Wondering how to plan a perfect Lake Como itinerary?
This Lake Como Itinerary is perfect for anyone visiting from 1 to 3 days itinerary. It will take you to the best of this idyllic destination in Northern Italy’s Lombardy region, with a shimmering blue lake sitting at the base of the Alps.
Trust me, I have been to Italy many times and have always traveled there on my own. Plus, my grandparents are from Italy so I like to go back every chance I get. And out of all of the amazing places in Italy, Lake Como has a special place in my heart. Therefore, I can’t wait to introduce you to my itinerary for Lake Como so that you can fall in love with this place just like I did.
This Lake Como itinerary is not your typical guide. It is packed with insider tips that will help you to make your experience as memorable as mine. Here you will find the best ways to get to Como, the best places to stay in Lake Como, how to get around, and much more useful information. So, without any further ado, let’s discover the very best of Lake Como with this awesome itinerary.
You may also love these articles❤️:
- 11 Amazing Lake Como Boat Tours to Take in 2022
- How to Travel from Milan to Lake Como
- Breathtaking Italy Coastal Towns That Will Blow Your Mind!
- Lake Como Italy Itinerary Overview
- How To Get To Lake Como
- Lake Como Itinerary: 1-3 Days in Lake Como
- Best Places to Stay in Lake Como
- What are the best tows to visit during your Lake Como Itinerary?
- How to Get Around Lake Como
- Best Tour Options for your Lake Como Trip
- What to Pack for your Lake Como Italy Itinerary
- Lake Como Itinerary Frequent Asked Questions
- Lake Como Itinerary Conclusion
Read More: 11 Most Amazing Boat Tours in Lake Como
Lake Como Italy Itinerary Overview
Before you jump into this amazing Lake Como Italy Itinerary and vist this amazing Italian landmark, let’s talk about trip planning and make sure you are prepared for the best experience. I highly recommend coming to Lake Como with a well-defined Lake Como itinerary with the top things you want to visit, see and do, in order to maximize your time here. Yeah, it’s the same for most major cities in Italy, like Rome.
The good news is that if you are short on time, you can visit Lake Como in as short a trip from Milan, or if you have more time, I recommend at least 3 days in Lake Como to get the best out of your trip. However, I understand if you can only manage to spend 2 days in Lake Como.
Make sure you choose accommodation in a good area, where you can easily walk around and explore the main attractions. Making your reservations in advance is also part of a well-planned visit, as Lake Como is a popular destination and it may be hard to find last-minute accommodations.
Lastly, I recommend booking your tickets to attractions in advance, such as a boat tour of Lake Como, as the city is very busy throughout the year. The advantage of a guided tour is that you will spend a short time in line, and with a local guide, you will learn and appreciate Lake Como’s history better.
BEST GUIDED TOURS
Private helicopter tour (⭐️ 4.8/5)
Lake Como Highlights (⭐️ 5/5)
Private Boat Tour (⭐️ 5/5)
Lake Como Day Trip From Milan (⭐️ 4.8/5)
MY TOP PICK FOR YOU
🌟 My Top Tip: Private Lake Como Tour (⭐️ 5/5)
🍕 Food Tour: Lake Como Food Tour (⭐️ 4.7/5)
🍷Wine Tour: Domaso Wine Tasting (⭐️ 5/5)
✈️ Transfer: Private transfer from Milan Airport (⭐️ 5/5)
How To Get To Lake Como
For centuries, Lake Como has been a glamorous resort for the rich and famous, but catching a glimpse of your celebrity should be the least attractive thing in Italy’s most famous lake. The lake itself is shaped like an inverted ‘Y’ and comprises picturesque little towns set against imposing mountains, rolling hills, and dramatic natural scenery.
The easiest way to get to Lake Como is from Milan. The southern shore of Lake Como is about 51 km (32 miles) from Milan, and the journey is usually a 40-minute train ride. To get to Lake Como from Milan, take a train from Milano Centrale to either Varenna-Esino or Como San Giovanni. The trains run every hour, check the schedule and tickets here.
