12 Best Things To Do In Lake Como, Italy

Stunning view of Bellagio Lake Como Italy Read this to know all The Best Things to do in Lake Como Italy
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In Lake Como every moment is a canvas of unparalleled beauty, which invites you to indulge in a symphony of experiences!

This gem in the Italian Alps offers more than just breathtaking views-whether you’re into relaxing boat rides, charming villages, or thrilling outdoor adventures, Lake Como has something special for everyone.

So here I’m to share with you a go-to list for all the best things to do in Lake Como, the one and only Lake Como travel guide you’ll ever need!

So get ready Ready to explore the stunning beauty of Lake Como attractions.

Love this? Bookmark all The Amazing Places that serves The Best Gelato in Rome to indulge yourself into Italy’s most amazing ice-cream!

Before we dive into all the amazing things to do in Lake Como, let’s talk about timing—because visiting at the right time makes all the difference! When (Literally) should you plan your trip to this breathtaking spot?

Let’s break it down.

What is the Best Time to Visit Lake Como

For the best combination of great weather and smaller crowds, aim for May or mid-September through October.

While summer brings warm days, with temperatures often hitting over 30°C, the cool evenings make up for it—just expect more visitors during this peak time.

And if you prefer peace and quiet, winter has its own charm with crisp temperatures (3-12°C) and a serene atmosphere. While snow is rare, it adds a magical touch when it appears. Just note that between Christmas and mid-March, some of the coziest hotels and restaurants might be closed for a break.

Before heading I would highly recommend you to check the ultimate guide on when is Best time to visit Italy so you can plan your Italy travel hassle-free!

Amazing Things to do in Lake Como That You Cannot Miss!

1. Cruise the Azure Waters

Boats are standing on Lake Como Italy

What is special about Lake Como?

Lake Como is packed with gorgeous spots you won’t want to miss—like the dreamy village of Varenna, the lively town of Menaggio, and Bellagio’s jaw-dropping Villa Melzi. Believe me; No list of must-see gems of Lake Como is complete without these picture perfect beauties.

Known as the Golden Triangle (Varenna, Bellagio, Menaggio) is where all the Lake Como’s magic happens!

Varenna: A Lakeside Fairytale  

This little town on the eastern shore is pure magic. Imagine: stunning picturesque streets, colorful houses, and stunning lake views. Take a lazy walk along the waterfront and just soak in the peaceful vibe.  

Don’t skip Villa Monastero (opens 9:30 AM–7:30 PM)—its gardens are next-level beautiful, right by the water. And if you’re up for a short hike, Castello di Vezio is an old castle with insane views over the lake and mountains.  

Wander the tiny streets, pop into cute cafés, and maybe grab a gelato while you’re at it. Varenna is the perfect mix of chill vibes with delightful moments.  

Bellagio: The Star of Lake Como  

Bellagio is an absolute gem on Lake Como. It is the spot if you want those classic Lake Como views. Perched right where the lake splits, it’s all steep lanes, fancy little shops, and cozy coffee spots.  

Villa Melzi is a must (€8, closes at 6:30 PM)—its gardens are like something out of a movie, with flowers, statues, and lake access. The waterfront here is unbeatable, especially at sunset. Come early though, because by lunchtime, the crowds take over.

Bellagio also throws fun events year-round, so there’s always something going on. Whether you’re sipping wine with a view or just getting lost in the streets, this place is unforgettable.  

Menaggio: Laid-Back Lakeside Vibes  

On the western shore, Menaggio is the perfect mix of pretty views and local energy. The lakeside promenade is ideal for a stroll, and the town center is packed with cute shops and trattorias serving up delicious Italian eats.  

If you’re a golf lover, you should check out Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club—even if you don’t play, the scenery is worth it. The old town’s charm for days, with historic buildings and narrow streets to explore.  

Hop on a quick ferry to Villa Carlotta’s gardens (€12, open till 7 PM), or hike up Monte Grona if you’re feeling adventurous (just pack good shoes).

Plus, Menaggio is super handy for ferry rides to other lake hotspots. Easy access, great views, and good vibes—what more could you want?  

