An iconic destination among the Italian lakes, visiting Lake Como (Lago di Como) will transport you to one of the most romantic places in Italy. The beautiful villages surrounding the lake and the villas with their sumptuous gardens offer a true glimpse of the Dolce Vita. Lake Como, the closest lake to Milan, is easily accessible by train from the Lombardy capital. It makes a great day-trip idea to escape the city. As for us, after a road trip to Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta last year, we returned to the region to visit Lake Como over 3 days in June.
What are the best things to do on Lake Como ? Which villages and gardens are the most beautiful to see ? How do you get to Lake Como and get around by boat ? I share all my tips from our stay in this travel guide. And to choose the best accommodation, I recommend reading my article on where to stay on Lake Como.
What to do in Lake Como : map and itinerary
Lake Como is located 45 km north of Milan in the Italian Prealps. It is the third-largest lake in Italy (after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore), with a surface area of 145 km². The region has been inhabited for thousands of years, as shown by the many archaeological remains, but it was from the 19th century onward that Lago di Como truly flourished. It became a popular destination for Romanticism (the cultural movement), whose followers fell under the spell of its villages and villas with magnificent gardens.
Even today, it remains one of the most visited places in Italy. With its distinctive inverted “Y” shape, it takes about 170 km to drive all the way around the lake. Fortunately, passenger boats and car ferries allow you to cross the center of the lake, saving a great deal of time. I have marked the main places to see on Lake Como on the map below. This is the itinerary we followed to visit Lake Como in 3 days.
We came by car (we live on the French Riviera, about a 4-hour drive away), but it is absolutely possible to visit Lake Como without a car thanks to the boats that operate on the lake. You simply need to fly to Milan and then use public transportation (I explain this later in the article).
In this guide, I present the best things to do on Lake Como starting with the west shore (Menaggio), then the east shore (Varenna), and finally the central tip with Bellagio. There is no strict order for visiting Lake Como; you mainly need to take into account the location of your accommodation when planning your itinerary.
City of Como
I hesitated for a long time about visiting Como (the town), as it seemed a bit too urbanized and not really in line with the image of the lakeside villages. In the end, what convinced me (besides being able to present the things to do in Lake Como on the blog) was its cathedral (Duomo in italian). Since we were arriving from the south, it did not require a detour, just a stop before heading up to our accommodation in the hills above Menaggio.
Como is the largest town on the lake. It is located at the southern end and serves as the main gateway to Lago di Como for travelers arriving from Milan by train. Como can easily be visited in one day. On our side, we spent about 3 hours visiting the main sights and monuments.
If you come by car, be careful not to enter the ZTL (limited traffic zone) in the historic center, or you risk receiving a fine. The area is clearly marked with signs. If you are on an Italian lakes road trip, you can park in one of the parking lots on the outskirts. We used this parking lot (€5.50 for 3 hours), very close to the city walls and the old town of Como.
If you have a short stay (less than 3 days to visit Lake Como), you can skip the town of Como and focus on the villages further north. If you need to spend a night in Como, I recommend the accommodations Megaride Guest House (81 €), Barbablue Cozy Flat (99 €) ou New Fontana Rooms (130 €).
Duomo
The main monument to see in Como is the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta (more commonly known as the Duomo), a jewel of Lombard art. Built in Gothic style starting in 1396, it later evolved into a Renaissance style (especially the exterior façades) and was not completed until 1770 with the construction of the dome. It has the classic Latin cross layout (87 meters long and 75 meters high), with three naves topped by a dome. The main marble façade, in late Gothic style, bears similarities to that of Milan’s Duomo.
Inside the Duomo of Como are 16th- and 17th-century tapestries made in Italy and the Flemish region, as well as 16th-century paintings. The blue-and-gold vault of the central nave is stunning. Admission to the Duomo of Como is free, take advantage of it as it is the only cathedral you can visit on Lake Como.
Opening hours : Monday to Friday: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm | Saturday: 10:45 am – 4:30 pm | Sunday: 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm | Free entry.
Piazza San Fedele
Three hundred meters south of the Duomo, you reach Piazza San Fedele, also known as Piazza del Mercato del Grano. It was my favorite square in Como. It is home to the beautiful Romanesque Basilica of San Fedele from the 12th century (8:30 am–12:00 pm and 3:30 pm–7:00 pm, closed Monday morning), whose bell tower and façade were remodeled in the 20th century.
