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There are so many awesome things to do in Lake Como – if you’re visiting Milan, make sure you spend at least 1 or 2 days there. It’s only a 1-hour train ride away!
As much as I enjoyed exploring what to do in Milan in 3 days, its small streets, beautiful galleries and architecture, Lake Como took my breath away! We only managed to spend 1 day there, unfortunately, but we still saw the most important sights on it. The only disappointing thing about Lake Como is that I didn’t see George Clooney 🙁 (he has a house there!)
If you plan a 1-2 day visit, make sure to visit the triangle of Varenna, Bellagio and Menagio.
How to get to lake Como from Milan
To get to Lake Como from Milan, firstly, you need to go to Milano Centrale, the Milan Central Station. You can use the ticket machines to get a ticket to Varenna-Esino (the direction is Tirano, this will help you find the right platform afterwards, because your ticket doesn’t really show it). When you get to Varenna, you can purchase a daily ticket for the ferry (about €9), which is valid until you go back to your original point. You can also book a guided tour to take you to Varenna & Bellagio to make sure you don’t miss anything!
When is the best time to visit lake Como
The best time to visit Lake Como is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to explore the lake and its surrounding villages. The lake is also a popular destination for sailing, swimming, and other water sports, so you can make the most of the warm weather. The summer months are also the busiest time of year for Lake Como, so if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, you may want to visit during the spring or autumn months. During these times, the weather is still pleasant and the lake is less crowded, making it the perfect time to relax and take in the stunning views. No matter when you visit, Lake Como is sure to be a magical experience. With its stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly locals, it‘s the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
What are the towns at lake Como called
There are numerous town around lake Como, but here are the most popular ones:
- Como is the largest town on the lake, and it is the perfect place to start your Lake Como adventure. Here you can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, as well as a beautiful waterfront promenade. The Duomo di Como, a stunning Gothic cathedral, is a must-see.
- Bellagio is a charming village located on the tip of the lake’s “Y” shape. This picturesque town is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and stunning views of the lake. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to explore, as well as a variety of shops and galleries.
- Varenna is a small village located on the eastern shore of the lake. This quaint town is known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and stunning views of the lake. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to explore, as well as a variety of shops and galleries.
- Tremezzo is a small town located on the western shore of the lake. This charming village is known for its beautiful gardens, stunning views of the lake, and a variety of restaurants and cafes.
- Menaggio is a small town located on the western shore of the lake. This charming village is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and stunning views of the lake.
Most popular things to do in Lake Como
1. Explore Varenna city
Varenna is a gorgeous little city on Lake Como and is your first stop when you hop off the train – it’s definitely one of the most popular things to do in lake Como. My recommendation is to first go up to Castello di Vezio, as it would save you a bit of time. We chose the main road to go up, it took us about an hour, but the climb is so worth it, don’t miss it!
The village of Varenna is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Como, and is known for its stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The village is small and quaint, with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore, as well as a few historic sites. The main attraction in Varenna is the lake itself. The lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. There are also plenty of walking and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Varenna is also home to some of the best Italian cuisine in the region. The local restaurants serve up delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. There are also plenty of wineries in the area, so you can sample some of the best Italian wines.
2. Climb up to Castello di Vezio (Varenna)
This stunning castle is perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the lake, and it‘s one of the most picturesque spots in the region. The castle dates back to the 12th century and was once a fortress used to protect the area from invaders. Today, it‘s a popular tourist attraction and a great place to explore – definitely on my list of top things to do in lake Como. Inside the castle, you‘ll find a museum with artifacts from the castle‘s history, as well as a beautiful garden with stunning views of the lake. The castle is also home to a variety of wildlife, including falcons, hawks, and owls. You can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its history, or you can simply wander around and take in the breathtaking views.
This castle was my favorite place on Lake Como <3 If you’re lucky, you’ll even catch the falconry show there, which would make your experience even more unforgettable. The castle has amazing gardens and breathtaking views of Lake Como. You will even find a tower with a steep staircase where you can go even higher to enjoy the views.
