Lake Como, Italy: The Best Things To Do

• Things to Do
• Ferries & Tours
• Where to Stay
• Visitor Info

Lake Como, locally known as Lago di Como or Lario, is one of Italy’s most magical destinations. It sits in Lombardy just 45 kilometers north of Milan, near the Swiss border.

Famous for its dramatic Y-shaped form, deep blue waters, and mountain backdrop, this glacial lake captivates with historic villas (such as Villa Balbianello and Villa Monastero) and charming towns like Como, Bellagio and Varenna.

One of Europe’s deepest lakes and a longtime celebrity haven, Lake Como blends natural beauty with Italian elegance. This complete guide covers everything you need—top attractions, ferries and tours, accommodations, and essential visitor information.

What are the best things to do & see on Lake Como?

To make the most of your Lake Como visit, you can explore charming lakeside towns, tour historic villas and their gardens, take scenic ferry rides between villages, and much more ⤵️

1. Explore cities and towns around Lake Como 🚶

Each town has its own character—from Como’s urban energy to Bellagio’s elegance, Varenna’s romance, and Menaggio’s mountain-backed charm.

Como

Como blends historic charm with modern amenities. Explore the magnificent Duomo cathedral, wander the medieval walled city, stroll lively piazzas, then take the funicular up to Brunate for panoramic views. Como serves as the main transportation hub with excellent ferry connections.

➡️ Discover Como

Bellagio

The “Pearl of Lake Como” sits where the lake’s three branches meet. Climb steep cobblestone lanes like Salita Serbelloni lined with chic boutiques and cafés, visit lush villa gardens (Villa Melzi, Villa Serbelloni), and soak in the timeless elegance that has captivated travelers for centuries.

➡️ Discover Bellagio

Varenna

This romantic former fishing village on the eastern shore enchants with colorful lakeside houses and peaceful atmosphere. Stroll the scenic Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lover’s Walk), explore Villa Monastero‘s botanical gardens, and hike up to Castello di Vezio for spectacular lake views.

➡️ Discover Varenna

Menaggio

Perfectly balancing nature and leisure on the western shore, Menaggio features an elegant lakefront promenade backed by dramatic mountains. It’s an ideal base for hikers, offers easy access to other towns via ferry, and provides bike and kayak rentals for active exploration.

➡️ Discover Menaggio

➡️ Discover more towns on Lake Como

2. Visit the historic villas of Lake Como 🌺

Lake Como’s historic villas showcase centuries of aristocratic elegance. Visit between late March and October to explore stunning botanical gardens and art collections.

Villa Balbianello, Tremezzina

Perched on a wooded promontory with dramatic terraced gardens, this iconic villa has starred in James Bond’s Casino Royale and Star Wars films. Reach it via scenic walking trail or boat taxi from Lenno ferry dock for unforgettable lake views and romantic gardens.

➡️ Discover Villa Balbianello

Villa Monastero, Varenna

A former monastery transformed into an elegant lakeside villa with enchanting botanical gardens stretching along the shoreline. Wander paths lined with fountains, statues, exotic plants, and Mediterranean species while enjoying breathtaking lake panoramas at every turn.

➡️ Discover Villa Monastero

Gardens of Villa Melzi, Bellagio

These refined English-style gardens feature manicured lawns, exotic plants, and peaceful lakeside paths—pure romantic elegance. While the villa remains private, the gardens are open to visitors seeking tranquil beauty and stunning photo opportunities in Bellagio’s most exclusive setting.

➡️ Discover Villa Melzi

Villa Carlotta, Tremezzina

This 17th-century palace houses an impressive art museum with sculptures and paintings, plus 14 acres of spectacular botanical gardens. The spring blooms of azaleas and rhododendrons are legendary. Located steps from the ferry jetty, it’s easily accessible and perfect for art and garden lovers.

➡️ Discover Villa Carlotta

➡️ Discover the villas of Lake Como

3. Take a private boat tour and enjoy the view 🚤

Enjoy breathtaking views of the villas and villages of Lake Como on a private boat tour. Tours are available on classic wooden boats or motorboats and, in most cases, include prosecco and snacks on board. 

👆 Tap ‘Book Now’ to discover the details of each experience!