This isn’t the only option available, there are other options, such as taking the bus or renting a car to make the drive yourself. Or you can hire a private driver or go on a day trip tour from Milan. Just be sure to find a way to make even a one-day Lake Como itinerary happen since this place is absolutely stunning.
🚊BY TRAIN: The easiest way to get to Lake Como is from Milan. The southern shore of Lake Como is about 32 miles (52 km) from Milan, and the journey is usually a 40-minute train ride. To get to Lake Como from Milan, take a train from Milano Centrale to either Varenna-Esino or Como San Giovanni. The trains run every hour, check the schedule and tickets here.
🚌 BY BUS: Another option is to get to Lake Como by bus. The good news is that this is a budget-friendly option, with the ticket costing around 5 USD. Normally the bus is direct and will take you to the S. Giovanni Bus Station located in Como.
🚖 BY PRIVATE DRIVER: Hiring a private driver is a great option to visit Como. You can enjoy the comfort and convenience of a private luxury vehicle with a driver at your disposal for the whole tour, with a local and private guide.
🚗 BY RENTAL CAR: If you are driving from Milan, it will take you only around 1 hour to get to Lake Como around one hour to get to Como. When choosing a car rental online, my number one pick is always Discover Cars. I personally use them and love them since they meticulously search through local and international companies to get you the best deal every time.
Read More: How to get from Milan to Lake Como
Lake Como Itinerary: 1-3 Days in Lake Como
DAY 1 Lake Como Itinerary: Explore The Best of Como
Take your first day on this Lake Como itinerary to explore its biggest town. Como is a magnificent city known for its Gothic Cathedral, lakefront promenades, delightful streets, stunning mountain views, scenic funicular rides, and amazing piazzas.
The Piazza Cavour is the town square with many restaurants and cafés, Piazza San Fedele was originally a wheat market and hosts the beautiful 12th-century Romanesque church; Basilica di San Fedele. If you are visiting Lake Como for the first time, I recommend finding accommodation here.
You can also start your day with a delicious brunch at Babi Como. It’s a great place to begin a day in Lake Como since this epic eatery is located right in the center of town. Plus, it is brimming over with incredible, pastel-pink decor that makes it an epic place for photos.
However, aside from the ambiance, the food is also delicious. In particular, the margaritas and Eggs Benedict are top-notch. Plus, this restaurant is super kid-friendly and they take cards too. After brunch, there is so much to do and see in Como. So, here are some attractions you don’t want to miss:
1. Marvel at the Como Cathedral
⏰Opening Hours: Mon-Fri from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm
📸 How to Visit it: Free to visit | The Como Cathedral is located near Lake Como, within the magnificent setting of Piazza Duomo.
The Como Cathedral is one of the most magnificent buildings to behold on the entire Lake Como. This 14th-century Roman architecture is nothing short of awe-inspiring and spectacular. The cathedral is from 1396 and it took almost 400 years to build it! Besides its age, this cathedral is in excellent condition, and it is a great place to start your Lake Como Itinerary.
The Catholic Cathedral is an exotic structure with stunning gothic designs, a tour of this impressive Cathedral will most certainly leave you in awe. Pay attention to the mosaic artwork on the ceilings and the stunning stainless glass windows. Most of the sculptures on the façade are made in the Gothic style, but some of them have Renaissance features.
2. Stroll through the Piazza del Duomo and Broletto
After visiting the cathedral, spend some time exploring the Piazza del Duomo. A stroll through the beautiful streets of Como city and a tour of the Cathedral wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the remarkable trade center; Piazza del Duomo.
And just by the Cathedral and the Bell Tower is the ancient Broletto, an old town hall that was once used for hosting public assemblies. It was built in the Gothic-Romanesque and Renaissance style, while elements of the façade date back to the fifteenth century. When I visited it, the streets were nearly empty, offering an excellent opportunity to admire the buildings, and take pictures.
3. Explore Villa Olmo
⏰Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 10 am to 6 pm and gardens open daily from 7 am to 7 pm
📸 How to Visit it: Free admission except for temporary exhibitions and events – Visit this site for more details
A 10-minute walk from the Piazza will take you right to the historic Villa Olmo and its brightly colored gardens. The Villa Olmo is one of the most impressive villas in Lake Como, with an exotic structure that dates back to the 1780s. Nowadays, Villa Olmo is home to a museum with exhibitions, gardens that are open daily for visitors, plus a pool and café.