To get there from the train station, you can either go uphill on the street – it will take you 1 hour, or take a bus that goes up to the castle (there is also a hiking path from Varenna, but I recommend it going down, rather than up). Please check with the train station about the bus schedule, as it can vary!
3. Take a photo of the ghosts of Castello di Vezio (Varenna)
The ghosts of the Castello di Vezio are made every spring from gauze covered with a chalk mixture! Then this cloth is draped over willing (or excited? 😜) tourists who stay very still for about 20-30 minutes. Afterwards, the casting is carefully removed and placed around in the castle ruins. There were quite a few of them around. I didn’t find it creepy at all, until I took a very close-up shot of one of them. They actually remake them ever year, as the winter rains, cold and snow destroy them. I wanted to be one of them so badly, but as unlucky as I am, no one asked me to pose for a ghost cast 🙁
4. Walk around Villa Monastero (Varenna)
After you’ve visited the Castle, you’ll see a few signs that can lead you to different places. Choose the signs that lead to Villa Monastero or Varenna. There you’ll find a steep path down (it’s definitely harder to go up this path, this is why I recommend using it only to get back to the town).
If you‘re looking for a stunningly beautiful and tranquil escape, then Villa Monastero Gardens at Lake Como is the perfect destination for you. This stunning villa and its gardens offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The villa itself is a stunning example of Italian architecture, with its beautiful terraces, courtyards, and gardens – it’s very easy to see why this is one of the most amazing things to do in lake Como. The villa was originally built in the 16th century as a monastery, and it has been carefully restored to its original grandeur. Inside, you‘ll find a museum, a library, and a cafe, as well as a number of other attractions.
The gardens at Villa Monastero are truly a sight to behold. With its lush greenery, colorful flowers, and winding pathways, it‘s easy to see why this is one of the most popular attractions in the area. The gardens are divided into two sections, the Italian Garden and the English Garden. The Italian Garden is filled with a variety of plants and flowers, while the English Garden is more formal and features a number of sculptures and fountains. No matter what time of year you visit, you‘re sure to find something to enjoy at Villa Monastero Gardens. In the spring, the gardens are filled with colorful blooms, while in the summer, the terraces are perfect for relaxing and taking in the views. In the fall, the gardens are a great place to take a leisurely stroll, and in the winter, the villa is a cozy retreat from the cold.
The gorgeous villa often houses different events (even by Nobel prize winners!) and is surrounded by a fascinating botanical garden which is 2 kilometers long (so it’s quite a walk to take around).
Looking for more ideas for your Italy trip? Check out these 5 itinerary ideas for 10 days in Italy.
5. Explore Bellagio city
After you’ve finished exploring Varenna, hop on the ferry and take a 15-minute ride to Bellagio. With its stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, Bellagio City is the perfect destination for a romantic escape. The town of Bellagio City is a charming mix of old and new. The cobblestone streets are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants, while the waterfront is dotted with luxury hotels and villas. The town is also home to some of the most beautiful gardens in Italy, including the Villa Melzi and the Villa Serbelloni. The lake itself is a sight to behold. With its crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, it‘s easy to see why Lake Como is one of the most popular destinations in Italy. There are plenty of activities to enjoy on the lake, from sailing and windsurfing to swimming and fishing.
6. Ride the Tourist Train (Bellagio)
When we arrived at Bellagio, we saw one of the tourist trains (it’s a hop-on-hop-off one!), which will take you through all of Bellagio’s sights in about 30-40 minutes. It wasn’t expensive at all and it was worth it. The little train has a guide recording for all the sights as well, so you’ll get to know Bellagio pretty quickly – so cool that this is one of the things to do in lake Como, right?
7. Check out Villa Melzi (Bellagio)
After we finished with the train tour, we spent about an hour around Villa Melzi. The villa itself is a stunning example of Italian architecture, with its classic stone walls and terracotta roof. Inside, you‘ll find a spacious living area with a fireplace, a fully–equipped kitchen, and a large terrace with a hot tub. The villa also has a private pool, perfect for taking a dip after a long day of exploring the area. The villa is situated in a peaceful area, surrounded by lush gardens and olive groves. You can take a stroll through the gardens and admire the stunning views of the lake and the mountains. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy in the area, such as hiking, biking, and water sports. Villa Meltzi is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you‘re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, this villa is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. So, if you‘re looking for a luxurious escape to one of the most beautiful places in the world, then Villa Meltzi at Lake Como is the perfect destination for you.
