Lake Como

Lago di Como

One of Europe's most glamorous lakes, Como is framed by Alpine mountains and dotted with elegant villas and colourful villages. It has been a retreat for artists, aristocrats, and celebrities for centuries.

Things to do

• Ferry ride between Bellagio and Varenna — The car ferry gives stunning lake and mountain views at low cost.
• Visit Villa Carlotta gardens — Spring is magical here when azaleas and rhododendrons are in full bloom.
• Explore Bellagio village — Wander the steep cobblestone alleys and browse artisan silk shops.
• Hike the Greenway del Lago — A scenic 10 km trail along the western shore linking lakeside villages.
• Visit Como town's Duomo — The cathedral blends Gothic and Renaissance styles beautifully.
• Visit Villa del Balbianello — Tour the ornate terraced gardens and loggia of this iconic lakeside villa near Lenno, famous from James Bond and Star Wars films.
• Take the Brunate Funicular — Ride the historic funicular from Como town up to the hilltop village of Brunate for panoramic lake views.
• Explore Varenna Village — Stroll the narrow waterfront promenade and pastel-colored lanes of this quiet, charming village on the eastern shore.
• Boat trip to Isola Comacina — Visit Lake Como's only island, which has ancient ruins and a legendary restaurant serving a fixed theatrical menu since 1947.
• Visit Villa Monastero, Varenna — Wander the elegant botanical garden that stretches along the lakeshore, housed in a former Cistercian monastery.

Food to try

• Missoltino — Sun-dried agone fish from the lake, a centuries-old Como specialty.
• Pizzoccheri di Como — Buckwheat pasta with local cheese, cabbage, and butter.
• Lavarello in burro e salvia — Freshwater whitefish fried in sage butter, a local lake staple.
• Gelato in Bellagio — Artisan gelaterias in Bellagio are renowned for fresh, seasonal flavours.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect private villas — Many lakeside villas are private; admire them from the water only.
• Ferry schedule awareness — Ferries reduce sharply in the evening, so plan return trips carefully.
• Peak season crowds — July and August bring heavy crowds to Bellagio; visit early morning for calm.