This was one of my favorite places to visit in Lake Como, and should definitely be on your Lake Como itinerary. And if you like photography, you can spend a couple of hours exploring and taking great photos.
4. Visit the Museum of Silk
⏰Opening Hours: from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Closed on Mondays.
📸 How to Visit it: € 10.00 – Check this website for ticket
If you love history and don’t mind learning something new, then you should totally visit the museum of silk. Here you will learn about the amazing history of Como’s silk industry and the various stages of silk-making; from silkworms to heritage looms and clothing samples.
The Silk Museum opened in 1990, to preserve, while there was still the opportunity, a true account of the history of the silk industry in Como. It is a tangible sign of the continuity, from past to present, of an industry that use to operate an absolute worldwide monopoly.
5. Ride the Como-Brunate Funicular
⏰Opening Hours: April to September, Mon-Sun, 08:00 – 00:00 | Sep-Apr 14, Mon-Sun, 08:00 – 22:30
📸 How to Visit it: € 2.80 – Check this website for tickets
End your tour of the town with a scenic 7-minute funicular ride up to the mountain town of Brunate. This ride will take you up 700 m (2,300 ft.) above sea level, with jaw-dropping views of gorgeous landscapes, the experience is exhilarating.
Brunate is also the ideal starting point for pleasant walks amidst greenery. From this viewpoint, you can see the outline of the historic center, the ancient Roman castrum, and a view over the Alps and the Brianza plain. You can combine the Brunate Funicular with Villa Olmo with this tour.
6. Optional: The Life Electric Monument
If you have time, add the Life Electric Monument to this Lake Como in a day itinerary. It’s easily one of the most unusual things to do in Lake Como and is a quirky sculpture, by Daniel Libeskind, that was finished in 2015.
It won’t take you too long to visit since you’re just having a look. But, it’s a great place for some photos as you gaze out onto the water.
It’s also a contemporary piece of art that was created as a gift to Como by the artist. So, stop by during your Lake Como 3 days itinerary and see if you can figure out the real meaning behind this statue of two sine waves facing one another.
Read More: The most beautiful towns in Tuscany
DAY 2 Lake Como itinerary: Visit Bellagio & Varenna
The second day of your 3-day Lake Como Itinerary will probably be the busiest, and I am giving you excellent details of some of the most fantastic places to visit in Lake Como. But it is also, one of the most popular destinations in Lake Como – so I recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds.
I suggest that you start your day 2 with a boat tour of the astounding Lake Como. The best place to begin your boat tour is at Bellagio, and prepare to momentarily lose your breath during the tour. The views are splendid! If you are planning to stay in Bellagio, I recommend reading this article about the top accommodations.
1. Stop at Bellagio
Your next stop should be the beautiful and compact town of Bellagio. This town is small and studded with delightful cobblestoned streets, colorful houses, lovely little shops and restaurants, and wonderful views of the lake.
Bellagio can be visited in half day, and while you’re there, here are my suggestions of what to do:
3. Wander the streets of Bellagio
📸 How to Visit it: One of the best spots to visit to get the best views of the Lake is the streets of Salita Serbelloni and Salita Antonia Mella.
Bellagio is known for its narrow pedestrian-only streets, which are perfect for casual strolls and aimless wandering. Via Giuseppe Garibaldi is the only main road in Bellagio, with very colorful buildings and dozens of shops to explore.
4. Visit the Basilica di San Giacomo
⏰Opening Hours: Open daily | Sunday mass 8:00 am and 11:30 am
📸 How to Visit it: The basilica is free to visit, but any donation is welcome
At the heart of the town, you will find the picture-perfect Piazza del Chiesa which houses the Basilica of San Giacomo, a historic Roman Catholic Church dating back to the 12th century. The rest of the structure has undergone numerous restorations, especially during the 18th century.
