33 BEST THINGS to Do in Lake Como, Italy (2026 Guide)

Visiting Lake Como is one of the most iconic experiences in Italy, but it's easy to do it wrong. This Lake Como travel guide breaks down exactly how to plan your trip, where to stay, how to get around, and 33 things to do in Lake Como, so you can make the most of your time without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you're planning a trip to Lake Como, be sure to also check out my travel guides to Nesso, Varenna, and Bellagio, each one shows a different, equally beautiful side of the lake.

Jump To

• Where Is Lake Como?
• How to Get to Lake Como
• Where to Stay in Lake Como
• Best Lake Como Hotels
• What to Wear in Lake Como
• 33 Things to do in Lake Como
• Lake Como Tours
• 10 amazing and popular restaurants in Lake Como that are worth checking out:
• What is the best travel insurance for italy?
• 🚆 How to Get to Lake Como from Major Italian Cities
• When's the Best Time to Visit Lake Como?
• Here are ten Instagram photo-worthy spots in Lake Como
• Things to know before visiting como
• History of Lago di Como/ Lake Como
• FAQ'S

So here it is: my personal guide to 33 unforgettable things to do in Lake Como, from the spots everyone raves about to the ones only locals seem to know. If you're planning your first visit, or just want to dig deeper, this list has you covered.

Where Is Lake Como?

Okay, geography moment: Lake Como (Lago di Como) is in Northern Italy, just an hour from Milan by train or car. It's shaped like an upside-down "Y" and lined with colorful towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. If you're like me and get excited about a place that mixes mountains, water, and charming villages-all in one view-this is it.

How to Get to Lake Como

This part's actually really easy.

From Milan:
You can catch a train from Milano Centrale to either Como San Giovanni or Varenna-Esino-both take under 1.5 hours and drop you right by the lake.

By car:
If you want to explore the smaller, lesser-known towns (looking at you, Lierna and Nesso), renting a car gives you more freedom. Just be ready for some very tight mountain curves.

Where to Stay in Lake Como

I get this question all the time, and here's my take:

• Varenna: Quiet, romantic, and train-friendly (great without a car)
• Bellagio: Beautiful and iconic-but pricier and a little more polished
• Como: Bigger city energy, good for shopping and transit
• Menaggio: Relaxed and super charming-perfect for a slower pace
• Tremezzo/Cernobbio: Great if you want spa vibes and lake views from your hotel window

✨ Tip: If it's your first time and you're not driving, Varenna is a dream base.

Best Lake Como Hotels

• Hotel Villa Flori
• Avenue Boutique Hotel
• Albergo Firenze
• Locanda dell'Oca Bianca
• Hotel Metropole Suisse
• Park Hotel Meublé

What to Wear in Lake Como

33 Things to do in Lake Como

1.Visit the Duomo di Como

• The Duomo di Como is a stunning Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the city.
• The cathedral features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and a bell tower with panoramic views of the city.

2.Explore the historic center

• The historic center of Como is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, lined with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. Take a stroll through the historic center and admire the beautiful architecture, including the impressive city walls and towers.

3.Get an aperitivo at The Brothers Cafe

• The Italians like to do a happy hour that they call aperitivo. Essentially you just enjoy a drink with free food (typically small bites). In Como, there are many restaurants that offer this, just plan to go after 5pm.
• I find it very enjoyable sitting at an outdoor table and just enjoying the tranquility of the historical center while sipping on a nice glass of wine.

4.Take a funicular ride

• The funicular railway connects Como with the hilltop town of Brunate, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
• The ride takes about seven minutes and offers breathtaking panoramic views.
• Sometimes the line gets super long depending what day you go on/
• Visit the Volta Lighthouse, a historic landmark and museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, inventor of the electric battery

5.Visit Villa Monastero

• Honestly one of my favorite villas on the lake.
• You pay a very cheap entry fee and you can explore the whole villa.
• Perfect during sunset.

6.Shop at the local markets

• The city is home to several weekly markets, including the popular Mercato di Como, where you can find everything from fresh produce and flowers to clothing and souvenirs.

