Once favored by the Roman aristocracy for its natural beauty and mild climate, over the centuries, Lake Como turned into a popular destination for the Italian elite and European nobility. Today, it's the European retreat of choice for the world’s greatest minds across business, art, sport, and culture.
It’s clear to see why the region attracts the likes of Richard Branson, George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and David Beckham, as well as those looking for an ultra-sophisticated, natural setting for a special occasion. Immortalized in countless films and photos, the lake’s deep blue waters, rich history, iconic villas, and backdrop of the Italian Alps make Lake Como a truly unique and timeless destination.
At 46km long and dotted with many quaint and charming towns, planning a trip to Lake Como is only easy if you’ve been a dozen times. To help you get the most out of your visit, here is an example of a 2-3 day Lake Como travel itinerary, including some of the lake's most exclusive destinations, experiences, and must-see attractions.
Como
One of the oldest cities in Italy and a key center for trade and commerce in Roman times, Como is the historical and cultural seat of northern Italy and the perfect place to start a trip to Lake Como.
Your exploration of Como can begin with a visit to the iconic Como Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta). This awe-inspiring structure is a prime example of Gothic and Renaissance design, dating back to the 14th century and showcasing intricate architecture and breathtaking artwork.
For a taste of the city's cultural heritage, explore Villa Olmo, an 18th-century neoclassical villa with a beautiful lakeside garden. The villa often hosts cultural events, making it an ideal place to appreciate the local arts and history.
In the realm of science, the Tempio Voltiano is a captivating museum dedicated to the ingenuity and scientific contributions of Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery. The museum's interactive exhibits and historical artifacts provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of early electricity.
An absolute must-do in Como is a stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade, known as Lungolago di Como. This charming promenade is the epitome of the Lake Como lifestyle, with lakeside cafes, restaurants, art and sculptures, and lush green spaces for picnics.
To explore the lake itself, arrange an exclusive boat tour or yacht charter. Boat tours can be found in all of the major towns around Lake Como, but Como itself is the tourist hub and the best place to start looking and booking. You will find private tours, group tours, and hop-on-hop-off tours, but if you really want to explore it properly without rushing, we recommend spending a full day on a chartered private vessel.
The perfect way to end a visit to Como is with a ride on the Como-Brunate Funicular, a cable railway that ascends to the charming village of Brunate and presents panoramic vistas of Lake Como and the surrounding region.
Bellagio & Varenna
Two of the most enchanting towns on Lake Como's shoreline are Bellagio and Varenna. Each town offers a distinctive experience and a wealth of historical, cultural, and natural attractions.
Often referred to as the Pearl of Lake Como, Bellagio is a captivating old town perched on the tip of the Bellagio peninsula. You can walk for hours exploring its cobblestone lanes, elegant buildings, intimate shops, and quaint cafes, all to a backdrop of breathtaking lake views.
A must-see in Bellagio is the Villa Serbelloni Gardens. Part of the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, these gardens offer a serene escape with panoramic vistas. Equally enchanting are the Villa Melzi Gardens, known for their lush vegetation and serene ambiance, with views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Bellagio is also home to the Basilica di San Giacomo, a Romanesque gem with an exquisite interior. Finally, for a romantic experience, take a stroll along the Walk of Lovers, a winding pathway along the Bellagio peninsula that’s perfect for a romantic rendezvous or a tranquil escape.
On the opposite shore of Lake Como is the equally enchanting town of Varenna. The town's Church of San Giorgio is a noteworthy attraction for its simple beauty and magnificent backdrop. For botanical enthusiasts, a visit to the Villa Monastero, with its vibrant botanical gardens and 14th-century villa, is a must.
Villa Cipressi is another highlight, featuring terraced gardens that cascade down to the lake. For those interested in history, the Castello di Vezio is a medieval castle that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and hosts regular events and exhibitions.
Menaggio & Lake Como Villas
Menaggio, on the western bank of Lake Como, is a delightful town and the perfect gateway to exploring the splendors of the surrounding region. At the heart of Menaggio's allure are the glamorous villas that dot the shoreline, with Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta standing as two of the most exquisite.
Villa del Balbianello is a historic villa perched on a lush peninsula near Lenno, a short boat ride from Menaggio. Its meticulously landscaped gardens, adorned with statues and terraces overlooking the lake, have made it a sought-after backdrop for many movies over the years, including Star Wars and Casino Royale. Touring the villa's opulent rooms and gardens is like taking a journey through time. Expect to get a glimpse into the opulence of its former owners and the extravagance of a bygone era.
A neoclassical villa in the village of Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta is known for its rich collection of art and historical artifacts and botanical gardens with a wide array of plants, including azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias that burst into colorful blooms during spring.
In Menaggio itself, you can enjoy a stroll along the waterfront promenade, where the picturesque views of the lake and surrounding mountains create a serene backdrop. The Piazza Garibaldi is the central square, home to a variety of cafes and restaurants, and is ideal for savoring Italian cuisine and indulging in a spot of people-watching. The town is also home to the charming and architecturally interesting Church of Santa Marta.
For your own personalized Lake Como travel itinerary, including exclusive transfers, accommodations, and reservations, contact an authorized travel agency and experience the trip of your dreams.