Romance: 2h boat tour with Venetian Limousine

From €600/tour	Up to 8 people	2 hours

A non-stop 2-hour private tour that will show you the most beautiful towns and villas of Lake Como aboard a Venetian Limousine speedboat.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

La Dolce Vita: 3h boat tour with Venetian Limousine (30′ stop)

From €850/tour	Up to 8 people	3 hours

A 3-hour private tour aboard a Venetian Limousine that will show you the most famous towns and villas of Lake Como. It includes a 30-minute stop at a location of your choice.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

The Village: 4h boat tour with Venetian Limousine (1h stop)

From €1100/tour	Up to 8 people	4 hours

A 4-hour private tour that will show you the most beautiful towns and villas of Lake Como aboard a Venetian Limousine speedboat. This tour includes a 1-hour stop at a location of your choice.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

Tailored boat tour with Venetian Limousine

From €600/tour	Up to 8 people	2-8 hours

Take a private boat tour with your better half or with your friends, and enjoy breathtaking views at your own pace aboard a Venetian Limousine speedboat.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

Tailored boat tour with Cranchi E26 Classic

From €600/tour	Up to 6 people	2-8 hours

Take a private boat tour aboard the Cranchi E26 luxury tender, a boat with a distinctive and refined style, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

➡️ See more private boat tours

4. Relax on one of Lake Como's beaches 🏖️

Lake Como’s beaches offer perfect summer relaxation, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and water sports like sailing and windsurfing—best enjoyed June through August.

Private beaches (lidos)

Reserve a sunbed at Lake Como’s equipped lidos for guaranteed comfort and amenities. Popular choices include Lido di Bellagio, Victoria Beach Lido (Menaggio) and Giulietta al Lago (Como).

Public beaches

Free public beaches dot the shoreline, with the cleanest, purest waters found in the central and northern areas. Popular spots include Lido di Ossuccio (Tremezzina), the public beach of San Giovanni (Bellagio) and the beaches of Dervio and Colico.

➡️ Discover the beaches of Lake Como

5. Take a hike around Lake Como 🥾

The surrounding mountains and hills offer hundreds of scenic trails for all skill levels, rewarding hikers with panoramic lake views and authentic local experiences.

Greenway del Lago di Como (central area)

This relatively flat, 11-kilometer trail along the western shore is perfect for leisurely walkers and families. Wind through charming, quieter villages like Colonno, Sala Comacina, and Tremezzina, discovering local culture, lakeside views, and traditional restaurants along the way.

➡️ Discover the Lake Como Greenway

Spina Verde Park (Como area)

Explore this natural park near Como city, offering routes for various experience levels from easy walks to more challenging climbs. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the lake and city, eat in a typical mountain restaurant (baita), and discover the park’s rich flora and historical sites including ancient fortifications.

➡️ Discover the Spina Verde Park

➡️ Discover more hikes & walks around Lake Como

Ferries, tours & experiences

⛴️ Public ferry tours

The Lake Como ferry service, operated by Navigazione Laghi, connects all major towns like Como, Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and many others.

Purchase a day pass for unlimited hop-on/hop-off travel, enjoy open-air seating with spectacular views, and explore at your own pace. Choose regular ferries for leisurely sightseeing or faster hydrofoils for express connections.

• An important route starts in Como and, after several stops (Cernobbio, Argegno, etc.), always passes through Bellagio, before reaching the northern part of Lake Como (in many cases as far as Colico). It is the only line that offers an express service.
• In the central area of the lake, several ferries connect Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and nearby towns in 15-30 minutes; some of these ferries can also carry cars.
• There is also the Lecco-Bellagio line, the only one that is not in service during the winter months.

Fares for most common routes

• One-way ticket Como-Bellagio: €10.40.
• Como-Bellagio day pass: €23.30
• One-way ticket Bellagio-Varenna: €4.60 (this price applies to all one-way passenger transfers between towns in the central area of the lake, such as Menaggio-Varenna)
• One-way ticket Lecco-Bellagio: €8.30

On the company’s official website, navigazionelaghi.it.

Online booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season (between June and September). If you are unable to purchase your ticket online, you will need to go to the ticket office at the pier between 30 minutes and one hour before departure.

You can choose between slower, more scenic ferries that take around 2 hours (regular service), or faster hydrofoil ferries that complete the journey in about 45 minutes (express service). 

The ferry ride from Varenna to Bellagio typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

➡️ Read more about ferry service

🍷 Experiences & guided tours

Make your trip to Lake Como unique ✨Tap ‘Book Now’ to discover the details of each experience!