All around the square are shops, bars, and restaurants under medieval arcades. If you enjoy tableware and kitchen utensils, the Verga Selezione shop offers beautiful items (hard to find in France). We didn’t leave Lake Como empty-handed 🙂
South of Piazza San Fedele, at the very beginning of Via Natta, you can see the brick façade of a 16th-century overhanging house (opposite the San Fedele bar).
Old Town
While strolling through the old town of Como, you’ll find a medieval street lined with historic buildings: Via Vittani. Originally, it was a residential area close to the lakeshore and the harbor, extending from the Cortesella district, which once housed many artisan workshops. A sign at the entrance to Via Vittani helps identify the medieval buildings not to be missed, such as the Renaissance palace of the Macafassi family.
Among the remains of the city’s fortifications, Porta Torre Vittoria is one of the best preserved (GPS). This 34-meter-high fortress tower was built in 1192 to defend the city’s most important entrance. It is a fine example of Romanesque military architecture.
On Via Lecco, just outside the city walls, are the ruins of Roman baths dating from the 1st to 3rd centuries. The remains are located beneath a public parking lot. We passed by because we parked there, but honestly, it’s not really worth the detour. There’s not much to see.
As you get closer to Lake Como, you reach Piazza Cavour, one of the main squares in the old town. The ferry docks are located right in front of this square. During our stay in June, there were many tourists with suitcases waiting for boats here. If you are not renting a car to visit Lake Como, this is the best way to reach the northern villages. Nearby, you’ll also find the bus station and the Como Lago railway station (there are two in town), which provide connections to Milan.
Excursions from Como
If you don’t have many days or want to optimize your time, you can choose excursions departing from the town of Como. There are also activities to do directly in the city. Here are a few ideas :
- Lake Como: 2h Shared Boat Tour with Wine Tasting
- Lake Como: eBike Tour with Live Guide
- Como: Pasta and Tiramisu Class at a Local’s Home
- Como Guided City & Lake Boat Tour Landmarks and Scenic Views
You can also rent a boat to explore the lake at your own pace. The price is for the whole group, making it quite cost-effective when traveling with several people. You can choose this 2-hour rental without licence or this private wooden speedboat tour.
Lenno
Following the western shore from the town of Como, we make our first stop in Lenno. This village is best known for the famous Villa Balbianello, one of the most visited villas on Lago di Como. You will inevitably pass through here during your stay on Lake Como, so you might as well enjoy a passeggiata (a stroll the Italians have elevated to an art form) in the charming village of Lenno. The passeggiata is traditionally done in the late afternoon ; for our part, we were there at 9:00 am while waiting for Villa Balbianello to open. As a result, there were very few people, and we enjoyed a peaceful romantic walk.
The tiny historic center features a church (Chiesa Santo Stefano) and an 11th-century baptistery whose interior is more modern (this is not the one in Florence). Lenno’s charm lies mainly in its lakeside promenade shaded by pine trees, offering beautiful views. Starting from the ferry dock, the walk follows the lake south toward Villa Balbianello.
Lenno has two free public parking areas along Via Stradale; the largest is this one. During our trip, we used the Villa Balbianello parking lot (see below).
Villa Balbianello
Located in Lenno on a wooded peninsula, Villa Balbianello enjoys a unique setting with spectacular views. Cardinal Durini transformed what was once a Franciscan convent (only the church remains today) into a prestigious villa. It later passed into the hands of the Visconti family, who added numerous decorations and collections. The explorer Guido Monzino, the villa’s last owner, bequeathed it to the Italian Environment Fund (FAI).
Villa Balbianello is so famous because it has served as a filming location for many movies, including Star Wars and Casino Royale (James Bond). Personally, I don’t think it’s the most beautiful villa on Lake Como. The garden, which follows the hillside terrain, is composed of terraces and balustrades alternating lawns, hedges, cypress trees, and oaks.
The villa itself (guided visit at an extra cost) houses the art collections and travel souvenirs of explorer Guido Monzino. We did not visit the interior because there were no tickets left. It is strongly recommended to book your ticket in advance, as Villa Balbianello is extremely popular. The site is not very large, and this is where we encountered the biggest crowds, even though we arrived almost at opening time (10:30 am). The villa is also a hotspot for Instagram influencers who come to be photographed in evening gowns in this stunning setting. Be patient if you want a photo of the ivy-covered arched terrace without anyone in it 🙂
Drone use is prohibited in the gardens of Villa Balbianello (as in all villas). If you want to capture aerial views like I did, you can take off from Lenno while staying above the lake.