Marvel at the gorgeous interior of the Basilica, with rich decoration and amazing brick exposed everywhere. Inside are valuable works including a painting of the Deposition, attributed to Perugino, a large statue of the Dead Christ, of Spanish workmanship, and a fine triptych depicting the Virgin Mary with Saints Roche and Sebastian
5. Admire the beautiful Villas in Bellagio
⏰Opening Hours: Gardens are open for visitors daily from 10 am to 7 pm
📸 How to Visit it: Villa Melzi Gardens € 6.50 – Check ticket here | Villa Serbelloni € 10 – Check tickets here
Villa Melzi Gardens and Villa Serbelloni are two elegant structures you wouldn’t want to miss.
Villa Serbelloni is a stunning 15th-century luxury hotel, you can gape at the exterior or book a tour and walk through the 50 acres of park and garden. From the park, you can enjoy unique views of Bellagio and discover the fascinating history that lies behind this almost magical place. We are sure that it will conquer you with all its paths immersed in vegetation and embellished with terraces and statues
Villa Melzi is a historic property with an exotic garden that is open to the public. Take a refreshing walk through the garden and appreciate the colorful flowers. It is famous for its surrounding gardens, containing a variety of botanical specimens from around the world interspersed with statues, promenades, and period architecture
6. Visit Pescallo
⏰Opening Hours: By now you should be hungry, and I recommend the La Punta restaurant for lunch.
📸 How to Visit it: Free admission
After reveling in the beauty of Bellagio, take a short 10 to 15 minutes walk through a stepped pathway from the Bellagio town hall, and you’ll find yourself in Pescallo; a picturesque fishing village, overlooking the Lecco branch of Lake Como.
Here you will be rewarded with charming lakeside views and a quaint atmosphere. Arriving in Pescallo will be enchanted by this ancient little hamlet nestled between the green and the lake, rich in many romantic spots to be discovered that offer the visitor wonderful views.
7. Stop At Varenna
After Bellagio, your next stop should be the splendid town of Varenna. It is only a 14-minute ferry ride from Bellagio, it’s a pretty lakeside village with many ancient structures to discover. Once in Varenna, here are some interesting things to do:
8. Tour the town center of Varenna
Piazza San Giorgio is the town center and home to a magnificent 13th-century Romanesque and Gothic-style church, the Church of San Giorgio. The church was built on a small temple dating back to the 12th century and reworked in later periods, it was rediscovered after several restorations in the second half of the 20th century as an example of Lombard medieval architecture.
When you visit the interior you will notice that the church is preserved with some frescoes dating from the thirteenth century. The floor is made of Varena’s black marble, just stunning!
Just opposite that, you will find the San Giovanni Battista, a smaller and much older church. San Giovanni Battista is the first church built in Varenna and one of the oldest in Lake Como, dating back to the 11th century.
9. Visit the Villa Monastero
⏰Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:30 am – 8 pm in summertime | 10 am – 5 pm in low season
📸 How to Visit it: € 10.40 – Check tickets here
Villa Monastero is a stunning lakeside complex that dates back to the 12th century and was originally used as a Cistercian convent. The property is surrounded by an enchanting botanical garden worth visiting. Within the villa is a historic house museum displaying historic furnishings from four centuries.
During summertime, the Villa Monastero opens every day from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm, and during wintertime from 10 am to 5 pm. You can buy the tickets to visit the Villa or combine them with the Botanic Gardens too. Tickets for the Botanic Garden and the House Museum can be purchased online.
10. Wander the gardens of Villa Cipressi
⏰Opening Hours: The garden opens every day from 9 am to 7 pm
📸 How to Visit it: € 8 to visit Villa Cipressi Gardens and € 15 to visit Villa Cipressi + Villa Monastero combo.
A visit to the stunning hotel Villa Cipressi should follow your amazing experience at the Villa Monastero. Villa Cipressi literally means “house of cypresses” and it’s named so because of the beautiful ancient cypress trees in the garden. The entire villa is surrounded by a magical terraced garden, which is fortunately open for public tours.
The Villa Cipressi enchants visitors with its botanical gardens overlooking Lake Como. The entire building is actually nestled in a large green space right alongside the shores of the lake itself. You can buy a ticket to visit the gardens or you can buy a ticket to visit both, Villa Cipressi and Villa Monastero combined.