Other things to do in lake Como
8. Explore Como city
Como city is home to a number of attractions, including the Duomo di Como, a stunning cathedral that dates back to the 12th century. The city also boasts a number of museums, including the Museo della Seta, which showcases the city‘s silk–making history. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife. There are a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a lively music scene. Como is also home to a number of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and sailing. There are also a number of parks and gardens to explore, including the Giardino Botanico di Villa Olmo, which is home to a variety of plants and flowers – don’t miss this on your list of things to do in lake Como. You can also book this cheap guided tour around the city – you won’t be disappointed.
9. Check out Villa Del Balbianello (Lenno)
Located on the tip of a wooded peninsula, this stunning villa offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The villa itself is a stunning example of Italian architecture, with its terraced gardens, grand staircases, and ornate frescoes. Inside, you‘ll find a wealth of antiques and artwork, as well as a library and a museum. The villa is also home to a number of historic artifacts, including a collection of ancient coins and a 16th–century fresco. The grounds of the villa are equally impressive, with lush gardens, a private beach, and a number of terraces and balconies. You can also take a boat ride around the lake, or explore the nearby towns and villages.
10. See Forte Di Fuentes (Trivio Fuentes)
This stunning fort is perched atop a hill overlooking the beautiful lake. It‘s a great spot to take in the breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The fort itself is a stunning example of 16th century military architecture – one of the marvellous things to do in lake Como. It was built in 1541 by the Spanish to protect the area from the French. The fort is made up of two main towers, a courtyard, and a drawbridge. Inside, you‘ll find a museum that houses artifacts from the fort‘s history. The fort is open to the public and offers guided tours. During the tour, you‘ll learn about the fort‘s history and get to explore the various rooms and towers. You‘ll also get to see the drawbridge in action and learn about the fort‘s defensive capabilities. The fort is also a great spot for a picnic. There are plenty of benches and tables scattered around the grounds, so you can enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views of the lake.
11. Hike Sentiero Del Viandante (Abbadia Lariana)
If you‘re looking for a stunning hike with breathtaking views, then the Sentiero Del Viandante hike at Lake Como is the perfect choice. This hike offers a unique experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. The Sentiero Del Viandante is a long–distance trail that runs along the western shore of Lake Como. It‘s a great way to explore the area and take in the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail is well–marked and easy to follow, making it suitable for all levels of hikers. The hike starts in the town of Bellagio, which is a popular tourist destination. From here, you‘ll follow the trail along the lake, passing through small villages and taking in the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you‘ll also have the chance to explore some of the area‘s historic sites, such as the ruins of the Roman Villa of San Giovanni. The hike is about 16 km long and takes around 5-6 hours to complete. It‘s a great way to spend a day in the outdoors and get some exercise. The trail is mostly flat, so it‘s suitable for all levels of hikers. At the end of the hike, you‘ll be rewarded with stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. It‘s a great way to end your day and take in the beauty of the area.
12. Walk around Villa Carlotta’s Botanical Gardens (Tremezzo)
Villa Carlotta‘s Botanical Gardens at Lake Como is a must–see destination for any traveler looking to experience the beauty of the Italian Lakes region. Located in the small town of Tremezzo, the gardens are a stunning display of nature‘s beauty, with a variety of plants, trees, and flowers from all over the world. The gardens are divided into two sections, the Italian Garden and the English Garden. The Italian Garden is a formal garden with a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, including roses, camellias, and magnolias – definitely one of the most beautiful things to do in lake Como. The English Garden is a more naturalistic garden, with winding paths, a lake, and a variety of trees and shrubs. The gardens are also home to a variety of sculptures, including a marble statue of the goddess Diana, a bronze statue of the god Apollo, and a marble fountain. The gardens also feature a variety of fountains, including the Fountain of the Naiads, the Fountain of the Muses, and the Fountain of the Dolphins.