Romance: 2h boat tour with Venetian Limousine

From €600/tour	Up to 8 people	2 hours

A non-stop 2-hour private tour that will show you the most beautiful towns and villas of Lake Como aboard a Venetian Limousine speedboat.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

Tailored boat tour with Venetian Limousine

From €600/tour	Up to 8 people	2-8 hours

Take a private boat tour with your better half or with your friends, and enjoy breathtaking views at your own pace aboard a Venetian Limousine speedboat.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

Cooking Class Experience in Bellagio

From €180/pers.	Up to 8 people	3 hours

A group cooking class in the magical town of Bellagio, with your own private Italian chef.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

5h boat tour with visit to Villa Carlotta & Villa Melzi

From €1320/tour	Up to 6 people	5 hours

A 5-hour private boat tour aboard the luxury Cranchi E26 that includes entrance tickets to Villa Carlotta and the Gardens of Villa Melzi.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

Como food tour & farmer’s market

From €120/pers.	Up to 10 people	3 hours

An exciting culinary tour for people who love to discover the local flavours of Como in non-touristy locales.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

From Milan: Como & Bellagio + 1h boat tour

From €99/pers.	15+ people	Full-day

Take a break from Milan and experience a full-day trip to Como and Bellagio, also enjoying a private one-hour cruise on Lake Como.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

Villa Balbianello entrance ticket (park only) with ferry tickets

From €58/person

Visit the fascinating grounds of Villa del Balbianello and enjoy a ferry ride on Lake Como without having to stand in lines to buy tickets.

Tap to see cancellation policy and other info

➡️ See more experiences & tours

Where to stay in Lake Como?

A selection of the best reviewed accommodations on Booking.com ✨

Hilton Lake Como

Hotel Belvedere

Hotel Du Lac & SPA

Hotel Olivedo

Grand Hotel Menaggio

Divina Vita Apartments

Albergo Firenze

Pescallo Apartments

Hotel Garni Corona

➡️ See more places to stay in Lake Como

Visitor info

The best time to visit Lake Como depends on what you look for. Here’s a clear breakdown:

🌸 Best Overall: Late April to June

• Pleasant temperatures (18–25°C)
• Lake and gardens in full bloom
• Ideal for boat tours, hiking, photography
• Busy but not overwhelming

☀️ Peak Season: July & August

• Warmest months (up to 30+°C)
• Perfect for swimming and outdoor dining
• Most lively atmosphere
• BUT: also the most crowded and expensive

🍂 Relaxed & Beautiful: Late September to mid-October

• Mild weather
• Fewer tourists
• Great light for photos
• A favorite for many repeat visitors.

❄️ Quiet & Budget-Friendly: November to March

• Many hotels and restaurants close for the season
• Very calm atmosphere
• Best if you want serenity, not ideal for a full experience.

⭐ My Recommendation

If you want the perfect mix of good weather, beauty, and manageable crowds, choose:

➡️ Late May–June➡️ Late September

Most travelers find that 2–3 days are enough to explore the highlights, including Bellagio, Varenna, and a few villas or viewpoints.

With 4–5 days, you can enjoy a slower pace, visit additional towns, take scenic hikes, or relax on the water. If you want a mix of culture, food, and nature, a long weekend is ideal.

I strongly advise against one-day visits, especially during peak season: you won’t be able to fully enjoy the experience, and it could also have a negative impact on the area.

Lake Como is easy to reach from Milan and northern Italy.

• The fastest option is by train: regular services connect Milan to Como, Varenna, and Lecco in about 40–70 minutes. From Como and Varenna, you can continue by ferry to reach Bellagio, Menaggio, and other central lake towns.
• If you’re driving, major highways lead directly to Como and Lecco, but parking can be limited in popular villages.
• Travelers arriving by plane can reach the lake from Milan Malpensa, Linate or Bergamo airports using trains, buses, or private transfers.

➡️ Discover how to get to Lake Como

There are many different ways to get around Lake Como. In general, I recommend that you avoid getting around by car and plan your trips carefully with the various services offered by public transportation.

In addition, it is very important that you find out how to make the most of the services offered by ferries and buses, the main means of transportation that connect the various towns on Lake Como.

➡️ Discover how to get around Lake Como

It depends on the area that you want to reach. If you want to reach Como city, Milan Malpensa Airport is probably the best choice (read here how to get from Malpensa to Como). 

Milan Linate Airport is probably the best if you want to get to Bellagio, Lecco and Varenna. However, all the Milan airports allow you to reach Lake Como’s towns quite easily.

Lake Como is accessible in many areas, but accessibility varies significantly from town to town. Promenades, ferry piers and main public spaces often offer ramps or step-free access.

However, several historic villages — including Bellagio and Varenna — have steep streets and many stairways, which can be challenging for wheelchair users or travelers with limited mobility.

Ferries also differ: larger boats are usually more accessible, while smaller or older vessels may have restrictions. Planning ahead is recommended to ensure a smooth and comfortable visit.

In general, with the exception of the Como area, swimming is possible in most of the lake. But be careful, because swimming in Lake Como is not without risk, mainly for two reasons:

• the water temperature is generally lower than that of the sea, and if you dive when it is very hot outside, your body may suffer
• in addition, some areas of the lake have eddies that can make it difficult for you to stay afloat.

