Nestled in the heart of northern Italy, the Lake Como region offers serene waters, charming villages, and a timeless allure that has captivated travelers for generations.
Route Map & Itinerary
Best Time to Visit Lake Como
When planning a visit to Como in Italy, each season offers its own version of this beautiful region.
Summer (June to August) is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit. During this period, the lake flaunts its crystal-blue waters against the backdrop of warm sunshine. Amidst bustling markets, lively festivals, and an abundance of water activities, the region truly comes to life.
Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures and less crowds. These seasons are ideal for exploring charming lakeside towns and indulging in leisurely boat rides.
Lastly, the winter months (December to February) cast a peaceful spell over Como, offering intimate moments by crackling fireplaces and snow-dusted landscapes.
Getting to Como
Most travellers arrive first into Milan‘s major airports, Malpensa or Linate, which are well-connected internationally. There are a variety of options to continue your onward journey to Lake Como.
| Method | Duration | Cost | Summary |
| 1. Train | 35-60 mins | €15-30 | Frequent and comfortable train services run between Milan’s central stations, like Milano Centrale or Milano Porta Garibaldi, and Como’s San Giovanni station. The journey offers stunning views as you glide past lush landscapes and picturesque villages, gradually approaching the shimmering waters of Lake Como. |
| 2. Regional Buses | 1.5-2 hrs | €5-10 | The journey by bus takes twice as long as train, but it’s perfect for those who prefer taking in the views from the road. |
| 3. Ferry | 2-3 hrs | €10-30 | Start your adventure with a ferry ride across Lake Como. Enjoy charming lakeside towns and landscapes, setting the perfect tone for your trip. |
| 4. Renting a Car | 1 hr | €40-60 per day for Car Hire | The drive to Como is approximately an hour, offering you the flexibility to stop at charming villages and viewpoints along the way. Keep in mind that parking within Como’s historic center can be limited, so it’s a good idea to plan your parking options in advance. |
| 5. Private Tours | Varies | Varies | See Milan itinerary for Milan to Como day-trips. |
Where to Stay near Lake Como
For a touch of timeless elegance, the lakeside towns of Bellagio and Varenna offer charming boutique hotels and guesthouses with stunning waterfront views.
As the primary cosmopolitan hub of the region, the town of Como offers the largest variety of choices. It boasts a mix of hotels, villas and guesthouses, with proximity to the region’s attractions.
Booking.comItinerary
Every town offers a distinct experience that adds to Lake Como’s allure. In Como, immerse yourself in vibrant shopping, picturesque piazzas, and the grandeur of cathedrals. Bellagio’s alleys and colorful buildings evoke a fairytale atmosphere, while Varenna promises the most breathtaking views of the lake.
Day 1: Como
Begin your trip with a leisurely boat tour across the glistening waters of Lake Como, where the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains and picturesque villages will leave you in awe.
After your boat tour, head to the historic Porta Torre, an ancient city gate that once welcomed travellers and now stands as a testament to Como’s rich history.
Next, immerse yourself in the architectural marvels of the Como Cathedral. Commonly described as the last Gothic cathedral to be built in Italy, it features intricate carvings both in its interior and exterior.
Take a three-minute walk and you will reach the Basilica de San Fedele. This church dates from 1120 and is located at what used to be the city’s corn market.
The rest of your day will be spent wandering through Como’s town center, where numerous charming piazzas come to life. Meander through the narrow alleys and cobblestone streets, discovering local boutiques, artisan shops, and cozy cafes tucked away in every corner.
Marvel at the Piazza Cavour‘s waterfront elegance or the Piazza Volta, dedicated to the renowned physicist Alessandro Volta. Yes, that’s the inventor of the electric battery and the discoverer of methane.
Day 2:
Option 1: Bellagio
Start your morning with a visit to the Villa Serbelloni gardens – a perfect oasis of relaxation. Originally owned by the Sfondrati family, in 1566 Villa Serbelloni became the possession of Count Alessandro Serbelloni. Towards the close of the 19th century, the villa was transformed into a hotel. Today, the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni stands as one of the most prestigious historic hotels in the region, and the only 5-star hotel in Bellagio. The villa’s gardens, accessible through guided tours, are open to the public from March to November.