7.Enjoy the lakeside promenade

• The lakeside promenade in Como offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

8.Visit the Tempio Voltiano

• The Tempio Voltiano is a museum dedicated to the famous Italian physicist Alessandro Volta, who invented the first electric battery.
• The museum features exhibits on Volta's life and work and is located in a beautiful neoclassical building.
• Its located right in the center of the lake, you can't miss it!

9.Rent a chair and soak up the sun at Giulietta al Lago

• Last summer I spent 2 days renting a chair by the lake where I was able to swim and tan! There are various lake clubs that let you rent chairs or just access their ammenities from prices between 10 euros and 40 euros.
• If you are walking, I recommend going to the lake club called Lido di Villa Geno.

10.Take a Boat Tour of the Lake

• Enjoy a leisurely private boat tour of Lake Como and admire the stunning scenery from the water
• Visit the picturesque villages and towns along the lake shore, including Menaggio and Tremezzo

11.Take a Cooking Class

• Learn how to cook authentic Italian dishes with a local chef
• Visit a local market to choose fresh ingredients and learn about Italian culinary traditions

12. Have lunch at Ristorante Il Filo d'Olio

• This place is such a gem-perched in the hills above the lake with views that seriously look like a painting. Ristorante Il Filo d'Olio serves seasonal, locally sourced dishes that highlight the best of Northern Italian cuisine (the name means "thread of oil"-so yes, expect amazing olive oil on everything). I

13.Visit the Villa del Balbianello

• Explore the beautiful gardens and grounds of this historic villa, located on a promontory overlooking the lake
• Take a guided tour of the villa and learn about its fascinating history
• This is also the iconic spot in Star Wars where In Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones, the lake and the surrounding area were used as the location for the planet Naboo. The Villa del Balbianello, located on the western shore of Lake Como, was used as the exterior for the Naboo villa where Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala share a romantic moment.

14.Visit Villa D'este

• Discover the grandeur of Villa D'este and its magnificent Italian Gardens, one of the most beautiful parks in Italy.
• The villa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features more than 500 fountains, statues, and sculptures throughout its gardens.
• It's best to visit this villa if you have a car. You can park near by and then ask to get a coffee/ walk around

15.Go Hiking in the Mountains

• Explore the beautiful natural scenery of the Lake Como region on a hiking tour
• Take in the stunning views from high mountain trails, including the famous "Path of the Wanderer"

16.Visit the Abbey of Piona

• Explore the beautiful Romanesque architecture of this historic abbey, located on the eastern shore of the lake
• Admire the stunning views of the lake from the abbey's terrace

17.See the Museo della Seta

• Learn about the history of silk production in the Lake Como region at this fascinating museum
• See examples of traditional silk weaving techniques and admire beautiful silk textiles

18.Go to the Orrido di Bellano:

• This natural gorge located in the small town of Bellano is a unique natural wonder.
• It features a narrow gorge with waterfalls and rock formations that make for a breathtaking sight.

19.Visit the Villa Carlotta

• While the Villa Carlotta is a popular tourist attraction, it's worth a visit for its beautiful gardens and art collections.
• The villa features an extensive collection of artwork from the 18th and 19th centuries, including sculptures and paintings.

20.Visit Varenna

• Explore the charming streets and colorful houses of this picturesque town
• Visit the Varenna Castle, a historic landmark dating back to the 12th century
• Take a stroll along the beautiful lakefront promenade

21.Explore Bellagio

• Visit the Villa Melzi Gardens, a stunning botanical garden with breathtaking lake views
• Explore the narrow streets and alleys of the old town
• Take a boat tour of the lake and admire the scenery from the water

22. Swim in Lierna

• Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this small town on the eastern shore of the lake
• Take a dip in the clear waters of the lake at the beautiful Riva Bianca beach (something I love to do in the summer)
• Explore the medieval castle and the Romanesque church of San Pietro

