together so you can explore the inside of the orrido . You don’t need more than 30-45 minutes to explore this area, but you’ll be glad you did!

That’s a wrap!

Have you been to Lake Como? Which of these places have you seen? Let me know in the comments which was your favorite, or if I’m missing anywhere amazing around the Lake!

…pin this post for later!

Author

About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

You might also like...

como travel

A Super Efficient Guide to Visiting Meteora, Greece in 2024

como travel

An Efficient 3-day Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 2024

como travel

An Ultra-efficient Garden Route Itinerary for 5 Days

Explore Como

Navigazione Laghi - Lago di Como

Plan Your Trip to Como: Best of Como Tourism

Essential como.

como travel

Trending in the forums

infoseeker711

Como Is Great For

Jet boat rentals.

como travel

Dining Experiences

como travel

Historical Tours

como travel

Day Cruises

como travel

  • Hilton Lake Como
  • Palace Hotel
  • Hotel Villa Flori
  • Vista Lago di Como
  • Hotel Barchetta Excelsior
  • Passion Como
  • Piazza Roma Ristorante Como
  • Il Diavolo l'Acqua Santa
  • Cathedral of Como (Duomo)
  • Lido Villa Olmo
  • Como San Giovanni Railway Station
  • Basilica di Sant'Abbondio
  • 1 Hour Private Wooden Boat Tour on Lake Como 6 pax
  • Como, Lugano and Bellagio Experience with Exclusive Boat Cruise
  • Lake Como and Bellagio Day Trip from Milan
  • 2 Hours Boat Rental Without License 40hp Engine on Lake Como
  • “Public Tour” Lake Como By SuBacco

9 Things to do in Lake Como, Italy

9 Things to do in Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como: a glacial lake in the Lombardy region of Italy that’s hailed as a luxury holiday destination and visited by the likes of aristocrats, royals, and celebrities. However, you don’t need to be a millionaire to enjoy this dreamy landscape, home to picturesque villages, elegant villas, luscious green mountains, and sparkling blue shores. Simply enjoy ‘la dolce vita’, stroll in the sunshine with gelato, swim in pebbled coves, and eat plenty of fresh pasta! Enjoy all the top things to do in Lake Como with this complete travel guide.

Things to do in Lake Como

Lake Como is the third largest and the deepest freshwater lake in Italy. The glacial water makes it a magical swimming spot in the sweltering summer months, and it’s extremely popular because of its proximity to Milan and Bergamo .

best things to do lake como italy Bellagio

However, don’t let the crowds put you off; there are plenty of tucked-away villages and beaches to explore, whether on foot or by boat.  If you’re only here for a few days, stick to the three central villages that make up the ‘Golden Triangle’. These are named Bellagio , Varenna, and Menaggio.

Here are all your hotel options in Lake Como.

lake como italy villa monastero

1. The Famous Shores of Bellagio Village

Bellagio , also known as the ‘Pearl of Lake Como’, is probably the most famous village in the area. Its popularity means big crowds during the high season. However, it’s definitely worth a visit for some great local restaurants and cute shops.

Read more: Top Things to do in Bellagio, Italy

lake como italy bellagio best things to do

As well as its pretty cobbled streets, bustling piazzas, and charming churches, the central location means it is a great base to visit other nearby villages. A few hours is enough to explore, leaving you plenty of time to hop on a ferry and venture to other parts of the lake. 

street bellagio lake como italy

Tip: If you have a rental car, you can even bring it with you to Bellagio by boat! There is a car ferry to Bellagio from Tremezzo every 40 minutes.

We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

vintage car lake como italy

Villa Melzi

Villa Melzi is a 19th-century mansion that overlooks Lake Como, within walking distance of Bellagio’s old town . Unfortunately, you can’t visit the interior of this palatial building, but it is surrounded by stunning English-style botanical gardens, complete with small ponds, quaint bridges, a chapel, and the original orangery (now a museum). Take a picnic and unwind in this peaceful oasis. 

Open March-October 10 AM-7 PM. Tickets cost 8 EUR (± 8.7 USD).

things to do lake como Villa Melzi

Restaurants in Bellagio

Some of our favorite places to eat in Bellagio are:

  • Ristorante Billacus
  • La Grotta (pizza)
  • Trattoria San Giacomo
  • Terrazza Barchetta

Hotels in Bellagio 😴

Villa La Rosa B&B

2. Rent a Boat in Lake Como

The best views of Lake Como and the surrounding foothills of the Alps are from the water! Hire a boat and experience the life of the rich and famous for the afternoon, speeding past luxury villas and colorful villages.

best things to do lake como rent a boat

Stop off for a delicious lunch at one of the many lake-side restaurants, or find your own private beach where you can swim and sunbathe.

In four hours, you can cruise most of the lake and still leave time for a leisurely lunch or swim. 

See availability and prices for your boat rental in Lake Como

swim lake como italy best things to do

What do you need to hire a boat in Lake Como?

You can hire the boat to drive yourself, which is much easier than it sounds and only requires a form of identification (no boat license required!). However, it is challenging to moor in some villages, so if you want to stop off at some of the villas or towns around the lake, we’d recommend hiring a boat with a captain. This way, you can sip on a glass of prosecco and take in all the stunning views with less hassle.

Price of boat rental: Depending on the company and type of boat, the rental can cost anywhere between 220-320 EUR (238-347 USD) for the afternoon. Or up to 850 EUR (921 USD) with a captain.

things to do lake como swim

3. Visit the Lakeside Village of Varenna

Visiting Varenna is one of the top things to do in Lake Como. Plus, the village has a slightly more peaceful vibe than busy Bellagio. The stunning lakeside village is also one of the most picturesque places in the area, and you can easily spend a few hours just walking around the peaceful streets and piazzas with their colorful buildings. 

Tip: Don’t miss the Passeggiata Degli Innamorati (Walk of Lovers) at sunset for a dreamy romantic evening.

things to do lake como italy riva grande varenna

Orrido di Bellano

Orrido di Bellano is a natural ravine over 15 million years old! Narrow staircases, footbridges, and walkways lead you around the site, which hug the rocky sides of the gorge. Pass close to thundering waterfalls and over a mighty river that crashes underneath you with quieter pools of bright blue water; it’s an impressive sight!

things to do como italy Orrido di Bellano

The cooler temperature here makes it a refreshing place to come in the hotter months if you want to get out of the sun.

Tip: Check out the House of the Devil museum at the entrance, which explains the site’s satanic history!

Opening Times & Entry Fee: 5 EUR  (5.42 USD) entry. Open 8:45 AM – 8 PM every day. There is a train from Varenna, which only takes 15 minutes and costs as little as 1 EUR (1.08 USD). Alternatively, drive there in under 10 minutes or take the boat from Bellagio.

lake como italy things to do Orrido di Bellano

Villa Monastero

Villa Monastero is a gorgeous villa with impressive botanical gardens that stretch 2 km along the waterfront. It’s the perfect place for a pleasant stroll, home to colorful grounds full of rare trees and fragrant plants.

best things to do como villa monastero

Built originally as a monastery, the villa is now a museum that shows the house as it would have been in the late 19th century. It also includes stunning examples of the original decor and furniture. 

villa monastero lake como italy

Opening Hours & Entry Fee: 13 EUR entry (14.10 USD) to see the house and garden. Closed January-March. Check the website for opening times in other months, as they can vary.

Riva Grande

Get a photo at the iconic waterfront in Varenna, one of the most beautiful spots in Lake Como! The tiny bay should not be missed, sandwiched between authentic Italian houses on one side and an incredible view of the lake and mountains on the other. Take a seat at one of the cute lakeside cafes and take in the draw-dropping vistas and relaxed atmosphere. 

From Milan: See tickets and availability for a day trip to Varenna

villa monastero things to do lake como italy

Restaurants in Varenna

Enjoy delicious Italian dishes at these fantastic restaurants in Varenna

  • Caffe Varenna (stunning location right next to the lake)
  • Osteria Quatro Pass (pricey)

Hotels in Varenna 😴

Hotel du Lac

4. Swim at Acquafraggia Waterfall

If you fancy something different or have already explored a lot of Lake Como, consider heading out to Acquafraggia Waterfall in the Bregaglia Valley. The towering waterfall is seriously impressive at over 1800 m high and is located in a stunningly beautiful nature reserve in the Alps. Spend the day hiking the many trails, taking in sweeping panoramic views, cooling off in the clear pools, or just relaxing in the sunshine with a picnic in this alpine haven.

Tip: Acquafraggia Waterfall is only an hour’s drive from Menaggio or Varenna.

5. Explore Como City

Como is a small city that lies at the southern end of Lake Como and is worth exploring if you are passing by or if you’ve arrived from Milan by train. It is full of charm and character, with stunning churches, great restaurants, and incredible lake views.

A great way to explore Como is by bike. See availability and tickets for an electric bike tour here .

best things to do como italy

Piazza Duomo

Grab an espresso in the city’s main square, home to the spectacular Duomo di Como (Como Cathedral). The building is a beautiful example of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, with a gorgeous marble facade and pretty blue domes.

piazza duomo como italy

If you have time, wander inside and marvel at its incredible interior. Alternatively, climb up to the top of the main dome, where you are greeted by panoramic views of the city.

Entry Fee: Free entry. Remember, this is still an active place of worship, so it’s necessary to wear appropriate clothing.

authentic fruit stall italy

Tempio Voltiano

Tempio Voltiano is a small science museum dedicated to Allesandro Volta, a local scientist who invented the electrical battery! The gorgeous neoclassical building with its impressive pillars is a short 10-minute walk from Piazza Duomo along the lake.

things to do lake como italy Tempio Voltiano museum

It’s also an excellent spot for pictures, particularly at night when the temple is beautifully lit up. 

Opening Times & Entry Fee: Open 10 AM-6 PM every day except Monday. Tickets cost 5 EUR (5.42 USD). Booking is required in advance .

9 Things to do in Lake Como, Italy

Basilica di Sant’Abbondio (Basilica of Saint Abundius)

The Basilica is an ancient 11th-century Romanesque church just outside the city’s main walls, nestled at the bottom of Mount Croce. Only a short stroll from the city center, the beautiful church has gorgeous painted murals and an impressive exterior, as well as an incredible natural backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Come here for a slice of history and to escape the midday sun!

Read: Discover the historic streets of Bergamo, Italy

things to do como italy cathedral

Restaurants in Como

Some of our favorite restaurants in Como are:

  • Figli Dei Fiori Restaurant
  • Osteria del Gallo
  • Caffe & Bollicine

Hotels in Como 😴

SantAgata Bed and Breakfast

6. Discover the Wonderful Vistas of Brunate

This tiny hidden village known as the ‘balcony of the Alps’ sits on the hilltop above Como. Hop on the funicular at Piazza de Gasperi and be met by jaw-dropping views of the lake and the nearby Alps. The train has been in use since 1894 by both tourists and locals and is a unique way to see the surrounding area. 

como travel

Take a walk to Voltiano lighthouse while you’re here; this is another beautiful monument dedicated to the scientist Allesandro Volta offering more panoramic vistas.

The funicular runs every 30 minutes from 8 AM – midnight every day. A return ticket costs 6.10 EUR (6.61 USD).

From Milan: See tickets and availability for a tour to Bellagio

best hotel lake como italy

7. Wander the Historic Streets of Nesso

This tiny historic village tucked away on a steep hillside epitomizes the dolce vita lifestyle. Embrace a slower pace of life in this traditional town by exploring its cobbled staircases and twisting alleyways, sipping on negronis at the local bar, and relaxing in the sunshine by the water.

things to do lake como italy nesso village

Afterward, wind your way down the steep hill to the Ponte Della Civera, a Romanesque bridge that acts as an entranceway to the village by boat. This is a popular spot in the summer when locals jump from the stone walls into the refreshing water below! This is also a great viewpoint of the other landmark in Nesso, the Orrido di Nesso (Nesso Gorge). This towering waterfall thunders down from the top of the hill, surrounded by lush greenery. 

Tip: There is limited parking in town. Because of this, it is better to park a bit further out and walk in, or better yet, arrive by boat! 

rent a boat lake como italy

Restaurants in Nesso

Enjoy drinks and food in beautiful Nesso at these great eateries:

  • Pizzeria Trattoria da Eugenio
  • Bar Alimentari Verigaa (coffee/drinks)

Hotels in Nesso 😴

Casa Vacanza Castagna

8. Greenway del Lago di Como

The Greenway is a beautiful 10k hike through tiny villages, colorful gardens, and shaded olive groves where you can fully appreciate the incredible natural surroundings of Lake Como. Wander along ancient Roman roads, duck into beautiful churches, and pass gorgeous villas (including the famous Villa Balbianello) with amazing views at every turn. 

lake como

The trail goes from Colonno to Griante along the lake’s western shore, with many small hamlets to explore along the way. Each village has its charm and historical significance, providing an insight into local life away from the crowds. Don’t be afraid to veer off the trail at times – there are some gorgeous corners to explore, including tiny pebbled coves and centuries-old churches. 

Getting there: Take a short boat ride from Bellagio to Griante to hike the whole trail. Alternatively, you can travel to Tremezzo or Lenno for a shorter walk. 

lake como italy church

9. Go Shopping in Menaggio

This idyllic lakeside town is perfect for a lazy afternoon of wandering. The laid-back village with its dusty-colored houses is one of the only flat towns on the lake, so it’s a good spot if you are tired of trekking up and down steep hills! Sip on a cappuccino while you people-watch in the Piazza Garibaldi, explore the pretty streets, and dip in and out of local shops. 

things to do lake como italy shopping Menaggio

Don’t miss out on a walk along the flower-filled promenade to take in the incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountains. This promenade is also home to a cute night market on a Friday evening that’s perfect for finding hand-crafted and artisanal souvenirs.

street nesso lake como italy

Menaggio is also closeby to two of the most famous and beautiful villas in Lake Como:

Villa Carlotta

The palatial 17th-century villa, with its many blue-shuttered windows, boasts expansive botanical gardens with splashing fountains and flower-filled trellises. Wander through the grounds which lead down to the shoreline of the Tremezzina Riviera (the area with the most temperate climate in Lake Como).

Inside, discover opulent rooms filled with grand paintings and statues and an exciting exhibit on the region’s famous silk industry.

Getting There: The bus from Menaggio is 1-2 euros and takes around 15 minutes. Taxis cost 15 EUR (16.25 USD) and take 10 minutes. Alternatively, if you fancy a stroll, it is around an hour’s walk from the center of Menaggio along the lake.

Opening Times & Entry Fee: Open March-September, every day from 10 AM – 7 PM. 15 EUR (16.25 USD). Booking required.

lake como travel guide italy

Villa Balbianello

Discover Villa Balbianello, another stunningly elegant villa with an incredible alpine backdrop, once owned by an eccentric Italian explorer. Live out your film star fantasy in a place that’s been the setting for movies like James Bond and Star Wars! Wander under ivy-covered archways and among the terraced gardens and get a picture of the iconic dome-shaped tree, which is meticulously maintained to preserve the spectacular view of the lake.

Villa Balbianello lake como italy things to do

Getting there: Take a 30-minute bus (2 EUR / 2.17 USD) to Lenno, and from here, walk the 1 km to the villa. Otherwise, arrive in style by water taxi !

Opening Times & Entry Fee: Open every day except Monday and Wednesday from March-December – 10 AM-6 PM. 11 EUR (11.92 USD) for a self-guided garden tour. 22 EUR (23.83 USD) for a guided tour of the villa and gardens (45 minutes). Booking required.

things to do lake como italy Villa Balbianello

Restaurants in Menaggio

Some great places to eat in Menaggio are:

  • Osteria Il Pozzo (traditional)
  • Il Ristorante Di Paolo

Hotels in Menaggio 😴

Hotel Garni Corona

Best Cafes & Restaurants in Lake Como

There are scores of fantastic restaurants in the area, whatever budget you are on, from 5-star restaurants with unforgettable views of the lake (often frequented by celebs!) to small, family-run trattorias offering big portions of delicious traditional dishes. Make the most of locally caught seafood, freshly made pappardelle, and decadent desserts while you’re here! Here are some of our favorites:

  • Figli Dei Fiori (also a flower shop!)
  • La Fagurida
  • Il Gatto Nero
  • Azienda Agricola Sorsasso (a farm with fantastic food + wine tasting experience)
  • Antica Trattoria del Risorgimento
  • Ristorante Aurora Lezzeno
  • Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a pricey hotel 5-star, but it is one of the most iconic venues on Lake Como. Because of this, it’s worth splashing out on an overpriced Aperol for the experience and incredible views.

Tip: Book ahead to get the good tables on the terraces (especially in the summer).

best restaurants lake como italy

Where to Stay in Lake Como

Lake Como is perfect for a trip of a few days or more, particularly if you are staying in Milan or Bergamo and you fancy a trip out of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hotels in Lake Como 😴

Locanda Alberti

Where you stay will depend on the atmosphere you are looking for. However, wherever you choose, you’ll easily be able to make day trips to other villages around the lake. Bellagio is the most popular destination, with plenty of restaurants and bars and frequent ferries from there to other towns.

best place to stay lake como italy varenna

We based ourselves in Brienno , a tranquil village on the western side of the lake opposite Nesso. With just two restaurants and no supermarket or bakery, we spent our time taking day trips and relaxing at one of the many lakeside jetties. Bliss!  See all hotels in Brienno .

best place to stay como italy

How to Visit Lake Como

Close to Switzerland and the Northern Italian cities of Bergamo and Milan, Lake Como is easily reachable. Milan is the best city for flights with plenty of connections. 

You can take the train from Milan airport to the Lake Como area in under an hour. Trains go from Milan Centrale to Como, Varenna, and Como Lago stations, and tickets are very reasonably priced. 

