Things to Do in Lake Como: Top Attractions, Villages & Unmissable Experiences

The first time I arrived in Lake Como, I remember standing by the ferry dock, watching the mountains drop straight into the water, and thinking: this place doesn’t feel real. Elegant villas, tiny villages clinging to the hillsides, boats gliding quietly across the lake—it all feels calm, cinematic, and slightly unreal in the best way.

But here’s the thing most guides don’t tell you: Lake Como isn’t about doing everything. It’s about choosing the right experiences. Trying to see too many towns in one day, rushing through villas, or underestimating ferry time can easily turn a dream trip into a stressful one.

That’s why I put together this guide to the best things to do in Lake Como—based on what actually felt worth it. From iconic villages like Bellagio and Varenna to scenic ferry rides, easy viewpoints, hidden corners, and simple lakeside moments, this list will help you plan smarter, slow down, and enjoy Lake Como the way it’s meant to be experienced.

Best Things to Do in Lake Como at a Glance

If you’re short on time, these are the absolute must-do experiences in Lake Como—the ones that give you the best mix of views, atmosphere, and classic lake moments:

• Take a ferry between Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio – the easiest and most scenic way to explore the lake
• Visit one historic villa and garden – Villa del Balbianello, Villa Monastero, or Villa Carlotta are the top picks
• Enjoy a panoramic viewpoint – Brunate or Castello di Vezio offer unforgettable lake views
• Do one easy hike or lakeside walk – even short routes deliver big scenery
• Slow down with a lakeside lunch – this is where Lake Como really shines

If you do only three things in Lake Como: take a ferry, explore one village on foot, and enjoy the views without rushing.

How to Get to Lake Como from Milan (Fast & Easy Options)

The easiest way to get to Lake Como from Milan is by train, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. From my own trips, combining the train with a ferry is also the most scenic and stress-free option.

• Train (Best option for most travelers): I usually take the train from Milan to Varenna-Esino, Como S. Giovanni, or Milan → Varenna via Lecco, which takes about 1–1.5 hours. Trains are frequent and easy to use.
• Car (Flexible but not always easier): I’ve driven from Milan to Lake Como before, and while it gives flexibility, parking in popular towns can be frustrating—especially in summer.
• Organized day tours: These are convenient if you’re short on time, but in my experience, they feel rushed and limit how much you can explore on your own.
• Train + ferry combo (Most scenic): When I want the full Lake Como experience, I take the train to Varenna or Como and continue by ferry—it’s often the highlight of the journey.

My Tip: for first-timers, the train + ferry combination is the best way to experience Lake Como without the hassle.

Best Time to Visit Lake Como (By Season & Crowd Levels)

The best time to visit Lake Como is late spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October), when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are smaller. From my own experience, these months offer the best balance between scenery, comfort, and atmosphere.

• Spring (April–May): This is one of my favorite times to visit. The weather is mild, gardens are in bloom, and villages feel relaxed—perfect for walking and sightseeing.
• Summer (June–August): I’ve visited in summer too, and while the lake is stunning and ideal for swimming and boat trips, it’s also the busiest and most expensive season.
• Fall (September–October): If I had to choose one season, this would be it. The lake is still warm, crowds thin out, and the light is beautiful for photography.
• Winter (November–March): I wouldn’t recommend winter for first-time visitors, but if you’re after a quiet, romantic feel, this is when Lake Como is at its calmest—just expect limited ferries and some closures.

Lake Como for First-Timers: What to Do If You Have 1, 2, or 3 Days

If you’re wondering what to see in Lake Como, the key is to focus on a few standout villages, scenic viewpoints, and time on the water rather than trying to see everything. On a first trip, choosing fewer places makes the experience far more enjoyable—Lake Como rewards slow travel much more than packed schedules.

If You Have 1 Day in Lake Como

I’d choose one main village and a ferry ride. My top pick is Varenna, combined with a short ferry trip to Bellagio or Menaggio—it gives you views, atmosphere, and a relaxed pace without rushing.