23.Visit Menaggio

• Visit the Villa Carlotta: The Villa Carlotta is a stunning 18th-century villa located on the shores of Lake Como. The villa features beautiful gardens and art collections, including works by Canova, Thorvaldsen, and Hayez.
• Explore the historic center: Menaggio has a charming historic center with narrow streets and alleys, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Take a stroll through the historic center and admire the beautiful architecture, including the impressive bell tower of the 17th-century church of Santa Marta.
• Take a boat tour: Boat tours of Lake Como depart from Menaggio and offer a unique perspective on the lake and the surrounding towns. Choose from a range of tours, including private tours, group tours, and sunset tours.
• Hike to the Rifugio Menaggio: The Rifugio Menaggio is a mountain hut located on the slopes of Monte Grona. The hut offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
• Play golf: Menaggio is home to the Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club, one of the oldest and most prestigious golf clubs in Italy. The golf club features an 18-hole course and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
• Swim in the lake: Menaggio has a beautiful public beach located near the town center, where you can swim in the clear waters of Lake Como and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
• Visit the Chiesa di San Stefano: The Chiesa di San Stefano is a beautiful church located in the historic center of Menaggio. The church features stunning frescoes and a beautiful baroque altar.
• Take a scenic drive: The roads around Menaggio offer some of the most scenic drives in Italy. Take a drive along the western shore of Lake Como and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

24. Check out Lecco

Lecco is a beautiful city located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, on the eastern shore of Lake Como. It has a rich history and culture, with a charming old town center, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural landscapes.

25. Walk up to Castello di Vezio in Varenna

If you're already in Varenna (and you should be), take the uphill walk to Castello di Vezio. It's a bit of a climb, but the views at the top are so worth it. You can see the whole lake stretch out in front of you, and there's something about standing inside a centuries-old castle that feels a little magical. I went up just before sunset once, and it honestly took my breath away.

26. Take the ferry to Isola Comacina

Lake Como's only island! It's teeny tiny, but the ferry ride alone makes it feel like an adventure. Once you're there, you can wander the ruins, peek inside the church, and grab lunch at the one restaurant on the island. It's such a peaceful little break from the busier towns.

27. Hike a stretch of the Greenway del Lago di Como

If you're up for a scenic walk (nothing too crazy, I promise), the Greenway trail is one of the best ways to see the lake slowly. It winds through postcard-perfect towns like Lenno and Tremezzo, and there are plenty of cafés to stop at along the way. I like doing a section of it in the morning and rewarding myself with gelato by the water after.

28. Visit the gardens at Villa Melzi in Bellagio

Villa Melzi is such a dreamy spot-less crowded than some of the other villas, and honestly, I think the gardens are even more peaceful. You'll find little sculptures tucked between the trees and a perfect view of the lake from almost every angle. Bring a book, take a stroll, or just sit by the water and breathe it all in.

29. Pop into the Civic Art Gallery in Como

On a cloudy day (or when you just want a break from walking), the Pinacoteca Civica in Como is a lovely little art museum. It's quiet, calm, and filled with works by Northern Italian artists. I didn't expect to love it as much as I did-it's the kind of place that makes you slow down and really look.

30. Have a long lunch in Cernobbio

Cernobbio has such an elegant feel-less touristy, more timeless. I love coming here just to wander the promenade and sit down for a relaxed lunch near the water. You can peek at Villa d'Este while you're there (even if you're not staying), and the whole town has that perfect "Italian summer" energy.

31. Take the cable car in Argegno

This one's a bit of a hidden gem. Argegno is a sleepy little town with gorgeous lake views, but the real surprise is the cable car that takes you up to Pigra. It's a short ride but the view at the top? Unreal. You feel like you're floating above the lake.

32. Go wine tasting in Domaso

Way up at the top of the lake, Domaso is surrounded by hills covered in vineyards. It's a bit quieter up there, but the wine is so good. I did a tasting at a family-run winery that looked right out over the lake-local wines, homemade snacks, and just the nicest people. Total hidden gem.

33. Take a scenic drive along the lake

If you're renting a car, don't skip the drive along the western shore of the lake. It's winding and narrow, yes, but every turn gives you a new jaw-dropping view. I like to stop in random towns I've never heard of-some of the best meals I've had were from those "let's just pull over here" moments.