Pro Tip: Ferries between these towns run every 30 mins in summer (€4.60 per ride), but grab a day pass (€15) if you’re hopping around; skip July/August if you hate crowds, and definitely stay overnight—Como’s golden hour light is unreal.

2. Explore Villa del Balbianello

Stunning view of Villa del Balbianello on Lake Como Italy

If you’re visiting Lake Como, skipping Villa del Balbianello would be like going to Paris and missing the Eiffel Tower—it’s that iconic. This place is pure magic, with jaw-dropping views, Hollywood-worthy scenery (literally—it’s been in Star Wars and James Bond films!), and a fascinating history.

This villa sits on a tiny wooded peninsula near Lenno, a quiet town on Lake Como’s western shore. It’s tucked away in a spot that feels private and exclusive, yet it’s easy to reach.

(Best Option!) Hop on an iconic boat tour of Lake Como via public ferry from Como, Bellagio, or Varenna to Lenno. From there, it’s a 10-minute scenic walk or a quick taxi boat ride straight to the villa’s dock.

If you’re driving, park in Lenno and either walk (about 15-20 mins uphill) or grab a taxi. And if you want to feel fancy? Book a private boat—it’s the most glamorous way to arrive!

This villa wasn’t always the Insta-famous spot it is today. It started as a monastery in the 1200s (!), then got a major glow-up in the 1700s when a rich cardinal turned it into a luxury pad. 

But the real star? Explorer Guido Monzino—Italy’s first guy to climb Mount Everest—who owned it last and filled it with wild artifacts from his adventures (think rare maps, antique guns, and even a sled from the North Pole!).

Best Time to Visit

  • Early Morning (9-11 AM) – Fewer crowds, soft sunlight for photos.
  • Late Afternoon (4-6 PM) – Golden hour makes the lake sparkle, plus the villa glows in sunset hues.
  • Avoid Midday – It gets packed with tour groups.

What Makes It So Special? 

  • Unreal Views – Perched right on the lake, the villa’s terraces and gardens give you 360-degree postcard-perfect scenery.
  • Movie-Star Status – Recognized those loggias? They were in Star Wars: Attack of the Clones (Padmé and Anakin’s lovey-dovey scenes) and Casino Royale (James Bond’s epic recovery spot).
  • Secret Garden Vibes – Think winding paths, rose-covered arches, and ancient trees that look straight out of a fairy tale.

Pro Tip: Book tickets online to skip the line (they limit visitors).

3. Dine at The best Restaurants in Lake Como

Collage of Italian Pasta and Bruschetta; Things to do in Lake Como Dine at The best Restaurants in Lake Como

Let’s be real—you can’t visit Lake Como without treating yourself to an unforgettable meal. This place isn’t just about fancy villas and boat rides; it’s a foodie paradise where every bite comes with a side of jaw-dropping lake views. 

From cozy family-run trattorias to Michelin-starred glam spots (like Il Gatto Nero or Momì), eating here is an experience, not just a meal. Some restaurants (like La Darsena) let you arrive by boat. Fancy, huh?

Here’s the full scoop on where, when, and how you can feast like a local (or a VIP—your choice).

Lake Como’s food scene is all about slow, fresh, and local. For centuries, fishermen hauled in lake fish, farmers grew olives and grapes on the hills, and nonnas perfected pasta recipes. 

Today, you’ll still find:

  • Risotto al pesce persico (perché risotto, a must-try delicacy).
  • Missoltini (dried fish, an old-school specialty).
  • Polenta uncia (creamy polenta with cheese—comfort food heaven).

Try local Nebbiolo or Chiavennasca wines at a hillside cantina. End your meal with limoncello—it’s practically the law here!

Best Time to Dine

  • Lunch (1-3 PM): Perfect for long, lazy meals with lake views.
  • Aperitivo (6-8 PM): Italians do happy hour better—order a Spritz and snack on olives, cheese, and prosciutto.
  • Dinner (8 PM+): Romantic, candlelit, and way more atmospheric.