If You Have 2 Days in Lake Como

Two days is the ideal balance. I usually suggest:

• Day 1: Varenna + Bellagio
• Day 2: One historic villa and a panoramic viewpoint

This way, you see variety without spending half the trip moving around.

If You Have 3 Days in Lake Como

With three days, the lake feels far less overwhelming. I’d explore the central lake towns, add a gentle hike or quieter village, and still leave time to enjoy the lake itself.

Quick takeaway: Lake Como feels best when you choose fewer places and give them time to breathe.

Best Towns in Lake Como (And Which One to Choose as Your Base)

For most travelers, Varenna is the best town to stay in Lake Como thanks to its scenic setting, walkable size, and easy train and ferry connections. I think it offers the best balance between beauty and convenience.

Quick comparison of the best towns in Lake Como:

• Varenna: romantic, walkable, excellent transport links
• Bellagio: iconic and lively, but crowded in peak season
• Menaggio: relaxed and practical for longer stays
• Como: easiest to reach from Milan, less atmospheric

Varenna – My Personal Favorite

If I had to choose just one base, I think I’d still go with Varenna. It feels calmer than Bellagio, it’s easy to explore on foot, and moving around the lake from here is simple.

Bellagio – Iconic but Busy

Bellagio is beautiful and worth visiting, especially early in the day, but I prefer not to base myself here during high season because of the crowds.

Menaggio – Relaxed and Well-Located

Menaggio works well if you want a quieter base and more space. I find it particularly comfortable for longer stays.

Como – Convenient Gateway

Como is practical and easy to reach from Milan, but I see it more as an entry point than a place to fully experience the lake.

Now that you have a sense of how Lake Como works, it’s time to dive into what to do in Lake Como—from iconic villages and scenic ferry rides to quieter moments that define the experience.

Top Things to Do in Lake Como

Before jumping into individual villages and attractions, it helps to understand what makes Lake Como unique. For me, the magic isn’t about ticking off landmarks—it’s the mix of water, mountains, and slow moments in between.

Lake Como is best experienced by moving at a relaxed pace: hopping on ferries, wandering small towns on foot, enjoying long lunches by the lake, and choosing views over checklists. Once you accept that you won’t see everything in one trip, the lake starts to feel far more rewarding.

The sections below focus on the experiences that actually define Lake Como—from iconic villages and scenic boat rides to viewpoints, villas, and quieter corners that often end up being the highlights of the trip.

Explore Bellagio: Lake Como’s Most Iconic Village

Bellagio is often the first place people think of when searching for things to do in Lake Como, and honestly, I understand why. The first time I arrived by ferry, the view of pastel houses stacked above the water felt almost unreal — the kind of place that looks too perfect to be real.

That said, Bellagio can feel very different depending on when and how you experience it.

I’ve enjoyed Bellagio the most early in the morning, before the day-trippers arrive, or later in the afternoon once the ferries quiet down. Walking uphill through the narrow lanes, away from the waterfront, I found calmer corners where Bellagio finally breathes and feels more authentic.

During the middle of the day, though, it can be crowded — beautiful, yes, but busy. Knowing this in advance makes a huge difference.

What to Do in Bellagio (Worth Your Time)

Here are the Bellagio attractions that I think are genuinely worth it:

• Explore the old town stairways: Wander up from the ferry port into the historic center. The higher you go, the fewer people you’ll see — and the better the views become.
• Visit Villa Melzi gardens: This is one place I wouldn’t skip. The gardens are peaceful, well-kept, and stretch right along the water, offering a break from the crowds.
• Walk toward Pescallo: This small fishing area feels like a different world compared to the main square. I like coming here when Bellagio feels overwhelming.

Practical Tips for Visiting Bellagio

If Bellagio is on your list, a few simple tips will improve your visit instantly:

• Best time to visit: early morning or after 4 pm
• How long to stay: 2–3 hours is enough for most travelers
• Getting around: Bellagio is compact but steep — wear comfortable shoes
• Crowds: expect them midday, especially in summer

My honest advice: Bellagio is absolutely worth visiting, but I prefer treating it as a highlight stop rather than a full-day base. Pair it with Varenna or Menaggio and use the ferry to move on once it starts feeling busy.

