Yes, Lake Como has its fair share of movie-star homes and polished mahogany boats. But it’s the quiet things that stay with you — sleepy harbours where time forgets to hurry, bell towers that interrupt your espresso at just the right moment, and little pebble beaches where ducks outnumber swimmers. That’s the real magic..

Lake Como in Brief

• Location: Northern Italy, Lombardy — an hour from Milan, near the Swiss border.
• Scenery: 160 km of shoreline, quaint towns, mountains, and picture-perfect sunsets.
• Food: Perch risotto, polenta, lake fish, lavender gelato, and strong espresso.
• Why go: For villas, gardens, ferries, churches, hikes — or to do nothing by the water.

Let’s dive into the best places to visit on Lake Como — the towns, lakeside paths, historic spots, and views that made me fall for this place, one ferry stop at a time.

What to See Around Lake Como

Lake Como is shaped like a giant upside-down Y, and the good news is — you can explore almost all of it by ferry: town by town, villa by villa, gelato by gelato. The boat schedule isn’t exactly Swiss-precise, but it works beautifully. Give it a few days, and you can get surprisingly far.

But unless you have a week (and an iron will), don’t try to see everything. Focus on the essentials — the places that stay with you long after you’ve left. The towns, gardens, and viewpoints that give Lake Como its quiet sparkle.

1. Bellagio

Locals and travellers swapping stories (and gelato tips) as the ferry glides into Bellagio.

Bellagio’s charming streets: steep enough to justify another espresso break.

Bellagio might look like an island floating on silk — but it’s actually a promontory that neatly slices Lake Como in two. It’s also one of the lake’s most famous spots, and yes, it knows it.

You can glide in by ferry from Varenna or Menaggio, or take the bus from Como if you’re feeling practical (and don’t mind a few switchbacks). Either way, Bellagio makes a strong first impression: a lakeside promenade dripping in flowers, narrow lanes stacked with boutiques and gelato shops, and views so perfectly framed they feel Photoshopped.

Start with a stroll along the waterfront — no need to rush. Order the perch risotto — a local favourite — or a glass of local wine and let the view do the work. But once you’re ready to dodge the crowds, head uphill. Bellagio’s backstreets are a quieter world of cobblestones, hanging laundry, and trattorias where you might still snag a table without a reservation.

Yes, it’s a bit touristy. Yes, it’s a bit pricey. But it’s also wildly beautiful. And if you’re even slightly susceptible to magic, Bellagio will get you.

Villa Melzi Gardens

Come April and May, Villa Melzi’s gardens burst into bloom — azaleas, camellias, and the occasional tourist trying to find shade.

Snapped this in mid-May — 27°C and not a single café in sight. Bring water!

The villa itself is private — no tours, no peeking through the windows — but the gardens are the real star anyway. Just a 20-minute walk from the Bellagio ferry, and you’re surrounded by cypresses, camellias, azaleas, ginkgos, elms, and even the occasional palm, all artfully arranged along the lake.

Commissioned in 1810 by Francesco Melzi d’Eril (Vice President under Napoleon — as one does), the gardens were designed for quiet strolls and dramatic daydreams. Franz Liszt stayed here and wrote his *Dante Sonata*. You’ll see why — the whole place feels like it’s set to music.

No café inside, just restrooms — so bring water and don’t expect snacks. There’s a small public beach just past the gardens if you’re in the mood to dip your toes in the lake (or at least think about it).

Villa Serbelloni Gardens

Villa Serbelloni hides in plain sight — marked here with an arrow, high above Bellagio’s waterfront charm.

This one’s a tease: the villa belongs to one of the fanciest hotels on Lake Como, and no — you can’t just wander in. But you can join a guided tour of the gardens, which is absolutely worth it.

Set high above Bellagio, the gardens offer sweeping views of the lake’s iconic fork — the kind that make you stop mid-step and forget whatever you were saying. Terraces, statues, winding paths, and sudden flashes of bougainvillaea or bright camellias — wild but intentional.

The only way in is with a tour (about 90 minutes, €13), departing from the PromoBellagio office (Piazza della Chiesa 14). They run daily from late March to early November, except Mondays, and may be cancelled if the weather misbehaves. Book ahead, wear decent shoes, and prepare to feel just a little smug once you’re up there.

2. Villa Carlotta, Tremezzo

Villa Carlotta, as seen from the ferry — yes, that view alone is worth the boat ride.

The gardeners at Villa Carlotta clearly don’t believe in straight lines — and we’re all better for it.

Azaleas in full bloom at Villa Carlotta. Peak spring joy, with a side of lake breeze.

In the quiet center of Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta feels like a scene from a historical novel brought to life. It is one of those rare places where it’s hard to tell what’s more impressive — the art on the walls or the view through the windows. Built in 1745, the villa is filled with sculptures, paintings, and elegant rooms where frescoed ceilings whisper old stories of gods and grandeur. On the top floor, you’ll find original furniture from the villa’s last residents — perfectly preserved, as if someone might come back from lunch at any moment.

And then there’s the view. Step onto the balcony and you’ll see Lake Como stretch out below, framed by hills, cypresses, and sailboats gliding by like lazy punctuation marks on the lake.

Outside, the garden is no less grand — 8 hectares of it, with around 600 plant species. Come in April or May and you’ll walk through clouds of blooming azaleas (60 varieties, if you’re counting). Autumn brings fiery leaves and fewer people — a good trade-off if you prefer silence to camera-clicking crowds.

Villa Carlotta doesn’t have a café, so bring a water bottle and plan your espresso stop after the visit — luckily, there are plenty of places nearby to sit, sip, and process all that beauty.

Admission: €15 for the villa and garden in 2025. Open from March to early November; closed in winter for maintenance. Tickets are available on the official website of Villa Carlotta.

3. Villa del Balbianello, Lenno

Terraced gardens, statues, and that perfect lake view — Villa del Balbianello really knows how to make an entrance

Some places feel like they were made for movie scenes —you’ve seen it in Star Wars, Casino Royale — or maybe in a wedding photo that’s too perfect to be real. But nothing prepares you for that first glimpse through the trees.

Perched on a wooded peninsula in Lenno, the villa was built in the late 18th century by a cardinal (because why not?). Over time, it passed through aristocratic hands before landing with explorer Guido Monzino — a man who climbed Everest and decorated his library with Inuit sleds and expedition gear.

You’re free to roam the terraced gardens, but the villa’s interior is accessible only by guided tour — and it’s well worth it. Antique maps, Arctic artifacts, and rooms filled with personality, plus arguably the best windows on the lake.

It’s closed on Mondays and Wednesdays, and trust me: showing up then is a heartbreak. You can’t see anything from the gate, and the lake views are blocked.

Admission: €13 for the garden, €24 for the garden + villa (2025). Open from mid-March to early January.

4. Varenna

Varenna may be home to just 900 residents — but come spring, the tourists arrive with gelato in hand.

Evenings in Varenna: soft light, empty benches, and the echo of footsteps on stone.

Tiny, steep, and full of character — Varenna is one of Lake Como’s oldest towns and still one of its best. Pastel houses cling to the hillside, narrow alleys lead straight to the water, and every second corner seems to hide a trattoria with lake views and surprisingly decent house wine.

Despite the postcard looks, Varenna feels lived-in. Locals greet each other in the square, old men play cards under the plane trees, and tourists—well, they try not to miss the ferry. Speaking of which: the ferry port is right next to the Olivedo Hotel and just five minutes from the train station, which makes Varenna one of the easiest places to reach without a car.

If you do only one route on Lake Como, make it the Varenna–Bellagio–Villa Carlotta triangle. It’s the greatest hits tour: villas, gardens, and just enough ferry breeze to mess up your hair in the best way.

For a lake view from above (and a break from all the gelato), hike up to Castello di Vezio, the ruins of a medieval fortress with falconry shows, ghost statues, and the kind of silence that makes you check your phone just to make sure it’s still working. The trail starts in the historic centre and winds up through olive trees. It’s steep, but doable. Open March to November daily, weekends only the rest of the year. €5 entry. Cash is handy.

Villa Monastero

Villa Monastero’s garden is like a green ribbon — narrow, elegant, and full of surprises.

A pompelmo (Italian for grapefruit) spotted in the garden — not something you see every day.

It’s hard to say what’s more impressive here — the garden clinging effortlessly to a steep slope, or the fact that someone once looked at this dramatic patch of land and thought, “Let’s build a monastery.”

Before becoming a villa in the 17th century, this spot was home to Cistercian monks. Now it’s a dreamy mix of medieval, Renaissance, and neoclassical styles — plus a museum with 14 rooms full of carved wood furniture, marble trinkets, faded frescoes, and the odd period costume just casually hanging around.

The lakeside garden stretches nearly 2 km, packed with over 1,000 plant species: citrus trees, azaleas, conifers, roses, rhododendrons — the works. There are statues and fountains too, but the real magic happens late in the day, when the light softens and everything looks like a 19th-century oil painting. Yes, photographers love this place.

