Hot off of my summer trip to Italy, I’m sharing everything you need to know to create an amazing Lake Como itinerary.
Lake Como has been a playground for the rich and famous for centuries, dating back to the times of the Romans. George Clooney, Richard Brandon, Brad Pitt… It seems that every A-lister has a summer villa on Lake Como, and every year visitors flock from all over the globe to spend their holidays.
So what could possibly be so great about this particular lake?
Growing up in Florida, I’ve never really been much of a lake person – the ocean’s always been more my speed. So I wanted to see for myself what all the fuss was about – would Lake Como live up to the hype?
Short answer – yes.
Imagine the landscape of the Swiss Alps, the villas and architecture of the Amalfi Coast, plus the food and hospitality that’s so iconic to Italy. Rugged mountains meet a clear, glacier lake that’s more than a thousand feet deep with pastel-colored villages peppering its coastline.
Lake Como is the real deal, and our trip here far surpassed all of my expectations.
And the best part – unlike many other Italian hot spots, on Lake Como there is not a cruise ship in sight. This sound like an obvious statement, but compared to Lake Como’s coastal counterparts this benefit is not to be overlooked.
Of course there are tourists, yes, but not the mass groups following an umbrella-holding tour guide who’s whispering into a microphone.
Lake Como is just difficult enough to get to – thus it’s maintained its exclusivity and charm, in spite of its reputation as a bucket list-type destination.
Are you intrigued? In this Lake Como itinerary I’ve laid out how to experience the best of what it has to offer.
Regardless of which village you stay in, this itinerary will allow you to explore the the main villages in the area over the course of a nice, leisurely weekend.
So pour yourself a spritz, relax and read on for the skinny on how to plan a trip to Lake Como…
Lake Como Itinerary: How to Spend an Amazing Weekend on Lake Como, Italy
Day One: Explore Varenna and Tremezzo
Day Two: Explore Bellagio and Villa Balbianello
Lake Como Travel Essentials
How to Get to Lake Como
Lake Como is located in Northern Italy, tucked at the foot of the Swiss Alps. Visiting Lake Como is an easy day trip from Milan, but I’d recommend spending at least a night or two here to get the full experience.
From Milan, the easiest option is to take the train from Milano Centrale to either Varenna-Esino or Como San Giovanni, depending on your final destination. Trains run hourly and tickets cost around 5 Euros – for the timetable and tickets click here.
If you prefer to have your own set of wheels, rent a car at the airport in Milan, then drive the hour plus to Lake Como. While renting a car will give you flexibility to see some of the further-reaching areas of the lake, be mindful that you’ll have to deal with pricey and limited parking in many of the villages.
READ MORE: A Weekend Guide to Milan, Italy
Where to Stay in Lake Como
Lake Como is shaped like an upside-down “Y,” with its unique geography giving it some of the longest stretches of shoreline out of anywhere in Europe.
The majority of visitors to Lake Como stay in one of four towns – Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo or Como. There are many other smaller villages along the lake that are lovely, but you will need a rental car as the ferries only run to the main towns.
After much debate and research on where to stay in Lake Como, we landed on Varenna for the home base for our three night trip. Overall we found Varenna to be a lively but relaxed, less touristy alternative to the neighboring village Bellagio.
Varenna is centrally located on Lake Como, and it’s also super accessible – both to get to Varenna and to visit the other villages.
Varenna is home to the main train station on the lake, thus making it a straight shot to Lake Como from Milan. Varenna is also home to an excellent ferry port – with shuttles leaving in all directions to the other villages on the lake, it’s an excellent jumping off point to explore the area.
We fell in love with the Hotel Villa Cipressi in Varenna, and I would highly recommend it for your Lake Como holiday. The various buildings in the historic complex were built between the 15th and 19th centuries – think Old World charm meets modern amenities.