Why Bellagio matters in your Lake Como trip

Bellagio gives you that classic Lake Como image everyone hopes for — elegant, scenic, and lively. Enjoy it at the right pace and time, and it becomes one of the most memorable stops on the lake.

Wander Varenna & Walk the Lakeside Promenade

If Bellagio feels lively and energetic, Varenna feels intimate and calm. This is the town where Lake Como truly slowed down for me. Arriving by train and stepping straight out onto the lake, everything felt close, walkable, and unhurried.

Varenna stands out for its romantic atmosphere, compact size, and beautiful lakeside setting—perfect if you enjoy exploring on foot rather than rushing between attractions.

I think I prefer Varenna when I want a quieter, more personal side of Lake Como. Early mornings are especially beautiful when the promenade is almost empty, and the lake feels still. Even when day-trippers arrive, it never feels as overwhelming as Bellagio.

What to Do in Varenna (Don’t Miss These)

These Varenna Lake Como attractions are easy to combine in half a day:

• Walk the Passeggiata degli Innamorati: This short lakeside promenade is one of the most romantic spots in town. I like walking it slowly, stopping to take in the views back across the water.
• Visit Villa Monastero: The long garden path stretching along the lake is peaceful and scenic, and it’s one of my favorite villa visits on Lake Como.
• Climb up to Castello di Vezio: Sitting above the village, this castle offers some of the best panoramic views in the area. It’s also known for its ghost-like statues, which give the place a slightly mysterious and unforgettable atmosphere.
• Explore the old village streets: Just a few steps uphill from the water, Varenna’s narrow lanes feel quieter and more local, especially away from ferry arrival times.

Practical Tips for Visiting Varenna

• Best time to visit: early morning or late afternoon
• How long to stay: half a day is ideal
• Getting there: direct train from Milan + excellent ferry connections
• Crowds: calmer than Bellagio, but busiest midday

My honest take: If I had to choose just one village to visit on Lake Como, I’d pick Varenna. It combines scenery, walkability, and atmosphere better than anywhere else.

Why Varenna belongs on your Lake Como list

Varenna shows the softer, more romantic side of Lake Como. It’s not about ticking off sights here—it’s about slowing down and enjoying the setting.

Take a Ferry or Boat Tour on Lake Como

If there’s one experience that truly defines Lake Como for me, it’s being on the water. The first time I stepped onto a ferry, I realized the boat ride itself wasn’t just transportation — it was part of the experience. Watching villages appear slowly along the shoreline, with mountains rising behind them, completely changed how I saw the lake.

Moving by ferry feels natural here. It’s slower, more scenic, and far more enjoyable than rushing between towns by road. I usually plan my days around ferry rides rather than attractions. Sitting on the open deck, feeling the breeze, and watching Bellagio, Varenna, or Menaggio come into view is one of those moments where you instinctively put your phone down and just look.

Some of my favorite memories weren’t tied to a specific stop — they happened between places, drifting across the lake with a coffee in hand.

Ferry vs Boat Tour: What I Recommend

Both options are great, but they feel different:

• Public ferries: This is what I use most often. They’re affordable, reliable, and perfect for hopping between villages at your own pace. The routes between Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio are especially scenic.
• Private or small-group boat tours: I see these as more of a splurge experience. If you want a relaxed overview of the lake, hidden villas, and time away from crowds, a boat tour can be worth it — especially for couples.

Practical Ferry Tips (Learned the Easy Way)

A few small things made my ferry experience much smoother:

• Sit outside when possible for the best views
• Check return times in advance, especially in the evening
• Arrive early in summer, as popular routes can fill up
• Don’t overplan — leave buffer time between crossings

My advice: even if you do nothing else, take at least one ferry ride. It’s the easiest way to feel the scale and beauty of Lake Como. Lake Como isn’t meant to be rushed. The ferry forces you to slow down — and that’s exactly when the lake feels at its best.