Best Restaurants Lake Como & What to Order

  1. Il Gatto Nero (Bellagio hills) – Book weeks ahead for their risotto with saffron and fresh;y caught lake fish. The terrace view? Chef’s kiss.
  2. La Punta (Tremezzo) – At Grand Hotel Tremezzo, this is the spot for a splurge-worthy lobster pasta with champagne.
  3. Vecchia Varenna (Varenna) – Cozy, rustic, and famous for pasta with black truffles.
  4. Crotto dei Platani (Brienno) – A hidden cave-like spot for pizzoccheri (buckwheat pasta with cheese).
  5. Natta Café (Como City) – Cool aperitivo spot with killer Negronis and gourmet cicchetti.

Pro Tip: Reserve ahead: top places book out fast, especially in summer. Many of them are right by the water—so always ask for a lakeside table when reserving!

4. Hike the Greenway del Lago

Beautiful view of the greenway del lago di como

If you want to see Lake Como without the tour buses, this hike is it. You’ll get exercise, culture, gelato, and bragging rights—all before lunch. 

This 10km (6.2-mile) lakeside trail is like a backstage pass to Lake Como’s prettiest villages, hidden gardens, and “holy-crap-that’s-beautiful” viewpoints. 

And the best part? It’s easy, scenic, and packed with gelato stops (because priorities). Trust me your list of best things to do in Lake Como is just incomplete without hiking the Greenway del Lago!

It stretches along the western shore of Lake Como, connecting the towns of Colonno to Griante (with the best bits around Lenno, Mezzegra, Tremezzo, and Cadenabbia). It’s like a greatest-hits tour of the area—but on foot.

Path of the Greenway del Lago Como Italy

This trail isn’t new—it’s actually based on ancient mule paths used by farmers and traders centuries ago. Today, it’s been spruced up with signs and cobblestones, but you’ll still pass: Stone houses older than your great-great-grandma, Secret villas with peek-a-boo lake views, and Olive groves that’ve been there since Roman times (!!).

Don’t miss out buying local oil by visiting an ancient olive oil press near Lenno that passes along the trail. There is a “Whispering Alley” in Mezzegra – A narrow lane where echoes bounce weirdly (try it!). And if you’re tired; Jump on a ferry mid-hike—no shame!

Best Time to Go

  • Morning (8-11 AM): Cool air, golden light, and almost empty trails.
  • Late Afternoon (4-6 PM): Sunset views over the lake = magic.
  • Avoid Midday in Summer: It gets hot, and some shady spots are limited.

How to Get There (No Fancy Gear Needed)

  • Start in Colonno: Take a train from Como (30 mins) or a ferry (check schedules—some go direct).
  • End in Griante: From here, hop on a ferry back to Bellagio/Varenna or train to Como.
  • Note: You can walk just part of it (like Lenno to Tremezzo, ~1.5 hours) if you’re not up for the full hike.

Pro Tip: The entire walk typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete, wear comfy shoes and bring water/snacks. 

5. Visit Villa Carlotta

Stunning view of Villa Carlotta Lake Como Italy

Imagine a 19th-century villa stuffed with art, wrapped in 80,000 square feet of jaw-dropping gardens, and plopped right on the lake with Alps in the background. That’s Villa Carlotta aka Disneyland of gardens—but with way better views and zero Mickey Mouse. 

This villa sits in Tremezzo, a cute little town smack in the middle of Lake Como’s western shore. It’s right across from Bellagio, so you get those iconic “lake fork” views without the crowds.

The best part? It’s ridiculously photogenic.

Getting here is super easy! Hop on a ferry from Bellagio, Varenna, or Como—it stops at Cadenabbia, just a 5-minute walk from the villa. 

If you want to drive; there’s parking nearby, but let’s be real—parking in Lake Como villages is like playing Tetris in expert mode. And if you’re hiking the Greenway del Lago, the villa is a perfect pit stop!

Best Time to Visit

  • Morning (9-11 AM): Fewer crowds, soft light for photos.
  • Late Afternoon (4-6 PM): Golden hour and it’s time that makes the gardens glow.
  • Avoid Midday in Summer: It gets hot, and tour buses roll in.