Click here to view hotels in Varenna
The best part – Villa Cipressi’s dreamy lakefront gardens and terrace provided the perfect backdrop to start and end our day.
If renting an apartment is more your speed, check out one of the many Airbnb’s in the area. New to Airbnb? Here’s $40 off your first listing.
How to Get Around Lake Como
Once you’ve arrived, the easiest way to get around Lake Como is – you guessed it – on the lake.
Lake Como’s ferry system runs between the villages, transporting you both efficiently and scenically across the lake. The Mid Lake Shuttle runs between Mennaggio, Varenna, Bellagio, Tremezzo and Lena. Tickets are 4.50 Euros each way – click here to see the route and timetable.
Only have time for a day trip to Lake Como? Check out these tour options through GetYourGuide:
Lake Como Itinerary: Day One
Morning – Hike to Vezio Castle
There are so many things to do in Lake Como that you’ll want to get an early start to your day. So lace up your sneakers – it’s time to burn off some pasta and go on a hike!
Lake Como’s unique position at the foot of the Alps yields stunning scenery from all angles. By kicking off your visit with a hike, you’ll get a chance to take in the full picture of the striking scenery of the area.
From Varenna, follow the signs for Castello di Vezio and hike up the 1.2 mile trail.
Door-to-door, the hike takes about 30 minutes from Varenna to Castello di Vezio. I’d recommend setting out in the morning before the day’s heat sets in.
Once you’ve reached the castle you’ll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the mountains, the vibrant glacial lake and the colorful villages that line its coast.
Castello di Vezio has stood for more than one thousand years and once defended the Lombardy region from invaders.
Today you’ll not only find some of the best views of the area, but also a falconry training center and even life-size, papier-mâché ghosts that decorate the castle in the summer months.
After exploring the grounds and taking in the views at Vezio Castle, head back down into Varenna.
Visit the famed Villa Monastero, or stroll past the Church of San Giorgio. Continue down towards the water along Varenna’s picturesque promenade, the Passeggiate Degli Innamorati – “the Lover’s Walk.”
Afternoon – Explore Tremezzo
After you’ve freshened up from your hike, grab a quick bite to eat and hop on the ferry to the village of Tremezzo.
Tremezzo was one of our favorite villages that we visited and is not to be missed on any Lake Como itinerary. As far as Lake Como goes, this place is uber-glamorous – and that’s saying something.
Get off the ferry at the first stop for Tremezzo and you’ll arrive at the fabulous Villa Carlotta. This 17th century masterpiece is now a museum, and it’s well worth a visit to walk through the botanical gardens.
After you’ve explored the grounds of Villa Carlotta, head next door to the amazing Grand Hotel Tremezzo. This iconic hotel is the epitome of Lake Como luxury, and the ambiance feels like you’re transported to a Wes Anderson film set.
Don’t miss catching a glimpse of the Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s floating swimming pool, then treat yourself to a splurge-worthy cocktail with a view at the T Bar.
While it feels like you could stay forever, be sure to watch the time! The last ferry from Tremezzo leaves at 6:40 p.m., which we missed! Don’t be like me – check the ferry schedule in advance here and head back to Varenna in time to catch sunset.
Grab a table by the water for dinner with a view at Bar Il Molo. Despite it’s location in the heart of Varenna’s tourist zone, this spot is worth a visit for its great pizza, live music and even better sunset view.
Lake Como Itinerary: Day Two
Morning – Explore Bellagio
Grab a cappuccino and a croissant, then catch the ferry to the Pearl of Lake Como – the picturesque village of Bellagio. This postcard-worthy town epitomizes the Italian lake district, and it’s a mandatory stop on any Lake Como itinerary.
Wander along the waterfront then up through cobblestone streets and alleys of the village… Emphasis on up – Bellagio, like many villages on the lake is built on the hill, so be ready to climb some stairs!
The town of Bellagio itself is fairly small and has only one main road – Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, which you can explore easily on foot. