The Top 10 Things To Do And See On Lake Como
Escape to Lake Como: Experience stunning villas, picturesque towns, rich history, and enchanting landscapes in Italy’s famed lake district.
Lake Como, with its dramatic Alpine backdrop and elegant shoreline villages, has enchanted travelers for centuries. Whether you desire leisurely lakeside strolls or exciting outdoor adventures, the region offers something for every visitor. This comprehensive guide showcases Lake Como’s most captivating sites and experiences, ensuring that your journey is both memorable and inspiring.
1. Explore the Historic Charm of Como Town
Sitting at the southern tip of the lake, Como is brimming with history, art, and inviting piazzas. Spend a morning or afternoon exploring its medieval center, soaking in a blend of architectural wonders and vibrant street life.
- Duomo di Como (Como Cathedral): Admire the grandeur of this late Gothic cathedral, outstanding for its intricate façade and impressive stained glass windows.
- Piazza Cavour: The lively heart of the city, edged with cafés and boutiques, perfect for people-watching and espresso sipping.
- Tempio Voltiano (Alessandro Volta Museum): Discover the legacy of the local-born physicist responsible for the invention of the electric battery.
- Basilica di Sant’Abbondio: Marvel at one of Lombardy’s best Romanesque basilicas, boasting ancient frescoes and serene surroundings.
Tip: Wander the medieval walls and stroll down Via Vittorio Emanuele II for charming shops and hidden courtyards.
2. Take the Funicular Railway to Brunate
Board the century-old Funicolare Como-Brunate, whisking you from lakeside Como up to the hillside Brunate village. As you ascend, panoramic windows reveal a spectacular tapestry of rooftops, shoreline, and rugged mountains.
- Scenic Views: Once at Brunate, savor breathtaking vistas over the lake and distant Swiss Alps from Piazza Bonacossa and vantage points along the ridge.
- Volta Lighthouse (Faro Voltiano): Take a rewarding hike (about 30 minutes from Brunate) to this iconic lighthouse. Climb its spiral staircase for arguably the lake’s ultimate viewpoint.
- Mountain Trails: Brunate is a gateway to a network of hiking paths, perfect for nature lovers seeking peace and fresh mountain air.
Insider’s tip: Choose an early morning or late afternoon ride for the most dramatic lighting, especially during spring and autumn.
3. Visit the Timeless Beauty of Bellagio
The peninsula village of Bellagio is renowned for its cobblestone lanes, elegant villas, and spectacular gardens. Often dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Lake,’ it’s the quintessential Lake Como destination for first-timers.
- Basilica di San Giacomo: A Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century, nestled at the summit of Bellagio’s scenic lanes.
- Salita Serbelloni: Stroll up this vibrant stairway lined with boutiques, art galleries, and gelaterias.
- Punta Spartivento: The point where the lake splits into its iconic ‘Y’ shape offers unparalleled panoramas.
- Lakeside Promenade: Enjoy a romantic stroll along Bellagio’s flower-bordered walkway, pausing for a lakeside aperitivo.
Pro Tip: Choose a mid-morning or early evening visit to avoid peak crowds and snap postcard-perfect photos.
4. Marvel at Villa del Balbianello
Villa del Balbianello, perched on a wooded promontory in Lenno, is one of the lake’s most photographed and cinematic sights. Immortalized in films such as Star Wars: Episode II and Casino Royale, the villa enchants with terraced gardens, ancient statuary, and breathtaking views.
- Guided Tours: Delve into the villa’s eventful past, from its origins as a Franciscan monastery to its later role as a retreat for explorers and writers.
- Garden Walks: Amble among cypress-lined paths, manicured lawns, and panoramas sweeping across the central lake section.
- Riva Boat Arrival: Arriving by traditional wooden Riva boat is the picture-perfect way to experience the villa’s cinematic approach.
Note: Reservations are recommended, especially in high season.
5. Discover the Enchanting Gardens of Villa Carlotta
Nestled in Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta is famed for its immense botanical garden and neoclassical villa. Founded in the late 17th century, it captivates with ethereal blooms and remarkable art collections.
- Botanical Gardens: Over 70,000 square meters of rare trees, azaleas, camellias, and springtime rhododendron displays.
- Masterpieces: The villa houses a notable art collection with sculptures by Canova and paintings from the Lombardy school.
- Lake Views: Terraces offer some of the finest vistas over Bellagio and the shimmering waterway.
Tip: Visit during spring when the gardens explode with color.
6. Cruise Lake Como by Boat or Ferry
No visit to the lake is complete without a boat journey across its glistening surface. Numerous ferry services connect major towns and picturesque villages, revealing hidden coves and old-world glamour along the way.
- Public Ferries: Frequent passenger and car ferries link Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and Cadenabbia. It’s an affordable, scenic way to hop between towns.
- Private Boat Rentals: Chart your own course with a self-drive boat or enjoy a guided tour with a local skipper.
- Taxi Boats: For an intimate excursion, hire a classic wooden boat at Bellagio or Varenna for a romantic sunset cruise.