There are two different ticket options :
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Gardens only : €14 (€10 for ages 6–18, €38 family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children, free for ages 0–5). I recommend booking your skip-the-line ticket on this site to avoid waiting in line.
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Villa + gardens : €25 (€17 for ages 6–18, €66 family ticket). To visit the villa, booking is strongly recommended (via the official website). If no tickets are available online, you can still check on site for last-minute availability.
Opening hours : 10:00 am – 6:00 pm from mid-March to late October | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm from November 1 to early January | last entry 1 hour before closing | closed Monday and Wednesday.
How to get to Villa Balbianello ?
There are two ways to reach Villa Balbianello from Lenno :
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Boat shuttle departing from Lido di Lenno (pier here), which drops you directly at the foot of the villa. Price: €6 one way or €9 round trip per person. Payment is made on board in cash or by card (7-minute crossing). Boats depart every 20 minutes, and as capacity is limited to 12 passengers, there may be some waiting time in high season.
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Walking route from the entrance (located here). There are two paths : the panoramic trail of 1 km (20 minutes on foot) and the Dosso di Lavedo trail of 2.5 km (45 minutes) with elevation gain, as it passes over the top of the hill. The shorter path is paved, no hiking shoes required.
The village of Lenno is accessible by the boats that operate on Lake Como. You can check schedules on the official website. If you arrive by car, you will need to use one of the village’s public parking areas.
Where to park to visit Villa Balbianello ?
The closest parking lot to Villa Balbianello is located on Via Comoedia (GPS). There are two separate areas : one with white markings where parking is free, and one with blue markings where parking is paid (€1.50 per hour, payable in cash or by card).
Since we arrived early (9:15 am), we easily found a free spot. When we left, however, all spaces were occupied and many cars were circling in search of parking.
Tremezzo
Three kilometers north of Lenno, we reach the next stop on our Lake Como itinerary. Tremezzo is mainly known for the superb Villa Carlotta. Aside from that, there is not much else of interest to see. Church enthusiasts can stop at the Chiesa di San Lorenzo, recognizable by its horizontal two-tone stripes (18th–20th century).
The village is also home to the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, a 5-star hotel on the shores of Lake Como (prices and booking). If you enjoy luxury cars, you’ll see quite a few entering and leaving the hotel. The valets have to play Tetris to fit them into the garage, sometimes causing traffic jams on the road.
Tremezzo has a ferry dock located 600 meters south of Villa Carlotta. If stopping by car, van, or camper, you’ll find a free parking lot set back from the village and paid spaces (blue markings) along the lakeshore.
Villa Carlotta
This is the main reason to stop in Tremezzo: visiting the magnificent Villa Carlotta. If you love gardens, this is one of the must-see sights on Lake Como. In my opinion, these are the most beautiful gardens we saw around the lake, and the villa itself is also very interesting. In short, an essential stop! Unlike Villa Balbianello, we didn’t need to book in advance—there was no waiting at the ticket office.
A French map of the park is provided at the entrance, making it easy to find your way around. There is a café-restaurant (Antica Serra Caffeteria) offering dishes (€10–18), salads (€10), and sandwiches from €6. You can even bring your own meal, as picnic tables are available in the garden.
We had no trouble parking at Villa Carlotta. There is a large free parking area along the road north of the entrance (adress). To visit by boat, use the pier located right next door (Villa Carlotta stop).
Admission : €15 (€6 for ages 6–18, €13 for 65+, free for under 5. €30 family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children). Audio guide: €2.
Opening hours : open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm from March 24 to November 5 (last entry at 6:00 pm).
Garden
There are two different routes to visit the gardens of Villa Carlotta : the short route (blue) lasting 30 minutes, and the full route (red) lasting 75 minutes. I managed to negotiate with Daniela, who thought it was too hot to visit a garden, to take the longer route (arguing that part of the trail was shaded). In the end, we completed it in less time than the advertised 75 minutes.
To be honest, I expected to see a much more colorful garden. It is very green, but flowers were scarce. We visited Villa Carlotta at the end of June, and by that time camellias, wisteria, hydrangeas, and many other plants were no longer in bloom. We consoled ourselves with a few rhododendron flowers (third photo) and azaleas. Try to visit Lake Como in May if you want to see more flowers.
The garden is divided into several areas, enhanced with fountains, statues, and decorative elements. Among the different themes are the fern valley (second photo), the bamboo grove (fourth photo), a rock garden with succulents, remarkable trees (magnolia, sequoia, ginkgo biloba, rhododendrons, etc.), an Italian-style garden, and a citrus tunnel. The garden is magnificent and a real pleasure to walk through.