Unique Stuff You Won’t Find Elsewhere

  • The “Bamboo Cathedral” – A surreal tunnel of towering bamboo. Perfect for that Instagram shot.
  • The “Scent Trail” – A garden path designed to smell amazing (herbs, flowers, the works).
  • Seasonal Blooms: Visit in April-May for azalea explosions, or September for quieter vibes.

Pro Tip: Make sure to book your tickets online to skip the heavy summer lines. You can combine it with Villa Balbianello—they’re in close proximity to make a perfect day.

6. Experience the Funicular Ride

Experience The Funicular Ride at Lake Como One of The Best Things to do in Lake Como
Photo by Emanu37429, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Let me tell you a local secret to experience Lake Como like never before! Hopping on the Como-Brunate funicular is one of the coolest things to do while you’re visiting Lake Como (and the cheapest!) ways to experience the entire area. 

This engineering gem first opened in 1894 – back when ladies wore bustles and men wore top hats to ride it! Originally steam-powered, it was built so wealthy Como families could escape the summer heat. Today it still uses its original route and some vintage cars (now electric).

This charming little cable car ride starts right in Como’s city center (at Piazza De Gasperi, near the lakefront) and climbs to Brunate, a picturesque hillside village nicknamed “The Balcony of the Alps.” 

This ride isn’t just transportation – it’s a 7-minute time machine that zips you from the lakeshore up to a storybook mountain village with views that’ll make your jaw drop.

As you climb 500 meters, Lake Como unfolds beneath you like a living postcard. It feels like stepping into an old Italian film – complete with wooden benches and retro charm but in minutes you go from bustling city to peaceful mountain air!

Best Time to Visit

  • Early Morning (8-10am): Gives you Brunate all to yourself without crowd
  • Late Afternoon (4-6pm): Golden hour makes the lake sparkle
  • Avoid Midday in Summer: Can get crowded with day-trippers

Best Things to Do Up Top

  • The Viewpoint at Faro Voltiano: Walk 15 minutes from Brunate station to this lighthouse for 360° views of the lake and Alps
  • Explore Brunate Village: Cobbled streets, pastel houses, and cafes with terraces hanging over the void
  • Hike to Monte Piatto: For the active traveler, a 1-hour hike leads to even more spectacular vistas
  • Sunset Aperitivo: Grab a Spritz at Bar Roma and watch the lake turn gold

7. Tour Isola Comacina

View of Isola Comacina Visiting it is indeed one of the Best Things to do in Lake Como
Photo by Francois Trazzi, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It’s a small island, and one and only on the lake-  rich in history and beauty. Taking a tour of Isola Comacina is like stepping into a hidden slice of history right on Lake Como. It’s a fantastic day trip if you’re looking for some unusual things to do in Lake Como as it is considered beyond the usual tourist spots.

It’s a tiny, car-free island (just 600m long!) floating near the western shore between Ossuccio and Lenno, about halfway up the lake.

Getting here is half the fun; From Lenno or Ossuccio, take a boat taxi (€5-10 roundtrip, runs every 30 mins in summer), you can splurge for a sunset approach via private boat. 

And if you’re adventurous; you can rent a Kayak/Paddleboard from Ossuccio , but keep in mind that boats only run April-October – winter visits are for ghosts (seriously, it’s abandoned)

Once you reach here, you’ll find the entire island is dotted with fascinating ruins from its Roman and medieval past. The island’s unique shape and scenic views make it a great spot for a leisurely walk. 

As you wander, you’ll encounter ancient churches and remnants of old buildings, all set against a stunning backdrop of the lake and mountains.

Best Time to Visit

  • Morning (9-11am): Have the island to yourself
  • Late Lunch (1-3pm): Perfect for Locanda’s long, lazy meals
  • Sunset (6-8pm): Last boats leave around 7pm – magical but check schedules!