Book your trains in Italy

how to get around lake como italy transport

Alternatively, rent a car yourself if you want more flexibility. Be aware that the roads can get very busy during the summer. Because of this, the train may be the better option in the high season. 

The easiest way to see all the things to do in Lake Como is on a tour from nearby Milan or from one of the main villages in the area.

lake como italy beach

Getting Around

You can connect to most of the main villages by ferry. The public ferry company Navigazione Laghi offers speedy, regular, or touristic services, connecting the villages of Bellagio , Varenna, and Menaggio. Getting a boat is a simple and cheap option that also offers you alternative views of the lake! 

See ferry timetable and tickets here

car ferry lake como italy

Alternatively, rent a car to explore the smaller villages, or there are well-connected public bus services which take you to the main destinations.

Within the villages, it is best to walk, as narrow streets and cobbled steps make driving difficult and there is often limited parking in the town centers.

How Much Does Lake Como Cost?

Despite being a popular spot for the rich and famous, it is still possible to enjoy Lake Como on a budget. Public transport is very cheap, and you can buy fantastic fresh ingredients locally for picnics at the beach. Restaurants can be pricey, especially those right on the lake. However, you can find traditional trattorias in most villages which are very reasonably priced.

Costs of Traveling in Lake Como

Travel on a budget in Lake Como, from $370 − $710 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1260 − $1510 USD, and high-end from $1510 − $2020 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  • Hotels: $100 − $200 USD Check available hotels
  • Hostels: $15 − $50 USD Check available hostels
  • Transport: $15 − $40 USD Book public transport
  • Food: $10 − $30 USD
  • Activities: $10 − $50 USD See tickets & tours
  • Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
  • Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

The most popular time to visit Lake Como is during the summer when the weather is hot, and the water is most refreshing. However, this does mean more crowds and higher prices.

Instead, visit during the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October when it is much less crowded, and you can appreciate a more authentic atmosphere and cooler weather.

Tip: May is a perfect time to visit when an abundance of gorgeous-smelling flowers take over the area, and the villa gardens are full of color.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

  • Find Hotels via Booking.com
  • Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
  • Find Flights to Lake Como via Skyscanner
  • Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
  • Book Tours & Attractions via Viator
  • Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

11 Best Things To Do in Pisa, Italy

9 best things to do in rome, italy (3-day guide), 11 best things to do in bergamo, italy.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hey, Love your blogs on various destinations. Just one thing I noticed in this blog – Lake Como is not 3rd biggest lake in Europe. It’s 3rd biggest in Italy. Hope that’s useful!

Thank you so much for pointing that out! We edited the article right away.

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

  Notify me when new comments are added.

Italyciously icon

All About the Best Country in the World

Your Complete Lake Como Travel Guide

Step into the captivating realm of our Lake Como travel guide , where we invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty of one of Italy’s most mesmerizing destinations. Nestled amidst the majestic Italian Alps, Lake Como captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes , picturesque towns , and rich cultural heritage . Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat, an exploration of history, or a gastronomic adventure, Lake Como offers a wealth of experiences to delight every traveler. Join us as we delve into the wonders of Lake Como and help you plan an unforgettable journey to this captivating region.

Lake Como’s Natural Beauty: A Scenic Wonderland

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lake Como as you bask in its tranquil waters and breathtaking vistas. Take a leisurely boat tour to admire the charming towns and villas gracing the shoreline. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks like Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello , where lush gardens and historic allure await. For panoramic views, venture up the Brunate Funicular and witness the splendor of Lake Como from above.

Charming Towns and Villages: Exploring the Magic

Explore the enchanting towns and villages that dot the shores of Lake Como, each offering its unique charm. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Bellagio , fondly known as the “ Pearl of the Lake “, with its upscale boutiques and inviting lakeside cafes. Discover the medieval ambiance of Varenna , boasting colorful houses and a picturesque promenade. Dive into the rich cultural heritage of Como , where historic cathedrals, lively markets, and art galleries beckon. Each town holds a special enchantment waiting to be explored.

😃 FUN FACT : From Hollywood stars to world-renowned musicians and politicians , the allure of this picturesque destination has captivated the hearts of many. Notable names such as George Clooney , Madonna , and Sir Richard Branson have all owned lavish villas along the lake’s shores, contributing to its reputation as a haven for the rich and famous.

Unraveling Lake Como’s History: A Journey Through Time

Uncover the captivating history of Lake Como through its historic landmarks and cultural treasures. Explore the ancient castle in Menaggio , transporting you back in time. Visit the grandeur of Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo , housing impressive art collections and resplendent gardens. Delve into the allure of Isola Comacina , the only island on Lake Como, adorned with ancient churches and archaeological wonders.

Lake Como Travel Guide

Culinary Delights: Tasting Lake Como’s Flavors

Indulge your taste buds with the gastronomic delights of Lake Como, where traditional dishes and local produce shine. Sample the renowned “ Risotto con pesce persico ” (perch risotto) and relish freshly caught fish from the lake. Treat yourself to local cheeses like Bitto and Grana Padano , complemented by fine Lombard wines. Whether dining at a lakeside trattoria or an authentic Italian restaurant , Lake Como promises a culinary journey like no other.

How to Get to Lake Como

Getting to the stunning Lake Como is a seamless journey, offering various transportation options to suit your travel preferences. If you’re flying in from abroad, the closest international airports are Milan Malpensa (MXP) and Milan Linate (LIN) . Both airports provide convenient connections to Lake Como, with Milan Malpensa being the primary gateway. From the airports, you can opt for a hassle-free airport transfer , take a train to Como town, or rent a car to explore the region at your own pace. For those already in Italy, the efficient train network connects major cities like Milan , Venice , and Florence to Como, allowing you to enjoy a scenic ride through the picturesque countryside.

🧳 Planning Your Perfect Trip? Click to Find Your Ideal Hotel in Como!

Lake Como Travel Guide: Key Takeaways

  • Lake Como offers an idyllic escape with its natural splendor and breathtaking landscapes.
  • Explore charming towns such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Como for a taste of Italian enchantment.
  • Immerse yourself in Lake Como’s rich history through its historic landmarks and cultural sites.
  • Delight your palate with the region’s delicious cuisine , featuring traditional dishes and local delicacies.

A presto, amici!

Bellagio is a comune (municipality) in the Province of Como in the Italian region of Lombardy. It is located on Lake Como. The arms of the lake form an inverted Y. The triangular land mass at the base of the inverted Y is the Larian Triangle. The Como arm of the lake lies to its south west, the Lecco arm of the lake to its south east. At the northern point of the triangle sits Bellagio, looking across to the northern arm of the lake and, behind it, the Alps. It has always been famous for its location.

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

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

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…

Duomo

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

World's 50 Best Hotels

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.

Brunate

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

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

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

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.

como travel

Latest stories from Lake Como

Filter by interest:

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

como travel

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

10969328.tif

The Crazy Tourist

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

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

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

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

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 Funicular

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Canyoning Porlezza

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

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

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

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

Full Suitcase Travel Blog

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: November 20, 2023

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

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

Varenna town in Lake Como, Italy

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.

Villa Carlotta gardens and fountain - Lake Como, Italy

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.

Visiting Lake Como in Italy - lake scenery near Menaggio

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).

Menaggio town in Lake Como, Italy

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. Furthermore, despite the mixed reviews, we really loved the historic Grand Hotel Cadenabbia . It has unparalleled rooftop views, an amazing pool, and free parking.

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

Lake Como sunset as seen from a rooftop terrace of Grand Hotel Cadenabbia

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, they recommend pre-booking your tickets, but luckily, you can still get in without an advance reservation. Just keep in mind that the queue at the entrance can get quite 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.

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!

Villa del Balbianello gardens - Lake Como, Italy

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.

Lake Como luxury hotel pool and lake view - Grand Hotel Cadenabbia

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.

Lake Como ferry

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.

Busy ferry harbor in Varenna town on Lake Como, Italy

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

Empty street in Bellagio in the late afternoon - Lake Como travel tips

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…

Lake Como ferries in Bellagio harbor

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.

Lake Como view from Villa Monastero in Varenna

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.

Underground crypt of Chiesa Santo Stefano in Lenno, Lake Como, Italy

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!

Kids walking on a cobbled path to Castello di Vezio in Varenna

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).

Cars driving on narrow roads in Lake Como area

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.

Drinking fountain on the shores of Lake Como

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.

Summer hats for sale in Lake Como

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.

Italian cheese and charcuterie board at Bistrot Antichi Sapori restaurant in Bellagio

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 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!

Travel tips for visiting Lake Como in Italy

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 .

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!

Tuesday 21st of March 2023

Hi, Do you have any idea how bearable is the weather around the last week of April in Bellagio? We are planning on travelling with a 1 year old and our concern is that since we are travelling from a tropical country, the weather might be harsh for the toddler. However, we don't want to miss the opportunity to see the spring bloom. Any suggestions or recommendations would be highly appreciated!

Thursday 23rd of March 2023

Hi Zahid, nobody can tell you exactly how the weather will be on the day(s) when you will be there, but generally, April is beautiful and pleasantly warm. At the end of April, I would expect temperatures of at least 15-20°C, maybe even warmer. I can't imagine how spring weather in Italy would be a concern to anyone, no matter what you are used to. It's not like you are traveling to the Arctic in the winter. :) Have a great trip!

Wednesday 25th of January 2023

Hello, Speaking about ferry tickets - is not possible to buy them online, though. Not the car ferry and not the fast service.. they seem only to sell the slow boat, at the moment though that runs in winter schedule. Guess I'll wait till winter ends :))

@Jurga, thank you so much for answering. I found out that you can buy only the slow boat still. The fast service you have to buy at the pier. Is much better to get the free circulation ticket as well, I suppose. Was it hard with the English anywhere around? Just curious, as planning...

Hi Kristine, we were at Lake Como this August and you could buy the tickets online at that time. I think it's just not something you can do months in advance for the summer season. But quite frankly, it's usually easier to just get them at the harbor. Ideally, you do that early in the morning for the whole day (or the evening before), because during the day, the queues can be horrendous. Especially in the most popular towns like Bellagio or Varenna.

Wander Her Way

What to Do in Lake Como, Italy: A Complete Guide

como travel

Sharing is caring:

What to Do in Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como is one of my favorite places in Italy! It makes the perfect weekend getaway and is less than two hours away from Milan by train. I put together this complete guide on what to do in Lake Como, along with how to get there, where to stay, and what to eat.

Two weeks in Italy is great for exploring the country and even if you only have a couple of days to spare, Lake Como is worth adding to your Italian itinerary. There’s a reason I included it on my list of bucket list destinations in Italy.

Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and charming places in all of Italy. After you visit once, you’ll want to go back again and again.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting!

como travel

A Complete guide to Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como is an alpine lake in Northern Italy surrounded by mountains. Known for its dramatic scenery, it is nestled in the foothills of the Alps and not too far from the border with Switzerland.

The lake is shaped like an upside-down Y with two arms extending south. At the central point of the Y shape is the famous town of Bellagio.

Many of the towns around the lake are upscale resort towns with luxury hotels and villas. There are also smaller but equally charming towns with more affordable hotels and inns.

como travel

How to Getting to Lake Como

Lake Como is easily accessible from Milan and other cities in Italy by train and by car.

Taking the train is a very easy and convenient way to go from Milan to Lake Como. It’s a 40-minute ride from Milano Centrale and about an hour from Porta Garibaldi or Cadorna stations.

If you’re taking the train from Malpensa Airport, it’s a 20-minute ride to Saronno station, where you can get on the train from Cadorna to Lake Como.

I recommend using Rail Europe to book your trains in advance. Or consider getting a rail pass to save money if you’ll be traveling by train enough to make it worth it.

Unless you are staying in a larger town like Como or Varenna with its own train station, you will most likely need to take a bus or ferry to reach your final destination.

Bus and Ferry

The bus and ferry timetables change based on the season. Check current routes and timetables for the buses, ferries, and funicular (cable car).

como travel

One other option for getting around Lake Como is by car. I absolutely loved driving through Italy and around Lake Como and Lake Garda.

Renting a car is quite a popular choice because it gives you a lot more flexibility than relying on the local buses and ferries, which often run on Italian time (AKA late.)

🚘 Get the best rental car rates with Discover Cars.

However, driving in Italy is not for the faint-hearted, and driving around Lake Como with its narrow twisting roads can be even crazier—particularly in the high season. Most roads are one-way, and traffic can also be an issue. So keep that in mind before you decide to rent a car!

If you do rent a car, most hotels offer free parking for guests. And from there, you can explore Lake Como in other ways. Just be sure to check for ZTLs (restricted traffic zones) before you drive into certain areas.

Another option to visit Lake Como is to take a full-day tour from Milan . This is good if you’re short on time or want to see the highlights. They usually go to the main places you want to see. You also get to ride a boat, have a nice lunch, and explore a bit before heading back to Milan on a nice comfortable bus.

Where to Stay in Lake Como

Best value (Where I Stay): Hotel Regina

Best for budget travelers: Ostello Bello Lake Como

Best mid-range hotel: Hotel du Lac

Best luxury hotel: MUSA Lago Como

Best places to stay in Lake Como

I have visited Lake Como twice now, and both times I have stayed in the village of Gravedona on the northern end of the lake. I would have never found this hidden gem if my friend hadn’t randomly booked a hotel for us here on my first visit!

If you are looking for a beautiful, tranquil town to spend your time in, Gravedona is a great choice.

This sleepy town is dripping with charm and is the perfect base for exploring the rest of the lake. It’s also not very touristy, which is nice during the more crowded summer months at Lake Como.

como travel

Best Value: On both of my visits, I stayed at the Hotel Regina , which is the perfect place to stay for almost any traveler: families, couples, friends, etc. It is a pretty affordable, family-owned, spotlessly clean hotel in the perfect location. Most of the rooms have balconies overlooking the lake, and there’s a pool along with free bike rentals available to guests.

As much as I loved Hotel Regina (and will stay there again on my next visit!), there are plenty of other highly-rated accommodation options around Lake Como.

como travel

This affordable hostel in the town of Como is the top-rated hostel in the area. Although it’s still not particularly “cheap” as far as hostels go, it’s a great value for your money in pricy Lake Como. 

Bonus:  Como is the largest town on the lake and is directly accessible by train.

This highly-rated mid-range hotel is a great option for travelers who want to splurge a little but not totally break the bank when visiting Lake Como. Hotel du Luc’s prime location in the extremely popular town of Bellagio is a big selling point.

If you really want to splash out on your trip to Lake Como, staying at the iconic MUSA LAgo Como in Sala Comacina is a great way to do so. Every room in this five-star hotel boasts stunning views and a swimming pool that faces   the lake.

Tip: If you can stay in Lake Como for a bit longer, check out Plum Guide . It’s like Airbnb, but they have a much more strict process for vetting the listings. There are TONS of amazing apartments and houses you can rent around Lake Como with breathtaking views, and many are cheaper than hotels, especially if you’re traveling with a group.

Things to Do in Lake Como

There’s a lot to do around Lake Como. From visiting charming towns to opulent villas, there is plenty to see and do. Here are a few of the best things to do in Lake Como! If you are staying in Gravedona (or any of the other towns on the lake), you can easily access most of these places via ferry or bus.

Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio

These are three of the prettiest towns on Lake Como. If you only have time to visit one, I recommend Bellagio!

While it can get very crowded and touristy during the day, it’s very quiet in the morning and evening. Bellagio is known as one of the most beautiful towns in Lake Como.

With narrow, steep cobblestoned streets and breathtaking views around every corner, Bellagio truly looks like a town out of a storybook. You can easily spend a whole day here just wandering the streets and sitting down at a cafe along the lakefront promenade for a long lunch.

Best Destinations in Italy

Villa del Balbianello

One of the most beautiful villas on Lake Como is Villa del Balbionella. It’s famous for its gorgeous terraced gardens overlooking the lake.

It’s also famous for being featured in quite a few movies.  Star Wars  fans will definitely recognize this spot!

como travel

To get to the villa, you will need to take the C10 bus to Lenno and follow the signs to walk to the villa. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the station to the villa.

como travel

Other Villas to Visit in Lake Como

While Villa del Balbionello is my favorite, here are some other villas you can visit:

  • Villa Monastero
  • Villa Carlotta
  • Villa Melzi d’Eril

Go Kayaking

What’s a better way to see the lake than from the lake? You can take a kayak tour like this one . They’re usually about an hour and a half, and it’s a pretty mellow ride.

If you don’t feel like rowing a kayak, you can go sailing in Lake Como. This sailing tour includes Prosecco and Aperitivo while you enjoy the views. And depending on the time of the year, you can even take a dip in Lake Como.

Zip Around On a Vespa

There’s nothing more Italian than riding around on a vintage Vespa . Reminder: You will need to bring your driver’s license on this tour!

Take a hike

Lake Como is surrounded by mountains, and the higher you go, the better the views. If you like to stay active on your vacations, go on a hike. This tour includes beer tasting at a brewery before the hike up to Mount Resegone , so there’s more than just the sunset for you to look forward to!

Eat and Drink

Lake Como has some of the best food I’ve had in Italy. So if you don’t know what to do in Lake Como, eat. To make sure you don’t miss out on some of its delicious flavors, try a food walking tour like this one. You’ll make at least five stops at local eateries, cafes, wine shops, etc—but don’t worry, you’ll be able to walk some of it off!

Wander Around

One of the best things to do in Lake Como is to wander around and explore. Strolling around the promenades of the lakefront towns is a lot of fun. And don’t forget to stop for gelato as you go!

como travel

There are plenty of old churches, hidden alleyways, and gorgeous viewpoints to discover around Lake Como. There are also lots of paths along the lakefront which are great for walking or biking.

como travel

Best time to Go to Lake Como

I have been to Lake Como in April and June and found both to be really pleasant.