Visiting the villa
Villa Carlotta stands at the heart of the garden and is naturally reached by following either route. It was built in 1690 by Marquis Giorgio Clerici. His successors transformed the grounds into a magnificent Italian garden and enriched the residence with works of art. In 1843, Princess Marianne of Nassau purchased the villa and gifted it to her daughter Charlotte in 1847 for her marriage—hence the name Carlotta. The new owners redecorated the villa in a Neo-Renaissance and Pompeian style, with the help of Italian and German artists. Since 1927, the villa has belonged to the Italian state.
The house has three floors, with a beautiful entrance leading to a staircase that connects to the garden. The ground-floor rooms feature neoclassical décor and are dedicated to displaying the art collection. On the first floor, the rooms are furnished with antique furniture and 18th-century wooden ceilings. You can also see Carlotta’s bedroom. From the upstairs balconies, you enjoy magnificent views over the lake.
Chiesa di San Martino : Lake Como viewpoint
The village of Griante, between Tremezzo and Menaggio, has a church on the hillside offering a magnificent panorama of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The route to the Chiesa di San Martino is suitable for children: the elevation gain is 200 meters over a distance of 2 km (allow about 45 minutes for the ascent). The wide stone path is easy, and simple sneakers are sufficient. At the top, there are picnic tables, making it a pleasant lunch stop. The church is generally closed to visitors, but the interior can be seen through a small window.
To reach the Chiesa di San Martino, the easiest option is to park in one of the free parking areas in the village of Griante. Then follow the signs marked “S. Martino”; the trailhead is located along the road at that point. If you enjoy hiking, you can even continue past the church up to Sasso San Martino, which rises to 860 meters above sea level.
We did not hike up to the Chiesa di San Martino, as I only discovered this viewpoint after returning home thanks to a comment on my Instagram account. But the view looks well worth the climb. You can get an idea of the panorama by checking the church’s Google photos.
Menaggio
Continuing 4 km north (still on the western shore of the lake), we arrive at what I like to call the Golden Triangle of Lake Como. It is made up of the villages of Menaggio, Varenna, and Bellagio, each located on a different shore. These are the three most beautiful villages on the lake and the true heart of tourism in the area. For those doing a tour of the Italian lakes, Menaggio is also a convenient base to reach Lake Lugano.
Menaggio is a charming village whose historic center revolves around Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi. From here, the lively shopping street Via Calvi leads to the Church of Saint Stephen, whose bell tower is an excellent landmark when navigating on the lake. This is more or less the only monument to visit in Menaggio. Instead, I recommend enjoying the pleasant lakeside walk along Viale Benedetto Castelli heading north.
Free parking areas are located north of the village. In Menaggio, finding a parking space becomes more difficult, especially in high season. Many Swiss and German tourists come here due to its proximity to the border. The easiest option is to use the ferry: the Menaggio ferry terminal is located south of the village, about a 450-meter walk from Piazza Garibaldi.
The Villa Mylius Vigoni, located in Menaggio, is closed for restoration until 2023. Once the work is completed, it will again be possible to visit it on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons at 2:30 pm (guided tour only, in Italian, English, or German). Access is easier with a car, as it lies 2 km uphill from the ferry terminal.
In Menaggio you’ll find boat rentals with or without a skipper (€143 for 2 hours – €249 for 4 hours) and kayak rentals (€15 per hour for a single kayak, €25 for a double). It’s even possible to rent a seaplane.
Hiking near Menaggio
This is a beautiful hike for those who want to enjoy the mountains around Lake Como. The reward is a spectacular panorama over the lake and surrounding peaks. The Rifugio Menaggio sits at an altitude of 1,400 meters. It is open during summer (the rest of the year only on weekends and holidays) and offers both accommodation and meals for hikers.
The trail starts at the Breglia bus stop (alt. 749 m), where there is a small parking area. You can also take bus C13 from Menaggio. From there, follow the small road Via ai Monti di Breglia, marked with signs for “Rifugio Menaggio”.nThe hike has an elevation gain of 650 meters over 4 km and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to reach the refuge. Once there, walk another 15 minutes to reach the Pizzo a Coppa viewpoint, which offers stunning views over both Lake Como and Lake Lugano.
