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Lake Como, located north of Milan, has long been associated with summer and villegiatura. The lake, also known as Lario, has been popular with travellers since the 18th Century, the age of European Grand Tours. Today, the lake’s elegant villas and beautiful vistas are the perfect setting for a relaxing holiday. Renting a boat is the easiest way of visiting the region, hopping on and off at villages, villas and towns. We’ve put together this short Lake Como travel guide, starting in Como, and going anti-clockwise along the lake’s shores. Whether you’re looking for a set itinerary, or simply inspiration, feel free to pick and choose between the numerous places you can visit, and adapt the itinerary to your interests.
When is the best time to visit Lake Como?
The high season in Lake Como is between May and September. The months between June and August are particularly crowded. However, it can be argued that spring is the best time, especially if you’re looking for a quieter holiday.
How to get to Lake Como?
If you’re coming from abroad, the closest airport is the Milan Malpensa International Airport. From there, you’ll have the choice of taking the train or driving up to the lake.
Como
The city of Como, nestled on the southern tip of the homonymous lake, is a great way to start your adventure on a cultural note. You’ll find the city is dotted with landmarks. Visit the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, the Teatro Sociale, the Passegiata Lino Gelpi, the Piazza San Fedele or the bustling Via Vittorio Emmanuelle II. Como has also been Italy’s silk capital since the 19th Century. You’ll find the dedicated Museo della Seta in the heart of the city.
Next, head up to Belaggio. Along the way, you’ll pass by Torno, with the hamlet of Piazaga not far up the hill. Nesso is also along the way, with its renowned Orrido di Nesso, crossed by the charming Ponte della Civera.
Bellagio
Bellagio, often described as the pearl of lake Como, is a cluster of narrow alleyways and stony streets. It is located at the end of the promontory that separates the two branches of the lake. In the village’s vicinity, you’ll find the Villa Melzi, and its beautiful botanical gardens. The Villa Serbelloni, first built in 1400, with its 21 hectares of gardens, is also here. And at the tip of the promontory is Punta Spartivento, from where you can admire panoramic vistas of the lake.
From Bellagio, head south-east towards the Lecco branch of the lake.
Lecco
The next stop on our tour is the quieter town of Lecco. Stroll through its centre to admire the neoclassical architecture that characterises this town, including the Palazzo delle Paure. You’ll find the Regional Park of Monte Barre just outside, perfect for a day or more of hiking. Or take the funicular up to Piani d’Erna for spectacular views of the region, Lake Como and Lake Garlate to the south.
Varenna
Further up north from Lecco, you’ll find the colourful town of Varenna. An old fishing village, it is also host to elegant villas, in particular the 17th Century Villa Cipressi, and the 12th Century Villa Monastera with its terraced botanical gardens. Stroll around the town’s narrow streets, take a break at its pebbly beach, and enjoy an ice cream on the port.
Bellano
Continuing your journey northwards, sail up to Bellano. This town is a collection of medieval houses, and Baroque courtyards. The Church of Santa Marta, dating back to the 15th/16th Century, houses a group of nine life-sized wooden statues depicting the deposition of Christ. The town’s main attraction, however, is the Orrido di Bellano, a small canyon formed 15 million years ago. A system of walkways allows you to see up close the impressive waterfalls and tumultuous waters that flow through high rock walls, formed by the erosion of the Pioverna river.
From Bellano, you can either cross over straight to Menaggio, or explore the northern parts of the lake. There, you’ll find Corenno Plinio, a medieval hamlet, and the Museo della Barca Lariana. Opened in 1982, the museum explores the modes of transport which have defined the lake’s history. It also contains a permanent exhibition dedicated to Ernesto Riva and his homonymous boats.
Menaggio
Opposite Bellano is the town of Menaggio. Coming from the water is the best way to appreciate the town’s charm, offering you scenic views of its waterfront. It’s a happy mix of colourful old buildings, boutique shops, wine bars and delightful restaurants, all centred around the Piazza Garibaldi. Head to the Lido for a beach swim, walk up to Castello, the medieval part of town, or visit St Stephen’s Church and its beautiful frescoes dating back to the 17th Century.
Tremezzo and Lenno
South of Menaggio are the towns of Tremezzo and Lenno, truly stunning locations that bring together all that characterises Lake Como. Villa Carlotta features a museum, and gardens of sculptures and exotic plants. Villa del Balbianello, where part of James Bond’s Casino Royale were filmed, also happened to be the house of the first Italian to lead an expedition to Mount Everest. The two villas exude charm and elegance. The Grand Hotel Tremezzo, another architectural masterpiece, is also well worth the detour for a peek inside.
Close to the two towns are Ossucio, and the Isola Comacina. From there, you can head to the Sacro Monte della Beate Vergina del Soccorso, a UNESCO listed site, known for its 14 chapels that lead to a hillside sanctuary.
From Lenno, sail down south towards Como to finish your tour. On the way, you might want to stop at Colonno, an old fishing village, or at Argegno, from where you can take a cable car up to Pigra, another panoramic viewpoint of the lake and its surrounding mountains.
For more itineraries and inspiration, check out the Click&Boat blog. You’ll find more destination information on Italy, including Tuscany, and the Amalfi Coast.