Best Things to Do Here

  • Explore the Ruins: Wander through 1000-year-old church skeletons overgrown (literally) with wildflowers
  • Climb to the Tower: The sole remaining structure gives a huge panoramic views
  • Swim Off the Rocks: Crystal-clear water perfect for a dip
  • Eat at Locanda: The island’s only restaurant serves food so good it breaks the “curse” (more on this below)

The Famous Meal at Locanda

  • Fixed Menu Only: Expect 6+ courses of lake fish, handmade pasta, and their famous “curse-breaking” dessert
  • Table Selection: Ask for terrace seating when reserving (weeks ahead in summer!)
  • Must-Try: Their “missoltini” (sun-dried fish) – a 1,000-year-old recipe

Pro Tip: This restaurant runs on CASH only.

8. Engage in Water Sports

Children kayaking in Lake Como

Fun Fact: Lake Como’s been a water sports hub since Roman times—they used to race boats here! Hence locals rightly termed Lake Como as a watersports playground. Today, it’s more about fun than gladiator vibes, but the tradition lives on.

If you’re a fan of water sports, this has to be in your list of best things to do in Lake Como which is an absolute paradise, and skipping it is like going to a pizza place and just smelling the dough!

This stunning lake offers a variety of thrilling activities that cater to every level of adventure seeker. From kayaking past George Clooney’s villa to paddleboarding at sunrise, here’s everything you need to know to dive in (literally).

For the best water sports action, head where the lake is calm and the views are downright ridiculous: Bellagio’s central location makes it perfect for paddleboarding with panoramic views.

While Varenna’s sheltered coves offer dreamy swimming spots, Tremezzo lets you kayak past postcard-perfect villas, and Como City delivers adrenaline-pumping wakeboarding and sailing for thrill-seekers.

Don’t miss out on a Secret Waterfall swim near Nesso, a short paddle leads to a hidden cascade.

Best Time to Go

  • Early Morning (6-9am): Lake = mirror, crowds = zero.
  • Late Afternoon (4-7pm): Golden hour + happy hour vibes.
  • Avoid Midday: Wind picks up, and boats create choppy water.

Lake Como Water Sports

  1. Kayaking: Paddle to Villa del Balbianello (if you’re a Star Wars fan, this is your moment).
  2. Paddleboarding (SUP): Sunrise sessions = glassy water + epic photos.
  3. Swimming: Dive into Lido di Lenno—a sandy beach (!) with mountain views.
  4. Wakeboarding: Head to Como Water Sports for cable-park thrills.
  5. Sailing: Rent a small boat (no license needed) and pretend you’re in a Yacht Week ad.

Pro Tip: Some tours offer nighttime SUP with glow sticks. 

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Vernazza, a charming village in the Cinque Terre Visit

9. RElax on the stunning beaches

Stunning view of Lake Como

Lake Como’s beaches are where you actually connect with the lake—not just look at it. Whether you’re reading a book on the pebbles or doing a cannonball off a dock, it’s the perfect way to balance out all that villa-hopping.

Getting on the Lake Como beaches are super easy as most of them are a short walk from ferry stops (Lenno, Ossuccio, Domaso). You can hop on a C10 bus that runs along the western shore, stopping near beaches. 

And if you’re driving, small parkings are available but you have to arrive early in summer- (very important).

Trust me you won’t regret skipping that yacht trip for a day. Just swim, sunbathe, and live your best dolce far niente (sweet doing nothing) life.

Nothing beats the smug feeling of telling your friends you “beached” in Lake Como. Most don’t even know it’s a thing!

Best Time to Visit

  • Morning (9-11am): Claim your spot before Italian families arrive.
  • Late Afternoon (4-7pm): Sun’s less intense, water’s warmest.
  • Avoid Midday: Some beaches have minimal shade (hello, sunburn).

Where to Find Lake Como Beaches

  • Lido di Lenno: The closest thing to a “real” beach (with actual sand!) near Villa del Balbianello.
  • Spiaggia di Ossuccio: A pebble beach with a panoramic view of Isola Comacina—perfect for a post-swim picnic.
  • Domaso (North Lake): Windsurfers’ charm with a laid-back vibe, almost Mediterranean chill.
  • Bellagio’s Punta Spartivento: Tiny but mighty, with 360° lake views from its rocky shore.