Electric bike tour around the three lakesDiscover the beauty of the Lake Como region on two wheels around Menaggio. This small-group electric bike tour takes you through magical landscapes of charming villages and hamlets, old stone houses, water mills, vineyards, and green fields. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of Lake Lugano and Lake Piano along the way. The excursion lasts about 3.5 hours and includes a cross-country e-bike, helmet, and rear pannier. Click here for full details and booking. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. |
Gravedona
Before crossing to the opposite shore of Lake Como, we continue north to a much quieter and more family-oriented area. Gravedona is ideal for travelers who prefer a less glamorous atmosphere than the villages of the Golden Triangle. From Menaggio, the boat journey takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, which doesn’t really justify a dedicated trip. I would instead include Gravedona as part of a Lake Como road trip if you have a car.
We drove up mainly to see the Church of Santa Maria del Tiglio, a masterpiece of Romanesque-Lombard architecture.
Church of Santa Maria del Tiglio
The Church of Santa Maria del Tiglio is located south of Gravedona’s historic center, on the site of a former Roman pagan temple. The Romanesque building visible today dates back to the 12th century. It is constructed from white marble from Musso and black stone from Olcio. The church has a central plan with three semicircular apses on three sides. Its most distinctive feature is the projecting bell tower—square at the base and octagonal above—unique in Lombard architecture.
Inside, there is a large hall with two lateral apses. On the floor, you can still see fragments of a 6th-century mosaic, partially covered by later paving. Remains of frescoes dating from the 14th to the 18th centuries are still visible on the walls, suggesting that the church was once entirely decorated. These frescoes depict the Virgin and Child and the Last Judgment. On the north wall, don’t miss the 12th-century carved wooden crucifix.
Historically, this church is fascinating. However, all interior information panels are in Italian only. There is a free parking area very close to the church.
Church of San Vincenzo
Since you’re already there, you can also take a look at the nearby Chiesa di San Vincenzo, located right next to Santa Maria del Tiglio. The church was built in the 11th century on the site of a 5th-century early Christian structure, though its current appearance dates from around 1600. The interior dates from the 17th–18th centuries.
Domaso
We are now close to the northernmost point of Lake Como. From here, the road begins to descend along the eastern shore toward Varenna. Domaso is a more family-friendly destination, with many campsites and several beaches. The former fishing village is very calm; only the beaches become lively, especially on weekends when locals come to enjoy the lake (we visited on a Sunday). Sports enthusiasts will find a nautical base here. Winds descending from the mountains are frequent, making Domaso a popular spot for sailing and windsurfing.
Personally, I didn’t find the beaches very attractive, and it didn’t particularly make me want to swim. Coming from the French Riviera, we may be a bit demanding when it comes to beaches. In any case, I don’t really consider Lake Como a beach destination—though a quick dip can be nice during extreme heat.
Domaso is best suited for camper-van travelers stopping for a few days and for water-sports lovers. Otherwise, I wouldn’t classify it among the must-see places on Lake Como.
Wine tasting at a local estateIf you’re passing through the northern part of Lake Como and enjoy wine, I highly recommend visiting this family-run wine estate in Domaso. You’ll discover an authentic Italian vineyard passed down through generations. The experience includes a guided cellar visit followed by a wine tasting, paired with carefully selected local specialties while learning about viticulture in northern Italy. You can reserve this wine-tasting experience in Domaso (€42). Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. |
Varenna
To visit Varenna, we took the ferry from Menaggio. The round trip for two people cost €18.40 (a pedestrian–car ferry). Since our accommodation was in the hills above Menaggio, we left the car in the free parking lot located a 5-minute walk from the ferry terminal (coordinates). Be aware that spaces are limited, at 9:00 am in June there were only four cars parked.
For photography lovers : Varenna faces west, so it’s best to visit in the afternoon to avoid shooting directly into the sun and to get better light from the boat.
Varenna is one of the most beautiful villages on Lake Como. Make it your top priority, even if you only have one day to visit the lake. The village is divided into two areas connected by a red metal footbridge built above the water (the ferry dock is in the northern section). The historic heart of the village, with the most iconic views, is located to the south.
Steep staircases (avoid large suitcases like those poor girls we saw 😅) lead up to the upper village, where you’ll find the charming Piazza San Giorgio, surrounded by the Church of San Giorgio and the Church of San Giovanni Battista. This 11th-century church was built on the site of an early Christian sanctuary and features frescoed interiors.
On the way to Villa Monastero, you’ll see a sign under an archway reading “200 steps to a romantic view.” Curious, we climbed down the steps and reached a tiny harbor. Maybe because of the crowds or the time of day, we didn’t find it particularly romantic, but it might be lovely at sunset.