11. Walk the lovers’ promenade
The charming lakeside promenade with the suggestive name “Walk of Lovers” is very popular among visitors and for good reasons. It’s a scenic boardwalk built over the lake, with the shimmering waters of Lake Como to the left and rocky walls and a beautiful garden to the right.
It is a short pedestrian path that leads from the wharf of Varenna to the center of the village; a footbridge of a few hundred meters jutting out onto the water from which it is possible to admire the lake, the mountains, and the stunning colorful houses perched at the foot of the rocky wall.
12. Hike to the Castello di Vezio
⏰Opening Hours: Castle is open daily from Mar-Nov 10:00 – 18:00
📸 How to Visit it: € 4.00
The Medieval Castle of Castello di Vezio is in a strategic location with incredible vistas of the expansive lake up to the Alps. The beautiful hike to the castle is certainly worth it and rewards you with the best views of this Lake Como Itinerary. The castle dates back to the 11th century and is an important historic site.
Explore the castle is something you don’t want to miss during your Lake Como itinerary. It is considered one of the most beautiful hikes in Italy, offering amazing opportunities for some impressive shots and relaxation at the hilltop café. The hike is not long and it can be done in only 30 minutes, with approximately 1 mile long only and it has signs clearly marked along the trail.
If you decide to visit the Thousand years old castle, make sure you look for the impressive handmade ghost statues that surround the castle.
13. Stop at Orrido di Bellano
⏰Opening Hours: Summertime is open daily from 10:00 am to 7 pm
📸 How to Visit it: € 3.00 per person and you can buy your ticket online.
Orrido di Bellano is a hidden gem natural canyon with an old suspension bridge and a turquoise river flowing below. The scenic walk along a suspended walkway with the thunderous sound of the waterfall below is certainly worth it. From Varenna to Bellano is a 5-minute train, ferry, or taxi ride.
This incredible natural gorge was created 15 million years ago by the erosion of the River Pioverna and the Adda glacier which, over the centuries, have shaped the rock into gigantic potholes, dark ravines, and suggestive caves.
If you are planning to have dinner in Varena I recommend the Bar Il Molo, for breath-taking views overlooking the landscapes of Lake Como.
14. Optional Stop at Nesso
If you have extra time during your three days in Lake Como itinerary, you could visit Nesso which is an amazing local waterfall. It’s well-located near Bellagio and is about a 36-minute drive away.
Just note that if you are using Google to find this spot then you might drive right past it since it is mislabeled. So, be on the lookout for signage that says “Orrido di Nesso” as you approach the area. This cute little place should be right near the road.
There is also very limited parking so leave your car a bit far away and be prepared for a walk to the waterfall. However, if it’s easier you could just take a boat from Lecco directly to Nesso during your itinerary for Lake Como.
Upon arrival, follow signs that will have you descend a set of rocky stairs that will lead to a swimming area where locals like to relax. Be forewarned that that water is cold, even in warmer months. So, definitely bring a towel to help you warm up.
Day 3 Lake Como itinerary: Explore Menaggio & Tremezzo
On the third and last day of your Lake Como 3-day Itinerary, I recommend that you take some time to explore Menaggio and Tremezzo. Make sure you book a boat tour in advance – you have the option to go on a private or group tour.
Menaggio is an awesome historic lakeside town in Lake Como, it’s one of the largest on the western shore of the lake. This beautiful town is best known for its quaint square and elegant lake promenade. If you are staying in Menaggio, don’t forget to check the best accommodations here. Here’s a list of what to do:
1. Wander through Via Calvi and Visit the Church of Santa Marta
Start your tour from Via Calvi and admire the small shops and boutiques along the street.
Continue your stroll to the Church of Santa Marta, an ancient church that was renovated in the 19th century. Take your time to admire the interior of the church and the ancient paintings. Even if this church has so much history, it was rebuilt 100 years ago, and you still can find many historical remnants of the church.
2. Visit the town center in Menaggio
Your next stop should be at the town center, Piazza Garibaldi. Enjoy the serene atmosphere with beautiful views of the lake. The Piazza has gorgeous stonework on the ground, and it is worth it to admire it while you walk around.
