Lake Como Travel Guide: Where To Visit/Eat/Sleep/Drink
Welcome to my Lake Como Travel Guide. In this guide you’ll find my recommendations on the best things to do in Lake Como, including the top places to visit, must-do activities, along with my recommendations for restaurants, bars and hotels.
At the end of this post you’ll also find a saveable Google map of Lake Como with all my recommendations pinned, ready for your trip!
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Lake Como Key Info
When to visit
late April – early May for beautiful wisteria or September for warm, mild weather (averaging 24ºC/75ºF).
How to get there
Fly to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) or Milan Linate Airport (LIN), then take a train or drive to Lake Como.
How to get around
Ferries are the best way to hop between towns/across the lake.
IDEAL TRIP LENGTH
3-5 days
PLACES TO VISIT
Bellagio
Como Town
Varenna
Lenno
Menaggio
MUST-DO ACTIVITIES
Private Lake Como Boat Tour
Shared Group Boat Tour
1 Hour Boat Rental (no licence needed)
Winery Tour & Wine Tasting
Como Food Tasting Tour
RESTAURANTS
Figli Dei Fiori (Como)
Ristorante La Vista (Varenna)
Ristorante Hotel Florence (Bellagio)
Bar Il Molo (Varenna)
TOP luxury HOTELs
Top 10 things to do in Lake Como
1. Wander through the town of Bellagio
Often referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is one of – if not – THE prettiest villages in Lake Como, known for its cobbled streets and stunning lake views. Be sure to stop for a drink at Aperitivo Et Al – a winebar located on the famous street, Salita Serbelloni.
If you’re visiting during spring, grab lunch at Hotel Florence – their restaurant is located right in front of the lake and sits beneath a jaw-dropping canopy of purple wisteria flowers in April/May.
2. Villa del Balbianello
One of the most iconic villas on Lake Como, both famous for its appearance in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones and for its beautiful terraced gardens and breathtaking views across the lake.
To get here, you will need to walk 25 minutes from the town centre of Lenno. Alternatively, if you want to visit from Como, Varenna, Bellagio or any other town in Lake Como, this tour package includes entrance to Villa del Balbianello as well as round-trip ferry tickets from most locations.
3. Tour the lake on a private boat tour
Hands down the best see Lake Como is by water, where you can get up close and personal with all the lake’s stunning villas and picturesque towns.
Most luxury hotels in Lake Como have their own boats you can book via your hotel concierge, otherwise I recommend booking this Private Lake Como Boat Tour on a classic Cadenazzi wooden boat.
For a more affordable alternative, consider this Shared Group Boat Tour or explore at your own pace with this 1 Hour Boat Rental (no boating licence needed!).
Lake Como Boat Tours
4. Gardens of Villa Melzi
If Bellagio wasn’t already picturesque enough, Villa Melzi takes it to another level. This lakeside estate has some of the most beautifully manicured gardens you’ll ever stroll through, with flowers, exotic plants, and paths lined with towering trees.
The villa itself isn’t open to the public, but trust me, the gardens alone are worth the visit — especially when the wisteria is in bloom in April/May.
5. Grab a spritz from Bar Il Molo
While this restaurant isn’t going to win any awards for their food or their (somewhat slow) customer service anytime soon, I’m still going to recommend visiting Bar Il Molo to enjoy a drink and one of the best views in Lake Como.
If you want to grab a table for photos specifically, come just before they open at 8am. Otherwise stop by here to rest your feet and wet your whistle for an hour or two.
6. Discover the hidden waterfall at Orrido di Nesso
Hire a self-driving boat and visit this hidden waterfall in the village of Nesso. You will have to navigate your boat under a bridge (Ponte della Civera) which will lead you to this narrow ravine with a waterfall.
While the waterfall can be access by foot, it involves a lot of steep steps (over 300!) so the best way to access it is via the lake. It’s also a popular swimming spot for locals, you’ll likely spot them jumping off the historic bridge.
I recommend booking this Lake Como 3-Hour Boat Rental – where you can explore Lake Como at your own pace, no special boating licence is needed.
7. “Walk of Lovers” in Varenna
Varenna is easily one of the prettiest spots on Lake Como, and the Walk of Lovers (Green Way dei Patriarchi) path is an absolute must.
This lakeside stroll is short but seriously stunning — think postcard perfect views, colourful houses, and that perfect Italian dolce vita energy. It’s hard to miss, just a few steps from the Varenna ferry terminal.
8. Villa Carlotta
Explore the magical gardens of Villa Carlotta. This villa in Tremezzo is home to an impressive botanical garden with hundreds of species of plants, as well as a museum filled with renaissance sculptures & artworks.
Access to both the museum & gardens cost €15. Villa Carlotta is easily reached, within a 10-minute walk from the Tremezzo ferry terminal.
9. Have a Beach Day
Lake Como isn’t just about grand villas and boat rides – it’s also home to some stunning beaches and beach clubs where you can soak up the sun and sink your feet in the sand.
For beach clubs, Lido di Bellagio is perfect if you’re after comfy loungers, cocktails, and a lively vibe, while Lido Villa Olmo is a great option closer to Como town with easy access to restaurants and bars.
Although San Giovanni Beach (map location) is covered in pebbles rather than sand, it’s one of the only real beaches in Lake Como and has no cover charge, just an 8-minute walk from San Giovanni ferry terminal.
10. Wisteria at Villa Cipressi
If you’re visiting in spring, Villa Cipressi in Varenna is an absolute must-see to witness the purple explore of wisteria along with the panoramic lakeside views.
The wisteria here is next level, covering the villa’s terraces in cascades of purple blooms that look straight out of a fairytale. Entry is €10 and the is open daily 8-5 pm.