If you arrive in Varenna by car, there are several paid parking lots. The most convenient is the multi-story car park opposite Villa Monastero (adress). Despite its size, it fills up quickly, especially on Sundays when Milanese visitors come to the lake.
Villa Monastero
Each village has its iconic villa, and in Varenna it is Villa Monastero, an absolute must-see. It is located 700 meters (about 10 minutes on foot) from the ferry terminal, in the direction of Fiumelatte. The walk itself offers beautiful views along the way.
Founded in the 13th century as a Cistercian convent, the property was purchased in 1569 by a noble family. In 1645, Lelio Mornico transformed the former monastery into a refined villa. In the 19th century, major restorations added decorative elements and exotic plants. Confiscated by the Italian state in 1918 as war compensation, it was bought in 1925 by Dr. Marco De Marchi, who donated it to the Italian state in 1953.
A combined ticket allows entry to Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi for €22. Unfortunately, Villa Cipressi was closed during our stay due to a private wedding. Drone flights are prohibited.
Admission Garden + villa : €13 (€7 for 15–25, €9 seniors 65+, free under 14).
Garden only : €10 (€5 for 15–25, €7 seniors 65+, free under 14).
Opening hours : April-early November 9:30 am-7:30 pm, June july august 9h30am-8:00 pm.
Garden
The botanical garden stretches along a narrow 2-kilometer strip following the steep shoreline. Wide paths are lined with cypress trees, cedars of Lebanon, and conifer hedges. Among the 900 plant species are African and American palms, agaves, yuccas, dracaenas, and several rare palm varieties.
The citrus garden contains specimens from around the world, though June was not the flowering or fruiting season. We also missed the spectacular wisteria blooms, which usually flower between April and May.
Even without flowers, the walk is magnificent thanks to the architectural scenery: statues, temples, fountains, and a blend of baroque, classical, and Moorish styles, reflecting the tastes of the era.
Visiting the villa
The villa underwent many transformations after the monastic period. Its current eclectic appearance dates from the late 19th century. The conference center built in 1953 is still active today, hosting cultural and scientific events. The museum, created in 2003, includes 14 fully furnished rooms, preserving the original décor and furniture.
The villa has two floors. At the entrance stands an impressive 17th-century staircase, similar to the one in Leipzig’s library, the birthplace of the Kees family, who owned the villa in the late 19th century. Each room includes bilingual Italian–English information sheets detailing the artworks and furnishings. Red room named after its red tapestries and neo-Rococo gilded furniture, council room with its large walnut table, grenade motifs, and wall graffiti, music room featuring two pianos decorated with portraits of Mozart and bathroom richly decorated in oriental and neo-Pompeian style, heated by a central system still functioning today.
Bellagio
We now reach the most famous and arguably the most beautiful village on Lake Como. Bellagio attracts visitors from all over the world (we met many Americans during our stay). Since we were traveling by car, we took the vehicle ferry from Cadenabbia (€15.50 one way for one car and two passengers). Bellagio faces west, so to avoid shooting into the sun when arriving by boat, it’s best to come in the afternoon.
There are a few paid parking spaces near the ferry dock (9:00 am–7:00 pm). Otherwise, a larger paid parking lot lies south of the village (€2/hour, 8:00 am–8:00 pm). If you arrive early or out of season, you may find free parking along Villa Melzi (here), about a 10-minute walk away.
Like Varenna, Bellagio is built on a steep hillside, with many staircases leading to the upper village. The lower part is the most elegant, with lakeside restaurants and luxury boutiques. Higher up stands the beautiful Basilica of San Giacomo, dating from the 12th century. Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, lined almost exclusively with souvenir shops and Airbnbs, crosses the upper village. Bellagio has certainly lost some authenticity, but wandering its narrow streets remains very pleasant, especially early in the morning or late in the day.
Along the lakeside promenade shaded by oleanders, you’ll find the Kennedy Memorial. U.S. President John F. Kennedy visited Bellagio in June 1963.
Tourist train lovers can take the small train departing every 30 minutes from the ferry dock (€5 adults, €2.50 children). For a completely different perspective, I highly recommend a guided kayak tour to admire the village from the lake, or an electric bike tour through the Bellagio countryside.
For more photos and details, feel free to read my full article : what to do in Bellagio.