Visit a Historic Villa & Garden (Pick One, Not All)

Lake Como is famous for its villas, but I learned pretty quickly that you don’t need to visit many to enjoy them. In fact, trying to squeeze in two or three villas in one day can feel repetitive and tiring. For me, choosing one villa and taking my time made the experience far more memorable.

Each villa has its own personality, but they all share the same magic: elegant buildings, lush gardens, and views that make you slow down without trying.

The villa visits I enjoyed most were the ones where I didn’t rush. Walking slowly through the gardens, stopping at viewpoints, and sitting near the water for a few minutes felt more in tune with Lake Como than hopping quickly from one place to another.

That’s why I usually recommend picking one villa that fits your route rather than chasing the most famous name.

Villa del Balbianello

Villa del Balbianello is the most iconic villa on Lake Como, and arriving here genuinely feels special. Set on a narrow peninsula surrounded by water, it has one of the most dramatic locations on the entire lake. Approaching it—especially by boat—makes you understand instantly why it’s one of the most photographed places in the region.

Walking through the terraces, I found myself stopping constantly, not because I felt rushed, but because every angle offered a different view of the lake and mountains. The atmosphere here is refined but not overwhelming, and it’s easy to see why this villa has been used as a filming location more than once.

Villa Monastero

Villa Monastero feels very different in character. Instead of grand terraces, what makes this villa special is its long garden path that runs directly along the water. I enjoyed this visit because it felt calmer and more personal, especially compared to some of the busier villas on the lake.

As I walked along the garden, the crowds gradually thinned out, and the experience became quieter and more reflective. This is the villa I’d recommend if you want a peaceful stroll with constant lake views, without feeling like you’re in a major tourist site.

Villa Carlotta

Villa Carlotta stands out for its expansive botanical gardens. Visiting here felt more like walking through a landscaped park than touring a traditional villa. In spring and early summer, the colors and flowers dominate the experience, making it especially rewarding if you enjoy nature as much as architecture.

I found Villa Carlotta to be less about dramatic viewpoints and more about space and movement. It’s a place where you naturally slow your pace, wander without a plan, and let the surroundings guide you.

Choosing the right villa

If you’re unsure which villa to visit, my advice is simple: choose the one that fits your route and how much time you have. Each villa offers a slightly different experience, but they all deliver the same sense of elegance and calm that defines Lake Como.

For me, visiting just one villa added depth and history to my trip—without taking away from the simple joy of being by the lake.

Discover Hidden Villages & Quieter Corners of Lake Como

One of the things I enjoyed most about Lake Como was exploring some of its hidden gems. Away from the busy ferry hubs, these off-the-beaten-path Lake Como villages offer a quieter, more authentic side of the lake that many travelers never see.

I didn’t plan these places carefully in advance — some of my favorite moments came from simply hopping off the ferry somewhere less popular or taking a short detour uphill.

Nesso

Nesso is one of those villages that feels almost forgotten by time. What draws people here is the dramatic stone bridge and waterfall cutting through the village, but what stayed with me was how quiet everything felt once you stepped away from that viewpoint.

Walking through Nesso, I noticed how quickly the atmosphere changed — fewer souvenir shops, more local homes, and a sense that life here hasn’t been reshaped entirely for tourism. It’s a short stop, but one that adds contrast to the more polished lake towns.

Lenno

Lenno often gets overshadowed by nearby attractions, but that’s exactly why I liked it. The village has a calm, lived-in feel, with a pleasant lakeside promenade and small cafés where time seems to move slower.

I found Lenno to be a great place to pause — not necessarily to “do” something, but to enjoy the lake without distractions.

Brienno

Brienno felt like a true hidden corner of the lake. Narrow alleys, stone houses, and steep stairways give it a slightly rugged character compared to the more manicured towns.

This is the kind of place I wouldn’t recommend to everyone — but if you enjoy wandering without a plan, it’s rewarding.

Why these places matter

Adding just one or two quieter stops completely changes how Lake Como feels. For me, these hidden gems in Lake Como were the moments where the lake felt most authentic and unfiltered.