There’s a café inside for a quick espresso or pastry, and it’s easy to lose an hour or two here without noticing. The garden is open daily from April to early November, with limited opening days the rest of the year (closed January to March). Entry is €10 for the garden, €13 with the museum.

Villa Cipressi Botanic Garden

Freshly renovated and still full of charm — Villa Cipressi hasn’t lost its soul.

Right next to Monastero, Villa Cipressi feels like the slightly wilder, more spontaneous cousin — the one who throws elegant garden parties and forgets to lock the front gate.

Today it’s a hotel, but the terraced botanical garden is open to visitors and absolutely worth your time. Paths wind down toward the lake through cypress trees (of course), magnolias, wisteria, and clusters of succulents tucked into old stone walls. It’s smaller than Villa Monastero, but more intimate — you feel like you’ve wandered into a private garden left open just for you.

There’s no museum here, but the views are the attraction — those postcard-perfect angles of Varenna, the mountains, and the deep blue water below. Quiet, cinematic, and full of birdsong.

The garden visit is technically limited to an hour, but no one checks the clock too closely. Tickets are €10 and can be booked through the Villa Cipressi hotel’s website. Open daily from spring through early autumn.

5. Menaggio

From ferry to old town in under two minutes — Menaggio doesn’t waste your time.

Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi: Menaggio’s sun-drenched living room.

The promenade that makes you late for everything (worth it).

The first thing you’ll probably notice in Menaggio is how normal it feels — in the best possible way. No red carpets, no yachts the size of apartment buildings. But don’t be fooled — a Maserati might still roll past the piazza while someone’s nonna hangs laundry nearby. That’s Menaggio: laid-back, but quietly stylish.

The town’s main stage is its 1 km lakeside promenade, one of the most scenic on Lake Como. It’s perfect for lazy strolls and shameless photo sessions — especially at sunset, when the water turns the colour of apricots.

At the heart of Menaggio is Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, with its tidy row of cafés, a proper gelateria, and a tourist office that might just convince you to stay longer. A few steps away, you’ll spot San Stefano Church and its unmistakable pink bell tower — charming by day, slightly aggressive by 8 a.m. if you’re staying nearby (yes, the bells are real, and they mean it).

Want to swim? There’s Lido di Menaggio, a beach club with sunbeds, a restaurant, and room to breathe. It’ll cost you (€25 per lounger), but truly free beaches are rare here — so it’s either this or watching the lake sparkle from the shade.

6. Como (the city)

The Duomo took centuries to finish — but it was worth the wait.

Mid-October in Como: time for jackets, but still perfect for a lakeside stroll.

After quiet villages and sleepy promenades, Como city hits different. With 84,000 residents, a Gothic cathedral, and a fair number of sunglasses worn purely for effect, this is Lake Como’s polished side — grander, flashier, and not built for rushing through.

The vibe? Aperitivo by the Duomo, shopping bags in hand, or strolling the waterfront like you’re late for a yacht meeting. There’s no yacht, of course. But the people-watching is world-class.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (aka the Duomo) dominates the centre, with centuries of style layered into one building — Gothic base, Renaissance arches, and a dash of Baroque flair. Next door stands the Broletto, the old town hall striped in marble like a civic cake.

Follow the lakeside to Life Electric, a modern sculpture honouring Alessandro Volta (the battery guy — born right here). Just beyond, the Tempio Voltiano displays his original lab gear, reminding you who to thank next time your phone hits 1%.

Wondering why everyone looks runway-ready? Drop by the Silk Museum — Como once clothed half of Europe. It’s better than it sounds: live silkworms, looms, and the full cocoon-to-couture story.

End with a walk to Porta Torre, the 12th-century gate that once guarded the city and now frames flea markets and mopeds.

You’ll want at least half a day for Como. A full one, if you’re heading to Brunate too. Just don’t squeeze it in between Bellagio and Varenna — Como moves at its own pace, and you’ll enjoy it more if you do the same.

Brunate

The Sunday queue for the Como–Brunate funicular — longer than you’d think, but moving fast.

On my first trip, I spent only two hours in Brunate. That’s the minimum time one should allocate for this wonderful place.

If Como is the city of aperitivos and polished shoes, Brunate is its barefoot, mountain-loving cousin. Perched 715 meters above the lake, this peaceful village gives you everything the shore can’t — cool air, panoramic views, and absolute quiet.