Note: You can actually stay overnight at Hotel Villa Cipressi and wake up to the insanely beautiful views each morning — but be warned, it books out fast!
Where to stay in Lake Como?
Most people visiting Lake Como underestimate just how big the lake actually is. It’s not a tiny little loop you can stroll around in an afternoon, so it’s important to choose the right area to stay in.
That being said, you are absolutely not stuck wherever you choose to stay. The ferries run frequently between the main towns (especially in peak season), and hopping between Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio is super easy with gorgeous views along the way.
Here are my recommendations on the best places to stay in Lake Como for a first-time trip, where you’ll experience both beautiful views and convenient locations for exploring the lake.
Bellagio
If this is your first Lake Como trip and you want the postcard-perfect version, go all out and splurge on a luxurious stay in Bellagio.
It sits right at the fork of the lake, making it one of the most connected spots for ferries, as well as being one of the most beautiful towns in Lake Como. You can easily hop across to Varenna for lunch or Menaggio for the afternoon.
Stay here
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni ($$$$) – One of the most iconic luxury stays on the lake, with gorgeous gardens and a dreamy pool.
Hotel Belvedere ($$$) – Stylish, family-run property with spa and lakeside views – and slightly removed from the busiest streets.
Hotel Du Lac ($$) – Great central location and chic interiors – usually more affordable than the higher-end Bellagio hotels.
Varenna
Varenna is oh-so-romantic, relaxed and incredibly easy logistically. You can arrive directly by train from Milan, which makes it ideal if you’re not driving.
The ferry links are excellent, so you can explore during the day and return for sunset by the harbour.
Stay here
Hotel Royal Victoria ($$$) – Classic lakeside pick with a pool and spa facilities and unbeatable location.
Hotel Villa Cipressi ($$$) – Historic property with beautiful botanical gardens overlooking the lake and elegant terraces over the water.
Hotel Olivedo ($$) – A more modest boutique option right by the ferry dock, great value for the lakeside location.
Como Town
If convenience is your no. 1 priority, Como town is the easiest base. It has direct trains from Milan, more restaurants and a lively evening atmosphere.
You can still take boats up the lake during the day, then return to a proper town with lots of dinner options.
Stay here
Hilton Lake Como ($$$) – Modern luxury, sleek and known for its rooftop infinity pool.
Palazzo Venezia ($$$$) – Stylish, design-forward boutique with rooftop terrace views.
Palace Hotel ($$$) – Classic lakefront stay with historic charm, classic Italian interiors and good value compared to ultra-luxury competitors.
Tremezzo
Tremezzo is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in Lake Como, with easy access to some of the lake’s most famous villas and gardens.
It’s well connected by ferry and ideal if you want a slightly calmer pace without sacrificing accessibility.
Stay here
Hotel La Perla ($$) – Stylish boutique on the hillside, surrounded by olive trees, with an outdoor pool and wonderful views.
Hotel Bazzoni ($$) – A more affordable Tremezzo option with modern rooms, lake views and close to the ferry.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo ($$$$) – One of the most famous Lake Como stays, known for its iconic floating pool and luxe facilities. Read my review of this hotel.
Menaggio
Menaggio sits directly opposite Varenna and slightly north of Bellagio, and it’s one of the most balanced bases on the lake. Unlike the smaller towns, Menaggio has a large lakeside promenade and a relaxed piazza, while still being perfectly positioned to offer those beautiful mountain views.
You still have excellent ferry connections, especially along the central “golden triangle” route between Menaggio, Bellagio and Varenna.
Stay here
Grand Hotel Victoria ($$$) – Contemporary luxury with an infinity pool overlooking the lake and a genuinely impressive spa. It’s one of the most stylish stays in this part of Como.
Hotel Garni Corona ($$) – Boutique, central and very chic for the price point. A great mid-range option that still feels considered.
Hotel Bellavista ($$) – Value-oriented with lakeside views and an outdoor pool, a lovely choice for a mid-range stay.
Lecco
If you prefer fewer tour groups, wider promenades and a slightly more authentic local atmosphere, Lecco is a brilliant option. It’s also very easy to reach by train from Milan.
You won’t get quite as many villa-lined Instagrammable shots here – but it’s great for hiking, alpine views and more affordable accommodation options.
Stay here
NH Lecco Pontevecchio ($$) – Modern, clean and right by the lake with mountain views.
Hotel Lungolago ($$) – Boutique feel, right on the promenade and great value for the location.
Hotel Alberi ($$) – Amazing central location. Nothing flashy, but great service.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
3 swimming pools
SPA & WELLNESS CENTRE
5 RESTAURANTS & BARS
TENNIS COURTS
BEACH LIDO
BREAKFAST INCLUDED
Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a jaw-dropping art nouveau-style lakefront hotel on the western shores of Lake Como. This iconic hotel is a quick 2-minute walk from the nearest ferry terminal in Tremezzo. This means you are just a short ride across the water to the picturesque towns of Bellagio and Varenna which makes this location the perfect spot of exploring Lake Como’s best spots.
I had the pleasure of staying in one of their prestigious lake view rooms which have charming private balconies. You can enjoy an epic breakfast spread in the morning and a bottle of champagne at sunset with panoramic views over the lake.
On site there are four restaurants offering a mix of fine dining and casual lakeside bites, three pools, a private beach, wellness spa, tennis court, shopping boutique, yoga studio & more.
The friendly staff at Grand Hotel Tremezzo will treat you like royalty and after your first 24 hours staying at this stunning palazzo, you’ll start to believe you’re a princess too!
Map of Lake Como
Here’s a Google map of all the places in Lake Como mentioned in this post.
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I LOVE Lake Como! Thank you for all the tips!
lots of love, Miri
http://www.meetmiri.com
You’re welcome Miri <3