Lake Como italy is a majestic area lined with sublime picturesque villages.An emblematic basin of the Lombardy region in Italy.Located about 40 kilometers north of Milan, it is a very popular place for vacationers who come in large numbers to discover the unique charm of Lecco, Bellagio, Como, or Varenna. Here are the must-see places for your visit to Lake Como.
Lecco
Located on the southeast side of Lake Como, the city of Lecco is another favorite starting point for visitors coming from Milan. Accessible by train from the world capital of fashion, it is one of the major seaside resorts of the basin. However, it has managed to preserve its authenticity in the face of mass tourism, and it is a good place to live and relax under the Lombard sun.
The city has an exceptional panorama of the surrounding steep mountains, and also contains heritage gems such as the Visconti Bridge, one of the oldest in the city, and the Basilica of St. Nicholas and its imposing bell tower, so emblematic of Lecco. Standing over 95 meters high, it is probably one of the most beautiful in the country!
During your walk between Piazza Roma and Piazza Mario Cermenati, you will certainly discover the statue of the writer Alessandro Manzoni, an adopted citizen of Lecco who did a lot of work for the city, but also those of Mario Cermenati, a geologist and naturalist who, among other things, founded the municipal museums of Lecco.
Take a break on the terrace to sip a cool drink and then visit Villa Manzoni. This grand neoclassical palace now houses a superb museum dedicated to Alessandro Manzoni, who was born in this sumptuous residence. Around Lecco, you will find many villas from the 18th and 19th centuries: no doubt that lovers of history and architecture will be delighted!
Bellagio
Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of Lake Como”, is one of the places that the international jet set visits every year for vacation. Have you ever seen this ad for a famous coffee brand, featuring Jean Dujardin and George Clooney on the shore of a lake? Well, it was shot in the residence of the famous American actor, one of the many stars who appreciate the calm and discretion of this Italian village…
The virtues of Bellagio have long been praised: founded in the 1st century BC by Julius Caesar, the town was already a highly sought-after resort for the wealthy, and this reputation has endured throughout history. Since then, many luxury establishments and mansions have sprung up to accommodate the wealthy clientele who frequent the area every year.
But it would be absurd to confine Bellagio to its reputation as a “celebrity niche”: it is also a fascinating historical city that can easily be visited in half a day. Located on the outlet of Lake Como, the city is bordered on both sides by the transalpine basin, so much so that it almost feels like an island! Stroll along the concrete promenade, explore the landscaped gardens, and let the soothing iodine air of the lake lull you to sleep. Then head to Piazza Mazzini, with its iconic arcades that once housed the local market traders, and continue your visit to the historic old town with its beautiful churches, colorful alleys, and striking villas.
Speaking of villas, there are two that you should not miss before leaving Bellagio! The first is called Villa Melzi, and it is best known for being the birthplace of the daughter of Franz Liszt, the famous Hungarian composer, in 1837.
Although this neoclassical palace cannot be visited from the inside, the discovery of its gardens alone is worth the trip! The brainchild of architect Giocondo Albertolli, with its colorful vegetation, sublime marble statues, and extraordinary view of the lake, it’s no wonder that many consider them the most beautiful in northern Italy!
The estate of Villa Serbelloni is also a must-see, with its hanging gardens and its breathtaking view of the lake. To discover it, however, you will have to book a guided tour at the tourist office and places are limited… But it is also the guarantee of a visit in all tranquillity!
Before ending your visit to Bellagio, take a break in the Martiri Della Libertà park, a small haven of peace ideal for sheltering from the blazing Italian sun and admiring Lake Como, and then make a last stop at the Basilica of San Giacomo, a beautiful medieval building located in Piazza della Chiesa.
Como
The city of Como is an ideal starting point for a stay around the lake and is a remarkable place in many ways. If tourists come here in large numbers, it is mainly to discover the cultural and historical gems it contains.
First of all, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is one of the great must-sees of your visit. Located in Piazza del Duomo, this sumptuous Renaissance and Gothic building took over 400 years to build. You feel very small when you arrive at the foot of this grandiose monument!
The Basilica of San Fedele, located in the eponymous square, is another architectural feat not to be missed. Built in the early Middle Ages, it has undergone many changes throughout history, including the introduction of frescoes inside the monument in the seventeenth century but also the reconstruction of the facade and the bell tower in the early twentieth century. In addition, there is a market of handicrafts and antiques in Piazza San Fedele every Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm. A great place to do business in a fabulous setting.
A few meters away, you can also enter the Paolo Giovio Archaeological Museum, which exhibits objects found in the many archaeological sites in the area. On display are jewels, agricultural tools, and other medieval pottery, as well as prehistoric finds and ancient artifacts. The highlight of the visit is the discovery of the sarcophagus of Isiuret, a priceless cultural treasure that the museum presents once a year.
