Visiting Lake Como; Bellagio and Varenna is a perfect for a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and enjoying the stunning lakeside views. Getting to Lake Como is relatively easy, thanks to its proximity to major cities in Italy and its well-connected transportation network.
By Train:
Lake Como is well-served by Italy’s efficient train system, and the train is one of the best ways to get there, especially if you’re coming from Milan.
By Air:
The nearest major airport to Lake Como is Milan’s Malpensa Airport (MXP), but you can also fly into Linate Airport (LIN) or Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) near Bergamo.
Explore Como Town & Surroundings
– Morning: Arrive in Como. Start with a visit to **Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como)**, an impressive Gothic structure with beautiful interiors.
– Late Morning: Stroll through **Piazza Cavour** and explore the charming streets around it. Don’t miss the **Funicular ride** up to **Brunate** for panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. Have lunch at a lakeside café or restaurant in Como, enjoying some local specialties like risotto or fresh fish.
– Afternoon: Take a boat ride on the lake, heading toward **Bellagio**, known as the “Pearl of the Lake.” The boat ride itself offers stunning views of the villas and mountains.
– Evening: Enjoy a lakeside dinner in Bellagio, with views of the sunset over the water.
Visit Bellagio
Bellagio is one of the most picturesque towns on Lake Como, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Lake” because of its stunning location at the point where the lake splits into two branches. It’s a charming blend of narrow cobblestone streets, lush gardens, and stunning waterfront views.
Start your day with a leisurely **walk along the lakefront**. The promenade offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Stop at the **Lido di Bellagio**, a lakeside beach area where you can relax and take in the scenery.
Visit **Villa Melzi**, one of Bellagio’s most famous villas. The villa itself is not open to the public, but the **gardens are a must-see**. Stroll through the lush, landscaped gardens, which feature a mix of Italian-style terraces, sculptures, and beautiful lakeside views. Don’t miss the **temple** on the property’s edge for the perfect photo opportunity.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the charming lakeside cafés. Many have outdoor terraces with stunning views. Try **Ristorante Bilacus** or **Trattoria San Giacomo**, known for their delicious Italian food. Head into the **historic center of Bellagio**, where narrow streets and staircases lead you past boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés. This area is perfect for leisurely exploration. Visit the **Church of San Giacomo**, a small but beautiful church located in the town’s main square, Piazza San Giacomo. It dates back to the 12th century and has an impressive Romanesque interior.
Tips:
– **Transportation**: You can explore the towns by boat (ferries), which is the best way to enjoy the lake views. The ferries are well-connected, so you can hop between towns easily.
– **Best Time to Visit**: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, but summer is great if you love warm weather and vibrant atmosphere.
Visit Varenna
One of the most beautiful and peaceful towns on Lake Como, with a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Bellagio, yet equally as stunning. It’s a picturesque spot filled with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and lovely lakefront views.
Arrive in **Varenna** and take a **stroll along the lakefront promenade**, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The town’s lakeside setting is one of its most scenic aspects, so enjoy the peace and quiet as you walk by the water. Explore the **Piazza San Giorgio**, the town’s main square, which is lined with colorful buildings, cafés, and shops. It’s the perfect place to start your visit.
Head to **Villa Monastero**, one of the top attractions in Varenna. This 18th-century villa is set in beautiful **botanical gardens** that stretch along the lake. Take time to wander through the gardens, which are full of exotic plants, sculptures, and fantastic lake views. The villa also has a museum with exhibits about the area’s history and culture, so if you’re interested, you can explore the inside as well.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants with panoramic views of the lake. A great spot is **Ristorante La Vista**, which offers a beautiful terrace overlooking the water, perfect for a relaxing lunch. Try local specialties like **risotto with perch** or **lake fish**. After lunch, head to **Castello di Vezio**, a medieval castle situated above Varenna. You can either walk up from the town center (it takes about 20 minutes) or take a taxi to save time.
The castle offers breathtaking views over the lake, and the climb is well worth it for the panoramas. Explore the castle grounds, including the towers and fortified walls. There’s also a small museum inside with information about the history of the area. Don’t miss the **Falconry Demonstrations**, which are often held in the castle gardens (check the schedule in advance).
If you choose to stay in Varenna, continue exploring its lovely streets. Wander through the **narrow, winding alleys**, which are full of charm and lead you to beautiful hidden corners of the town. Be sure to check out **Piazza San Giorgio**, where you’ll find the **Chiesa di San Giorgio**, a lovely church with a bell tower that offers stunning views of the town.
Alternatively, you could take a short hike along the **Sentiero del Viandante** (Wayfarer’s Path), an ancient trail that runs through the hills around Varenna. It’s a scenic hike with views of the lake and the mountains, and it’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Tips:
– Getting Around: Varenna is very walkable, with most attractions within a short walking distance of the town center. If you want to reach Castello di Vezio, it’s a bit of a hike up, but the views from the top are totally worth it.
– Best Time to Visit: Spring and early fall are the best times to visit Varenna, as the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists than in the summer months.
– Ferries: The ferry system is well-connected, so it’s easy to hop between Varenna and other nearby towns like Bellagio, Menaggio, and Tremezzo. The ferries offer spectacular views of the lake, making for a scenic trip in itself.
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