10 Things To Do In Lake Como for a Perfect Gateway
Looking for the perfect Italian lakeside escape? Lake Como offers an enchanting blend of natural splendor, rich history, and vibrant culture that makes it one of Italy’s most celebrated destinations.
Nestled in the Lombardy region and just an hour’s drive from Milan, Lake Como captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters, breathtaking alpine scenery, and elegant historic towns. Its unique inverted Y-shape creates a diverse landscape of hidden coves and dramatic viewpoints that has attracted celebrities and travelers for centuries.
Still deciding between Lake Como and Lake Garda? Our comprehensive comparison guide can help you choose the perfect Italian lake for your travel style. But if you’ve already set your heart on Lake Como, here are the ten best experiences to make your getaway truly unforgettable.
1. Visit Villa del Balbianello
Perched on the tip of a wooded peninsula in Lenno, Villa del Balbianello is a masterpiece of Italian elegance and history. Built in the 18th century, this villa has been home to explorers, noble families, and even served as a filming location for Star Wars: Episode II and Casino Royale.
Beyond its cinematic fame, the villa offers magnificent terraced gardens that cascade toward the lake, featuring perfectly manicured hedges, centuries-old trees, and breathtaking lake views.
Guided tours take you through the lavishly decorated interiors, showcasing antique furnishings, historic relics, and the personal collection of its last owner, Guido Monzino, a famous Italian explorer.
⏳ Tip: The villa is accessible by foot or by boat, with the latter being the most scenic option. Arrive early, as entry is limited.
2. Explore the Town of Bellagio
Nicknamed the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio sits at the crossroads of the lake’s three branches, offering postcard-perfect views in every direction. This charming town is best explored on foot, where you can wander through its cobbled stairways, lined with boutique shops, artisanal gelaterias, and inviting trattorias.
A must-visit is Villa Melzi, a neoclassical estate with stunning botanical gardens that include rare plants, sculptures, and a picturesque lakeside promenade. The serene atmosphere and historical significance make it one of Bellagio’s hidden gems.
🍝 Tip: Grab a lakeside table at a local trattoria and try “missoltini,” a traditional dish of sun-dried lake fish, paired with polenta.
3. Take a Boat Tour
A boat tour on Lake Como is more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive way to experience the lake’s grandeur. Whether you choose a public ferry, a private wooden Riva speedboat, or even a self-drive rental, gliding across the water offers a fresh perspective of the majestic Alpine backdrop, elegant villas, and charming villages.
Popular routes include:
- Varenna to Bellagio: A short ride connecting two of the most picturesque towns.
- Grand Tour of the Villas: See Villa Carlotta, Villa del Balbianello, and Villa Monastero from the water.
- Sunset Cruise: A magical way to witness the golden hues of the lake as the sun sets behind the mountains.
📍 Tip: If you’re looking for a VIP experience, book a private wooden boat tour at sunset—it’s one of the most romantic ways to enjoy the lake.
Looking for the perfect Italian name for your boat? Dive into our guide on the 175 best Italian boat names.
4. Hike the Greenway del Lago di Como
For nature lovers, the Greenway del Lago di Como is a 10-kilometer scenic hiking trail that connects Colonno, Sala Comacina, Tremezzo, and Cadenabbia. The path winds through quaint villages, olive groves, ancient churches, and aristocratic villas, offering ever-changing panoramas of the lake.
Some key highlights along the route include:
- Ossuccio – A village known for the Isola Comacina, the only island in Lake Como.
- San Giovanni di Bellagio – A hidden lakeside chapel with breathtaking views.
- Tremezzo – Home to Villa Carlotta’s stunning gardens.
👟 Tip: This is an easy, mostly flat walk that can be done in sections. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera!
5. Visit Villa Carlotta
One of Lake Como’s most celebrated villas, Villa Carlotta, is an architectural and botanical masterpiece located in Tremezzo. Built in the 17th century, it houses an impressive art collection, including sculptures by Canova and paintings by Hayez.
However, the real highlight is the sprawling 20-acre botanical garden, home to over 500 species of exotic plants. In the spring, the rhododendron and azalea blooms transform the landscape into a sea of vibrant colors.
Stroll through terraces lined with camellias, lemon trees, and ancient cedars before reaching panoramic balconies with lake views.
🎟️ Tip: Visit in April or May for the most spectacular floral displays.
Suggested Read: 32 Beautiful Famous Italian Gardens to Visit in Italy
6. Take a Dip in the Lake
While Lake Como is best known for its sophisticated villas and scenic boat tours, it’s also a fantastic place to swim. Unlike many alpine lakes, the water here is clear and inviting, especially during the summer months.
Best swimming spots:
- Lido di Lenno – A stylish beach club with sun loungers, a bar, and direct lake access.
- Spiaggia di Onno – A more secluded pebble beach with crystal-clear waters.
- San Giovanni Beach, Bellagio – A local favorite, just a short walk from Bellagio’s center.
🏊 Tip: Water temperatures range from 17°C (May) to 24°C (July-August), making summer the perfect time for a refreshing swim.
7. Try the Local Cuisine
Lake Como’s cuisine is a delicious blend of lake, mountain, and Lombard flavors. Must-try dishes include:
- Pizzoccheri – A hearty buckwheat pasta dish with potatoes, cabbage, and melted cheese.
- Risotto al Pesce Persico – Creamy risotto topped with golden, pan-fried perch from the lake.
- Sciatt – Crunchy cheese-filled fritters from Valtellina.
- Torta Miascia – A traditional Como-style bread pudding.
🍷 Tip: Pair your meal with Nebbiolo or Sforzato, two excellent wines from the nearby Valtellina region.
8. Take a Funicular Ride to Brunate
For one of the best panoramic views of Lake Como, hop on the funicular railway from Como to Brunate, a hilltop village 700 meters above the lake. The ride takes just 7 minutes, but the elevation gain provides stunning aerial views.
Once you reach Brunate, visit:
- Faro Voltiano – A lighthouse dedicated to Alessandro Volta, offering 360-degree views.
- Sentiero delle Baite – A scenic hiking trail leading to mountain refuges.
🚠 Tip: Visit at sunset for a breathtaking golden hour view of the lake and Alps.
Suggested Reading: Italy Geography Quiz: Can You Master the Challenge?
9. Visit the Cathedral of Como
The Duomo di Como is a stunning Gothic-Renaissance cathedral, considered one of the most beautiful in northern Italy. Dating back to the 14th century, it boasts:
- A magnificent marble facade with intricate sculptures.
- A majestic interior featuring Renaissance frescoes and tapestries.
- A dome designed by Filippo Juvarra, offering incredible acoustics.
📷 Tip: Climb to the rooftop terraces for a unique view of the city and lake.
10. Discover the Hidden Gem of Varenna
Varenna is a lesser-known but equally breathtaking alternative to Bellagio. This colorful fishing village is known for its romantic lakeside promenade, charming stone alleyways, and iconic landmarks:
- Villa Monastero – A former monastery turned into a villa with stunning botanical gardens.
- Castello di Vezio – A medieval castle with falconry displays and panoramic views.
- Passeggiata degli Innamorati – A scenic “Lover’s Walk” along the lake.
🌅 Tip: Arrive in the late afternoon and enjoy a sunset aperitivo at a lakeside bar.