13. Check out Villa Serbelloni (Bellagio)
This gorgeous estate is located on the western shore of the lake and is surrounded by lush gardens and stunning views. The villa itself is a stunning example of Italian architecture, with its grand façade and ornate details. Inside, you’ll find a variety of rooms, each with its own unique style and charm. From the grand ballroom to the cozy library, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The gardens are the highlight of the estate, however. With its winding pathways, lush greenery, and stunning views of the lake, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular attractions in the area. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll or a leisurely afternoon of exploration, the gardens are sure to provide you with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the beauty of the area.
Fun things to do in lake Como
14. Go on a boat tour
Boat tour around lake Como? Sign me up! There are many options you can book, here is an awesome boat tour from Como to Bellagio and Lugano. There are other options – like a sailing boat experience, how cool!
15. Kayak around the lake
If you’d love to spend a few active hours at this place, don’t miss this as one of your top things to do in lake Como – kayaking! It takes about 1.5 hours and it’s about 100 EUR per person.
16. Rent an electric bike
One of the most fun experiences around lake Como is definitely the electric bike tour. The guided tour takes about 3 hours and costs about 80 EUR per person. Of course, you can also always just rent it on your own and explore at will.
17. Explore Como from the skies – in a helicopter!
Okay, well, I officially pronounce this… as the most expensive thing to do in lake Como 🤣 Seriously, though, the cost is about 1000 EUR per group of 6 people – this is about 166 EUR per person, so honestly, not THAT expensive as it looks. You can book this in advance and send them a message that you’re looking for more people (in case your group is too small). However, this experience will leave you BREATHLESS! 💜
18. Go on a wine tasting tour
One of the most popular activities is wine tasting, and it‘s easy to see why (here’s an awesome wine tasting tour you can book). The region is home to some of the best wineries in Italy, and the local winemakers are passionate about their craft. They offer a variety of tastings, from traditional Italian wines to more modern blends. You can sample a variety of reds, whites, and sparkling wines, all of which are sure to please your palate. The scenery around Lake Como is breathtaking, and the perfect backdrop for a wine tasting experience. You can take a boat ride around the lake, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. The views are stunning, and you can take in the beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The wineries in the area offer a variety of experiences, from guided tours to private tastings. You can learn about the history of the wineries, the different types of grapes used, and the winemaking process. You can also sample a variety of wines, and learn about the different flavors and aromas.
19. Check out Brunate’s terrace and views
The terrace is located at the top of a hill, so you can expect to be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding area. From here, you can see the city of Como, the Alps, and the surrounding villages. The view is simply breathtaking and it‘s easy to see why this spot is so popular with tourists. The terrace is also a great spot for a romantic evening. The sunsets here are simply stunning and you can watch the sun go down over the lake while enjoying a glass of wine. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, so you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the view.
Where to stay in lake Como
There are lots of accommodation options around lake Como. However, they get occupied fast – chances are, 3-4 months from now, over 80% of properties will be booked. So make sure to book your accommodation as soon as you book your plane ticket!
Here are some luxury options if you’ve decided to pamper yourself:
- MUSA Lago di Como (Sala Comacina) – Booking.com rating: 9.5, price per night: 600 EUR
- Villa Lario Resort Mandello (Mandello del Lario) Booking.com rating: 9.5, price per night: 700 EUR
Here are some more affordable options:
- Locanda Alberti (Mandello del Lario) – Booking.com rating: 9.2, price per night: 120 EUR
- Residence Caffè Maya (Maslianico) – Booking.com rating: 9.2, price per night: 60 EUR
- Hotel National (Zelbio) – Booking.com rating: 8.5, price per night: 75 EUR
Tip for visiting lake Como
If you’d like to visit Menagio too in your 1-day trip, make sure you get to Lake Como early (check the train schedule online beforehand). The last ferry from Menagio to Varenna is at around 6 p.m., so make sure you don’t miss it 🙂 Or, of course, you can always book a guided tour and not think about the little details.