The funicular from Como whisks you up in just 7 minutes, climbing steeply through cypress trees and sweeping lake views. Once at the top, take a breath (and maybe a photo or ten). The air is a few degrees cooler, the mood is slower, and the view? It’s Como at its dramatic best — rooftops, sailboats, distant peaks, and a whole lot of lake.

For an even grander view, hike to Faro Voltiano, the lighthouse dedicated to local legend Alessandro Volta. The path takes about 30 minutes, or 10 if you grab a taxi. The lighthouse is open seasonally (check dates), entry is €2, cash only, and the reward is a sweeping, 360° vista that makes the climb more than worth it.

The Como-Brunate funicular departs from Piazza Alcide de Gasperi 4 and runs from early morning to late evening (extended hours on Saturdays). A round-trip ticket costs €6.60. Or skip the line and hike up — it’s steep but peaceful, and the views along the way are just as good as the ones at the top.

7. Walking the Greenway Path

Parco Teresio Olivelli is technically a public park — but it feels more like a miniature villa garden.

Rain clouds, sunshine, and Lake Como in between — classic weather drama.

The full Greenway walk takes about 3.5 hours. I took longer — for very good reasons.

If you want to slow down and see the lake up close, the Greenway del Lago is perfect. This 10 km trail follows the western shore from Colonno to Griante, winding through seven villages, old stone alleys, olive groves, and waterfront promenades.

No hiking boots required — it’s mostly flat and easy, just bring comfortable shoes and a sense of curiosity.

I started with low expectations. How exciting could a walking path be? But the route surprised me: an ancient bridge-shaped house in Colonno, a 12th-century church in Ossuccio, and the graceful Parco Teresio Olivelli in Tremezzo, with fountains and statues straight out of a romantic painting.

The path is well signposted with Greenway markers, and it’s easy to hop on or off — there are ferry stops and bus connections along the way. You can walk it all in one go (around 3.5 hours without breaks), or take it slow, village by village. Either way, you’ll see a different side of Lake Como — quieter, older, and more local.

The Best Views of Lake Como (and How to Reach Them)

Want to fall for Lake Como all over again? See it from above. Whether you hike, drive, or hop on a funicular, these panoramic spots offer some of the lake’s most unforgettable views — and more than a few deep breaths.

Monte San Primo above Bellagio

Monte San Primo — look for the arrow. The climb is easy, and the views from the top are spectacular.

On foot/Monte San Primo sits right at the center of the Larian Triangle — the forked shape you see when looking at Lake Como on a map. Getting there isn’t hard, and the views? Glorious. From the summit, you’ll see the full sweep of the lake framed by mountains, with Bellagio shimmering below. It’s the kind of view that makes you pause, take a photo, then forget the photo and just stare.

You can reach it on foot or by car, depending on your route and season. Pack a jacket — the altitude brings cooler air.

Brunate 

Lake Como and the city of Como from Brunate — taken just off Via Giacomo Scalini. Seven minutes up, endless views down.

By funicular, on foot, by car/One of the easiest ways to gain height is to take the funicular from Como up to Brunate — seven minutes, no effort. Once at the top, you’re spoiled for choice: scenic walks, hillside cafés, and another climb to the Faro Voltiano lighthouse (or to Pissarottino, a lesser-known spring with a fantastic viewpoint). The views stretch across the city of Como, the southern branch of the lake, and even into Switzerland on clear days.

Rifugio Menaggio

On foot/This alpine refuge sits at 1,383 meters in Plesio and rewards hikers with wide-open views and the comforting smell of sausage and polenta. You can stay the night in bunk beds and enjoy hearty meals with a view.

The trail is well-marked. Start from the Mon Breglia parking lot for the quicker 1–1.5 hour hike, or from the Breglia bus stop if you’re up for an extra 45–60 minutes. From the refuge, seasoned hikers can continue up to Pizzo Coppa, where the view explodes into a panorama of Monte Rosa and even Mont Blanc on a clear day.

Book ahead during the season, especially if you want to stay overnight.

Chiesa di San Martino, Griante

Bellagio from above, as seen from the bench in front of Chiesa di San Martino. Not a bad place to pause.

At San Martino, I sat on a bench, sighed with happiness — then slowly wandered back down.

On foot/This tiny church above Griante isn’t open to visitors — but it doesn’t need to be. The view from the bench in front is more than enough. Bellagio stretches out across the lake, and the silence is almost cinematic.