Pro Tip: Carry your towel and a mat since many beaches are rocky.

10. Explore the Orrido di Bellano Gorge

Top view of The Orrido di Bellano Gorge Near Lake Como ; include it in your list of Things to do in Lake Como Italy

Okay, forget the fancy villas for a second – let me tell you about Lake Como’s most dramatic natural wonder that most tourists completely miss. The Orrido di Bellano is like Mother Nature’s version of a thriller movie – a jaw-dropping gorge where turquoise water crashes through narrow rock walls at terrifying speeds. 

And the best part? You can walk right over it on creaky wooden bridges while getting sprayed by refreshing mist. 

This Lake Como hidden gem is a natural gorge located near the town of Bellano (about halfway up the eastern shore). It is just 15 minutes north of Varenna, 30 minutes south of Colico, and right off the main road – you can’t miss the entrance!

You can easily get here by train as Bellano station it’s just 2 minutes from the gorge (trains run every hour from Como/Lecco). Alternatively you can hop on a ferry to Bellano. And if you’re reaching by car a small entrance fee (€1/hour), to be charged.

This place is so good to be true with 50-foot waterfalls, whirlpools, and caves lit with moody spotlights, I bet this one will be your best things to do in Lake Como with kids under €5.

Best Time to Visit

  • Morning (9-11am): Fewer crowds, soft light for photos
  • Late Afternoon (4-6pm): Sun hits the waterfalls perfectly
  • Avoid Midday in Summer: Can get crowded with tour groups

Things to Do Here

  1. Walk the Canyon Trail (15 mins): Metal walkways take you over/through the craziest sections
  2. Feel the Spray: Stand near the main waterfall for a free mist shower (summer = natural AC)
  3. Night Visits (Summer): Special evening openings with eerie lighting
  4. Explore Bellano Town: Don’t miss the quirky “Museum of the Devil” at the next door

Pro Tip: Combine with a ferry ride to Varenna afterward (just 15 mins away) 

11. Explore Como Cathedral

Stunning view of Como Cathedral aka Duomo di Como Italy

Como Cathedral aka Duomo di Como is one of the most underrated gems in the whole region. This isn’t just another church—it’s a 600-year-old masterpiece with wild Renaissance-meets-Gothic architecture, mind-blowing art, and a rooftop view that’ll make you go in awe! 

Smack in the heart of Como’s historic center, at Piazza del Duomo—you literally can’t miss it. The cathedral towers over the main square, surrounded by cute cafes and shopping streets.

This cathedral rules in Lake Como having a mix of gothic spikes, renaissance elegance, and intricate statues (look for Pliny the Elder—yes, that Pliny). Intrigued with marble flooring, 10,000-square-foot tapestries, and a golden altar that’ll blind you with bling.

It’s nicknamed as The Burning Candle—because at sunset, the dome glows like a flame.

What’s more exciting? You can actually climb to the rooftop (€3 Entry Fee, rooftop = extra €5) for panoramic lake + city views (way cheaper than a helicopter tour).

Best Time to Visit

  • Morning (9-11am): Quiet, soft light through stained glass.
  • Late Afternoon (4-6pm): Warm golden glow on the facade + rooftop views.
  • Avoid Midday & Sundays: Tour groups + Mass crowds = chaos.

Pro Tip: Be mindful in dressing, cover your shoulders/knees (they’re strict).

12. The Museo del Ciclismo Madonna del Ghisallo

For something completely out of the ordinary, especially if you’re a cycling enthusiast, the Museo del Ciclismo Madonna del Ghisallo is not only fascinating but one of the must-see places in Lake Como.

This place is a shrine to bike racing (€6 Entry Fee) , packed with legendary jerseys, vintage bikes, and enough Tour de France drama to make a movie!

And the best part? It sits on a hill with insane lake views that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.