Lake Como Tours

10 amazing and popular restaurants in Lake Como that are worth checking out:

1. La Vita è Bella, Menaggio - This restaurant serves delicious Italian cuisine with a modern twist. The outdoor terrace offers stunning lake views.
2. La Darsena, Tremezzo - Located on the shore of Lake Como, this restaurant serves fresh seafood and traditional Italian dishes. The terrace offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
3. Il Gatto Nero, Cernobbio - This Michelin-starred restaurant serves creative Italian cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The romantic setting, with a terrace overlooking the lake, is perfect for a special occasion.
4. Ristorante La Punta, Bellagio - This restaurant is known for its exceptional seafood dishes, served in a beautiful setting overlooking the lake. The terrace offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
5. La Baia di Paré, Moltrasio - This restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, with a focus on seafood. The outdoor terrace offers beautiful views of the lake.
6. Trattoria del Glicine, Varenna - This traditional trattoria serves classic Italian dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The outdoor terrace is surrounded by beautiful flowers and offers stunning lake views.
7. L'Orangerie, Villa Crespi, Orta San Giulio - This Michelin-starred restaurant is located in a beautiful villa overlooking Lake Orta, about an hour's drive from Lake Como. The cuisine is inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean and the Middle East.
8. Al Veluu, Tremezzo - This rustic restaurant serves traditional Italian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The outdoor terrace offers stunning views of Lake Como.
9. Imbarcadero, Bellagio - This stylish restaurant offers modern Italian cuisine with a focus on seafood. The outdoor terrace offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
10. Salice Blu, Bellagio - This Michelin-starred restaurant serves creative Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The outdoor terrace offers beautiful views of Lake Como.

What is the best travel insurance for italy?

There are a number of different travel insurance companies that offer coverage for Italy. Before purchasing a policy, it is important to do your research and compare policies to make sure you are getting the best coverage for your needs. Some popular choices include World Nomads, Allianz Travel Insurance, and Travelex Insurance Services.

Learn more about Italy travel

🚆 How to Get to Lake Como from Major Italian Cities

From Rome to Lake Como

• Train: Take a high-speed train from Rome to Milan (approx. 3 hours), then connect to Como or Varenna (about 1 hour). This is the fastest and most convenient option.
• Car: Driving takes about 6 hours (600 km). It's a scenic trip through the countryside if you prefer flexibility.
• Bus: Buses from Rome to Milan take around 6 hours. From there, transfer to a local train or bus to reach Lake Como towns.

From Venice to Lake Como

• Train: Take a train from Venice to Milan (2.5 hours), then connect to Lake Como by regional or high-speed train (1 hour).
• Car: Driving takes around 4 hours (350 km), with beautiful views along the way.
• Bus: A budget-friendly option-buses to Milan take about 3 hours, followed by a train or local bus to Lake Como.

From Florence to Lake Como

• Train: Take a train from Florence to Milan (approx. 2 hours), then transfer to a train heading to Como or Varenna (1 hour).
• Car: The drive is about 3.5-4 hours and offers stunning countryside views-perfect for a road trip.
• Bus: Slower than the train and may require transfers, but ideal for budget travelers.
• Private Transfer: If you're looking for comfort, hire a private car to take you directly from Florence to Lake Como.

From Naples to Lake Como

• Train: Ride a high-speed train from Naples to Milan (4.5 hours), then take a regional train to Como or nearby towns (1 hour).
• Car: A long but scenic drive-about 8 hours (800 km) through central and northern Italy.
• Bus: Buses to Milan take around 9 hours, then transfer to reach Lake Como.

When's the Best Time to Visit Lake Como?

