Lake Como, Italy

Here’s a detailed 3 to 4-day itinerary for visiting Lake Como, Italy, an iconic destination known for its stunning scenery, charming lakeside villages, and luxurious villas. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, Lake Como offers a perfect combination of relaxation, culture, and outdoor activities.

Day 1: Arrival in Lake Como and Exploring Como Town

• Morning:

  • Arrive in Como, the gateway to Lake Como, easily accessible by train or car from Milan (about an hour away). Check into your accommodation in Como or a nearby lakeside town.

  • Begin your exploration of Como Town by strolling through Piazza Cavour, the main square by the lake, then head along the picturesque waterfront promenade. Take in views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

  • Visit the Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como), one of the most beautiful Gothic-Renaissance cathedrals in Italy. Admire its intricate architecture, both inside and out.

• Afternoon:

  • For lunch, dine at Ristorante Sociale, a charming restaurant near the cathedral that serves traditional Italian dishes like risotto, fresh seafood, and local pasta.

  • After lunch, ride the funicular to the hilltop village of Brunate, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como. For an extra adventure, hike to the Volta Lighthouse for even more stunning vistas of the surrounding Alps.

• Evening:

  • Return to Como and enjoy dinner at Il Gatto Nero, located in Cernobbio just a short drive away. This restaurant is known for its elegant Italian dishes and spectacular lake views.

  • After dinner, take a relaxing evening walk along the lakefront to soak in the serene atmosphere.

    
    

Day 2: Villa Balbianello and Bellagio

• Morning:

  • Begin your day with a boat tour. From Como, take a ferry or private boat to Villa del Balbianello, near Lenno. This villa, famous for its breathtaking gardens and stunning lakeside location, has been featured in movies like Star Wars and Casino Royale.

  • Explore the lush gardens of Villa Balbianello, which provide panoramic views of the lake, and take a guided tour of the villa’s elegant interior, learning about its fascinating history.

• Afternoon:

  • Head to Bellagio, often referred to as the "Pearl of Lake Como." Have lunch at La Punta Ristorante, located at the tip of the Bellagio peninsula, offering fresh local ingredients and stunning lake views.

  • Spend the afternoon exploring Bellagio’s narrow cobblestone streets, lined with boutique shops and cafes. Visit Villa Melzi Gardens, known for its peaceful paths, exotic plants, and beautiful statues. Relax by the lake and take in the serene surroundings.

• Evening:

  • For dinner, try Aperitivo et Al, a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Bellagio, known for its selection of local wines and Italian dishes. Enjoy the lake’s beauty as the sun sets.

  • Take an evening stroll along the waterfront or relax at a lakeside bar.

    
    

Day 3: Varenna and Villa Carlotta

• Morning:

  • Take a ferry from Bellagio to the picturesque village of Varenna, known for its colorful houses and tranquil charm. Begin your visit with a walk along the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lovers’ Walk), a lakeside promenade with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Visit Villa Monastero, a historic villa with beautifully landscaped lakeside gardens filled with exotic plants and flowers.

• Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at Al Prato, a family-run restaurant in Varenna serving homemade Italian dishes like pasta and seafood.

  • After lunch, take the ferry to Tremezzo and visit Villa Carlotta, famous for its vast botanical gardens and stunning art collections. Stroll through the gardens, filled with blooming flowers, sculptures, and fountains, and tour the villa’s interior to see artwork by masters like Canova.

• Evening:

  • Return to Bellagio or Como for dinner. For a refined dining experience, try Mistral Restaurant at the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio, which offers a Michelin-starred menu and views of the lake.

  • After dinner, take a final stroll through Bellagio or relax with a drink by the lake.

    
    

Day 4 (Optional): Menaggio or Lugano Day Trip

• Option 1: Day Trip to Menaggio

  • Morning:

    • Take the ferry to Menaggio, another charming town on Lake Como. Walk along the Lungolago, a beautiful lakeside promenade, and explore the town’s squares and streets.

    • If you enjoy hiking, take a short walk along the Sentiero del Viandante, offering panoramic views of the lake.

  • Afternoon:

    • Have lunch at Il Ristorante di Paolo, located in Menaggio’s town center, known for its Italian specialties and friendly service.

    • Spend the afternoon relaxing at Lido di Menaggio, a sandy beach where you can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a drink at the beach bar.

  • Evening:

    • Return to Como or Bellagio for your final evening. For a romantic dinner, visit La Colombetta in Como, a family-run restaurant offering excellent traditional Italian cuisine.

• Option 2: Day Trip to Lugano, Switzerland

  • Morning:

    • Take a short trip to Lugano, Switzerland, located just across the border. Start with a visit to Parco Ciani, a stunning lakeside park with beautiful gardens.

    • Walk through Piazza della Riforma, Lugano’s main square, filled with cafes and surrounded by historic architecture.

  • Afternoon:

    • Have lunch at Ristorante Grand Café Al Porto, a historic café serving a mix of Italian and Swiss dishes.

    • In the afternoon, take a boat tour on Lake Lugano or ride the funicular to Monte Brè for panoramic views of the Alps and the lake.

  • Evening:

    • Return to Lake Como for a relaxed final evening. Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant or take a peaceful walk along the water.

      
      

Tips for Visiting Lake Como:

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. Summer (July and August) is perfect for boat tours and relaxing by the lake, though it can be busier.

• Getting Around: The most scenic way to explore Lake Como is by ferry or private boat. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer more flexibility, but ferries provide a relaxing, stress-free experience. Public buses are available for getting between towns, but ferries offer the best views.

• What to Pack: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the towns and villas, light clothing for warm days, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. If you plan on hiking, pack hiking shoes and sunscreen for the sunny lakefront areas.