April is still the off-season, so everything is extremely uncrowded, and you will hardly see any other tourists. The weather can be a little chilly, though.

Early June was still a great time to go in terms of crowds, and the weather was better compared to April.

como travel

Lake Como gets more crowded during July and August since it’s peak season, but not to the level of other places in Italy—like Venice and Rome.

Lake Como attracts more European tourists than Americans. You will find a lot of visitors from Germany, England, France and other parts of Europe on their summer holidays.

Lake Como Travel Tips

Here are a few more tips for visiting Lake Como:

Learn some Italian before you go.

Fewer people in Lake Como speak English compared to more touristy destinations in Italy. Try to learn a few keywords and phrases in Italian before you go to make communication easier.

Don’t miss the last ferry of the day.

If you’re visiting a town along the lake and you need to take a ferry to get back to where you’re staying, be sure to note when the last ferry of the day leaves (sometimes, it is pretty early). Otherwise, you’ll get stuck with a VERY expensive cab ride!

Lake Como is a good place to rent a car.  

Yes, there are ferries and buses to get you around the lake, but driving is usually quicker and easier. Most places around Lake Como have free parking as well, making it a great place to explore by car. Whenever I’m in Europe, I always rent from Discover Cars .

Don’t base yourself on Como.

The large town of Como, located at the bottom of the lake, is nice but nowhere near as charming as the villages in the central part and the northern end of the lake.

Make plans for Italian time.

Don’t try to cram a bunch of activities into one day, especially if you are relying on buses or ferries to get around. Things run on Italian time there, meaning the ferry might be thirty minutes late, and it will just be shrugged off as no big deal.

What to Do in Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como Packing List: Italy Essentials

Here are some commonly forgotten Italy packing essentials for your trip!

  • European outlet adapter — I like this one because it also comes with two USB ports so that you can charge your phone or iPad at the same time.
  • Portable cellphone charger — charge your phone fully up to two and a half times when it is fully charged.
  • Travel scarf with a hidden pocket — a stylish way to carry your valuables like credit cards, cash, and passport around Italy while protecting them from pickpockets.
  • Reusable water bottle — eco-friendly and saves you money on bottled water. Italy’s water is some of the cleanest in the world!
  • Travel-sized wrinkle release spray — makes your clothes look perfect even if you don’t have an iron or steamer wherever you’re staying!

Lake Como: Final Thoughts

So there you have it: Lake Como is a fun, breathtaking destination that should definitely be on your bucket list. Enjoy its charming towns, scenic landscapes, lake activities, and food! It’s easy to see why celebrities love Lake Como!

So pack your bags, brush up on your Italian phrases, and get ready to explore this gem of Northern Italy.

🩷 Where to next? Check out my complete Italy travel guide .

More Italy Travel Tips

Enjoy your trip! For more Italy travel tips, be sure to read:

  • What Not to Do in Italy: 10 Common Tourist Mistakes
  • The Complete Guide to Cinque Terre
  • The Perfect One Week Italy Itinerary

Save to Pinterest:

What to Do in Lake Como

About Denise Cruz

Denise is a marketing executive who escaped corporate to travel the world… twice. A Brazilian native living in the U.S., she’s lived in 4 countries and visited 35+ others. After side-hustling her way to financial independence, she curates solo destination guides, slow travel tips, and travel blogging advice on Wander Her Way. When she’s not on the road, you can find her in Miami with her dog Finnegan.

  • South Africa
  • Afghanistan
  • North Korea
  • Adventure + Outdoors
  • Amusement Parks
  • Backpacking Trips
  • Boating + Cruises
  • Budget Travel
  • Bus + Train Travel
  • Coasts + Islands
  • Country Trips
  • Fall Vacations
  • Family Vacations
  • Green Travel
  • Heritage + History
  • Honeymoons + Romance
  • Inspiration + Guide
  • Landmarks + Attractions
  • LGBT Travel
  • Markets + Bazaars
  • National Parks + Reserves
  • Nature + Wildlife
  • Parks + Gardens
  • Pets + Animals
  • Photography
  • Airlines + Airports
  • Budgeting + Currency
  • Business Travel
  • Celebrity Travel
  • Customs + Immigration
  • Deals + Rewards
  • Family Travel
  • Hotels + Resorts
  • Luggage + Packing Tips
  • Offbeat News
  • Photography Tips
  • Responsible Travel
  • Solo Travel
  • Tech + Gear
  • Travel Etiquette
  • Travel Warnings
  • Bars + Clubs
  • Celebrity Chefs
  • Restaurants + Cafés
  • Wine + Vineyards
  • Beach Hotels
  • Boutique Hotels
  • Hotel Openings
  • Hotel Reviews
  • Luxury Hotels
  • Mountain + Ski Resorts
  • Spa Resorts
  • Vacation Rentals
  • Asia Cruises
  • European Cruises
  • Festivals + Events
  • Museums + Galleries
  • Style + Design
  • Travel’s Best
  • Hotel with Agoda.com
  • Hotel with Booking.com

Get the best travel guides, tips, information & reviews!

Nanjing itinerary 2 days — What to do & how to…

como travel

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

belmond-la-residence-d-angkor-siem-reap-cambodia-prod

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

como travel

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

como travel

What to do in Battambang? — 12+ must, top & best…

como travel

When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best,…

como travel

Gyeongju 1 day itinerary — How to spend one day in…

como travel

When is the best time to visit Malaysia? — The best,…

como travel

When is the best time to visit Busan? — The best,…

Cafe Pomegranate Ubud

Best coffee shops in Bali — Top 10 best cafes in…

como travel

Where to eat in Shenzhen? — 9 best restaurants in Shenzhen

como travel

Must eat in Malaysia — 15+ most popular, famous dishes &…

como travel

What to eat in Suzhou? — 13+ must-eat, famous Suzhou street…

como travel

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Amankila, Bali, Indonesia. © Amanresorts

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

things to know, European river cruise

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Syrena Cruises, luxury cruises, halong bay, vietnam

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, Seoul

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

totoro ghibli museum

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Gion Matsuri Festival in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

national palace museum shilin district taipei city taiwan,

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Picture: Japanese waterfall blog.

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

Bergen, Norway5

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

como travel

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

como travel

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

como travel

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

mekong delta travel blog tips southern vietnam (2)

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

Real-life experience-enhance-traveling-things to do at young age

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

tanuki-statue-ratel-symbol of lucky-japan

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

living in cave houses in andalucia southern spain (1)

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

koda-walking-concrete, Tallinn, Estonia, tiny homes

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Lake como travel blog — the fullest lake como travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers.

como travel

Lake Como is also known as Lago di Como (in Italian), also called Lario, located at the foot of the Alps. Lake Como is one of the most beautiful natural places in the world with poetic, romantic and charming scenery. If you plan visit the Italian lakes, Lake Como is a destination you definitely cannot miss. Around Lake Como are picturesque little villages located scattered next to its romantic lakeshore, reflect itself on the deep blue water. So, what to do in Lake Como, how to visit Lake Como and how to plan a great and perfect budget perfect trip to Lake Como? – A must-visit romantic place in Italy for the first-time? Let’s check out our Lake Como travel blog (Lake Como blog) with the fullest Lake Como travel guide (Lake Como guide, Lake Como Italy travel guide, Lake Como vacation guide) from how to get there, when to visit, where to stay, best places to visit and things to do in Lake Como to find out the answer for the question “is Lake Como worth visiting”?!

  • Sardinia travel blog — The fullest Sardinia travel guide for first-timers
  • Alberobello travel blog — The fullest Alberobello guide for first-timers
  • Bergamo travel blog — The fullest Bergamo travel guide for first-timers
  • Milan blog — The fullest Milan travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers
  • Verona itinerary 1 day — Suggested Verona one day trip & how to spend 24 hours in Verona

como travel

Lake Como is an upside-down Y-shaped lake in Lombardy region, northern Italy, 40km (25 miles) from Milan. Lake Como has long attracted visitors by its majestic natural landscape but also very poetic. Lake Como is also a prefer resting place for the aristocracy and rich people including George Clooney, Madonna or Donatella Versace. Along the lakeshore are magnificent villas interspersed between small beautiful villages and towns. If you have ever been to Lake Como, you cannot forget the beauty of this place.

como travel

Lake Como travel blog: Overview of Lago di Como

With a maximum depth of about 410 meters (448 yards), Lake Como is one of the deepest lakes in Europe. The lake was created from the melting of glaciers combined with the erosion of the ancient Adda River.

Lake Como is Italy’s third largest lake after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore and lies at the foot of the world-famous Alps. Because almost its water source comes from the snowy mountains, the lake water is very clear and clean. Due to its shape like a Y upside-down symbol. So, the distance between Lake Como and Milan will depend on the exact location you need to go to. The two main towns by the lake are Como and Lecco, are located at the southern tip of two branches of Y character while the super famous village of Bellagio is sandwiched in the middle right where the two branches converge.

como travel

It takes more than an hour by train to the north from the city of Milan, visitors will admire the poetic beauty of Lake Como. Located at the foot of the Alps are ancient European villages, lush greenery and blue Lake Como. All create a picturesque scene that many visitors have been amazed after visiting here. Filmmakers also chose Lake Como as the location for many blockbuster movies. These include: “Star Wars: Attack of the Clones (Episode II)”, “Casino Royale” and “Ocean’s Twelve”.

como travel

Lake Como travel blog: When to visit?

Due to being located close to Switzerland, the nature in Lake Como is beautiful and the climate is extremely favorable. The highest temperature in summer only around 27 degrees Celsius and lowest in winter around 4 degrees Celsius. The best time to travel to Lake Como is in late April until the end of summer.

You will avoid the burning heat in Italian cities when have a vacation here. At this time, while all other cities in Italy are no different than “a pan of fire”, the temperature here also often ranging from 24 to 27 degrees Celsius which is very pleasant.

como travel

Lake Como travel guide: How to getting from Milan to Lake Como

The two most famous places that tourists often visit are Como Town and Bellagio Village. Besides, there are some other places that I see they are also very beautiful like Varenna village or Lecco Town. There are many ways to get here but the most popular, convenient and fastest way is by train. I will suggest some of the most common ways for you to refer to and consider.

como travel

Milan – Como Town

It takes about 36 minutes to travel by train from Milano Centrale Railway Station to Como S. Giovanni Station with the fare of €4.8. You can buy tickets online through the Trenitalia homepage or directly at the station. For this type of ticket, you do not need to buy online in advance but go to buy directly for convenience.

Trenitalia Train in Italy

You can also take a train to Varenna (stop at Varenna-Esino-Perledo station) or Como Town, then take a ferry to the rest of the villages.

But you should take a train to Varenna because from there you can easy to get to Bellagio and the other villages around the lake. While if you want to go to Bellagio from Como Town, it will take another 1 – 2 hours of traveling. And actually, there isn’t much to see and do in Como Town. The traveling time is about 60 minutes with the fare of 6.7 euros, you can also book tickets on: http://www.trenitalia.com/ .

| lake como travel blog

Milan – Lecco

It takes about 40 minutes to travel from Milano Centrale station to Lecco and the fare is 4.8 euros.

Milan – Bellagio

There is no direct train from Milan to Bellagio, so you need to take several trips. There are 3 ways to getting from Milan to Bellagio:

  • Take a train from Milan centrale station to Varenna for 1 hour, ticket price is 6.7 euros. Then from there, you can take a boat or ferry for 15 minutes to get to Bellagio which costs €4.6 / one-way. If you buy a day pass, it costs around €15 and you can take unlimit trips to the nearby villages.
  • From Milan Centrale Station to Como as above guided (cost €4.8 and 36 minutes of traveling). Then from there, you continue take a train / bus to Bellagio. Take a express train ride for 45 minutes and cost €10.4 while take a bus for 1 hour and cost €3.
  • From “Trenord” station (to reach this train station, you can take the metro from central Milan) for 1 hour to Como Nord Lago railway station in Como Town with the fare of 4.8 euros. Then also choose to take the train or bus to get to Bellagio.

como travel

Lake Como Italy travel guide: Getting around Lake Como

| lake como travel blog

Ferry is a main means of transportation to travel between the villages of Menaggio, Varenna, Bellagio… in Lake Como. The ferry runs very on time, so please pay attention to its schedules (timetables are posted at the ticket offices at the ferry terminals) and you should come early for 10 – 15 minutes to avoid miss ferry. Another little note is that you pay attention to the last ferry of the day (for those who only want to make a day trip to Lake Como), otherwise, as I mentioned above, you must spend one night here and it will burn your purse with sky-high room rates.

| lake como travel blog

One-way ferry costs €9.20. If you plan to visit only the main villages like Varenna, Menagio or Bellagio, you should buy a Pass which costs € 15 without limit on the number of trips in a day.

Details of fares, timetables and vehicles, you can see here .

Lake Como travel blog: What to do and where to go?

Lake Como is most famous for its two tourist attractions are Bellagio Village and Como Town. In addition, two other stops of Varenna or Lecco Town are also very impressed to me. If you do not have much time, choose to visit places such as Como, Lecco, Varenna when traveling to Lake Como.

lake como travel blog

Bellagio Village

The village of Bellagio dubbed the “pearl of Lake Como”, is a picturesque old village facing Lake Como. This place is famous for its ancient houses from the medieval times with beautiful natural scenery. Visiting Bellagio, you will find many ancient shops, guesthouses and small bustling square of Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini which always full of tourists. With its prime location at the foot of the Alps, the climate in Bellagio is always cool and pleasant all year round.

como travel

The village gives visitors a feeling of peace and elegance. Visitors can wandering on the paved streets, dropping by small handicraft shops or shopping for clothes and accessories made by locals. Visit Villa Melzi d’Eril, walking along the giant walls that once bordered the castle to feel time as back.

| lake como travel blog

In addition to Mazzini Square, the most attractive point of Bellagio is the magnificent villas and palaces. The luxury resorts in Bellagio with lakeside promenades and cobbled streets always leave an unforgettable impression on visitors.

como travel

Visit Santa Marta Church to admire its ancient architecture and well-preserved paintings from the 17th century. If you go straight towards Lake Como you will reach the square of Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi. This is the ideal place to sit and drink coffee or enjoy Italian gelato ice cream while enjoy the beauty of the world’s most beautiful lake right in front of your eyes.

como travel

Some interesting activities in the village of Bellagio

  • Sightseeing along roads and alleys in Bellagio.
  • Strolling around La Punta Spartivento park.
  • Visit 2 villas of Villa Melzi d’Eril and Villa Serbelloni.
  • Visit the picturesque village of Pescallo which is located in the southeast of the Bellagio promontory.

The town of Como

The town is surrounded by defensive walls located on the southwestern tip of Lake Como. It was once under the rule of many empires and it was not until the 19th century that it became a part of Italy.

There are many ancient churches in Como town with arched dome ceilings and towering bell towers that characterize a mix architecture styles of Roman, Renaissance and Gothic. The most typical example is Duomo di Como (Como Cathedral).

como travel

Some interesting activities in Como Town

  • Visit the Duomo di Como Cathedral.
  • Walking around small alleys.
  • Visit the Archaeological Museum.
  • Take the Como-Brunate Funicular Railway to the top of Brunate village to see the whole Lake Como.
  • Visit the village of Cernobbio.
  • Visit Villa del Balbianello, the most beautiful villa of the lake, ticket price of 8 euros for student.

Varenna Village

Located on the east bank of Lake Como, is a typical tourist village. It has a strange charm right from the sweet Pastel color of the houses. Coming to Varenna, you should visit the San Giorgio church which was built in the 14th century, a combination of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. This place stores many paintings from the late 15th and 16th centuries.

como travel

Varenna has something very distinctive from the colorful houses lying on the edge of the lakeshore. But Varenna’s most attractive thing are small walkways along the lake. Among them, the Walk of Lovers is known as the most glamorous lakefront walkway in Italy. The path surface is paved with stone. What could be more romantic than holding hands with your lover and walking on Walk of Lovers and enjoy romantic beauty together by Lake Como.

como travel

Castello di Vezio

Medieval fortress located on a high hill with sweeping views of Lake Como. Castello di Vezio is an ideal spot for you to enjoy the panoramic view of Lake Como. However, the way up here is quite tricky and along the path there are some very terrifying statues.

como travel

Located in: Comune Di Perledo Address: Via Del Castellano, 23828 Perledo LC, Italy Hours: 10AM–6PM

Menaggio village

In contrast to Varenna and Bellagio, Menaggio is a bit more peaceful and serene. If you want to feel the life of the residents around Lake Como, a cup of coffee in Menaggio village will be the most ideal way.

Villa del Balbianello

Dubbed the most beautiful villa in Lake Como, it is not surprising that Villa del Balbianello was chosen as the setting of the movie Star Wars. Located on the west side of Lake Como on top of Lavedo Hill, Villa del Balbianello offering a beautiful view of the lake. Currently this is the place to hold private events such as weddings and ceremonies. Villa del Balbianello overwhelms visitors with its terraced gardens and stunning architecture. That is why it was chosen as the setting for famous movies. Typical is a scene from the balcony in the movie Star Wars II.

como travel

However, to reach this villa, you will have to go through a true tough journey. The first is to take a ferry to Lenno, then take another 25 minutes by car to reach Villa del Balbianello (note that the road is very steep).