Perched high above Lake Como in Magreglio, about 10 km (6 miles) from Bellagio, and 45 minutes from Como by car, you can opt for the easiest option to reach here; By car – park right at the museum (small lot, free), and if you’re hardcore biker, ride up the Ghisallo climb (it’s a pilgrimage for cyclists).

Alternatively,  you can board a C30 bus from Bellagio (ask for “Ghisallo”—drivers know the spot).

Best Time to Visit

  • Morning (10am-12pm): Quiet, perfect light for photos.
  • Late Afternoon (3-5pm): Sunset over the lake = unreal.
  • Avoid Race Days: Unless you want crowds (but the energy is electric).

Unique Experiences

  • Try the Interactive Simulator: “Ride” the Ghisallo climb without breaking a sweat.
  • Spot the Oddest Artifact: A bike made of wood from 1900. How?!
  • Visit During a Race: If you’re lucky, catch pros zooming past (check the calendar).

Pro Tip: Rent an e-bike in Bellagio if you want to ride up without dying.

How to reach Lake Como?

No sweat—it’s a breeze!

Here’s the lowdown on your travel options:

  • Fly into Milan – Land at Malpensa or Linate Airport. From there, grab a train at Milan’s main station (Milano Centrale) straight to Como San Giovanni—it’s about an hour ride. If you’re at Malpensa, you can also catch the Malpensa Express, which hooks you up with easy connections.
  • Drive yourself – Prefer road trips? Just rent a car and cruise from Milan to the Lake Como. The drive’s around 1 to 1.5 hours, and you’ll get killer views along the way.
  • Hop on a train – Milan’s central station has frequent trains to Como. Super convenient if you’re already in the city or nearby.
  • Boat it in – Coming from somewhere around the lake? Ferries run from spots like Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna, giving you a chill (and Instagram-worthy) ride to Como.

Boom—you’re there! Pick what fits your vibe and go. 😎

Lake Como Map

What to do in Lake Como for a day?

Got just one day at Lake Como? No problem! Here’s how you can make the most of it without rushing:

  • Hop on a Boat & Cruise the Lake â€“ Jump on a scenic boat ride to soak in those dreamy lake views. You’ll glide past fancy villas like Villa del Balbianello (yep, the one from movies!) and Villa Carlotta—total eye candy!
  • Stroll Around Bellagio â€“ This place is ridiculously pretty. Wander its cute cobblestone lanes, peek into boutique shops, grab a coffee, and check out Villa Melzi’s gardens (perfect for pics).
  • Tour Villa Carlotta â€“ Swing by this stunning villa in Tremezzo—it’s packed with cool art and insanely colorful gardens (think: tons of flowers and giant old trees).
  • Funicular Ride to Brunate â€“ Take the short, steep ride up to Brunate for killer views of the lake, town, and even the Alps! While you’re up there, wander the tiny village and snap pics at the Volta Lighthouse.
  • Walk the Greenway Trail â€“ End your day with a chill lakeside walk on the Greenway del Lago. It links cute towns like Colonno and Lenno, with epic views, hidden villas, and old churches along the way.

All The Beautiful Italian Lakes

Check out all the other Best Italian Lakes that you must cover including Lake Como while you’re in Italy.

Collage of The Best Italian Lakes

FAQs

What is the prettiest part of Lake Como?

Often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio will enchant you with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and stunning mountain and lake views. Attractions like the gardens of Villa Melzi and the historic Villa Serbelloni add to its beauty, making Bellagio the prettiest part of Lake Como.

How many days do you need to see Lake Como Italy?

To truly enjoy Lake Como, I recommend spending at least three to four days. This gives you enough time to explore the charming towns, iconic villas, and beautiful landscapes at a relaxed pace.

Ready to Embrace Lake Como Attractions?

Trust me; These activities offer a unique twist to the typical itinerary, giving you a chance to explore some unusual things to do in Lake Como to see this beautiful area from a different perspective.

Save this guide for your adventure tour at Lake Como. Feel free to ask any questions in the comments below. I’ll be more than happy to reply with more information! 

I LOVE this lake! I’m sure you’ll too:)

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