To get there, walk up from Griante’s historic center (about 10 minutes from the lake), then follow signs for Chiesa di San Martino. The path is simple, beautiful, and takes 30–50 minutes depending on your pace. In May and June, you might notice small red berries along the path — they’re Potentilla indica: edible, but sadly not tasty.

Castello di Vezio Varenna

Every viewpoint on Lake Como has its magic. This one is all about the stillness.

On foot/Equally beautiful — and a little spooky — this medieval fortress above Varenna offers sweeping views of both Varenna and Bellagio. The castle is open to the public most of the year: daily from March to early November, and on sunny weekends from November to March. Entry is €5.

To reach it, follow the steep cobbled path up from Varenna. It’s short but uphill — wear decent shoes.

Pigra

The view from Pigra in autumn — golden trees, quiet paths, and not a single souvenir stand in sight.

On foot, by car/Pigra sits at 700 meters above Argegno and feels like a secret above the lake. The cable car was closed for reconstruction in late 2022, so check before planning. If you’re walking, the climb is long and steep, but the views are extraordinary — especially in autumn, when the light turns everything golden.

Monte Bisbino

By car/Less known but no less dramatic, Monte Bisbino towers 1,300 meters above the lake. You can drive there from Cernobbio via Rovenna — the road is long and occasionally bumpy, but manageable. From the summit, you can see deep into the Alps and down toward the lake. A trail leads into the quiet Intelvi Valley if you want to keep exploring.

Where to Watch the Sunset on Lake Como

The final hours before leaving were truly melancholic. The lake was calm, the light soft, and I wasn’t ready to go.

When the light stretches across the water and the mountains turn golden, it’s hard not to start planning your next visit. For especially beautiful sunsets, head to the eastern shore of the lake — you’ll be facing west, with the sun dropping behind the hills and casting long shadows across the water.

Some favorite sunset spots on the eastern side:

• Brunate — watch the city of Como glow from above
• Mandello del Lario, Varenna, Bellano, Dervio, and Piona — quiet, scenic, and less crowded than the big-name towns

Or, if you’re on the western side of the central peninsula, try:

• Bellagio — the golden light on the water is unreal
• Blevio and Lezzeno — charming, peaceful, and perfect for a lakeside aperitivo

Planning Your Lake Como Route (Based on My Trip)

My first visit to Lake Como was a spontaneous two-day escape from Bergamo — and somehow, it turned out to be perfectly paced. Not rushed, not too quiet. Just right. Here’s how it went:

Day 1 (16 May):

1. Morning train from Bergamo to Varenna, with a short change in Lecco.

2. Explored Varenna, walked through the waterfront and the gardens of Villa Monastero.

3. Took the ferry to Lenno.

4. Strolled through Lenno’s old town, saw Villa del Balbianello from afar (sadly, it was closed — Mondays and Wednesdays, keep that in mind).

5. Walked 4 km along the lakeside Greenway route to Villa Carlotta. A beautiful stretch — highly recommended.

6. Spent about two hours at Villa Carlotta, admiring blooming azaleas and camellias.

7. Walked to Griante (1.5 km) and stayed overnight at a local guesthouse.

Day 2 (17 May):

1. Early hike to Chiesa di San Martino, straight from the guesthouse. With photo stops, the round trip took about two hours.

2. Walked to Menaggio (3 km) — not the most scenic route, but doable. There’s a bus if you’re short on time.

3. Explored Menaggio, had lunch.

4. Took the ferry to Bellagio, wandered around, and visited Villa Melzi.

5. From Bellagio, returned by boat to Varenna.

6. Caught the evening train to Bergamo via Lecco.

It might sound packed, but it didn’t feel that way. I had time for coffee breaks, lakeside lunches, and way too many photos.

Why this route? Because it hits the highlights: the Varenna–Bellagio–Menaggio triangle, plus the three iconic villas — Melzi, Carlotta, and Balbianello. It’s Lake Como’s greatest hits, all in one loop.

Just one regret: I didn’t visit Como city on that trip — but honestly, I’m glad I didn’t rush it. Como deserves a separate day. It feels more like a classic Italian city than a lakeside village, and it’s best enjoyed with fresh legs and an open afternoon.

Lake Como vs. Lake Garda vs. Lake Maggiore: Which Lake to Choose?

Northern Italy is full of beautiful lakes — so which one should you visit? I’ve been to most of them, including Como, Maggiore, Garda, and a few quieter ones. Here’s how they compare, based on my experience:

Lake Como:

Lake Como.

A place of villas, gardens, and mountain drama — and yes, it lives up to the hype.