Address: Via Guido Monzino, 1, 22016 Tremezzina CO, Italy Opened: 1787 Hours: 10AM–4:30PM/Monday; Wednesday: Closed Admission: EUR8/student

Villa Monastero

Originally a monastery with medieval architecture, Villa Monastero increasingly attracts visitors with its own attractive beauty. Just 15 minutes walk from Varenna Esino train station, you will be able to immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscape here. And when you come here, don’t forget to bring your student card (if any) to receive the incentives!

como travel

Address: Viale Giovanni Polvani, 2, 23829 Varenna LC, Italy Hours: 9:30am – 8pm (summer) | 10:30am – 4:30pm (winter) Admission: EUR3 (entrance fee to visit the garden for student)

* NOTE: When visiting Villa Monastero or Villa del Balbianello, you remember to bring your student card to receive a more preferential price (in fact, the staffs do not check your card, so don’t worry). You should carefully check the opening hours of the villas before coming.

In addition, there are some other famous villas such as: Villa Carlotta, Villa Melzi, Villa d’Este…

How to visit Lake Como? Lake Como day trip itinerary from Milan

Here is my suggested Lake Como itinerary for one day from Milan for you refer to.

  • 8:20am – 9:23am: Take a train from Milan Centrale Station to Varenna Esino Station
  • 9:45am: Visit Villa Monastero
  • 11am: Walking around the village of Varenna
  • 11:30am: Lunch
  • 1pm: Walking around the village of Bellagio
  • 4:30pm: Visit the Villa del Balbianello
  • 6:15: Back to Varenna
  • 7:07pm – 8:40pm: Take the train from Varenna Esino back to Milano Centrale

como travel

Lake Como blog: What and where to eat?

There is no shortage of restaurants offering beautiful views of the lake, but to choosing an affordable restaurant and delicious food is not easy. The easiest way is that you can go to Tripadvisor to see which restaurants get the highest rank, then choose it (the reviews here are quite good).

como travel

Also, you should base on your itinerary (depending on where you visit at that time) to choose a good place to eat. Avoid being in this village but want to go to another village to eat because it takes time to take the ferry between villages.

Bar Il Molo

During my trip, I went to Varenna and had lunch here. I chose Il Molo Bar after researching a few travel blogs and on Tripadvisor, which are in the top 10 restaurants in Lake Como. It offering an extremely wonderful view and affordable. Only from 8-10 euros, you have pizza, pasta and other. However, I feel not really delicious compared to other Italian tourist destinations such as Venice, Florence but in return, the view is so beautiful. Among the dishes here, the pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven is the most recommended.

| lake como travel blog

Right near this restaurant, there is a delicious cheap ice cream shop. I remember correctly that only €1.8 with 2 scoops of ice cream. Remember to try it.

Address: Riva Garibaldi, 14, 23829 Varenna LC, Italy Hours: 9AM–1:30AM Prices: 14 – 18 euros

I recommend some good restaurants in Lake Como: Bar Il Molo, Ristorante Du Lac, Caffee Varena, Ristorante La Vista, Bar Sanremo, Bar Gelateria Il Gabbiano, Terrazza Metropole, Bstyle Bellagio, Il Ristorante di Paolo, Ristorante Del Porto.

Lake Como blog: Where to stay?

The hotel room rates around Lake Como are quite expensive and there are not many affordable options, so we did not stay overnight but went back during the day.

If you want to stay overnight here, you should book a hotel room in or around the Varenna village, for the following reasons:

  • You can easily take a ferry or boat to neighboring villages like Bellagio or Menaggio.
  • From Varenna Esino Station you also can easily take a train to go straight to Milano Centrale Railway Station.

como travel

Check out top hotels in Varenna with good rating on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

In addition, I will also recommend some hotels that visitors often choose to stay in Lake Como such as: Hotel Belvedere Bellagio ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , Grand Hotel Tremezzo ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , Hotel Villa Flori ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , Hotel Metropole Bellagio ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , Mandarin Oriental , Hotel Du Lac , Hotel Garni Corona , Hotel Lenno , Villa d’Este .

como travel

In addition, you can check out top and best hotels in Lake Como on Booking.com or Agoda.com .

como travel

Lake Como travel blog: Some useful tips before you go

como travel

  • Just spend 1 day you can take a fully tour Lake Como and beautiful villages of Menaggio, Varenna, Bellagio because these villages are very small. Or you can visit Como Town first, then take a 2 hour slow train to back Bellagio village. This train stops at many villages and you can enjoy beautiful views of the lake while traveling.
  • If you only have half a day but still want to explore Lake Como Italy, you should go to Como Town or Lecco Village. Both of these places are only 36 minutes away Milan by Trenitalia train, so half a day is possible.
  • Personally for me, Lake Como is a worth visiting. Maybe because I’m living in Finland, the nature is not as “magnificent” as in Italy, so when I came here, I was very excited and satisfied.
  • Wearing a comfortable shoes to explore because you have to walking a lot.

| lake como travel blog

Lake Como Italy travel guide: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Lake Como you can refer to

  • Guided Day Trip to Lake Como and Bellagio
  • Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano Switzerland Day Tour from Milan
  • Lake Como Day Tour From Verona
  • Lake Como Hiking Tour
  • From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Day Tour
  • From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Guided Day Trip
  • From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Lugano Bus Day Trip
  • From Milan: Lake Como Cruise with Visits to Como & Bellagio
  • From Milan: Full-Day Trip to Como, Lugano and Bellagio
  • From Como: Lugano, Bellagio and Cruise Experience
  • Como: Personal Lake Como Motor Boat Rental
  • From Como: Lugano & Bellagio Day Trip & Cruise
  • Lake Como: Electric Bike Tour
  • From Milan: Lake Como and Bellagio Full-Day Trip
  • From Como: Lake Como Sightseeing Tour

como travel

Are you looking for more top things to do in many destinations in Italy: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here .

Related articles

Austria travel blog — The fullest Austria blog & guide for a budget trip for first-timers

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Nanjing itinerary 2 days — what to do & how to spend 2 days in nanjing perfectly, what to do in battambang — 12+ must, top & best things to do in battambang, when is the best time to visit kyoto — the best, worst, affordable & best season to visit kyoto, gyeongju 1 day itinerary — how to spend one day in gyeongju, south korea.

como travel

Boracay travel blog — The fullest Boracay travel guide for first-timers

When is the best time to visit malaysia — the best, worst, affordable & best time to travel to malaysia.

como travel

Coron travel blog — The fullest Coron travel guide for first-timers

como travel

El Nido travel blog — The fullest El Nido travel guide for first-timers

When is the best time to visit busan — the best, worst, affordable & best season to visit busan, editor picks.

como travel

Nanjing itinerary 2 days — What to do & how to...

como travel

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to...

belmond-la-residence-d-angkor-siem-reap-cambodia-prod

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay...

Popular posts.

como travel

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

pineapple cake must buy in taiwan

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

korean honey

Must buy in Korea — Top 23 cheap, famous & best...

Popular category.

  • Inspiration + Guide 1443
  • Trip Inspiration 469
  • Thailand 209
  • Food + Drink 202
  • Coasts + Islands 193
  • South Korea 168
  • Vietnam 166
  • Travel Photos 144
  • Work for Us
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Work with us
  • Favorite travel blogs
  • netherlands
  • switzerland
  • family travel
  • food and wine
  • trip planning resources
  • accommodation guides
  • travel gear guides
  • itineraries
  • packing guides
  • travel gifts
  • health and safety

Lake Como things to do and travel guide – la dolce vita on the Italian lakes

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

In another life, I think I like to think I was a 1950s Italian glamourpuss . Think Sofia Loren. All big hair, immaculate grooming and cat eye sunglasses.

I would have ridden a scooter around Lake Como stopping off to admire the views over a glass or two of prosecco before jumping in my classic wooden speedboat for dinner in Bellagio.

Glamor – an attractive of exciting quality that makes certain people or things seem appealing

So I just had to try to live out this fantasy on our family trip to Lake Como. In the end, it wasn’t that difficult. Lake Como oozes glamor and you soak it up easily. Even if you don’t have Sophia Loren’s hair.

Here is how to get your glam on when you visit Lake Como Italy .

What's in this article

Lake Como travel guide – the most glamorous experiences

Favorite towns on lake como, where to stay on lake como, where to eat on lake como, a final word on visiting lake como.

When you visit Lake Como you are mesmerized by the natural landscape. The lake’s shimmering waters cover 146 square kilometers and forms the shape of an upside down ‘Y’. Forming a dramatic backdrop to the lake, the Italian Alps rise majestically in the distance.

This region has been the playground of the aristocracy since Roman times, although George Clooney put it on the map more recently. People come to Como for its (relative) quiet seclusion, natural beauty and easy way of life.

Visit one of the many villas overlooking the lake

We loved Villa Carlotta with its small collection of restored rooms and much larger and diverse gardens. Explore the 17th century villa and enjoy the views from the balcony of boats darting across the lake from town to town.

You could spend hours in the gardens enjoying the various ‘rooms’ or sections. There are formal and organic spaces created over 70,000 square meters to explore.

Villa Carlotta   is open daily from March to October and on selected days during the winter. Adult admission is €10 and children under 6 visit for free.

Other villas worth visiting in Lake Como

Villa del Balbianello   A famous movie location, this elegant villa starred in the movies Casino Royale and Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones.

Villa D’Este If you were looking to splurge and take your glamourpussing to new heights then Villa D’Este would be the place I would choose to stay. The luxury hotel is also home to several bars and restaurants with spectacular views over the lake.

A private boat cruise on Lake Como

I absolutely covet this experience and unfortunately this time it was not to be. Take a 2 hour or half day tour of the major sites in a classic wooden topped speedboat and you are bound to feel instantly glamorous.

If you have an active imagination and a smaller budget ride the many ferries that connect Lake Como ‘s pretty towns. Just add scarf and shades and stand on the deck of the boat in awe of the beauty that surrounds you.

Taking a boat tour  was recommended to us by the host at the apartment where we stayed. We saw the boats out on the water and they looked so sleek and elegant. 

Ferries depart from various towns along the lake throughout the day. The main ports are Como, Bellagio and Mennagio – visit the local ferry operator for timetables and more information.

Watch the sunset in Bellagio at the water’s edge

I defy anyone, even the most hardened and grumpy of souls, to not be entranced watching the sun edge its way down over the horizon, behind the alps.

We saw a few sunsets on the days we visited but none matched the rose hued beauty of the sun descending behind the mountains from Bellagio.

Shop the boutiques

Como is a thriving city and we browsed several stores selling beautiful homewares and fashion. You will also find local produce stores with a variety of specialties from the Lombardy region.

A carefully chosen accessory always helps me feel more glamorous.  Bellagioseta in Bellagio is world famous for its selection of silk scarves, ties and leather goods.

Experience a food festival

Sophia Loren famously said  “Everything you see I owe to spaghetti”.  Far be it for me to argue with the great actress.

If you are looking for an amazing meal in Lake Como attend the local food festival .  Apart from enjoying a delicious meal you will notice that the people of the city are dressed to impress.

Take in the views from up high at Brunate

Take the funicular railway from Como to the hillside town of Brutante for wonderful views of the lake and the city of Como.

The trains leave every 30 minutes and cost around €5 for an adult return. At the top of the hill enjoy the views over a coffee or take a stroll around the town or on some of the local walks.

Simply cruising around the lake either by boat or car or both feels glamorous. In an area blessed with so many pretty places some of the towns we visited stood out as my favorite.

With a slightly more rustic feel than its sophisticated neighbors, Brienno rests quietly on its considerable charms. The views across to Bellagio are divine and the houses that lined steep cobbled lanes that rise up the hillside offer fleeting glimpses of the lake below.

The sun descended slowly over the shimmering lake, light reflecting off the mountains in an ethereal haze. I think I took over 100 photos after pausing to enjoy the moment. Possibly the most famous of the towns on Lake Como’s shores, Bellagio captured me at sunset.

READ: 50 beautiful small towns in Italy

A friendly waiter ushered us to our table with a view and organized the children’s pasta so we could relax and enjoy the spectacle. I will remember this dinner forever. We were laughing and smiling, the view was incredible and our meals delicious.

If your idea of heaven is a medieval town full of colorful buildings perched upon a lake then you will no doubt fall in love with Varenna as I did.

Away from the hustle and bustle of Como and Bellagio, Varenna reminded me of the secluded beauty of Lake Orta .

A lakeside promenade winds around the shore leading to a pretty square off which climb stone alleyways hiding boutiques and gelateria. When I return to Lake Como I would like to stay in Varenna.

READ: Our 21 most romantic places in Italy which includes Varenna

How to get from Milan to Lake Como

Many tour companies offer a day trip to Como from Milan and this is a good option if you are short on time.

However, if you’re independently minded, Como is a short train ride or drive from Milan. To get there by train catch the express service from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni (about 20 minutes walk from the lake) or Varenna and you can be enjoying the fresh lake air in around an hour.

You can also take the local train to Como Nord Lago (right by the lake) from Milano Cadorna (near Castello Sforzesco). This journey also takes about an hour. 

The best way, I think, is to take the train to Varenna and catch ferries back down the lake to Como. They are not super fast, but who cares! It’s the Italian lakes.

READ: our guide on How to get to Lake Como from Milan

If you have a little more time, rent a car and make the most of the smaller towns on the lake. You can catch car ferries or cruise around the scenic winding roads. 

Not keen on driving in Italy? Check out our guide on tips to driving in Italy to build your confidence. It’s really not as hair raising as you would think.

We chose to stay in Como town as we wanted to do a day trip to nearby Switzerland and tour the lake from a central base. Como is a thriving and living city, not simply a tourist town.

It has several significant buildings including the magnificent duomo or cathedral decorated in the gothic style. I loved pretty Piazza Cavour where restaurants spill into the square and children play while their parents sip wine.

READ: Our full guide on Where to stay on Lake Como .

Our apartment in Como

I like to think I am becoming quite the expert on picking great vacation rental properties and our apartment in Como was among the best we have stayed in.

Built on ancient foundations, the huge newly renovated two bedroom apartment was in the center of town within walking distance of the lake, the Duomo and a wonderful gelato shop.

Beautifully decorated with local touches I also loved the history of the building. Original Roman remains are integrated into its structure. You can see these from the pretty secret garden the apartment is named for.

Our welcoming host Alessandra was so kind and patient, taking the time to tell us about the local attractions and helping us find a secure car spot. It seems we were not the only guests to find the property appealing.

You can book the apartment and read more reviews on Booking.com and Tripadvisor .

Recommended hotels on Lake Como

Lately, I have spent a lot of time day dreaming and researching our return to this beautiful part of Italy. Here are some of the places I think are the best hotels in the best towns to stay in Lake Como.

The ultimate in glamorous Lake Como accommodations, no request is too much trouble at Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. The 5 star hotel boasts incredible views over the lake (think of those sunsets!) and a Michelin star restaurant on site. > Check availability and prices

Perfect for a modern romance, the Filario has an infinity pool looking over Lake Como and a private beach. Guests can arrange private water taxis from the hotel but the comfortable and stylish rooms mean you might not want to leave. > Check availability and prices

The classic views from the terrace at 4 star Hotel Royal Victoria in Varenna are the stuff of dreams. Varenna is a quieter option if you want to stay away from the crowds and the hotel is the perfect spot to enjoy this peaceful side of the lake. > Check availability and prices

You’ll find accommodation options on Booking.com and Plum Guide . Plum Guide handpicks the fantastic properties on their website, only accepting a small percentage of applications, and all rooms are of superb quality.

TIP: If you find a property you like on Plum Guide , be sure to add the code “Untold5” for a 5% discount.

Rodrigo Restaurant  – Via Regina, 7, 22011 Griante

A short stroll from Villa Carlotta, the wonderful Rodrigo Restaurant has been serving patrons classic Italian dishes and local specialties since the 1920s. In its heyday, the restaurant was renowned for its opulent style but these days I can heartily recommend the pizza.

Ristorante l’Antica Riva – Via Lungo Lario Trieste 50, Como

We feasted on the freshest fish at this elegant restaurant overlooking the city of Como’s shoreline. Our children were spoiled by the attentive waiters who made sure, in wonderful Italian fashion, that they were fed first so we could enjoy our meal.

La Terrazza Metropole – Hotel Metropole Bellagio

Perched above the gentle, lapping waters of Lake Como we had one of our most memorable meals of the year at the Terrace restaurant of Hotel Metropole Bellagio.

Fantastic food and service were only eclipsed, quite unfairly, by the sunset spectacle across the lake. We recommend the Caprese salad and truffle linguine.

Gelateria Lariana – Via Lungo Lario Trento, 5, Como

I sat outside this gelateria with my son one evening and we bonded over a mutual love for gelato . He announced that his favorite flavor is mint and I thought that was quite sophisticated for an almost three year old.

Gelateria Lariana meets all my criteria for great gelato and I can recommend trying the bacio, lemon and of course mint flavors.

LISTEN: to our podcast episode on Lake Como

Lake Como is a wonderfully glamorous place, even if you are traveling with a couple of almost three year olds, and should definitely be included in your travel plans for Italy .

Most days I don’t feel like I ooze glamor but I certainly felt it on our visit to this most classic of Italian lakes during the last days of summer. And wouldn’t you know, Sophia Loren has a property on its shores.

Find more Italian glamor:

  • discover pretty towns along the glamorous Italian Riviera
  • explore Venice off the beaten track
  • find out more about beautiful Lake Orta
  • head to the romantic hills of Tuscany
  • find the best luxury and boutique hotels in Venice , Florence and Positano

Disclaimer –  Untold Morsels assists our readers with carefully chosen product and services recommendations that help make travel easier and more fun. If you click through and make a purchase on many of these items we may earn a commission. All opinions are our own – please read our  disclosure  page for more information.

The creator, writer and photographer behind Untold Morsels , Katy has been travelling and tasting the world since she was a teenager.