Let’s continue our tour of the city’s museums with the Giuseppe Garibaldi Historical Museum, which is located in Piazza Medaglie near the archaeological museum. Inside this ancient palace, you can discover various period objects (paintings, weapons, clothes…) that trace the history of the city of Como and the involvement of General Garibaldi in the birth of a unified Italy. Coupled with a visit to the archaeological museum, this is an outing that is sure to delight history buffs.
As you continue on your way, there is a good chance that you will come across the Porta Torre, a more than astonishing building with its atypical arches and its 40 meters height. This ancient medieval military infrastructure does not go unnoticed! Near this ancient defense tower, you can also meet local craftsmen who set up their stalls every Tuesday and Thursday morning, as well as on Saturdays, for the open-air market.
We could also mention the Tempio Voltiano, a sublime neoclassical building built in honor of the famous Italian physicist Alessandro Volta, but also the Baradello castle, the Hotel Metropole Suisse, Villa Olmo, or the silk museum… In short, there is so much to discover culturally in Como that you will need more than a day to do it all!
Let’s move on to the other emblematic places of the city of Como, those where it’s good to relax and stroll around without getting caught up. First of all, Piazza Cavour is the main square of Como, the one where you have to go to soak up the special atmosphere of the place.
The atmosphere is friendly and lively, and the view of the lake and the surrounding nature is simply wonderful. As you wander through the streets, you can admire the buildings with their colorful facades, typical of Italy, and sit on a bench to enjoy one of the delicious homemade ice creams of the city. But this square is also known for hosting many events such as concerts, craft fairs, and even festivals: this is the case of the Swing Crash Festival, which focuses on the music of the 1930s through dance competitions and improvised concerts.
Strolling along the lake, it is possible to see Life Electric, a work by the American artist Daniel Libeskind created as a tribute to Alessandro Volta. The city is proud to have seen the birth and growth of the inventor of the Voltaic battery, who spent most of his life in Como. No doubt that budding photographers will be eager to immortalize this amazing sculpture.
Finally, dare to climb to the top and reach the village of Brunate by taking the funicular. Perched at more than 700 meters above sea level, you will enjoy an extraordinary view of the lake and the city of Como. We also recommend a visit to the Volta lighthouse, which can be reached after a short 30-minute walk. From the top of the lighthouse, you can enjoy the view of the huge lake and the hills below.
Varenna
Some places leave an indelible mark on the memory of their visitors, and the village of Varenna is undeniably one of them! Although it is not the most visited place on Lake Como, it is certainly one of the most beautiful and pleasant to visit. After a short ferry ride – which has the particularity to welcome cars – you will arrive in the heart of this small paradise between mountains and tides.
Follow the Promenade des Amoureux, a sublime flowered cornice suspended on the edge of the lake, and let yourself be transported by the peaceful atmosphere of the place with its flowered buildings in pastel colors. The small port of the city is very charming, with its famous artisanal ice-cream parlors and its typical cafés facing the lake. You can even swim on one of the beaches a few meters from here!
Stroll through the narrow streets that wind through the heart of the old town, get lost in the enchanting gardens of Varenna, and take a bird’s eye view of the lake. You can then spend the rest of your visit visiting the fascinating cultural sites that abound in the city. For example, the medieval fortress of Castello di Vezio overlooks the lake with its mysterious ghostly sculptures. To get there, you’ll have to get out of your crampons and climb a steep hill, but you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view once you reach the top.
Continue to Piazza San Giorgio, where you will find the sublime church of San Giorgio with its majestic bell tower and the refined frescoes that line its interior. The church of San Giovanni Battista, the smaller of the two, is also worth a visit with its medieval frescoes. Then head to the gardens of Villa Monastero, a former monastery with the sweet scent of exotic plants in front of Lake Como, and then to Villa Cipressi, which is a must-see during your visit to Varenna.
Menaggio
A little further north, the small town of Menaggio is an ideal place for a family or romantic getaway. Whether you come to practice water sports, get lost in nature, or admire the beautiful cultural heritage that the town has carefully preserved, you are sure to fall in love with Menaggio!
To begin with, take a walk along the promenade that runs alongside the tourist pier. On your way, you will certainly come across the monument dedicated to the silk weavers, a kind of obelisk proudly standing in front of the lake. Then go to the main square, with its ice cream parlors and typical cafés, and walk through the narrow streets of the old town to the baroque church of Santo Stefano. With its pink paint job and domed bell tower, it’s impossible to pass by without noticing it!
In the historical center of the city, you can admire the remains of the ancient medieval fortress, which is remarkably well preserved. While strolling around the castle, you will also discover sumptuous arcaded houses that are particularly photogenic!
If you are more of a nature lover, why not take one of the many hiking or biking trails? It’s a perfect opportunity to discover the wilderness of this region while enjoying the benefits of group sports!