Why go:

• Home to some of the most beautiful villas and gardens in Europe
• Frequent ferries make it easy to get around (especially in the Golden Triangle: Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo)
• Ideal for scenic boat rides, romantic walks, and peaceful views

Keep in mind:

• Tiny beaches, rocky lake bottom, and cool water — great for swimming, but not very beachy
• Summer crowds are real, especially around Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo — book ahead

Lake Maggiore:

Lake Maggiore.

Elegant and slightly underrated, especially around Stresa.

Why go:

• The Borromean Islands — complete with palaces, gardens, and fishing villages
• Gorgeous waterfront promenades, swans included
• Feels a bit calmer and more grown-up than Como in peak season

Keep in mind:

• Still gets crowded in summer
• Fewer headline attractions compared to Como — it’s more about slow beauty

Lake Garda:

Lake Garda. Photo: Francesco Dondi

The biggest of them all — and it feels that way.

Why go:

• A mix of family fun and history — from medieval forts to Gardaland theme park
• Easier access to cycling and hiking trails
• Slightly more affordable than Como, especially for accommodation

Keep in mind:

• The southern part is flat and more developed; for mountains, head north
• Some parts of the shore are grassy or overgrown — not always picture-perfect
• Pebble beaches are the norm

So which lake wins?
Depends what you’re after. Start with Como — it’s iconic for a reason. But all three are popular for good reason, and each one deserves a spot on your map.

Lake Como Travel Cost: Is It Really Just for Millionaires?

Let’s be honest: Lake Como has a reputation. George Clooney has a villa here. So did Stallone. The Versace family too. And yes, some boats on this lake probably cost more than your entire building.

But here’s the twist — you don’t need a yacht (or a stylist) to enjoy it. Most visitors aren’t millionaires. They’re regular folks, day-tripping from Milan or spending a long weekend on a budget.

That said, Como isn’t cheap. Summer brings the crowds and the price hikes. But plan ahead, avoid the flashiest towns, travel in spring or fall — and you’ll spend less, enjoy more.

How to save like a pro:

• Book 4–5 months ahead (or gamble on last-minute deals off-season)
• Stay just outside Bellagio, Varenna, or Tremezzo
• Visit in May or September — better prices, better weather, fewer elbows in your frame

Accommodation: Where to Stay on Lake Como

Let’s start with the obvious: staying in Bellagio or Varenna is magical — and expensive. Prices in the Golden Triangle are high year-round and spike in summer, with basic rooms starting around €150 and climbing quickly.

But it’s not all luxury suites and lakefront villas.

Budget options do exist, especially if you:

• Look beyond the hotspots (try Colico, Domaso, Mandello del Lario, Laglio, or Lecco)
• Book early — really early, especially for May to September
• Stay longer — many places offer better rates for 3+ nights

Even in quieter areas, summer prices can double or triple if you wait too long.

Typical prices:

• Budget hotels (2-star): €70–€200 per night
• Hostels (rare): €50 for a bed in a dorm
• Airbnb: private rooms from €35–50; full apartments from €60–200
• In Bellagio, Varenna, or Tremezzo? Add at least 30% — maybe more

Not all Airbnbs allow one-night stays, especially in peak season, so filter carefully if you’re just passing through.

So where’s cheapest?
Generally, the further north or away from the central triangle, the better your odds. Try Colico for mountain views, Domaso for a laid-back vibe, or Mandello del Lario if you’re coming from Lecco — all less polished, but easier on the wallet.

Food: What to Eat on Lake Como

I love legumes, so when I’m travelling, I often opt for lentil and vegetable soup.

You’re in Italy — so yes, the food is good. But it’s not just pizza and pasta here. Around Lake Como, local dishes revolve around the lake and the mountains.

Expect:

• Risotto al pesce persico – creamy risotto with lightly fried perch fillets
• Polenta taragna – made with buckwheat and cornmeal, often served with sausage or cheese
• Fritto misto di lago – a mixed fry of small local fish
• And of course, gelato – you’ll find a decent scoop in almost every town

Vegetarian? You’ll still eat well — lots of soups, grilled veggies, cheeses, and lentil dishes (I’m a lentil fan, and I’ve survived just fine).

Restaurant Prices

Main dishes at traditional restaurants start around €15–18, pizza is usually €11–12, and a full dinner with drinks will cost €35–40 on average. Seafood and anything lake-view will bump that up.

Places right on the water — especially in Bellagio and Tremezzo — tend to charge more. But walk a few streets inland, and you’ll often find better prices and better food.