Now the proud mum of twins, she hopes they grow up to share her passions of great food, wine and travel. Favourite destination: Italy

como travel

Minima + Regula

Minima + Maxima

Luggage Set

ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A 4-NIGHT STAY IN CANCUN!

Your ultimate lake como travel guide 2024.

Lake Como is one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. Nestled in the Italian Alps, Lake Como is a stunningly beautiful lake that has been a popular destination for centuries. From its breathtaking views to its luxurious villas, Lake Como is the perfect destination for an unforgettable getaway. Whether you’re looking to explore the crystal clear waters and lush gardens of the lake, or just relax in the sun with a glass of wine, Lake Como has something for everyone. You may also want to check out our Turin travel guide !

Table of Contents

Top 5 Things To See And Do In Lake Como

  • Explore The Lake And Its Villages : Lake Como is the third-largest lake in Italy, offering scenic views and crystal-clear waters. You can rent a boat or hop on a ferry to explore the lake’s charming villages, such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, which are known for their colorful houses, historic churches, and bustling markets.
  • Visit Villa Carlotta : Located in Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta is a neoclassical mansion that houses an impressive collection of artwork, sculptures, and botanical gardens. It also offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
  • Take A Hike : Lake Como’s mountains and hills offer numerous hiking trails that cater to different levels of fitness and experience. Some popular hiking spots include Monte Grona, Monte San Primo, and Sentiero del Viandante.
  • Indulge In Local Cuisine : Lake Como’s cuisine is heavily influenced by neighboring regions such as Lombardy, Switzerland, and Austria. You can sample local specialties such as risotto alla pescatora, bresaola, polenta, and wine from the lake’s vineyards at traditional trattorias or Michelin-starred restaurants.
  • Visit Como Cathedral : The cathedral is one of Lake Como’s most iconic landmarks and dates back to the 14th century. It boasts intricate Gothic architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and stunning views of the city and the lake.

Best Lake Como Tours

Tours in Lake Como are an excellent way to explore the sights and nearby areas. Unless you intend to rent a car in Lake Como (which we don’t recommend), tours offer the most convenient means of transportation while keeping costs in check. The expenses for getting around can accumulate rapidly, making tours a wise choice for navigating the country.

Frequent Travel Recommendations

Hey there! ✈️ I'm thrilled to share some fantastic travel recommendations with you! I receive numerous emails asking for the best travel advice, and after careful consideration, here are my top picks just for you. Get ready to explore incredible destinations and enjoy some amazing deals that have been curated based on popular demand. So, without further ado, here are the travel experiences I highly recommend. Let the adventures begin! 🌍🌟

Travel Insurance

SafetyWing — For general travelers and digital nomads with great rates.

Viator — The largest selection for almost all locations.

Expedia Flights — Large selection for flights.

Expedia Hotels — Large selection for hotels.

Booking.com — The largest selection for hotels.

Click on the links above to get the best deals!

Thanks for the support! - Tiffany

Where To Stay In Lake Como

  • Como : The city of Como is the largest and most accessible town on Lake Como, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors. It has several hotels and apartments for different budgets and is close to some of the best attractions on the lake, such as the funicular railway and the historic cathedral.
  • Bellagio : Known as the “pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is a charming town located in the middle of the lake. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the lake’s three branches. Bellagio is also home to some of the lake’s most luxurious hotels and restaurants.
  • Varenna : Varenna is another charming town located on the eastern shore of the lake, opposite Bellagio. It has narrow streets, pastel-colored houses, and beautiful gardens. Varenna is also known for its castle and its excellent seafood restaurants.
  • Menaggio : Menaggio is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. It has a beautiful promenade, a lido with a swimming pool, and several hiking trails that lead to panoramic views of the lake. Menaggio is also home to some affordable accommodation options.
  • Tremezzo : Tremezzo is located on the western shore of Lake Como, between Menaggio and Bellagio. It is known for its grand villas and lush gardens, such as Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello. Tremezzo is also home to some upscale hotels, such as the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and the Villa d’Este.

Top Lake Como Hotels

  • Villa D’Este : Located in Cernobbio, this 16th-century villa turned hotel is an absolute must-see. With stunning lake views, a private beach, lush gardens, and elegant rooms, Villa D’Este is the epitome of luxury. Guests can also enjoy two pools, a spa, and several restaurants and bars on the property.
  • Grand Hotel Tremezzo : This iconic hotel sits right on the shores of Lake Como and boasts unbeatable views of the water and mountains. The rooms are beautifully decorated with a mix of modern and classic touches, and the hotel’s amenities include three pools, a spa, a private beach, and several restaurants and bars.
  • Il Sereno : If you’re looking for a more contemporary hotel option, Il Sereno in Torno is a great choice. Designed by famed architect Patricia Urquiola, this hotel is sleek, stylish, and minimalist, with plenty of natural materials and stunning lake views. Guests can also enjoy a spa, restaurant, and bar.
  • CastaDiva Resort & Spa : Located in Blevio, this stunning resort is housed in a 19th-century villa and offers luxurious rooms and suites, several pools, a spa, and multiple restaurants and bars. The highlight, however, is the floating pool that sits right on the lake and offers incredible views of the surrounding area.
  • Mandarin Oriental, Lake Como : Set in the charming town of Blevio, this recently opened hotel is already making waves with its impeccable service, gorgeous rooms, and stunning lakefront setting. Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s spa, fitness center, and several dining options, as well as explore the surrounding area by boat or on foot.

Where To Eat In Lake Como

If you’re planning a trip to Lake Como, you can’t leave without trying the local cuisine . From traditional Italian dishes to local delicacies, Lake Como has something for everyone. Here are the top five places to eat in Lake Como:

  • La Contrada : Located in the heart of Como, La Contrada offers a unique dining experience with a focus on regional dishes made with local ingredients. From homemade pasta to fresh fish, the menu is designed to highlight the flavors of the area.
  • Trattoria Del Glicine : This charming trattoria is situated in a historic building overlooking Lake Como. The menu features classic Italian dishes like risotto and osso buco, as well as local specialties such as pizzoccheri, a hearty buckwheat pasta.
  • Il Gatto Nero : Nestled in the picturesque town of Cernobbio, Il Gatto Nero is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant has a beautiful garden terrace and a menu that highlights fresh fish and seasonal ingredients.
  • Ristorante Silvio : Located in the town of Bellagio, Ristorante Silvio is known for its excellent seafood dishes and stunning lake views. The menu changes daily based on the freshest ingredients available, so you’re sure to find something new each time you visit.
  • Al Veluu : For a truly special dining experience, head to Al Veluu, a Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking Lake Como. The menu features creative takes on Italian cuisine, such as rabbit with polenta and licorice sauce, as well as a fantastic selection of Italian wines.

No matter where you choose to dine in Lake Como, you’re sure to enjoy the incredible flavors of this beautiful region. Buon appetito!

How To Get Around Lake Como

Lake Como is a stunning destination that is worth exploring, and fortunately, getting around is fairly easy. Here are some of the methods of transportation that you can use to explore Lake Como:

  • Ferry : One of the most popular ways to explore Lake Como is by ferry. Ferries operate throughout the year, and there are various routes and schedules available. They provide an excellent way to enjoy the lake’s stunning scenery from the water, and you can easily access different towns and villages along the way.
  • Bus : Another way to get around Lake Como is by bus. Buses operate regularly, and they provide a convenient way to access the lake’s various attractions and destinations. However, be prepared for narrow and winding roads, so if you get motion sickness, this may not be the best option for you.
  • Car : Renting a car is a great way to explore Lake Como at your own pace. However, driving in Lake Como can be challenging due to narrow roads, winding streets, and traffic. Be prepared to pay for parking if you choose this option.
  • Bike : Cycling is a fantastic way to get around Lake Como if you are fit and adventurous. There are several cycling routes available, including off-road tracks, and the scenery is breathtaking. Just be aware that some routes are steep and challenging.
  • Train : Lake Como is well connected by train, and it provides an affordable way to explore the region. There are several train stations around the lake, and you can easily access Milan , Como, and other nearby towns and cities.

Overall, getting around Lake Como is relatively easy, and the choice of transportation depends on your preferences and budget. Regardless of the option you choose, exploring Lake Como is a fantastic experience that you won’t forget.

Lake Como Weather

Lake Como is a popular destination all year round due to its stunning landscapes, but its weather can vary depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown of the weather you can expect during Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter in Lake Como.

  • Spring : The Spring season in Lake Como usually starts in March and lasts until May. During this season, the temperatures start to rise, and the weather becomes mild. The average temperature during the day ranges from 16°C (60°F) to 20°C (68°F). Although there can be some occasional rain, it doesn’t last for long, and it’s often followed by clear skies.
  • Summer : The Summer season in Lake Como runs from June to August and is the busiest time of the year. The weather during this season is sunny and hot, with the average temperature during the day ranging from 27°C (81°F) to 30°C (86°F). It’s important to note that July and August can also be quite humid, which can make it feel even hotter.
  • Fall : The Fall season in Lake Como usually runs from September to November. During this season, the weather starts to cool down, and the leaves change colors, creating a beautiful atmosphere. The average temperature during the day ranges from 13°C (55°F) to 18°C (64°F), and it can rain more frequently than during the summer. However, it’s still a great season to visit, as the crowds start to thin out.
  • Winter : The Winter season in Lake Como runs from December to February and is the quietest time of the year. The weather during this season is cold, with the average temperature during the day ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 11°C (52°F). Snowfall is quite common, especially in the mountains, creating a stunning winter wonderland. It’s worth noting that many of the attractions and restaurants close during this season, but it’s still a great time to visit if you want to experience a quieter Lake Como.

No matter what season you choose to visit, Lake Como’s stunning landscapes will always take your breath away. Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

Best Time To Visit Lake Como

Like Monaco , Lake Como is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. Summer is the most popular time to visit, as the weather is warm and sunny, and many festivals and events take place during this time. The summer months, from June to August, are the busiest and most crowded, and prices are generally higher.

If you prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience, visit Lake Como in spring or fall. The weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists around. In spring, from March to May, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery with blooming flowers and trees. In fall, from September to November, the landscape changes color, creating a beautiful and unique scenery.

Winter is the least popular time to visit Lake Como, but it has its own charm. The weather is cold, but you can enjoy the Christmas markets, skiing, and snowboarding. If you don’t mind the cold and the crowds, visiting Lake Como during the holiday season is a great option.

Overall, the best time to visit Lake Como depends on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you want to enjoy the sunny weather and festivals in summer or the peaceful atmosphere in spring or fall, Lake Como is a great destination for an unforgettable getaway.

How To Stay Safe In Lake Como

Like any destination, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety while traveling in Lake Como. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind :

  • Be Mindful Of Pickpockets : As with any tourist destination, pickpockets can be a problem in crowded areas like markets, train stations, and public transportation. Keep your valuables close and secure.
  • Stay Aware Of Your Surroundings : Whether you’re exploring the city streets or hiking in the mountains, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and be mindful of any potential dangers.
  • Use Caution When Swimming : While Lake Como is a beautiful place to swim, it’s important to be aware of any hazards in the water, such as rocks or currents.
  • Follow Local Customs : In Italy, it’s important to follow local customs and etiquette, such as dressing modestly in churches and other religious sites, and respecting quiet hours in residential areas.
  • Be Cautious When Driving : If you plan to rent a car in Lake Como, be aware that Italian drivers can be aggressive, and roads in rural areas can be narrow and winding. Make sure to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and customs.

By taking these simple precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Lake Como. Remember to always stay aware, and don’t hesitate to ask locals or hotel staff for any safety advice specific to the area you’re visiting.

Lake Como Customs And Etiquette

Like any other destination, it’s important to understand and respect the customs and etiquette of the locals in Lake Como. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Dress Appropriately : Italy is known for its fashion, but it’s important to remember that Lake Como is a more relaxed and casual area. While you don’t have to dress up all the time, it’s still important to dress modestly when visiting churches and other religious sites.
  • Respect Local Traditions : Lake Como is steeped in history and traditions, such as the celebration of the Feast of St. John the Baptist. Take the time to learn about these traditions and show respect for them.
  • Learn Basic Italian : While many locals in Lake Como speak English, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Italian phrases. This will show that you respect their culture and are making an effort to communicate with them.
  • Mind Your Manners : Italians value good manners, so make sure to say “please” and “thank you” when interacting with locals. It’s also important to be punctual, as lateness is seen as a sign of disrespect.
  • Tipping : Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but it’s still a nice gesture to leave a small tip for good service. It’s also common to round up the bill to the nearest Euro.

By keeping these customs and etiquette in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy your time in Lake Como to the fullest and show respect for the local culture.

Other Things To Know About Lake Como

When traveling to a new destination, it’s important to know the basics of the country you’ll be visiting. Lake Como is located in the northern region of Italy, and the official currency used is the Euro (€). Italian is the main language spoken in the region, although many locals also speak English and other European languages. The time zone in Lake Como is Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

It’s also important to note that Lake Como is a popular tourist destination, which means that during peak travel season, you can expect crowds and long lines at popular attractions. If you’re planning on visiting during the summer months, be prepared for higher prices and busier streets. While Lake Como is generally a safe destination for travelers, it’s always important to take basic precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables close to you, and avoid traveling alone at night.

One of the unique aspects of Lake Como is the customs and etiquette of the locals. Italians value politeness, and it’s considered polite to greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff when entering their establishment. Tipping is not expected, but it’s appreciated if you receive exceptional service. When dining in a restaurant, it’s common for Italians to take their time with their meals and enjoy the company of those they are with, so don’t be surprised if service seems slower than you’re used to.

Finally, it’s important to note that Lake Como has a rich cultural heritage and many historic landmarks and museums to explore. Take the time to learn about the region’s history and customs, and be respectful of the locals and their way of life. By doing so, you’ll not only have a more meaningful travel experience, but you’ll also gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for this beautiful destination.

Lake Como Travel Costs

As with any travel destination, the cost of a trip to Lake Como can vary depending on your budget and travel style. However, Lake Como can be quite expensive, especially during peak tourist season. Here are some things to consider when planning your budget for your Lake Como getaway.

  • Accommodation : Lake Como has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and villas. Prices can vary greatly depending on location and amenities. A budget traveler could expect to pay around €25-40 per night for a hostel, while a more luxurious hotel could cost upwards of €200 per night.
  • Food And Drink : Like most places in Italy, food is a big part of the Lake Como experience. Expect to spend around €10-20 per meal at a mid-range restaurant, with drinks adding to the cost. A coffee can cost around €2-3, while a glass of wine can cost upwards of €5. To save money, try grocery shopping and preparing some of your own meals.
  • Transportation : Getting around Lake Como can be done by bus, train, ferry or car. A single bus or train ticket can cost around €2-4, while a ferry ride can cost around €5-10. If you plan on renting a car, expect to pay around €50-100 per day, not including fuel costs.
  • Activities : There are many things to do in Lake Como, from hiking and boating to visiting historic villas and gardens. Entrance fees can vary, with some attractions offering discounted rates for students and seniors. It’s also worth considering guided tours or hiring a local guide to make the most of your experience.

Overall, a budget traveler could expect to spend around €50-70 per day, while a mid-range traveler could spend around €100-150 per day. For those looking for a luxury experience, costs can easily exceed €200 per day. Keep in mind that peak tourist season can drive up prices, so it’s worth considering traveling during the off-season if you’re on a tight budget.

Finding Affordable Flights To Lake Como

Lake Como is a dream destination for many travelers. However, one of the major concerns for those planning a trip to Lake Como is the cost of flights. While airfare to Lake Como can be expensive, there are ways to find affordable flights without compromising on the quality of your travel experience.

  • Use Flight Comparison Sites : Start by using flight comparison sites like Kayak, Skyscanner, and Google Flights. These sites allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines and choose the cheapest option available.
  • Book Early : Booking early can help you save money on your flight tickets. Try to book your tickets at least two to three months before your planned travel date. This way, you can take advantage of early bird discounts and get cheaper airfare.
  • Be Flexible With Travel Dates : Being flexible with your travel dates can also help you save money on flights. Try to book your flights during the low season or mid-week when prices are generally lower. Also, consider flying at odd hours like early mornings or late nights when the demand is low and prices are more affordable.
  • Look For Flight Deals And Discounts : Many airlines offer flight deals and discounts from time to time. Keep an eye out for these deals and grab them as soon as they become available. Signing up for airline newsletters and following them on social media can help you stay updated on these deals.
  • Use Travel Rewards And Miles : If you have travel rewards or miles , you can use them to book flights to Lake Como. This way, you can save money and enjoy a more comfortable flight experience.

Finding affordable flights to Lake Como requires some research and planning. But by following these tips, you can save money on airfare and have a memorable travel experience.

Backpacking Lake Como Suggested Budgets

Lake Como is known for its luxurious lifestyle, but it is also possible to experience the beauty of the lake on a budget. Backpacking in Lake Como can be a great way to explore the area while keeping expenses low. Here are some suggested budgets for backpackers visiting Lake Como.

Low Budget: 40-50 euros per day

For those on a tight budget, there are plenty of hostels and budget accommodations available. Dorm beds can be found for as low as 20 euros per night, and many hostels offer free breakfast. Budget meals can be found in local pizzerias and cafes for around 10-15 euros per meal. Public transportation is cheap, with a day pass costing only 4 euros.

Mid-Range Budget: 80-100 euros per day

For those who want to enjoy a bit more luxury but still keep expenses under control, mid-range options are available. Comfortable hotel rooms can be found for around 80-100 euros per night. Mid-range restaurants and cafes offer quality meals for around 25 euros per meal. Private transportation, such as taxis or car rentals, can be expensive, but public transportation is still affordable.