Enjoy the Best Viewpoints & Easy Panoramic Walks in Lake Como

One thing I quickly realized in Lake Como is that you don’t need to hike for hours to get incredible views. Some of the best Lake Como viewpoints are surprisingly easy to reach, and they completely change how you see the lake. For me, these moments—standing still, looking out over the water and mountains—were just as memorable as visiting villages or villas.

If you’re short on time or not in the mood for long walks, these panoramic views in Lake Como deliver maximum impact with minimal effort.

Brunate & the Funicular

The funicular ride up to Brunate was one of those experiences that felt simple but rewarding. As the car climbs higher, the lake slowly opens up beneath you, and by the time you reach the top, the view is wide and dramatic.

What I liked most was how accessible it felt. Even without venturing far from the station, the views are already impressive. If you walk a little further, the crowds thin out and the atmosphere becomes much quieter.

Viewpoints Above Varenna

Some of my favorite views came from walking uphill above Varenna. The climb is gentle but steady, and every pause along the way reveals a slightly different angle of the lake below.

What made this special for me was the contrast: the higher I went, the quieter it became. Looking down at the colorful houses and ferries from above gave me a whole new appreciation for the scale of Lake Como.

Why viewpoints are worth prioritizing

These viewpoints helped me understand the geography of the lake in a way I couldn’t from the water alone. Seeing how the villages cling to the mountainsides and how narrow the lake really is makes everything feel more dramatic.

My advice: even if you skip a hike or a museum, make time for at least one panoramic viewpoint. It’s one of the easiest ways to experience the true beauty of Lake Como.

Go Hiking in Lake Como (Even If You’re Not a Hiker)

When I first looked into hiking in Lake Como, I almost skipped it entirely. I imagined long, demanding trails and lots of planning. What I discovered instead was that many walks here are gentle, flexible, and incredibly rewarding — even if you’re not an experienced hiker.

You don’t need to treat hiking as a full-day commitment. Short sections, easy paths, and well-marked routes make it accessible, and the views often feel more dramatic than anything you see from the villages below.

The hike that really changed my mind was walking a short stretch of the Sentiero del Viandante. I didn’t do the entire trail — and you don’t need to. Even a small section was enough to feel removed from the crowds and fully immersed in the landscape.

What stayed with me most was the silence. Once you leave the ferry stops behind, the lake feels different from above: wider, calmer, and more powerful.

Sentiero del Viandante

This historic path runs along the eastern side of the lake and connects several villages through forested paths, stone steps, and open viewpoints. What I liked about it is how flexible it is — you can walk for an hour, stop in a village, and return by train or ferry.

It never felt intimidating. The trail is well-marked, and you’re rarely far from civilization, which makes it ideal if you want a taste of nature without committing to a serious trek.

Why hiking adds something special

Hiking gave you a completely different perspective on Lake Como. From above, you see how the villages fit into the mountains, how narrow parts of the lake really are, and how quickly the atmosphere changes once you step away from the water.

Even if hiking isn’t usually your thing, try one short walk. It’s one of the simplest ways to experience a quieter, more authentic side of Lake Como.

Swim, Relax, or Simply Do Nothing by the Lake

After moving between villages, ferries, viewpoints, and walks, this was the part of Lake Como I didn’t expect to enjoy so much: doing very little. At some point, I stopped planning and just sat by the water — and that’s when the lake really clicked for me.

Lake Como isn’t a destination that demands constant movement. In fact, some of my favorite moments came from slowing down, finding a quiet spot, and letting the lake set the pace.

On warm days, swimming in Lake Como felt surprisingly refreshing. The water is clean, calm, and clear, especially in summer and early fall. I didn’t swim everywhere, but when I did, it felt like a small reward after busy sightseeing days.

Other times, I didn’t even swim. Sitting near the water with a drink, watching ferries glide past, was just as satisfying.