In winter (Nov–Feb), many restaurants close for the season. Supermarkets and small local eateries stay open — and Italians don’t stop going out to eat, so you’ll still find good options.

Cooking Your Own Meals?

Supermarkets like Conad, Carrefour, and Sigma are easy to find, even without a car. Ask locals where they shop — they’ll usually point you to the best value.

A week’s worth of groceries for two people — think pasta, veg, cheese, bread, eggs, some meat or fish — will cost around €45–60.

How to Get to Lake Como

Lake Como is tucked up near the Swiss border, just north of Milan and Bergamo — and thankfully, it’s well-connected by train, bus, and car.

From Milan

The easiest option.

• From Milano Centrale, take a direct train to Como San Giovanni (about 35 minutes).
• Or head to Varenna-Esino via Lecco (1h 10min) — perfect if you’re aiming for the central lake.
• Once there, ferries will take you to Bellagio, Menaggio, and beyond.

From Bergamo

A bit longer, but still very doable.

• Take the train to Lecco, then change to Varenna-Esino. Total travel time: around 1.5 hours.
• Reaching the town of Como from Bergamo without a car is inconvenient — stick to the eastern shore instead.

From Milan Malpensa Airport

Trains with one change will get you to Como city in about 1.5 hours.
If you’re going straight to the central lake, you’ll need an extra leg — likely to Varenna by train, then by ferry.

Important note:
There are no trains along the lake’s western shore — the one with Villa Carlotta and Tremezzo. Buses run there, but they’re not always fast or frequent. If you’re staying on that side, budget some patience — or hop on a ferry instead.

How to Get Around Lake Como

Rolling off the ferry in Bellagio — not a bad way to arrive.

Waiting for a ferry? Most towns have a pavilion like this — shady, scenic, and full of hopeful travellers.

Inside or outside? The classic Lake Como ferry dilemma.

Lake Como may look big and dramatic, but it’s surprisingly easy to get around — especially by boat.

Ferries

They’re the heart of the lake. Some carry cars, most don’t, but all offer stunning views. You can hop between towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio in under 20 minutes.

In the central lake area, boats run frequently — almost like floating buses.

Pro tips:

• Buy tickets in advance (especially in summer) at navigazionelaghi.it to avoid queues and sellouts.
• Day passes are worth it if you’re hopping around a lot.
• Bring layers — it can get chilly on deck, even in May.
• If you get seasick, pack some meds. It’s “just a lake,” but waves happen.

Buses

• On the western shore, buses are your main land option — handy if you’re visiting Villa Carlotta, Tremezzo, or Lenno.
• On the eastern side, buses and trains work together pretty well (especially for Varenna, Lecco, Mandello).

Just don’t expect lightning speed. Roads are narrow, winding, and occasionally clogged with delivery vans and tourists trying to do three-point turns.

Driving

You can rent a car, but unless you’re staying far from the ferry lines, it’s often more trouble than it’s worth. Parking is tricky, roads are tight, and boat+train is usually easier.

When to Go to Lake Como

For me, the best time is when the azaleas are blooming – April and early May.

Best time? April to early June and September to mid-October. You get the views, the gardens, and the lake breeze — without elbowing through crowds.

Spring (April–May)

The best balance of beauty and comfort.
Expect blooming azaleas, cool mornings (10–12°C), and sunny afternoons (18–22°C). A light jacket, layers, and comfortable walking shoes are ideal.
Ferries run often, restaurants are open, and you can visit most villas with no queues.

Summer (June–August)

Hot, busy, and very photogenic.
Daytime highs range from 26–32°C, but some years it hits 38°C. Nights stay warm.
Wear light clothes, bring a hat and sunscreen — and maybe book that lakeside gelato in advance.
It’s the most popular season, so expect crowds and higher prices.

Autumn (September–mid-October)

Soft light, fewer people, and still warm enough to swim.
Temps stay around 22°C in September, dropping to 15–18°C by October.
Bring layers — mornings can be chilly, especially near the water. Great time for hikes and photography.

Winter (mid-October–March)

Quiet and foggy, but peaceful.
Most villas and some restaurants close. Daytime temperatures hover between 6–10°C in December and January, with colder evenings.
If you like slow travel, misty landscapes, and no queues — this is your moment. Just bring a coat, scarf, and a good excuse for hot chocolate.

How Many Days to Spend on Lake Como

You can see a lot in two days. But to feel Lake Como? Give it more time.

Just 2 days?

You can hit the highlights:

• Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio by ferry
• A villa or two (Melzi, Carlotta, maybe Balbianello)
• A good meal with a lake view
• It’ll be full, but not frantic — especially in May or September.