The more adventurous can also try water-skiing on the lake, while families can rent a boat or swim in the lake: the small pebble beach of Menaggio is an ideal place to lay down your towel, although there is an entrance fee…
Finally, you will have the opportunity to try more unusual activities such as golf: the Grand Hotel Menaggio & Cadenabbia has a magnificent course where you can perfect your swing in a hilly and exotic setting.
Tremezzo
Although its name means “Middle-earth”, the village of Tremezzo has nothing to do with the universe of the Lord of the Rings, except perhaps… it’s an enchanting and fairy-tale setting that leaves no one indifferent! If many consider it one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, one thing is sure: it does not fail in its reputation. Superbly situated in front of Lake Como and the majestic mountains that border it, it conceals small jewels of art and architecture that testify to its flamboyant past.
A former favorite vacation spot of the European bourgeoisie, Tremezzo has carefully preserved the great monuments that forged its prestige, such as Villa Carlotta, a sublime neoclassical residence that belonged to Princess Charlotte of Prussia. Built in 1843 by a noble lineage of Milan, it was decorated with pomp and elegance by the various owners who succeeded one another: over time, murals, sculptures, and other works of art were introduced…
The residence also has a large garden of 7 hectares covered with flowers from all over the world: come and visit it, preferably in the spring, to see the flamboyant colors of its luxuriant vegetation burst forth. Finally, go to the upper balcony of the palace and contemplate the view that speaks for itself… A beautiful idea of paradise.
The wonderment is far from over because almost everything here leads to dreams and the pleasure of the eyes. If you follow the lakefront promenade, you will eventually arrive at the mythical Grand Hotel Tremezzo and its famous pool on the lake!
Allow yourself a little folly by tasting one of the dishes offered by its restaurant: wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, pasta dishes, and other Italian specialties… The prices are much higher than elsewhere, but it is an unforgettable moment that awaits you with this fabulous view of the lake from the panoramic terrace.
Finally, head south of the village and take a break in the shade of Tremezzo’s public park. An idyllic place to relax in the early afternoon, before continuing your visit to Bellagio.
Lenno
Nestled in the heart of a beautiful green setting, the village of Lenno is an invitation to cultural walks and relaxation. Its peaceful atmosphere is perfect for families, who can relax in peace on the small pebble beach overlooking the lake.
Along the promenade, there are various restaurants and small typical cafes that give this small Italian town its charm. Pass by Piazza 11 Febbraio: we guarantee you won’t be disappointed by the fabulous view of the lake!
Venturing into the historical center, you will discover the Baptistery, a beautiful medieval monument whose interior is covered with magnificent frescoes, but also the medieval tower of Segnalazione.
But the great emblematic building of the city, the one that attracts tourists by the thousands, is above all the Villa Balbianello. The iconic landmark of pop culture, this luxurious residence has served as a backdrop for many great films such as Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones (G. Lucas), Romance on the Lake (J. Irvin) or Casino Royale (M. Campbell).
But beyond her many roles as a movie extra, Villa Balbianello has a history as rich as it is fascinating. Built-in 1787, it was first owned by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini, who imagined a grandiose and refined monument, surrounded by enchanting gardens. But it was in the 1970s that the house underwent major changes when it was acquired by the famous Italian explorer Guido Monzino, who was known for his ascent of Mount Everest. He brought with him sumptuous art collections and various travel souvenirs, but even more surprisingly, he had a secret trap door built in the library!
Today, the residence is open to the public: one can discover all the refinement and the attention to detail in the decoration of the rooms, as well as the perfect size of the trees in the garden which offers an unforgettable view of the lake.
our practical advice to spend a dream stay around Lake Como
When is the best time to visit Lake Como?
To make the most of your stay around Lake Como, choose the off-season periods such as May-June and September-October. The weather is very pleasant, and the low number of tourists will allow you to find a hotel room at a very competitive price.
In summer, the temperatures are the hottest of the year, but a large number of holidaymakers may put off the more solitary visitors.
Also, prices skyrocket during the high season and the small roads are difficult to drive on because of the tourist buses.
If you want to go to Lake Como in winter, don’t forget your poncho, your raincoat or any other hooded clothing that you might have at hand, because rain and fog are very frequent during this period!
How to get around Lake Como?
It is possible to get around Lake Como without a car, and it is even recommended! On foot, by bike, or by boat, you can easily reach the main towns of Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo, Lenno, or Menaggio. The ferry day pass will cost you only 15 € and will avoid you from getting stuck in traffic jams on the winding roads.
How long do I have to stay in Como to get the most out of the lake?
To visit the main places of interest around Lake Como, we recommend staying for a good week. Including travel time, will allow you to fully appreciate the unique atmosphere of each town without having to rush!
Also Read : Visiting Madrid : 8 best Things to See and Do