Where to swim or relax by the lake

Instead of searching for a “perfect beach,” I found it more enjoyable to choose places that felt easy and natural. Well-known Lake Como beach clubs and lidos like Lido di Lenno, Lido di Menaggio, and Lido di Varenna worked perfectly for a relaxed swim or a few quiet hours by the water.

They’re simple, well-maintained, and easy to combine with sightseeing — no full beach day commitment needed.

A different side of Lake Como

These slower moments balanced out the more famous sights. After villas and viewpoints, this was where Lake Como felt less like a destination and more like a place people actually live.

My advice: don’t plan every hour. Leave space in your day to sit by the lake, swim if the weather allows, or simply watch the light change on the water.

Taste Lake Como: What & Where to Eat

Food in Lake Como reflects the lake’s geography and traditions. You’ll find a mix of freshwater fish, simple pasta dishes, and classic Northern Italian flavors, often served in relaxed settings with views over the water. Meals here are less about trendiness and more about enjoying the setting and taking your time.

Knowing what to try — and when to eat — makes a noticeable difference to the overall experience.

What to eat in Lake Como

Local cuisine is rooted in simple ingredients and regional traditions. Freshwater fish from the lake appear frequently on menus, alongside risottos, polenta, and seasonal vegetables. Portions tend to be generous, and dishes are usually unfussy yet well-executed.

Desserts are often straightforward, while wine lists focus heavily on Italian labels rather than international selections.

Where to eat in Lake Como

Restaurants range from casual lakeside trattorias to more refined spots tucked into villages or hillsides. In general, places directly on the water offer unbeatable views, while slightly uphill restaurants tend to be quieter and more relaxed.

Lunch is often the best time to enjoy a lakeside meal without crowds, while dinner feels more atmospheric once day-trippers have left.

A simple food strategy that works

Rather than chasing “the best restaurant,” it’s often better to:

• eat where you already are
• avoid peak lunch hours
• prioritize views and atmosphere

This approach keeps meals enjoyable and stress-free, and it fits naturally with the slower rhythm of Lake Como.

Eating well in Lake Como isn’t about ticking off famous restaurants — it’s about pausing, sitting down, and letting the lake set the pace. A long lunch or a quiet dinner by the water often becomes one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

Getting Around Lake Como (Without Stress)

Understanding how to get around Lake Como makes a huge difference to your trip. While the lake looks compact on a map, moving between towns can take longer than expected if you don’t plan smartly. The good news is that public transport works well here — especially on the water.

Ferries: the backbone of Lake Como transport

Ferries are the most scenic and practical way to travel between towns like Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio. They connect the central part of the lake efficiently and allow you to enjoy the views while moving around.

Following basic Lake Como ferry tips—such as checking return times in advance and arriving early in high season—helps avoid unnecessary waiting or missed connections.

Trains: ideal for the eastern side

The eastern shore of the lake is well served by trains, making towns like Varenna easy to reach from Milan and convenient for combining rail and ferry travel. Trains are reliable, frequent, and often faster than driving.

Book Train / Bus / Ferry / Flight

Cars: Useful in Limited Cases

Driving can be helpful if you plan to explore smaller villages or stay outside the main ferry routes. However, narrow roads, limited parking, and summer traffic make cars less practical for central lake sightseeing.

A simple way to move around

For most visitors, the easiest setup is:

• train to the lake
• ferries between towns
• walking once you arrive

This combination keeps travel flexible, scenic, and relatively stress-free.

Lake Como rewards travelers who move slowly but intentionally. Planning transport in advance allows you to spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying villages, views, and the lake itself.

FAQs About Things to Do in Lake Como

Final Words

Lake Como isn’t a place to rush through or “complete.” What makes it special is the balance between movement and stillness—ferries gliding across the water, quiet walks through villages, time spent sitting by the lake with no real plan.

Whether you focus on a couple of towns, visit one historic villa, or simply enjoy the views from the water, the experience works best when you leave room to slow down. You don’t need to see everything to feel the magic of Lake Como—you just need to choose well.

Plan smart, move gently, and let the lake set the pace. That’s when Lake Como leaves a lasting impression.

Buon Viaggio!

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