Luxury Budget: 200 euros or more per day

If you’re willing to splurge a bit, Lake Como has plenty of options for those seeking a luxurious experience. Luxury hotels and resorts can be found for upwards of 200 euros per night, and high-end restaurants can cost 50 euros or more per meal. Private transportation is recommended for those seeking luxury, and hiring a car or boat is possible.

Regardless of your budget, there are plenty of ways to experience the beauty and culture of Lake Como without breaking the bank. Plan accordingly and enjoy the trip of a lifetime!

Lake Como Money Saving Tips

Traveling to Lake Como, Italy doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of ways to save money while enjoying the beautiful scenery and rich culture of this stunning destination. Here are some tips for saving money on your Lake Como getaway:

  • Travel During The Off-Season : Peak tourist season in Lake Como is from June to September, which means higher prices for everything from flights to accommodations. If you can, plan your trip during the off-season when prices are lower.
  • Stay Outside The City Center : Lake Como has plenty of charming towns and villages surrounding the lake, and staying in one of these areas can be more affordable than staying in the bustling city center.
  • Cook Your Own Meals : Eating out in Lake Como can be expensive, especially if you’re dining in the tourist hotspots. Consider renting an apartment or Airbnb with a kitchen, and cook your own meals using local ingredients from the markets.
  • Use Public Transportation : Taxis and private car services can be costly in Lake Como. Instead, opt for public transportation like buses or trains to get around.
  • Take Advantage Of Free Activities : There are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Lake Como, like hiking, swimming, and visiting public gardens and parks.
  • Use Cash : Many restaurants and shops in Lake Como don’t accept credit cards, so make sure to carry cash with you to avoid unexpected fees.
  • Visit Museums And Attractions During Free Hours : Many museums and attractions in Lake Como offer free admission during certain hours or days. Do your research beforehand and plan your visits accordingly.

By following these money-saving tips, you can enjoy all that Lake Como has to offer without breaking the bank. Happy travels!

What To Pack For Lake Como

Lake Como is a breathtaking destination, offering the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. When planning a trip to this stunning location, it’s important to pack the right essentials to make your stay more enjoyable. Here’s a list of items that you should consider packing in your suitcase :

  • Comfortable Shoes : You will need comfortable shoes for all the walking and exploring you’ll be doing. Make sure they are sturdy and can handle different terrains.
  • Swimwear : Lake Como offers plenty of opportunities for swimming and water sports, so don’t forget your swimsuit!
  • Sunscreen : Lake Como has plenty of sunshine, so make sure to pack some sunscreen to protect your skin.
  • Lightweight Clothes : The weather in Lake Como can be warm, especially in the summer months, so pack lightweight clothes that will keep you cool and comfortable.
  • Insect Repellent : The area around Lake Como has its fair share of mosquitoes, so make sure to pack insect repellent to avoid any pesky bites.
  • Camera : Lake Como is a photographer’s paradise, so make sure to pack a camera to capture all the stunning scenery.
  • Adaptor : Italy uses Type L plugs, so make sure to bring a travel adaptor to charge your electronic devices.
  • Umbrella/Rain Jacket : The weather in Lake Como can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella or rain jacket just in case.
  • Hat And Sunglasses : Don’t forget to pack a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun.
  • Scarf Or Shawl : Lake Como can get cooler in the evenings, so consider packing a scarf or shawl to keep warm.

By packing these essentials, you’ll be ready to enjoy all the beauty and charm that Lake Como has to offer. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you go to ensure you pack appropriately for your trip!

Can You Drink Tap Water In Lake Como?

One of the most common questions among tourists visiting Lake Como is whether or not the tap water is safe to drink. The answer is a resounding yes! Tap water in Lake Como is considered safe for consumption, as it undergoes regular testing to ensure it meets the necessary health and safety standards.

This means you can fill up your reusable water bottle from any tap in Lake Como without worrying about getting sick. Drinking tap water in Lake Como is also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and avoid the cost of buying bottled water. However, if you prefer bottled water, there are plenty of options available at supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants throughout the region. It’s worth noting that bottled water in Lake Como can be quite expensive, so if you’re on a budget, stick to tap water whenever possible. Overall, there’s no need to worry about staying hydrated while exploring Lake Como. You can rest assured that the tap water is safe and drinkable, so fill up your water bottle and enjoy the beautiful scenery without any worries!

Other Things To See And Do In Lake Como

Besides the top attractions mentioned earlier, Lake Como has plenty of other interesting and unique things to offer visitors. Here are some additional things to see and do in Lake Como:

  • Villa Balbianello : This beautiful villa is located on a steep hillside overlooking Lake Como and offers stunning views of the lake. It has been featured in several movies including Star Wars and Casino Royale.
  • Varenna : A charming and picturesque town located on the eastern shore of Lake Como. It is known for its colorful houses, narrow alleys, and beautiful waterfront promenade.
  • Bellagio : Known as the “pearl of Lake Como”, Bellagio is a picturesque town with stunning views of the lake. It is also famous for its gardens, villas, and artisan shops.
  • Ferry Rides : One of the best ways to explore Lake Como is by taking a ferry ride. It is a great way to see the lake from different angles and to visit different towns and attractions.
  • Watersports : Lake Como is a popular destination for watersports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding. There are several places along the lake where you can rent equipment and take lessons.
  • Hiking : Lake Como has plenty of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Some popular trails include the Greenway del Lago di Como, the Sentiero del Viandante, and the Mount Grona Trail.
  • Museums : Lake Como has several museums that are worth visiting, including the Museum of Silk in Como, the Civic Art Gallery of Como, and the Museum of Navigation Instruments in Bellagio.
  • Nightlife : Lake Como may not be known for its nightlife, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs where you can enjoy a night out. Some popular spots include Bar Bellini in Como, Gatto Nero in Cernobbio, and Bar Italia in Menaggio.

No matter what your interests are, Lake Como has something for everyone. Make sure to include some of these additional things to see and do in your itinerary for an unforgettable trip to Lake Como.

The Bottom Line

Lake Como, Italy is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in stunning natural scenery, rich history and culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff or just seeking some relaxation time, Lake Como has something to offer everyone.

Make sure to take advantage of all the top things to see and do, including exploring the beautiful gardens and villas, taking a boat tour, and trying the delicious local cuisine. There are also many affordable accommodations to choose from, ranging from cozy B&Bs to luxurious hotels. Keep in mind the local customs and etiquette, and be sure to pack accordingly for the weather and activities you plan to do. Overall, a trip to Lake Como will be unforgettable, and one you’ll cherish for a lifetime. So start planning your dream getaway to Lake Como today, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime!

Your Ultimate Los Angeles Travel Guide 2024

Your Ultimate Paris Travel Guide 2024

Your Ultimate Acapulco Travel Guide 2024

Write for us!

CHESTER likes to publish content from travel experts and enthusiasts who can provide unique and useful perspectives. This is a great opportunity for our readers to learn from you, and for you to get exposure to our readers and our syndication partners. Feel free to email us for more information: [email protected]

Food Guides

Best Restaurants In Bilbao 2024

Bilbao, Spain is a world-renowned culinary hotspot, and for good reason! From traditional Basque dishes to international cuisines, the city’s restaurant scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a group outing to... Read More

Is Monterrey Safe? 2024 Safety Guide

Are you planning a trip to Monterrey, Mexico? You may have heard that the city is dangerous and you may be wondering if it is safe to visit. Don’t worry—you don’t have to let safety concerns stop you from having... Read More

Best Restaurants In Barcelona 2024

If you’re looking for an amazing culinary experience, Barcelona is the place to be. From the fresh seafood of the Mediterranean to the tapas and traditional Catalan dishes, the city is filled with delicious options for food lovers. Here, we... Read More

como travel

5 Reasons You Need to Visit Lake Como At Least Once in Your Lifetime

Lake Como Italy

Lake Como Travel Guide

We had been to Lake Como once before on a day trip (to try and find George Clooney) but without even a sighting, we knew we wanted to visit again and properly explore the area.

Pretty much everyone has heard of Lake Como – it’s one of the most popular destinations in Italy after all! What they don’t tell you, is how dreamy and mysterious the place is.

With a faded veneer of old money gentility, picturesque Victorian gardens and lakeshore restaurants, Lake Como is well worth a visit – even with the hoards of tourists who flock here each summer.

Here’s a complete travel guide for the best things to do in Lake Como, Italy along with lots of practical travel tips for visiting!

ADVERTISEMENT

Quickly jump to each section:

  • Quick Guide to Lake Como, Italy

Planning a Trip to Lake Como

  • Which Towns Should You Visit?
  • The Best Things to Do in Lake Como
  • Where to Stay on Lake Como

Or save this article to read later by pinning it ⇟

lake-como's-prettiest-villas

Visiting Lake Como, Italy

Of the five lakes which compose the Italian Lakes region, Lago di Como is without a doubt the most popular. Shaped like an inverted Y, surrounded by mountains and dotted with charming resort villages, Lake Como is the most picturesque travel destination for lovers.

Even in ancient Roman times, couples flocked here to escape the heat of the city and to reinvigorate themselves in the cool mountain air. Lake Como is Italy’s deepest lake and located in Italy’s Lombardy region about 40 km north from Milan.

Car ferries and water taxis criss cross the lake in summer season so visitors can base themselves in one town and easily day trip to the others. From November to February, the lakes are almost entirely abandoned. Brave the summer crowds and enjoy Lake Como at its liveliest!

como travel

Lake Como is popular among the Milanese as a weekend getaway, so if you want even the smallest respite from the crowds, head out on a weekday. March and October are considered the shoulder months, and spring and fall are the perfect time to visit if you want to see Lake Como.

In summer, the Lake Como towns become overrun with both tourists and beautiful blooms  – azaleas, wisteria, rhododendrons, camellias and bougainvillea paint the towns in soft pastels.

If you like water sports, you can water-ski, sail and windsurf! Or, just relax on some of the lakeside swimming pools to soak in the sun. Even in the height of summer, Lake Como is relatively mild and cool thanks to the mountains.

como travel

Getting to Lake Como From Milan

The easiest way to reach Lake Como is via Milan. Catch a train from Milan’s central station, Milano Centrale, to either Sondrio or Tirano, which leave at approximately :20 past the hour each hour, except for some gaps throughout the day.

You can browse train schedules and buy tickets  online here . In Italy, train fares increase with time, so book your tickets once you know your travel dates. 

Make sure to validate your train ticket before boarding and then get off promptly at Varenna. Be ready to hop out, even if the car doesn’t stop at the platform (the trains are longer than Varenna’s tiny station) and the train only pauses for a minute or two before rolling onward to Switzerland.

An alternative route is to take the train from Milan to Como but this is a slower trip and less convenient. 

como travel

Transportation for Getting Around Lake Como

From Varenna , you can get to Bellagio or the other towns of Lake Como via ferry. Traveling around Lake Como is pretty easy, even for tourists without much knowledge of Italian.

There are slow boats, fast boats and private boats as well as funiculars to head up into the hills and a slower bus system.

For a map of Lake Como and its towns, check here or buy one at the ticket offices when you arrive. We bought a one day pass to explore lots of sights easily using the ferry. It was 15 euros when we visited and included the towns of Varenna, Bellagio, Tremezzo, Lenno, Menaggio and Cadenabbia.

como travel

Lake Como Ferry

The ferries frequently stop in both directions at Bellagio , making it a great town to base yourself. Double check with the staff that you’re getting on the right boat as occasionally the schedule seems to get delayed or backed up.

Also note that ferries don’t run late so if staying overnight, your dinner options are typically limited to the town you’re staying in (unless you hire private boats).

como travel

The 7 Prettiest Towns of Lake Como

Lake Como’s principal town is situated right at the base of the lake. This tiny town is usually overlooked and entirely skipped by travelers, as it’s really just a gateway to the other towns.

But, if you visit, you’ll find a charming atmosphere of classic Italian restaurants, delis and shops along with a 15th century cathedral and lovely lake side promenade. The medieval city center gives Como a larger city feel compared to the other sleepy towns of Lake Como.

Don’t forget to browse the Silk Museum and take the funicular up to Brunate for a fantastic view of Lake Como.

Varenna is a sleepy traditional fishing village that makes for a perfect base to explore greater Lake Como. It’s notable as the only town with a train station connecting the region to Milan and wonderfully rustic to explore.

Enjoy an iced coffee by the waterfront restaurants, hike up to Vezio Castle for sweeping views, or wander the romantic overgrown gardens of Villa Monastero. Varenna is pretty, pastel and peaceful – and also my favorite of the Como villages.

como travel

3. Bellagio

I’m not quite sure why a Las Vegas casino named itself after Bellagio, as the two places couldn’t be more different. Bellagio is located on the triangular section that divides Lake Como into an inverted ‘Y’ and boasts elegant shopping arcades along the harbor, pricey boutiques and elegant restaurants.

It’s by far the most famous town of Lake Como but even with boat loads of visitors, the town is charming! Don’t miss the gardens at Villa Serbelloni or Villa Melzi, exploring the flower lined streets or rest with an apertivo at the grand hotels.

4. Tremezzo

Tremezzo is directly across from Bellagio and famous for Villa Carlotta. This gigantic villa and garden boasts over 500 flower and plant species across 14 expansive acres while the Italian villa holds pretty sculptures, tapestries and paintings.

Tremezzo’s other claim to fame is Grand Hotel Tremezzo, the best luxury hotel in Lake Como. With a private beach, a heated swimming pool on the lake and rooftop suites, this is the best place to stay if you want to experience luxury and romance.

como travel

5.  Cernobbio

Cernobbio is also famous for a luxury hotel catering to the rich and famous. Northwest of Como, Cernobbio has a peaceful, cosmopolitan vibe with a pretty flat town and grand piazza.

There’s Villa Bernasconi and Villa Erba as well as world famous Villa d’Este which was originally the summer residance of a cardinal but today is a luxury hotel.

Hikers can check out the Monti Lariani Trail which starts in this town.

Lenno is famous for Villa del Balbianello , a picture perfect estate that was also used as a set in Casino Royale and Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones.

The island itself is quiet and relaxing with its village on one end and estate on the other. Charter a ferry to explore the landscaped grounds, ivy covered terrace or pallazzini museum. This is also the most romantic place to have a wedding in Italy!

7. Menaggio

Menaggio is another town to consider as a great base for exploring Lake Como. The laid back town is popular with Brits who want to explore both the lake and Switzerland as it offers lots of entertainment – shops, restaurants, hotels and arcades. Climb the stairs to discover the remains of the original medieval city or go hiking and cycling in the hills.

como travel

5 Fun Things to Do in Lake Como

1. villa balbianello.

Visit the elaborate gardens and dramatic villa on Lenno .

2. Villa Carlotta

This is the most visited villa in Lake Como for good reason! Wander the extensive gardens, explore the museum and grab a milkshake.

3. Como Cathedral

Explore Como’s famous church with its impressive facade and ancient history.

4. Ride the Funicolare Como Brunate

Get an aerial view of Lake Como by riding the cable car from Como town up to the sky.

5. Shop Till You Drop in Bellagio

Spend the afternoon in Bellagio’s harbor front shopping arcades and luxury boutiques

como travel

The Best Hotels on Lake Como

The best place to stay on Lake Como is definitely debatable, but I would recommend basing yourself in Varenna , Bellagio or Tremezzo .

Como has some spectacular historic villas that, if you decide to splurge, would make for an unforgettable highlight on your Italy vacation!

I’ve wrote a complete post here comparing the different towns along the lake along with suggested hotels to make the most of your Lake Como Vacation.

Have you been to Lake Como? Let me know how your experience was in the comments, or if I missed anything!

Visiting Italy – Trip Planning Checklist

There's so much to see and do in Italy that you can visit again and again and still discover new sights. I recommend concentrating on the big 4 cities (Rome, Venice, Milan & Florence) if it's your first time and then coming back to explore either Northern Italy or Southern Italy in more depth.

Go |  Flight prices from the US to Italy are highly seasonal. You can set a fare alert here to be notified of discounts. Every fall & winter, I've seen great deals to Milan. One word of caution: avoid Alitalia at all costs!

Getting Around | A convenient way to explore Italy is via high speed train . You can search train schedules and book online here . Buy your tickets in advance to save on fares. Make sure to validate your ticket on the platform!

It also helps to speak a little Italian. Brush up on your Italian language skills with Rosetta Stone . You can take 10% off with promo code  CJBT10 .

Stay | Book hotels in advance to save, or check here for last minute deals . Many hotels in Italy are older so don't be surprised if even 5 star accommodation feels slightly dated. Opt for a room with a view instead of breakfast, as Italians don't eat breakfast in the same way Americans do and you'll probably be disappointed with their offering.

Alternatively, groups or budget travelers can check out Airbnb . 

Protect | Lastly, be sure to visit Italy with  travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, your phone gets stolen, or a flight delay leaves you with nothing but the clothes on your back, travel insurance will help when you need it most.

A rail strike occurred during our trip, unexpectedly shutting down transportation for an entire day. Get a quote for your Italy trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

Italy Vacation Planning Articles

The First Timer's Guide to Italy: A Classic Itinerary

THIS is the Best Time to Visit Italy

What to Wear in Italy: A Packing Checklist

Northern Italy

The Most Beautiful Places in Northern Italy (that are still a secret!)