The piazza is surrounded by shops and eateries where you can grab a coffee or ice cream while soaking in the beautiful views of the lake. If you have time, stop for some fresh coffee at the Cafe Del Press.
3. Chill at Lake Promenade
From the Piazza Garibaldi, proceed to the elegant lakeside promenade. This beautiful walkway is flanked by gorgeous flowers, lush green trees, and pastel-colored houses. Enjoy the amazing scenery and the soothing sounds of the lake.
Take your time and chill around the Lake, while you enjoy the gorgeous waterfront views before you continue your busy Lake Como 3-day itinerary.
4. Walk through the Mennagio Medieval Town
Next, head up to the medieval part of the town. This part of Menaggio is higher up in the hills, and you will have to follow a stepped path and walk through narrow alleys and ancient buildings.
Taking a walk through the old town of Menaggio is akin to taking a walk back in time. Finally, follow Via Strecium to take a walk over the Senagra Stream and enjoy the sound of the cascading waterfall below.
5. Stop At Tremezzo
Continuing your Lake Itinerary, the next stop is Tremezzo. It is only a 9-minute bus ride from Menaggio. Or you can take a ferry departing from Menaggio and arriving at Tremezzo, with services that depart hourly, and operate every day. The journey takes approximately 50 min. Or you can hire a private taxi boat to take you.
Tremezzo is a beautiful lakeside town known for its historic villas, the medieval Tower of Rogaro, and awesome views of the lake. Here’s what to do in Tremezzo:
6. Visit the famous Villa Carlotta
⏰Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 7 pm
📸 How to Visit it: € 12.00 and you can check here for tickets
Villa Carlota is one of the most popular places to visit during a Lake Como itinerary, and for a reason!
The Villa is a magnificent property with very gorgeous and expansive gardens. This property dates back to the 17th century and was originally built as a neoclassical villa. A walk through the gardens will leave up in awe of the amazing beauty of nature. But don’t stop there, get inside the villa to wow at the collection of arts and masterpieces, and do a complete tour of the museum.
7. Stop for a cocktail at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo
The Grand Hotel Tremezzo is only a 4-minute walk from Villa Carlota and it is a great place to admire the views and to enjoy a cocktail at the T Bar – I recommend a Spritz here. This iconic hotel features a floating swimming pool.
8. Tour the Villa Balbianello
⏰Opening Hours: Opens daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
📸 How to Visit it: Make sure you don’t miss your ferry – the last one departs at 6:40 p.m. You can check the
Villa Balbianello is a famous villa that has appeared in many great movies, including Star Wars and Casino Royale. This property is surrounded only by nature, a lush manicured garden, and a brilliant lake. You should definitely request a guided tour and discover all the intricacies of the villa.
To visit Villa del Balbianello, you have to take the ferry to Lenno; then you can reach the Villa in just about 15 minutes by walking, or by a taxi boat.
Best Places to Stay in Lake Como
Here is the best overview of the best places to stay for your Lake Como Itinerary! I also recommend you to read my complete article on the 5 Best Villages + Hotel Review in Lake Como for a complete guide to help you choose the perfect destination and accommodation for you!
Lake Como is shaped like an inverted ‘Y’ and comprises picturesque little towns set against imposing mountains, rolling hills, and dramatic natural scenery. If you are wondering where is the best place to stay in Lake Como, you cannot go wrong choosing one of the 4 towns: Como, Bellagio, Varenna, or Tremezzo.
You can also choose any of the smaller villages around the lake, but keep in mind that you would need to rent a car to get around during your Lake Como itinerary. I have selected the best hotel options, all with great locations, and very high ratings and that fit all budgets:
GREAT VALUE: Ostello Bello Lake Como
⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10 (2,427 Reviews) | Details: Read more on booking.com now!
If you are looking for great value accommodation, Ostello Bello Lake Como is a great option. Every room is fitted with a private bathroom and shower and free Wi-Fi. Excellent location, close to the Ferry Terminal, and the Cable Car.
BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Hotel Villa Flori
⭐️ Rating: 8.7/10 (1,476 Reviews) | Details: Read more on booking.com now!
This restored 19th-century villa is set on the western shores with amazing views of Lake Como. It offers elegant rooms and a private park and you will love the Venetian stucco work and frescos.