Next, explore the historical heart of the town by wandering through the enchanting Piazza del Chiesa. Discover the charming Basilica of St. Giacomo, an architectural gem that houses treasures of art and spirituality. Notable amongst these are a painting of the Deposition, a large statue of the Dead Christ and a triptych depicting the Virgin Mary with Saints.
Afterward, soak in the sun’s warmth at the Spiagetta della Punta, a picturesque lakeside beach that offers a peaceful escape. Follow the cobblestone path of the Scolotta per Pescallo, a scenic walkway that leads to the Spiaggetta, another delightful beach. This blogpost shares free beaches along Lake Como to take a refreshing dip in the water.
To wrap up your cultural exploration, make your way to the Villa Melzi d’Eril, an elegant neoclassical villa. Unfortunately, the Villa itself is not open to the public, but you can still visit its vast meticulously landscaped gardens. Roam the terraces adorned with sculptures and exotic flora, ending your day amidst the serene beauty that characterizes the Como region.
Option 2: Varenna
Alternatively, begin your day with a romantic touch by embarking on La Passeggiata degli Innamorati, a charming lover’s pathway that winds along the lakeside.
Continue your day by visiting the Porto Fluviale Grande, where the bustling port and picturesque waterfront create a dynamic atmosphere. Climb up to the Terrazza Panoramica, an observation deck that treats you to panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
Visit Castello di Vezio, an ancient fortress perched atop a hill. Explore its towers, walls, and dungeons while enjoying views that stretch across Lake Como and its surroundings.
Next, venture into the heart of Varenna to explore Piazza San Giorgio, a charming square framed by historic buildings. Then, soak in the tranquil beauty of the Hotel Villa Cipressi, an elegant 19th-century villa surrounded by lush green gardens that cascade down towards the lake.
Conclude your day with visits to two more of the region’s stunning villas: Villa Monastero and its vibrant botanical gardens, as well as the historic Villa del Balbianello.
Nightlife in Como
Como is distinctly laid-back and relaxed. While you’ll find a handful of charming bars and lounges, the true essence of Como’s evenings lies in the intimate atmosphere of its dining spots. You’re more likely to spend your nights seated at a dinner table, engaging in deep conversation under the soft glow of streetlights.
Food in Como
There is no such thing as a bad meal in Italy. For breakfast, start your day with a traditional Italian breakfast of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee at a local cafe. Indulge in the region’s renowned cheeses, such as the creamy Taleggio or the tangy Bitto, often accompanied by crusty bread and local honey.
Seafood enthusiasts will delight in the fresh catch served in lakeside towns, and pasta lovers can indulge in dishes like locally sourced risotto. Be sure to try the cherished regional favorite: the melt-in-your-mouth polenta. Pair your meals with the finest Lombard wines, such as the full-bodied reds or the sparkling Franciacorta.
Bar Touring (Como) and Bar II Molo (Varenna) both offered tasty and filling pasta portions, that we would recommend.
The Chat
Kat: Como is everything you expect it to be, to be honest. And I didn’t even go in summer. It just felt like a fairy-tale; I would go back again. When I was researching before I went, people were saying that you could skip Como when visiting Italy. I’m so glad that I didn’t. Como is more interesting than people think. You get there and you just relax. Everything is so beautiful. It just feels perfect.
Sim: You went in a very unconventional time, when it was spring. Most of the time when people go, it’s in summer. Did that affect your experience?
Kat: It did. Especially for Bellagio, because it’s so small. I’d say April is the best time to go. The ferry schedules change and are more frequent. Also, most of the villas open by mid-March. So by April, everything is open and ready to go for summer. But it’s not as crowded.
Sim: How expensive was it? Moving around, buying food/drink, accommodation?
Kat: If I’m being honest, I don’t remember.
Sim: It couldn’t have been that bad then. Because we always remember how expensive Santorini was.
Kat: Como was so beautiful that I was just happy to be there. I just wanted to tap into my inner Italian-town lifestyle. Walk around, admire things and just be happy.
Sim: ‘European Summer’ is what the Gen-Zs call that. Was the food good?
Kat: Yes. When I checked Google, the ratings wouldn’t be so good. But in my opinion, we didn’t have a single bad meal.
Sim: The other thing, as well, is that this itinerary seems kind of packed. Is it fast-paced?
Kat: No! The towns are so small that it doesn’t take you long to explore. In fact, you could even do both Varenna and Bellagio in one day.
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