I've been in almost every season, and honestly, they all have their charm. But here's the quick breakdown:

• Spring (April-June): Blooming gardens and way fewer crowds
• Summer (July-August): Hot, busy, and totally worth it-ideal for swimming + boat days
• Fall (September-October): My personal favorite: quieter, cooler, and perfect for wine tastings
• Winter (November-March): Peaceful, romantic, and way more affordable

Here are ten Instagram photo-worthy spots in Lake Como

1. Villa del Balbianello, Via Comoedia, 5, 22016 Lenno CO, Italy - This beautiful villa on the western shore of Lake Como is a popular spot for Instagram photos, with its stunning gardens, terraces, and lake views.
2. Bellagio Waterfront, Lungolario Manzoni, 22021 Bellagio CO, Italy - The waterfront promenade in Bellagio offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for photos at sunset.
3. Castello di Vezio, Via al Castello, 22010 Perledo LC, Italy - This medieval castle on a hilltop above Varenna offers panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding countryside.
4. Menaggio Waterfront, Piazza Garibaldi, 22017 Menaggio CO, Italy - The waterfront promenade in Menaggio is a great spot for photos, with views of the lake and the colorful houses along the shore.
5. Villa Melzi Gardens, Lungolario Manzoni, 22021 Bellagio CO, Italy - The gardens of this beautiful villa in Bellagio offer a peaceful retreat with stunning lake views. Don't miss the Japanese garden and the neoclassical temple.
6. Varenna Waterfront, Via Venini, 22010 Varenna LC, Italy - The colorful houses and boats along the waterfront in Varenna make for a great photo backdrop. Don't miss the charming cobblestone streets and alleys of the old town.
7. Fiumelatte, Fiumelatte LC, Italy - This small river on the eastern shore of Lake Como is known for its milky white color and picturesque waterfall. It's a great spot for nature photos.
8. Faro Voltiano, Via alla Funicolare, 22032 Brunate CO, Italy - The lighthouse on top of the hill above Como offers panoramic views of the city and the lake. It's a great spot for sunset photos.
9. Villa Serbelloni Gardens, Via Roma, 1, 22021 Bellagio CO, Italy - The gardens of this grand villa in Bellagio offer beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Don't miss the colorful flowers and fountains.
10. Piona Abbey, Via Abbazia, 1, 23874 Piona CO, Italy - This ancient abbey on the eastern shore of Lake Como offers a glimpse into the region's medieval history. The Romanesque architecture and beautiful gardens make for great photo opportunities.

Things to know before visiting como

Currency: The official currency of Italy is the Euro.

Language: Italian is the main language spoken in Lake CoMO, though English is widely understood in most areas. Weather: Summers are usually warm with temperatures between 18-30 °C (65-85 °F). Winters are mild with temperatures ranging from 0-15°C (32-60°F).

Public Transportation: Lake Como's main public transportation includes buses, trains, and ferries. The primary train station is called Como San Giovanni.

Time Zone: Lake Como follows Central European Time (CET).

Italian Visa: Depending on where you are from, you may need to obtain a visa before entering Italy. You should check with your local Italian embassy or consulate for more information. If you are an American, Canadian, or Australian citizen, you will not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days.

Electricty Socket: Electrical outlets in Milan are Type F, which accept plugs with round pins or Europlug adapters. The voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Italy SIM Card: It is recommended to get a local SIM card when travelling in Italy. This will give you the best coverage and access to data services while roaming.

Car Rentals: If you are planning on renting a car in Como, it is important to do your research beforehand. There are several rental companies that offer competitive rates and good customer service. I recommend this car rental service.

Get more italy travel tips

History of Lago di Como/ Lake Como

Lake Como, or Lago di Como in Italian, is a glacial lake located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. The lake is shaped like an upside-down Y and stretches over an area of 146 square kilometers, making it the third-largest lake in Italy.

The area around Lake Como has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and evidence of human settlements from the Bronze Age has been found in the region. The lake has been a popular destination for tourists since the Roman era, when wealthy Romans built villas along its shores.

During the Middle Ages, Lake Como was a strategic location due to its position on the trade route between Milan and Switzerland. Many towns and villages were founded during this time, and several castles were built to defend the area.

The region became a center of silk production during the Renaissance, and wealthy merchants and aristocrats built elaborate villas and gardens around the lake. In the 19th century, Lake Como became a popular destination for wealthy Europeans, including writers, artists, and composers. Today, the lake remains a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, historic towns, and luxury villas.

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