Villa Melzi
Villa Melzi was the summer residence of Francesco Melzi d’Eril, Vice-President of the Italian Republic during Napoleon Bonaparte’s era. Built between 1808 and 1813 in neoclassical style, it is surrounded by magnificent gardens, centuries-old exotic trees, and sculptures. My favorite spot is the Japanese garden pond with its small bridge. The red and yellow maple trees reminded me of my trip to South Korea. Unfortunately, the rhododendrons and azaleas were already past bloom (they flower in April and May).
The villa itself is privately owned and cannot be visited, but you can climb the staircase for a panoramic view over the gardens and lake.
Admission : €8 (free under 12). Two-day ticket : €11.
Opening hours : daily from April to November, 10:00 am-7:00 pm (last entry 6:30 pm).
Nesso
The village of Nesso, located 13 km south of Bellagio, has become popular on social media thanks to photos of its stone bridge spanning a waterfall that flows into Lake Como.
We went to Nesso by car after visiting Bellagio. The village is very small, and there are only 12 parking spaces along the road (free but limited to 2 hours with a blue parking disc, GPS). If it’s full, there is another parking area 150 meters further on, with just as few spaces.
If you don’t have a car, it is possible to get there by public boat operating on the lake (the dock is right next to the bridge). Be aware, however, that there are few departures, so check the schedules on the official website. By boat, the journey takes 1 hour 42 minutes from Menaggio and 1 hour 20 minutes from Bellagio.
Nesso is built on the mountainside. To reach the bridge, you need to go down a long series of staircases starting from the road (follow the sign “Ponte della Civera”). When the weather is warm enough for swimming, the spot is taken over by young tourists jumping into the lake from the bridge. For a quiet or romantic moment, you’ll have to come back another time.
Apart from the bridge, there is nothing else to see in Nesso. The stop makes sense as part of a Lake Como road trip, but taking a 1.5-hour boat ride just to get there is debatable. We saw people passing by the bridge on private boats rented by the hour. It can be a nice stop during a day cruising on the lake. Boat rentals are available in tourist towns such as Menaggio, Varenna, and Bellagio.
If you want to stay in the area around Nesso (there are not many options), we recommend the National Hotel Restaurant located in the village of Zelbio, where we spent our last night before heading home.
Accommodation on Lake Como
To avoid spending too much time on the road or on long boat journeys, I recommend choosing accommodation between the villages of Menaggio, Varenna, and Bellagio or in the surrounding area. This is the most touristy (and expensive) part of the lake, but you’ll be close to everything. If you don’t have a vehicle to explore Lake Como, choose accommodation close to the lake and near a ferry dock.
On our side, we organized this weekend on Lake Como at the last minute, and of course, there were almost no affordable places left. We eventually found a beautiful apartment for rent in a small village in the hills above Menaggio. Quiet, with views over the countryside — we recommend it 100%! If you’re interested, it’s Agriturismo Nona Emma (€120 per night).
As often, I recommend booking several months before your stay on Lake Como. This will also give you more choice and access to the best prices. Here is a list of accommodations I recommend for visiting Lake Como.
For more information, tips, and addresses, I invite you to read my article where to stay on Lake Como.
- €91: Valentina Apartment, located in Menaggio in the heart of the village and 200 meters from the lake — very good value for money.
- €90 : La Tana Rooms, in Lenno. This bed and breakfast offers rooms with breakfast included. Private parking available for €5 per day.
- €98 : Residence Lenno, a good option in Lenno (near Villa Balbianello) with modern studios with or without lake views for 2 to 4 people.
- €105 : Hotel Riviera, this 19th-century hotel in Cadenabbia is very well located by the lake and close to the ferry. The big plus is free on-site parking.
- €143 : Hotel Bellavista, this 3-star hotel in Menaggio is right on the lake, 150 meters from the ferry dock. Panoramic terrace and swimming pool.
- €155 : Residence la Limonera, in the center of Bellagio, this charming residence offers apartments for 2 to 4 people with terraces.
- €164 : Annina’s House Varenna Historic Centre, a studio rental right in the heart of Varenna’s old town, just steps from the lake, restaurants, and ferry.
- €583 : Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, to experience luxury in Bellagio and treat yourself, this is the best accommodation on Lake Como.
Where to eat on Lake Como ?
On Lake Como, there are many restaurants where the value for money is disappointing. You really need to move away from the tourist villages to find good places to eat at reasonable prices.
The best restaurant we ate at on Lake Como is located in the hills above Mandello del Lario (11 km south of Varenna). It was Daniela’s father, who lives in Milan and joined us on Sunday, who introduced us to this place. You need a car to get there, but if you’re in the area, I highly recommend having lunch at bar restaurant Locanda dei Bravi. It serves traditional local cuisine, with the bonus of a lake view. You absolutely must try the pizzoccheri (buckwheat pasta with potatoes, cabbage, and cheese) and the sciatt (cheese fritters), which are regional specialties (photos below).