Ferry Schedule Table:
| Route | Frequency (Spring/Summer) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Varenna ↔ Bellagio | 16–19 sailings per day | 15 min |
| Menaggio ↔ Bellagio | Frequent | 10–20 min |
| Como ↔ Bellagio | Less frequent | 1–2 hours |
7. Wander the Greenway del Lago
The Greenway del Lago is a tranquil 10-kilometer walking trail weaving through fishing villages, lush gardens, and lakeside villas from Colonno to Griante along the western shore. The route is suitable for all fitness levels, offering both solitude and spectacular vistas.
- Walk through authentic villages such as Sala Comacina, Ossuccio, and Mezzegra, each with churches, trattorias, and historic sites.
- Pause for lakeside picnics or a quick gelato at local cafés along the route.
- Photography tip: Early morning or late afternoon light transforms the landscape, framing perfect shots of calm water and stone hamlets.
8. Experience Varenna’s Romantic Ambiance
Varenna, nestled on the lake’s eastern shore, is a peaceful alternative to Bellagio but equally captivating. Discover pastel-hued houses, quaint alleyways, and panoramic terraces that evoke a timeless Italian romance.
- Villa Monastero: Explore this 12th-century monastery turned museum and botanical garden, stretching beautifully along the waterfront.
- Castello di Vezio: A short hike above the town takes you to these medieval fortress ruins, where falconry shows and dramatic lake views await.
- Lakeside Walkway: Stroll along Passeggiata degli Innamorati (‘Lovers’ Walk’) with intimate views of gentle waves and rocky shorelines.
Must try: Sample fresh lake fish dishes at a portside trattoria.
9. Enjoy Outdoor Activities on the Water and in the Hills
Lake Como offers a wealth of ways to immerse yourself in its unique landscape, from watersports to mountain adventures.
- Kitesurfing & Windsurfing: The lake’s natural winds make it a hotspot for adrenaline-pumping water activities. Northern towns like Domaso and Colico are popular hubs.
- Paddling & Canoeing: Glide through tranquil coves and explore secret beaches by kayak or canoe.
- Swimming: In summer, the beaches at Lido di Bellagio, Lido di Lenno, and Menaggio are perfect for a refreshing dip.
- Hiking: Beyond Brunate, trails to Monte Grona, Monte Legnone, and the Sentiero del Viandante (Wayfarer’s Path) offer magical views of the lake and Alps.
Local’s tip: Visit the Orrido di Bellano, a spectacular natural gorge whose dramatic waterfalls and bridges thrill adventurous souls.
10. Savor Lake Como’s Culinary Delights
The region’s cuisine celebrates local produce and freshwater fish, best enjoyed at a trattoria with lake views. Highlights include:
- Risotto con Persico: Creamy risotto topped with delicate perch fillets from the lake.
- Missoltini: Sun-dried lake shad, often served with polenta and olive oil.
- Polenta Taragna: A rich, buckwheat and cornmeal polenta, ideal after a chilly mountain hike.
- Cheeses & Meats: Sample local cheeses like Bitto and mountain-cured meats, paired with Lombard wines.
Don’t miss Lake Como’s vibrant food markets, especially in Como town and Menaggio, for fresh produce and authentic flavors.
Bonus Experiences Around Lake Como
- Abbey of Piona: A tranquil Romanesque abbey on the northeastern shore, known for its cloister, gardens, and monastic liqueurs.
- Festival of San Giovanni: Held near the end of June on Isola Comacina, this historic festival features fireworks, boat parades, and a unique re-enactment of the island’s medieval history.
- Shopping in Como: Famed for silk production, Como’s boutiques offer luxurious scarves and ties, as well as local crafts and homeware.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best time to visit Lake Como?
A: The ideal period is late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October), when temperatures are mild, flowers are in bloom, and the crowds are thinner.
Q: How do I get around Lake Como without a car?
A: The area is well-served by frequent ferries, hydrofoils, and buses connecting major towns and villages. Walking trails and funiculars are ideal for local exploration.
Q: Can I swim in the lake?
A: Yes, there are numerous public lidos and beaches suitable for swimming during summer, including Bellagio, Menaggio, and Lido di Lenno.
Q: Are the villas open to the public?
A: The most famous—Villa Carlotta, Villa Balbianello, and Villa Monastero—are open for tours, often with dedicated garden and museum sections.
Q: Are day trips from Milan to Lake Como feasible?
A: Absolutely. Regular trains connect Milan with Como, Varenna, and Lecco. Ferries make additional stops accessible, allowing a rewarding day trip.
Plan Your Lake Como Adventure
- Give yourself at least a few days to truly savor the natural beauty, discover hidden villages, and bask in the relaxed Italian lifestyle.
- Consider guided tours or local cruises for insights into lake legends, architecture, and traditions.
- Don’t rush—Lake Como is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace!
Lake Como’s timeless elegance and diverse attractions ensure a remarkable Italian escape with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