3–4 days

Enough time to slow down. Add a panoramic hike, visit quieter towns like Griante or Lenno, and catch a sunset from Brunate.

A week or more

Perfect if you want to stay in one place and do day trips — or move every few days. You can explore all the major sights and still leave time for reading on a terrace, boat naps, or slipping into the water on a quiet afternoon.

Bonus: Milan and Bergamo are close enough for day trips — or for the start or end of your Como adventure.

How to stay safe

Good news: Lake Como is safe. Petty crime is rare, even in touristy areas. But as with any travel:

• Keep valuables close on ferries and in crowds
• Don’t leave bags unattended on the beach
• Avoid walking along narrow roads without a sidewalk, especially after dark (some roads are scenic… and slightly terrifying)

Traffic

Local drivers — especially on scooters — love speed and tight corners. If you’re on foot, be alert on stretches without pavements.

Nature tips: snakes, ticks, and mosquitoes

Vipera berus — rare, shy, and usually more scared of you than you are of it. Still, best admired from a distance.

Ticks are tiny — just 3 to 5 mm — but it’s smart to check after hiking through grass or woods. Photo: Erik Karits

Snakes?
Yes, they exist — but don’t panic. Most are harmless grass or water snakes. In higher, sunnier trails, you might see a viper (Vipera aspis or berus), but they avoid humans.
Just stomp a little on the trail — they’ll hear you and move away. Don’t flip rocks or sit in tall grass barefoot.

Ticks
They’re active April to September, especially in grassy or wooded mountain areas. After a hike, check your clothes and skin. In Italian, a tick is called zecca, and tweezers are pinzette.

Mosquitoes
Not a huge problem, but they’re around from June to August — especially near water and in the evening. Bring repellent if you’re prone to bites.

Do they speak English at Lake Como?

Short answer: yes — enough to get by.

In hotels, restaurants, ferry terminals, and tourist offices, you’ll almost always find someone who speaks English. Menus are usually bilingual, and signage is clear.

Not everyone is fluent, especially in smaller towns — but people are friendly, and you’ll get what you need with a smile, a gesture, and maybe a little Google Translate or Al.

Can You Swim in Lake Como?

Lake Como isn’t your classic beach destination — but yes, you can swim here (if you don’t mind a cool dip and a few pebbles).

You can — and many do. Just don’t expect soft sand and warm waves.

Lake Como is deep, cold, and often better for admiring than diving into. But if you’re up for a dip, there are plenty of places to swim.

The basics:

• Swimming season: early June to early September
• Water temperature: around 22–24°C in July
• Depth: it gets deep fast — often more than 10 metres just a few metres from shore

Where to swim:

• Public beaches — free, but often rocky or grassy. Look for signs that say Balneabile (swimming allowed).
• Lidos — paid beaches with sunbeds, changing rooms, and bars. Expect to pay €10–€25 for a lounger.
• Wild spots — little coves and grassy patches where locals go. Not always easy to access, but peaceful.

Tip: Bring water shoes. The rocky bottom can be a pain (literally).

Important: Swimming is forbidden in many spots — look for signs before jumping in.

Is Fishing Allowed in Lake Como?

Fishing is allowed in most parts of Lake Como. Photo: Dieter Rohmann.

Absolutely — as long as you follow the rules.

You’ll see plenty of locals and visitors fishing from piers, rocks, or small boats. Lake Como is home to perch, pike, zander, whitefish, carp, and more.

What you need:

• A fishing license (Licenza di Pesca) — available at any post office
• Basic knowledge of protected species: no fishing for sturgeon, loaches, bullhead, or lamprey

Good to know:

• No permit needed for kids under 13
• Some areas are off-limits or seasonal — always check local signs
• Fishing is allowed from most public shores unless marked otherwise

So yes, you can cast a line — and maybe catch something (or at least a peaceful moment) for your lakeside lunch.

Final Thoughts

Lake Como can feel like a film set — polished, dreamy, a little surreal. But stay long enough, and it reveals something softer, less curated — a rhythm that doesn’t need to impress.

You probably won’t see everything. That’s part of the charm. Something will stay off your route — a garden gate locked for the season, a trail you didn’t have time for. That’s fine. Como isn’t made for checklist travellers.

Instead, it gives you space — to float, to wander, to order dessert without thinking twice.

Start with the famous stops. Let yourself be surprised by the quiet ones. And if you leave already missing it — good. That means you did it right.