During our stay on Lake Como, we ate at La Grolla Menaggio, the lakeside setting is lovely, but prices match the location (pasta alle vongole bottarga €25). Between Lake Como and Lake Lugano, we tried Ristorante Pizzeria La Rotonda. Very popular with tourists, the food remains traditional and prices are reasonable (our dishes were €14 and €12). We booked all restaurants in advance.
Travel guide for visiting Lake Como
Best time to visit Lake Como
Lake Como can be visited all year round thanks to its mild and sunny climate, even in winter. However, between November and March, villas and gardens are closed to visitors, and far fewer boats operate on the lake. The best season is from spring to autumn, avoiding July and August if possible, when many travelers visit the Italian lakes. To enjoy garden blooms, come in spring, especially in April and May. Avoid weekends whenever possible, as many Milanese come to Lake Como.
We visited Lake Como for 3 days at the end of June. The weather was beautiful, and crowds were not yet too heavy. However, some flowers such as camellias and wisteria had already disappeared from the gardens.
How to get to Lake Como ?
Unless you are on a road trip through the Italian lakes, the easiest way to visit Lake Como is via Milan.
Milan Malpensa Airport is located 50 km (40 minutes by car) from the city of Como, the gateway to the lake. To find the cheapest flights to Milan, I recommend checking prices on this flight comparison website.
Once in the Lombardy capital, you can either rent a car to explore Lake Como or use trains and boats. To rent a car at the best price, I recommend this car rental comparison website, which often offers much better rates than international rental companies.
With public transport, take the train from Milano Cadorna station in Milan to Como Lago (direct train, 1 hour journey, departures every hour). Once in Como, you can take the boat to reach the villages. There is also another railway line between Milan and Colico (at the far north of Lake Como) that passes through Lecco and the villages on the eastern shore. The advantage is that you can travel by train from Milan directly to Varenna (Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino, 1 hour, departures every hour). This is faster than going via Como and brings you straight into the golden triangle of the three most beautiful villages. To plan your train journey to Lake Como, use the Trenitalia website.
As we live in the south of France, we came directly with our own vehicle.
How many days in Lake Como ?
We spent 3 days visiting Lake Como and all the places featured in this guide. We could have stayed one more day, as we didn’t have time to visit the Orrido di Bellano gorge and the Abbazia di Piona north of Varenna. We skipped Lecco, the large city in the southeast of the lake, which seemed to offer limited interest on paper. An additional day would also have been necessary if we had wanted to go hiking on Lake Como.
For those in a hurry, it’s possible to see the essentials of Lake Como in 2 days by staying within the Menaggio – Varenna – Bellagio triangle. With less time, compromises are unavoidable. Don’t forget to factor in boat crossings between villages when planning your itinerary. With just one day on Lake Como, focus only on Bellagio and Varenna with their gardens.
How to get around Lake Como by boat ?
Getting around Lake Como by boat is very easy, and a car is absolutely not necessary, especially if your accommodation is close to the lake. All major tourist sites (villages and gardens) are served by the public ferry network. You’ll find printed timetables at each dock ticket office, but the easiest option is to use the Navigazione Laghi website. Simply enter your departure and arrival points to get schedules and prices. You can buy tickets online, but we always purchased them directly at the ticket counter.
Bicycles are allowed on board except on fast boats, check the website for details (click on the “i” icon). Boats remain one of the best ways to explore Lake Como.
The car ferry (traghetto) allows you to cross the lake between Menaggio, Varenna, Cadenabbia, and Bellagio. This avoids driving all the way around the lake and saves a lot of time. We didn’t need to book in advance, just arrive early at the dock.
Day trip in lake Como from Milan
From Milan, you can visit Lake Como on a day trip. Of course, it’s impossible to see everything, but it will give you a great overview — and maybe make you want to come back another time. Several excursion programs are available; it’s up to you to decide what you prefer. I recommend choosing activities that include Varenna or Bellagio, the two most beautiful villages. This is the best option if you want to stay overnight in Milan.
Here are some day trips from Milan that I recommend :
- Como & Bellagio with Private Lake Como Cruise (the most complete)
- Day trip to Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna
- Day tour to Como, Lugano, and Bellagio (best to see both lakes)
You now know what the best things do in Lake Como in Italy. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.