BEST RATED: Como Lake Suits
⭐️ Rating: 9.2/10 (242 Reviews) | Details: Read more on booking.com now!
This hotel has an excellent location with the best views. Very close to the Broletto and the Como Cathedral, the apartments have a balcony with lake views, a seating area, a satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and free bikes so you can easily explore Lake Como.
TOP LUXURY: Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como
⭐️ Rating: 8.9/10 (308Reviews) | Details: Read more on booking.com now!
Now if you are looking for luxury, you cannot go wrong with the Mandarin Oriental. The rooms are elegantly decorated with 2 stand-alone villas, in Blevio. With a fine restaurant, free indoor and outdoor pools, free parking, and vast gardens. The wellness center includes 2 massage rooms and 2 private Spas.
Read More: The 20 Best Hotels to Stay in Lake Como: 2023 Review
What are the best tows to visit during your Lake Como Itinerary?
📍Como Town
Lake Como is the third largest lake in the country and one of the top Landmarks in Italy to add to your bucket list. It is very easy to visit from a short 1-hour trip from Milan or Malpensa Airport.
It is an easy 10-minute downhill walk from the train station to the boat dock. It is also the best place to stay in Lake Como if you are planning to visit the other villages around the lake, and the boats and ferries operate all year long, with departures from Como to the parts of the Lake. Como is a magnificent city known for its Gothic Cathedral, lakefront promenades, delightful streets, stunning mountain views, scenic funicular rides, and amazing piazzas.
📍Bellagio
Bellagio is considered the “Pearl of Lake Como” and it is probably the most famous town in Lake Como. Bellagio is located at a picturesque junction where the Y-shaped lake divides into two branches. It is a quiet and small town that can be visited in only a few hours. Some boat tours stop here for a quick visit, while others will only pass through this village.
📍Varenna
Varenna is a picturesque and traditional village, located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Italy, and it is an essential stop for anyone wishing to visit one of the most typical and quiet towns on the lake.
📍Tremezzo
Tremezzo is the best Region in Lake Como for families. This beautiful small town is centrally located in Lake Como. It sits on the western shores of the lake, across from Bellagio and just south of Menaggio, and is most well-known for its stunning waterfront and splendid botanical garden.
Many people consider the steep hillside village of Varenna to be the most heavenly of all the towns on Lake Como, preferring the charming fisherman’s houses to the showier villas and grandeur of neighbors like Bellagio
📍Menaggio
Menaggio is a town with very ancient origins and in its historical center, characterized by a beautiful central square and a splendid lakeside promenade, there is no lack of important artistic heritage, all to be discovered.
This is a great place to spend your time, all within one of the most charming towns of Lake Como. The beach is suitable for the whole family, with two swimming pools and some games for children.
📍What else…
If you are looking for some hidden gems around Lake Como, you can also visit some uninhabited areas like Isola Comacina or meander down the Adda River which branches off south from Lecco.
In this area, the number of tourists drops off substantially, and you will be able to explore these areas without having to share with the crowds, but make sure you hire a private Lake Como boat tour if are planning a visit.
How to Get Around Lake Como
To get the best experience during your Lake Como 3-day itinerary, you should be able to easily get around without any confusion. And in this section, I discussed all the different ways to move from town to town, discovering all the towns and the treasure they hold. Lake Como has both private and public transportation services, including boats, buses, ferries, and trains. Check here for the best Lake Como boat tour options.
Best Tour Options for your Lake Como Trip
Below are my recommended best tours to take in Lake Como. You can also check here for the top Lake Como Boat Tours for all preferences and budgets, where I explain in detail all the top tours, what they include and what is the best fit for you.
This private helicopter tour over Lake Como will take you on a journey to see the gorgeous gardens and villas and provide the opportunity to see the ” Y” shape of the magnificent Lake Como.
This Private Boat Tour includes one hour on an elegant private boat experience around Lake Como, villas, and towns. Bring your group or family, and this tour can customize the itinerary to include the sites you prefer to see.