Headed to Northern Italy? Here's the Perfect 7 Day Itinerary

Exploring Bologna: Travel Guide

Quick Guides to: Bologna Day Trips & The Best Bologna Restaurants

Visiting Parma : The Center of Parma Ham & Cheese

7 Reasons to Explore Medieval Bergamo

Visiting Ravenna's Mosaics

Test Driving Fast Cars & Touring Car Museums in Italy's Motor Valley

Cinque Terre

Plan Your Trip:  Travel Guide

How to Choose Which Village to Stay

A Blissful 3 Day Cinque Terre Itinerary

The Best Cinque Terre Airbnbs for Large Groups

Quick Guides:  The Best Restaurants &  Popular Hiking Trails

Inspiration: Photo Diary of the 5 Villages

The Italian Lakes

Exploring Lake Como: Travel Guide & Where to Stay

Quick Guides to: Varenna , Bellagio & Villa del Babianello

Visiting Lake Maggiore

Quick Guides to: Isola Bella  & Villa Taranto

Discovering Hidden Lake Orta

Follow me @Sher She Goes on

Youtube | Tiktok | Instagram

You may also enjoy:

5 fairy tale copenhagen castles that will make …, cape town south africa beach guide, 9 cinque terre restaurants you need to eat …, japanese tonkatsu, 18 comments.

  • Pingback: The Gap Life Diaries | The Italian Lakes: Good enough for George Clooney, good enough for me.
  • Pingback: THIS Is The Best Place to Stay in Lake Como
  • Pingback: We're Convinced: Varenna, Italy Is the Most Photogenic Place on Earth
  • Pingback: How to Experience the Best of Bellagio in 24 Hours
  • Pingback: 7 Days in Northern Italy Itinerary: Pastels, Prosciutto & Parmigiana
  • Pingback: The Most Beautiful Places in Northern Italy (that are still a secret!)
  • Pingback: What to Wear in Italy
  • Pingback: Isola Bella Is So Beautiful It Will Give You Goosebumps
  • Pingback: 6 Easy Day Trips from Bologna (by train!)
  • Pingback: 10 Reasons Villa del Balbianello Will Take Your Breath Away

Planning to be in Lake Como early June 2020.I’ve been checking out hotels. Is Hotel Villa Cipressi worth 4x as much as Hotel Loveno? What is their relative convenience factor?

Hi Don – Haven’t been to Hotel Loveno so can’t say!

Hi there, I’ve bookmarked your page so I can study up before our Milan trip! Thank you :) I’ll be visiting bellagio on September 2 with my mum and it falls on a Monday. What are the shop hours like? I heard that they don’t open in the mornings and opens around 3pm, just worried that there’s not much information on this. I was thinking of arriving at Varenna by train either 11:20am or 1:20pm.

Can I ask which town is the one with the restaurants and the yellow building?

Hi Jinah – Sorry, I’m not sure which photo you are referring to. If you pin it to Pinterest and send me the link, or screenshot it and DM me on IG, I can try to identify the town!

We just returned from Laglio where we stayed in a villa it had a beautiful view and was air conditioned. I really loved Laglio because it was convenient to shopping at Bennett’s and you could take a ferry or boat to every location. We explored most of the towns. The pizza in Tremezzo was so good! I don’t remember the name of the restaurant but it had a long yellow and white striped canopy along the outdoor portion. We went into Lugano Switzerland which was awesome and not far, as well as Morgote, and hiked to the top of a hill to explore the ancient church there and wound up getting stuck in a violent thunderstorm. It is just beautiful there but it much calmer than Como. I think there’s more happening in Como though.

Great article and useful. Thanks! Will be our second visit this coming summer and will use your blog as a reference. 😺

So glad it’s helpful! Dying to revisit Italy this year

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Wanderlust Storytellers – An Inspirational Family Travel Blog

Bellagio Como Travel Guide [What to do and Where to Stay]

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Home » Bellagio Como Travel Guide [What to do and Where to Stay]

Bellagio is one of the most elegant towns in Italy! Located on Lake Como, this town is known for its cobbled lanes, magnificent villas, and breathtaking views.

Bellagio is stunning, wherever you look. There is also a great deal to do here, for families and travelers of all types. Here is our travel guide for beautiful Bellagio, we hope it helps you to make the most out of your stay.

What to do in Bellagio, Italy

There are many reasons to visit this fascinating town. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Bellagio, Italy.

1. Visit the Gardens at Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni

Villa Melzi and Gardens near Bellagio.

These famous villas have the most incredible gardens. Take some time to explore the multiple acres of magnificent parks and gardens surrounding the properties. You’ll be amazed at the many exotic trees and plants, the lakes, and the paths around the unspoiled grounds.

This offers a peaceful escape from the buzz of the town.

2. Explore the Town Center

bellagio lake como italy

One of the best ways to experience Bellagio is simply by wandering around the romantic lanes and streets in the town. Walking around the town center is where you will truly feel the magic of Bellagio.

Bellagio the prettiest town on lake Como

There are many amazing restaurants, cafes, wine bars and shops around here. Lake Como is a pretty luxurious destination, so why not spoil yourself with some shopping? Be aware of all the stairs, though, and bring comfortable walking shoes!

A great way to explore this town if you are here on a day trip is via a walking tour. You can book a fabulous walking tour with lunch included on Viator here.

3. Marvel at the Basilica of San Giacomo

lake como attractions

When in Bellagio, Lake Como, the magnificent Basilica of San Giacomo is a sight that is hard to miss. The church’s bell tower rises above the town and is impressive from all angles.

This church was built between the 11th and 12th centuries, and it is well worth exploring. The interior is awe-inspiring and full of detail.

4. Explore Lake Como

Things to do in Bellagio Lake Como

While Bellagio is an amazing destination in itself, it is also the perfect base to explore Lake Como! You can find the top towns to visit in Lake Como in our post here.

Our favorite towns by far were both Bellagio and Varenna.

lake como villages - Varenna

And of course, an afternoon trip over to Villa del Balbianello where a portion of Star Wars was shot is a great idea too.

Whilst you can easily explore the lake via the local ferries, you can also experience the lake via a wide range of boating experiences (find a list of the best Lake Como boat tours here).

Explore the lake in style by booking a Venetian-style private speedboat to zoom around the lake as you please. This experience is such fun, and it will really be a highlight of your trip.

If the speedboat is a bit too pricey for you, how about hiring your own boat for 2 hours to explore.

Book a Viator kayak tour from Bellagio here for added adventure.

5. Enjoy the Beaches

There are a number of lake beaches and beach clubs around Bellagio. These beaches are generally pebbly or grassy, but they offer some great opportunities for tanning, swimming and enjoying waterside fun!

Lido di Argegno is well equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, a pool, and a bar. Lido di Bellagio is another popular beach club in the town.

Or if like us, you are visiting during the colder months, we can highly recommend just grabbing a gelato and enjoying the water views from Piazza Mazzini (where you will catch your ferry).

Lake Como from Bellagio

We enjoyed the atmosphere and our daughters loved watching the swans and ducks there as well. A great place to relax in the late afternoon.

Where to Eat in Bellagio

No holiday in Northern Italy is complete without indulging in the amazing food! Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Bellagio, Lake Como.

1. La Grotta

La Grotta Bellagio Lake Como

This pizzeria is tucked away on a lovely cobbled street in the town. La Grotta is one of the best places to enjoy pizza, fresh fish from the lake, and famous lasagna!

The setting here is relaxed and romantic, the wine is amazing, and the food is authentic. We had a few of our meals here, it was recommended by the locals and boy did we enjoy the food!

2. Restaurant de l’Hotel Florence

bellagio lake como italy

Eat here for unbeatable views over Lake Como! Take the time to enjoy a slow lunch at Restaurant de I’Hotel Florence while watching the boats go by.

The menu is traditional to the area, with a modern twist. The gnocchi, risotto, and seafood are particularly good options! There are also some great vegetarian and vegan options too.

3. Trattoria Baita Belvedere

Visit Trattoria Baita Belvedere for an unforgettable meal! The restaurant sits way up above the town, offering the most incredible views out over the lake, Bellagio, and the surrounds of its location.

If the panoramic views aren’t enough, the food here is definitely worth the trip up! Try the pasta and polenta dishes. Watch the sunset with a glass of local wine for a fantastic Como experience.

Where to Stay in Bellagio, Italy

Here are some of the best accommodation options in the town of Bellagio, Italy to suit all kinds of travelers!

Tip:  Check out our list of the best Lake Como luxury hotels .

1. Hotel Bellagio

Hotel Bellagio

Experience Bellagio in style by staying at this lovely hotel! The rooms have unbeatable views over Lake Como, while the service and amenities are top-notch. Clean, comfortable, and well located, Hotel Bellagio is a smart choice for all travelers.

Click here to book at the Bellagio Hotel .

2. Hotel Du Lac

Hotel Du Lac (1)

This hotel offers the ultimate Bellagio experience! Set in a luxurious and grand building right on the water’s edge, you will be perfectly based for your stay here. The views from the hotel are stunning, and the rooms are clean and modern.

Book your room at Hotel Du Lac here .

3. Hotel Metropole Bellagio

Hotel Locanda Ruscello Garnì

You couldn’t be better located by staying at this hotel on the water. The rooms are recently renovated and offer you all of the comforts anyone would desire. The restaurant is located right against the lake – it is definitely worth a visit! Stay here for luxury in an unforgettable setting.

Book your stay at Hotel Metropole here .

Book an Airbnb (Great for Families)

Bellagio has some great apartments available on Airbnb – perfect for families!

We loved staying in our own 2-bedroom apartment as it was well located, affordable, and gave us all the comforts one needs for a family or small group. Even though we had to climb loads of stairs to get to our apartment, the views from our balconies were sensational!!

Best Airbnb in Bellagio Italy

This is the Airbnb that we stayed in with our 3 kids (our youngest was in a travel cot).

As a tip , if this is the first Airbnb you will be booking, you can get a small discount by signing up through our invite link below. It will give both you and me a small $ off – win-win!

Use our link to sign up to Airbnb and get a small discount (usually around $25) on your first booking  

How to Get to Bellagio

How to get to Lake Como from Milan

Transport in Italy is efficient and easy to use! Here are three of the best ways to get you to Bellagio.

Bellagio does not have its own train station, but train travel is an easy way to reach Lake Como. In fact, it is one of the best towns near Milan and many don’t realize how easy it is to reach. You can catch a train from Milan to Varenna . From Varenna, you can reach Bellagio by a quick ferry ride.

There is an efficient and frequent ferry that operates across Lake Como. You can take it to Bellagio from anywhere along the lake, including Como, Lecco, Lenno, Varenna, or any other destination.

Rent a car in Milan (or you could rent a car in Como ) and drive there. The drive from Milan is a great way to see more of the country and it is a beautiful drive (although slightly scary with blind bends and narrow roads).

There is also a ferry on Lake Como that can take cars, so no need to worry about moving between the different towns.  Find cheap car rentals for Italy here .

And lastly, if you prefer to sit back and simply soak up the views, you can also book a private transfer from Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Bellagio (or vice versa) here .

Visiting Lake Como from Milan is easy with one of the many Milan to Lake Como tours available.

Depending on the type of tour you choose, they can last between four and seven hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the stunning surroundings and take in all that Lake Como has to offer.

Many tours offer a combination of coach travel and boat trips.

Your turn to visit Bellagio, Italy

Ultimately, a trip to Bellagio is unforgettable! This city is one of Italy’s gems, and it will have you planning your next visit the moment you leave.

What to see and where to stay in Bellagio Italy

Bellagio is a magnificent destination with so much on offer. You will love the overall scenery and appeal of Lake Como!

There are activities here to suit all kinds of visitors, and for traveling as a family , it was a brilliant destination.

To get you started with your planning, here is a great guide about the best time to visit Lake Como . You can also add in a few day trips to your itinerary, find the best day trips from Como here.

We hope this guide helps you to experience this unique town.

Photo of author

Jolene Ejmont

2 thoughts on “bellagio como travel guide [what to do and where to stay]”.

next time you’ll be in Milan, don’t miss also Lake Maggiore, not so far from Malpensa Airport, as beautiful as lake Como, but less crowded!

Awesome, will add it to the list of what to see next time 🙂

Comments are closed.

2024 - Wanderlust Storytellers. All Rights Reserved.

About Us  |  Contact Us  | Work with Us  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

* Disclaimer: Wanderluststorytellers.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and other Amazon sites.

Sully Montero

Lake Como Boat Tours

T he perfect marriage of glamour and charm, Lake Como has long been a beacon for couples, families and backpackers alike. Dotted with idyllic cliffside towns, the shores of Lake Como offer incredible dining, lush greenery and unbeatable water views. But for an extraordinary experience you’ll never forget, tour Lake Como’s glittering cobalt waters aboard a sailboat, motorboat or iconic wooden boat. Bask in the warm Italian sunshine. Indulge in a gourmet meal or watch the sunset as you enjoy these Lake Como boat tours from a stunning new perspective. No matter your tastes, interests or budget, there’s a Lake Como boat tour to fit your needs.

Is a Boat Tour on Lake Como Worth It?

While the shores of Lake Como offer some of the region’s most scenic views, tantalizing cuisines and most interesting attractions, a boat tour of Lake Como is the key to a classic Lake Como experience. No matter which tour you choose, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views of Lake Como’s historic cliffside villages, lush mountains and crystalline waters. Be sure to make room in your schedule and budget, because a Lake Como boat tour is well worth every minute and every penny!

Where is the Best Place to Boat on Lake Como?

Lake Como is dazzlingly beautiful, so no matter where you choose to embark on your Lake Como boat tour, you’ll enjoy the fairy-tale scenery that sets Lake Como apart. If you’re visiting Lake Como as a day trip from Milan, a boat tour that departs from the city of Como will be most convenient. It will allow for the most time on the water. If you have more time on your hands, consider embarking in Bellagio. It offers a central location convenient for touring various locations on the lake.

Making a stop in Milan? Check out this itinerary!

How long does it take to tour lake como by boat.

Lake Como boat tours vary in length. You can choose a tour that fits your needs. Many tours will last between 3-4 hours, but a full-day voyage will give you the opportunity to see the sights at your own pace. Or, if you’re short on time, you can rent a boat for as little as an hour!

Romantic Lake Como Boat Tours

On Lake Como, you’ll find romance at every turn. If you’re looking for an unforgettable honeymoon experience – or just a night to remember – there’s a Lake Como boat tour to set the mood. Enjoy a romantic meal and spectacular sunset views. Or, sip bubbly champagne on an intimate, moonlit voyage around the lake. To experience the quieter side of Lake Como, tour aboard a sailboat while you enjoy the incredible scenery – and even more incredible company!

Family-friendly Lake Como Boat Tours

Lake Como may be known for its grand sense of romance, but it’s also a perfect destination for family fun! Most Lake Como boat tours are suitable for families. Consider a fishing excursion for an exciting and authentic Lake Como experience. Often captained by knowledgeable local guides, a specialized fishing tour will highlight the very best fishing spots Lake Como has to offer. Anglers will especially appreciate the area known as the Valtellina, a popular fly-fishing hot spot that attracts anglers from around the world.

Dreaming of Your Next Italian Getaway? Get Your Free Italy Fact Sheet! ​

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime.

Luxury Lake Como Boat Tours

Lake Como is world-renowned as an elegant and luxurious vacation destination. With fans like George and Amal Clooney, it’s no wonder that travelers flock to Lake Como in search of glitz, glamour and the finer things in life. If you’re among them, reserve an upscale boat tour serving a 3-course gourmet dinner along with wine and swanky cocktails. To recreate that old Hollywood glamour, make like James Bond aboard a classic wooden-paneled vessel, or try a yacht complete with concierge service to cater to your every whim and need. If you’re looking for the best of the best, Lake Como has you covered!

How Much Does a Private Lake Como Boat Tour Cost?

Of course, a destination as beautiful and popular as Lake Como is no stranger to crowds. If you’re looking to get away from it all, a private tour is the perfect solution. Whether you’re looking for a romantic experience or just a reprieve from the crowds, private cruises cater to a variety of interests. They can include fishing, dining and sightseeing. Best of all, these exclusive excursions can be tailored to fit your personal interests and needs.

A private boat tour will, of course, come at a steeper cost. It will depend on the length of cruise, number of guests and itinerary. You’ll find private boat tours can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars for a shorter tour or into the thousands for longer voyages.

Lake Como Boat Tour on a Budget

While Lake Como has a reputation as a luxurious destination, you can still enjoy a boat tour if you’re on a budget! For just a few euros, you can experience breathtaking views of Lake Como’s cliffside towns aboard the public ferry. For the best views, choose the “slow boat” and enjoy your 2.5 hour journey from the top deck. You’ll even have the opportunity to explore some of Lake Como’s iconic towns, like Bellagio and Varenna. If you have a few more dollars to spare, spring for a sailboat tour captained by a local guide. Additionally, you’ll get a taste of Lake Como’s glitz and glamour for a fraction of the price.

Lake Como may be known for its luxury and extravagance, but you don’t have to be rich and famous to enjoy the culture, history and natural beauty of this magnificent Italian lake. Whether you’re visiting as a day trip from Milan or making Lake Como your primary travel destination, you won’t want to miss out on an iconic Lake Como boat tour.

Are you ready for a Lake Como Boat Tour?

Ready to experience La Dolce Vita for yourself? Contact us here to see how!

The post Lake Como Boat Tours appeared first on Teach Travel Discover .

The perfect marriage of glamour and charm, Lake Como has long been a beacon for couples, families and backpackers alike. Dotted with idyllic cliffside towns, the shores of Lake Como offer incredible dining, lush greenery and unbeatable water views. But for an extraordinary experience you’ll never forget, tour Lake Como’s glittering cobalt waters aboard a...

COMO Travel Agency

940-222-2596

Personal Concierge Services for the best traveling experience

Let us book the vacation of your dreams! From Beaches to  Mountains. Historic Cities to historic fun at Disney. Utilize our Family Travel Experts for complex international travel

To COMO Travel Your Personal Concierge 

See the World with Prices starting as LOW as $1679

Our travel agency is here to help you plan and book your dream vacation. 