Remember to never ignore any safety warnings that may be present, and if you want to swim safely, opt for a lido with a pool.

Lake Como is very deep—in fact, it’s one of the deepest lakes in Europe.

• Maximum depth: about 425 meters (1,394 feet) in the area between Argegno and Nesso

• Average depth: around 150 meters (490 feet)

The lake’s bottom lies below sea level, which makes Lake Como deeper than many seas and much deeper than most Italian lakes.

➡️ Discover the interactive map

Find out more on Lake Como Travel’s Instagram feed ⤵️

lakecomotravel

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🥇 Lake Como’s top visited website 🧒🏻 Local tips. Easy planning. Perfect trips.

🎅Lake Como at Christmas? Here is what I wouldn’t miss:1. Villa Cipressi Christmas Garden in Varenna 🎄Until January 6, these botanical gardens turn into a magical, illuminated village. Music, glowing lights, and sweet treats everywhere!2. Christmas markets in Como, Lecco and Colico 🍷Mulled wine, local food, and perfect gifts to bring home3. Christmas light displays ✨Historic buildings in Como and Lecco light up after sunset, and the Bellano gorge, just minutes from Varenna, looks even more dramatic4. Outdoor ice skating by the lake ⛸️Skate on rinks in Como, Lecco, Menaggio and Colico, surrounded by mountains and water➡️ Follow me and visit lakecomotravel.com for more tips!...#lakecomochristmaslight #christmastravel #comochristmas #lakecomoitaly #villacipressi #christmaslightsdisplay

❄️ Comment "winter" to get my Lake Como winter guide sent straight to your DMs! 💌Here`s your permission slip to visit Lake Como in the off-season ❄️✨Forget what you`ve heard—winter on the lake is actually incredible. Cozy cafés with lake views, fewer tourists (except on Christmastime), and that magical Italian winter vibe you didn`t know you needed.If you`ve been dreaming of Italy without the summer crowds, this is your sign. Winter Lake Como hits different🤍Save this for your 2025/6 winter travel plans!...#lakecomo #lakecomoitaly #christmastravels #italytravel #wintertravel #lakecomowinter #lagodicomo #comoitaly

✨ Winter vibes on Lake Como ✨Who says the lake is only magical in summer? ❄️Quiet streets, sparkling light, cozy corners, and those peaceful lake views.. Winter gives Lake Como a whole new charm 🌊📍Which town would you explore first?🗨️ Drop a comment and let me know your favorite winter spot!...#lakecomoitaly #lakecomowinter #wintervibes❤️ #nataleacomo #villacipressi #varenna #lagodicomo #christmasvibes🎄

💙 Orrido di Nesso + Ponte della Civera: pure magic on Lake Como ✨...#orridodinesso #nesso #nessolagodicomo #lakecomoitaly

🇮🇹 Lake Como, where time slows down and light dances on the water.Every corner feels like a film scene waiting to happen.🎥 Featured: Villa Melzi · Villa Monastero · Varenna · VIlla La Cassinella · Villa Balbianello · Bellagio📌 Save this for your next Italian escape!...#lakecomoitaly #visitlakecomo #lagodicomo #beautifuldestinations #bellagio #varenna #villabalbianello #villamonastero

✨ Villa del Balbianello — where every view feels like a film scene 🎥Perched above the lake, this stunning late 18th-century villa has starred in stories from Star Wars to James Bond — but it’s even more breathtaking in person 💙The gardens, the arches, the silence — everything here feels suspended in time.📍 Lenno (Tremezzina), Lake Como📌 Save this reel for your trip to Lake Como!...#villabalbianello #lakecomoitaly #visitlakecomo #lagodicomo #beautifuldestinations #cinematictravel #starwarslocation

4 Responses

1. From which point can I see the famous picturesque view of Lake como which is all over the internet? For example the first picture of this page is the one I am talking about.

   Reply

   1. Hi! The place in the first picture is Varenna 🙂

      Reply

2. I’m gluten free and have not had any problems at larger city restaurants during our prior Italy travels. Do the smaller towns here offer gluten free food options?

   Reply

   1. Hi, there are several restaurants that offer a wide range of gluten-free dishes, and you can generally find them in the most touristy towns. Here are a few suggestions:

      • Como: Ristorante in Teatro, L’Antica, Fontana d’Oro
      • Bellagio: La Fontana, Alle Darsene di Loppia, Salice Blu
      • Varenna: Osteria Quatro Pass, VarennaMonamour

      I hope this helps!

      Reply

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