Rated as a five-star tour, this private tour around the Lake Como Highlights will take you to the postcard-perfect villages. The whole tour takes approx. 8 hours and you will see the best of Lake Como with a local, friendly, and knowledgeable guide.
What to Pack for your Lake Como Italy Itinerary
I visited Lake Como in July, and it is hot during summertime. If you are also visiting during the hot months, think about light clothes and comfortable shoes to walk and explore during the day. Leave your pair of high heels at home, as the villages are hilly, and you won’t need them.
Don’t forget your sunblock, and sunglasses and consider a hat too. If you are planning to go on a boat tour at Lake Como, bring your bathing suit 😉
For the evening, especially if you are planning to have dinner at one of the nice restaurants, you can think about a comfortable summer dress and sandals. Or if you are not into dresses, a pair of jeans and a nice top and a nice pair of sandals.
The climate can be mild in Lake Como, because of its location close to the Alps, so consider bringing a pashmina for the evening.
Lake Como Itinerary Frequent Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Como Lake?
You need at least 3 or 4 days for your Lake Como itinerary. After all, Lake Como is extremely picturesque, with many small towns that you’ll want to take time to explore.
Is 3 days itinerary too long for Lake Como?
No, 3 days is not too long for Lake Como. There are plenty of amazing things to do in Lake Como that could easily occupy you for a week or more as you enjoy Northern Italy. So, if you have the time then definitely enjoy a longer Lake Como Italy itinerary.
What is the best month to visit Lake Como?
The best month to visit Lake Como is any time between April and October. This is when the weather is nice and pleasant, making it the perfect time to get out on the lake or go for a swim (at least in the summer).
Do I need a car in Lake Como?
You can definitely visit Lake Como without a car since there are plenty of boats that will take you to a wide variety of towns. However, having a car is nice since you have the freedom to come and go as you please.
However, if you do rent a car please be aware that driving during your Lake Como itinerary can be tricky and that parking can be extremely limited. Also, check to see if your hotel offers parking before booking your room. Otherwise, you’ll have nowhere to put your car.
Lake Como Itinerary Conclusion
Lake Como is so unique, and after many trips to Italy, I finally got the chance to visit it – and guess what? it didn’t disappoint me. With incredible views, stunning architecture, and lots of history to explore, Lake Como is a must-visit in Italy.
Ideally, you will plan a Lake Como Itinerary for 2 days or even add more days, to get the most out of your Lake Como trip.
I hope you enjoyed this Lake Como Itinerary and that this helps you to plan your visit. If you have any further questions, just leave me a comment below and I will be happy to answer.
If you are planning to visit Italy, you may also enjoy reading the following:
- Best Hikes In Italy + Insider Tips
- Best Places To Stay In Tuscany
- Where To Stay In Florence, Italy
- Epic Florence 3-day itinerary
- Renting a Car in Tuscany: Everything You Need to Know
- 2-Day Itinerary Venice: Expert’s Guide
- How to Travel From Rome to Tuscany by Day Trip, Car, Bus & Train!
- 90+ Inspiring Quotes about Tuscany (Sharable Images)
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Lake Como looks so beautiful & I’d especially like to visit Tremezzo. It looks like such a pretty historic village! Thanks so much for sharing!
Lake Como is such a dreamy place.
Wow this looks stunning! I haven’t been to Italy in over a decade and I hope to change that soon. So many gorgeous places like this there!
There are so many fantastic things to see and do here, I think I’d like to stay three or more days to explore it all. This is going to be a great guide to use when I eventually visit Lake Como!
Your posts are always so insightful and the photography is on point! I’ve been dying to get to Lake Como forever, so I will definitely keep your advice in mind. Also, Tremezzo is definitely calling to me!
Hello, I’m curious if there is a high-speed train from Milan to Como and then a high-speed ferry from Como to Bellagio. If yes, what is the best way to book or navigate that journey as we are looking for the fastest trip to Bellagio for a day from Milan? Thank you for your information.
Hello Andrea – I have a complete article on how to travel from Milan to Lake Como and here you can also find information on the high speed ferry to Bellagio – https://www.paulapinstheplanet.com/train-from-milan-to-lake-como/ – You will find all you need to know for your one day trip from Milan to Bellagio. Have a safe trip 😉