Our Services

Whether you're looking for a cruise, plane tickets, rental car, accommodations, or the whole package, we have you covered . Simply tell one of our specialists where you want to go, and we'll help you figure out the rest.

  We work directly with vendors to get the best deals.

Satisfaction Guaranteed

While working with COMO Travel, we want you to be completely happy with your vacation experience. Please don't hesitate to contact us if something isn't going the way you expected.  We are here to assist.  Our goal is for you to be happy and return as a repeat customer for many years to come. 

Join Our Mailing List

Be the first to hear about upcoming trips, exciting destinations, and fun activities!

Copyright © 2024 COMO Travel Agency - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by GoDaddy

This website uses cookies.

We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

  • Subscribers

CT Partners celebrates 20 years… of transparency, loyalty, unity

New AmaWaterways investor takes “significant stake”

Pre-registrations open for Vista’s inaugural world cruise

ANZ’s top advisors preparing for Cruise Industry Awards

  • Upchurch, Kolner bound for Virtuoso AU/NZ Forum 2024
  • Regent Seven Seas renews David Jones partnership
  • Meliá Hotels International taps Ireland for regional role
  • Travel Associates achieves record H1 profit and TTV
  • Oceania Cruises’ Vista to sail 180-day World Cruise
  • Epic win for Uniworld’s Australian sales team

LATTE - Luxury Australian Travel Trade E-news

COMO hosts Australian travel advisors for intimate dinner

Visiting dosms break bread with 60 frontline sellers in sydney.

Go back to the e-newsletter

COMO Hotels and Resorts welcomed 60 esteemed travel advisors for an intimate sit-down dinner at Sydney’s Establishment on Tuesday evening.

Directors of Sales and Marketing of the group, who are currently in Australia for a roadshow, shared news and insights from their properties during an evening of networking.

The evening commenced with Kimberly Rose Knier, Director of Wellness at COMO Shambhala Estate, guiding agents through a Qi Qong healing session.

The COMO group have recently opened two new properties. COMO Alpina Dolomites , located in Northern Italy’s South Tyrol, opened its doors on 7 December 2023, while COMO Metropolitan Singapore, located in COMO Orchard, launched with a soft opening in July .

Pictured from left are the COMO DOSMs: Nuaas Mohamed, Kimberly Rose Knier, Adeline Loh, Gabi Vincent, Jonica Paramor, Jocelyn Whiteside, Steve Nunan, Eugene Fekilstov.

Subscribe to LATTE’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury travel industry.

New date set for Crystal Chairmen’s Cruise

Accor signs seventh iconic Sofitel Legend property

FBI Travel hosts first post-pandemic agency retreat

Jigsaw Travel hosts inaugural luxury travel showcase

ILTM Cannes showcases luxe offering for TravelManagers

Private Luxury Dubai lures 250+ travel buyers and exhibitors

Your email address will not be published.

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

Opening date set for COMO Alpina Dolomites

A catch-up with COMO Hotels and Resorts

Celebrating World Food Day with COMO Hotels and Resorts

Four Seasons to open wellness resort at AMAALA

Langham launches new loyalty, experiences platform

Marriott’s Luxury Collection to debut in the Dodecanese

Kilolani Spa debuts at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

Windstar confirms President’s Mystery Cruise for 2025

Viking Vela to sail the Med, Northern Europe during inaugural season

Regent offers ‘Upgrade & Explore More’ offer across Europe

Tauck transition plan sees Tombaugh tapped as next CEO

Tauck’s Cuba return is filling up tours fast

Last rooms for Italian Villa’s 2024 Tuscany Chapter

A&K opens sales for new 23-day Africa by Private Jet journey

Doors open on revamped SilverKris Lounge at Perth

Delta Air Lines confirms Brisbane as second Australian hub

Hawaiian Airlines takes delivery of first Dreamliner

Etihad Airways revives loyalty program with enhancements

NEOM lifts the lid on new wellness retreat

Kamalaya elevates Wellness with advanced diagnostics

Forbes Travel Guide eyes growing ANZ ‘Ratings’ presence

ID Travel Group short-life Black Friday deals

Los Cabos on track for record visitation in 2023

Sell three, sail free incentive for advisors with Tauck

Hilton goes beyond glamping with AutoCamp pact

New luxury tented camp premieres in Chiang Rai

Wilderness Rwanda to introduce Bisate Reserve

Renaissance for Botswana’s Savute Safari Lodge

Welcome, Login to your account.

Recover your password.

A password will be e-mailed to you.

Tailwind on every ride? – See e-bike trips

Book your fall training now – see Ride Camps

European Classic booking fast – see the trips

  • Request a Catalog
  • 866-464-8735

Select Date Range

Modal title, popular searches.

...

California Wine Country Bike Tour

...

Croatia and The Dalmatian Coast Bike Tour

...

Mallorca 7-Day Ride Camp Bike Tour

...

Tuscany Bike Tour

Trek Travel Guide Applications

Become a guide.

Interested in bike tour guide jobs? Click the articles below to read through all the details on what it takes to be a Trek Travel Guide! Apply as soon as possible to get the process started. Our applications are reviewed in the order they are received, and the 2024 season will be here before you know it!

Please note: Our Selection Process is fully virtual and our Training Event will be a combination of virtual learning and a week of in-person training in Madison, Wisconsin or Girona, Spain, depending on an applicant’s continent of residence. Guides will only work in their continent of residence.

Helpful Resources

So you want to be a guide? We can’t wait to hear from you! You can find all the answers to your questions about our bike tour guide jobs by reading the pdfs below. Contact [email protected] if you have questions.

Letter from Tania Burke

Life of a guide, job details, requirements to apply, application process, trek travel blog.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

AI smartphone with e-ink display vocalizes users’ tasks & social media feed like podcast show

A phone, a friend co. introduces its concept ai smartphone.

Start-up A Phone, a Friend Co. introduces its concept AI smartphone with an E-ink display that can verbalize users’ daily tasks, social media feed, and recent news and updates like a podcast show. The AI smartphone has its own voice that talks to users, not in a monotonous way, but more human-like, as if users were listening to a radio host. Aside from vocalizing what it can scan and report back, A Phone, A Friend is packed with features that can help users have a more hands-free smartphone usage.

E-ink display smartphone with a listening feature

The AI smartphone with E-ink display from A Phone, A Friend comes with a listening feature. The device records the conversations and cookies of users to understand their command behavior and predict what they might want without explicitly vocalizing it. On the other hand, users may not need to worry about always listening to them since A Phone, A Friend says that the AI smartphone sends users a permission notification. If they don’t want the device to listen, then it won’t listen, and nothing is shared outside of their recordings or conversations.

A social media scanning feature is also installed in the AI smartphone with an e-ink display. This turns all the highlights, events, and pieces of news from friends posted on the social media platforms of users – not necessarily the ones they posted – into a summary, which is spoken by the device like a podcast show. In this way, users can listen to what they’ve missed from the virtual world without needing to refresh the device every second. The AI smartphone can also become a personalized host, entertainer, or comedian, as users can choose the voice and style of speaking of the device. If users want their general news to be in an upbeat voice, they can easily choose to have it.

It may be expected that A Phone, A Friend’s AI smartphone with an e-ink display doubles as a virtual assistant. Since it learns their daily tasks and phone behaviors, the device reminds users of deadlines for the day, including meetings and presentations. It can even rewrite clickbait articles on its own, so when it reports back to users, these stories make sense without them needing to click on the links. A Phone, A Friend’s E-ink display phone also studies the writing style of users, so it can predict the kind of words and slang they might use in replying to their messages.

conversation modes of AI smartphone with e-ink display

There are a few conversation modes that users can choose from to personalize the voice style of A Phone, A Friend. So far, the startup offers intellectual, life-hacks, cheery, and just a regular talking-it-out. Users can switch between these modes whenever they feel like it. Since the device has an E-ink display, this can help save battery life too. For the other features, the start-up says that its AI smartphone has a single camera and AI photo editing features, while the device’s body is thin, sleek, and rounded. It also features a handy switch button to move between the regular app environment and a Friend mode aka the podcast show.

As of publishing the story, A Phone, A Friend Co. says that it is already working on the first software feature of its AI smartphone. ‘We’re getting our hands busy with the first iteration of what soon could be one AI app for all,’ explains Tomas Dirvonskas, a co-founder of the company. ‘Our first software product is a so-called Radio app; it is powered by AI, which adapts to whatever you dig and creates extremely customized audio content of news, digests, podcasts daily, or as often as you’d wish. It is news at your command, minus the things you’re not interested in.’ A Phone, A Friend Co. is based in Vilnius, Lithuania, and was founded by techpreneur Tomas Dirvonskas and marketer Tomas Ramanauskas. The team plans to launch a Friend app in less than a year.

A Phone, A Friend Co. plans to launch a Friend app in less than a year

project info:

name: A Phone, A Friend

startup: A Phone, A Friend Co.

founders: Tomas Dirvonskas, Tomas Ramanauskas

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (341)

ouchhh brings out-of-this-world 'painting of humanity' with CERN to art dubai digital 2024

SMARTPHONE DESIGN (225)

Product library.

a diverse digital database that acts as a valuable guide in gaining insight and information about a product directly from the manufacturer, and serves as a rich reference point in developing a project or scheme.

  • space travel design (95)
  • sculpture (348)
  • turntable design (27)
  • design interviews (39)
  • shoe design (315)
  • motorcycle and scooter design (445)

designboom will always be there for you

IMAGES

  1. 10 Fantastic Things to do in Lake Como Italy

    como travel

  2. Como Travel Guide 2024: The Best of Como

    como travel

  3. Bellagio Lake Como Travel Guide

    como travel

  4. Lake Como travel blog

    como travel

  5. An Efficient 3-day Lake Como Travel Itinerary for 2022

    como travel

  6. An Efficient 3-day Lake Como Travel Itinerary for 2022

    como travel

VIDEO

  1. Milan and Lake Como

  2. Lake Como, Italy: Bellagio and Varenna

  3. Lake Como, Italy

  4. Top 10 Places to Visit on Lake Como / Italy (4K)

  5. 10 BEST THINGS TO DO in Lake Como Italy in 2024 🇮🇹

  6. Bellagio, Italy

COMMENTS

  1. Como, Italy. The best things to do in Como city

    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.

  2. Lake Como Travel

    Here's how! 1. DISCOVER LAKE COMO'S TOWNS | Read my travel guides and discover the best things to do in Lake Como's most popular towns. 2. LEARN HOW TO GET AROUND | Optimize your time by organizing your travel in advance. Learn all about boat tours, train routes, etc. 3.

  3. Lake Como, Italy: the best things to do

    Lake Como, locally known as Lago di Como or Lario, is the third largest Italian lake (after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore). Located at the foot of the Alps, Lake Como offers some of the most romantic and picturesque scenery in Italy. Its characteristic inverted-Y shape comes from the melting of glaciers combined with the erosive action of the Adda river.

  4. An Efficient 3-day Lake Como Travel Itinerary for 2023

    Duration: 3 days Dates traveled: 16 June - 19 June Recommended Accommodation on Lake Como: Of the places we stayed near Lake Como, these were my favorites and places I would love to return to: Hotel Il Perlo Panoramico was our favorite place we stayed at on Lake Como. Fabulous premises with an amazing view over Bellagio.It's too far to walk into town, but they offer a shuttle several times a ...

  5. Lake Como Travel Guide (Things To Do, Packing, When To Visit)

    The Best Time to Visit Lake Como. Tourist high season in Lake Como falls over July and August, when the weather reaches 30 degrees celsius (86°F) regularly. This is also when the water warms up to about 20°C (68°F). To still take advantage of sunshine-filled days but with fewer crowds, consider traveling there in the spring (April to May) or ...

  6. Como, Italy 2024: All You Need to Know Before You Go

    About Como. Its namesake lake is the major draw for aristocratic Como, where waterside gardens and palatial villas flourish in abundance. Long a playground for the wealthy, this city attracts a mix of tourists and Milanese fashionistas who plan trips across the lake region or to nearby Bellagio.

  7. 9 Things to do in Lake Como, Italy (2024 travel guide)

    1. The Famous Shores of Bellagio Village. Bellagio, also known as the 'Pearl of Lake Como', is probably the most famous village in the area. Its popularity means big crowds during the high season. However, it's definitely worth a visit for some great local restaurants and cute shops.

  8. 24 Things to do in Lake Como (Travel Guide & Tips)

    things to know before visiting como. Currency: The official currency of Italy is the Euro. Language: Italian is the main language spoken in Lake CoMO, though English is widely understood in most areas.Weather: Summers are usually warm with temperatures between 18-30 °C (65-85 °F). Winters are mild with temperatures ranging from 0-15°C (32-60°F).

  9. Como travel

    Como. The Italian Lakes, Italy, Europe. Sitting in a lush if crowded basin at the southern tip of its namesake lake, Como is a self-confident and historic town, established by Julius Caesar as an Alpine garrison and Roman holiday resort in the 1st century BC. Philosophers Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger were born here, and Virgil thought ...

  10. Your Complete Lake Como Travel Guide

    Lake Como Travel Guide: Key Takeaways. Lake Como offers an idyllic escape with its natural splendor and breathtaking landscapes. Explore charming towns such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Como for a taste of Italian enchantment. Immerse yourself in Lake Como's rich history through its historic landmarks and cultural sites.

  11. Lake Como travel

    The Italian Lakes, Italy, Europe. 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.

  12. 15 Best Things to Do in Como (Italy)

    15. Enjoy a coffee at Caffe Mazzini. Source: www.tripadvisor.co.uk. 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.

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

    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.

  14. What to Do in Lake Como, Italy: A Complete Guide

    Lake Como Travel Tips. Here are a few more tips for visiting Lake Como: Learn some Italian before you go. Fewer people in Lake Como speak English compared to more touristy destinations in Italy. Try to learn a few keywords and phrases in Italian before you go to make communication easier. Don't miss the last ferry of the day.

  15. Lake Como travel blog

    Lake Como travel blog: When to visit? Due to being located close to Switzerland, the nature in Lake Como is beautiful and the climate is extremely favorable. The highest temperature in summer only around 27 degrees Celsius and lowest in winter around 4 degrees Celsius. The best time to travel to Lake Como is in late April until the end of summer.

  16. Lake Como things to do and travel guide

    Lake Como travel guide - the most glamorous experiences. When you visit Lake Como you are mesmerized by the natural landscape. The lake's shimmering waters cover 146 square kilometers and forms the shape of an upside down 'Y'. Forming a dramatic backdrop to the lake, the Italian Alps rise majestically in the distance.

  17. Your Ultimate Lake Como Travel Guide 2024

    Finding affordable flights to Lake Como requires some research and planning. But by following these tips, you can save money on airfare and have a memorable travel experience. Backpacking Lake Como Suggested Budgets. Lake Como is known for its luxurious lifestyle, but it is also possible to experience the beauty of the lake on a budget.

  18. Lake Como Travel Guide

    Lake Como is Italy's deepest lake and located in Italy's Lombardy region about 40 km north from Milan. Car ferries and water taxis criss cross the lake in summer season so visitors can base themselves in one town and easily day trip to the others. From November to February, the lakes are almost entirely abandoned.

  19. Bellagio Como Travel Guide [What to do and Where to Stay]

    3. Marvel at the Basilica of San Giacomo. When in Bellagio, Lake Como, the magnificent Basilica of San Giacomo is a sight that is hard to miss. The church's bell tower rises above the town and is impressive from all angles. This church was built between the 11th and 12th centuries, and it is well worth exploring.

  20. Bellagio, Italy: The Ultimate Travel Guide For First Timers

    Lake Como is located within 20 miles of the Swiss-Italian border, so it's easy to travel to another country for the day and back from Bellagio, and explore this unique region that combines both Swiss and Mediterranean influences. Trains between Como and Lugano, Switzerland run frequently, and the journey is only 40 minutes.

  21. 5 Unique Day Trips from Lake Como to Switzerland

    The Bernina Express. Distance from Como town: About 2-hour drive to Tirano. The Vibe: One of Switzerland's classic trains, the Bernina Express, connects the Italian and German-speaking regions as it heads from the village of Tirano to Chur.The four-hour journey is one of the most scenic train rides in the world and the section from Thusis to Tirano is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  22. Lake Como Boat Tours

    Luxury Lake Como Boat Tours. Lake Como is world-renowned as an elegant and luxurious vacation destination. With fans like George and Amal Clooney, it's no wonder that travelers flock to Lake ...

  23. COMO Travel Agency

    Welcome. To COMO Travel Your Personal Concierge. [email protected] - 940-222-2596.

  24. il Sereno Lago di Como on Instagram: "Picture-perfect view of the

    774 likes, 5 comments - ilsereno on February 24, 2024: "Picture-perfect view of the unique contemporary hotel that adorns Lake Como's shores. Capture you..." il Sereno Lago di Como on Instagram: "Picture-perfect view of the unique contemporary hotel that adorns Lake Como's shores.

  25. COMO hosts Australian travel advisors for intimate dinner

    COMO Hotels and Resorts welcomed 60 esteemed travel advisors for an intimate sit-down dinner at Sydney's Establishment on Tuesday evening.. Directors of Sales and Marketing of the group, who are currently in Australia for a roadshow, shared news and insights from their properties during an evening of networking.

  26. Become a Guide

    Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735. What is the Difference? Ultimate Luxury: Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at ...

  27. AI smartphone with e-ink display vocalizes users' tasks ...

    space travel design (95) Feb 07, 2024. brian eno's turntable II glows in different acrylic neon lights as the vinyl record plays.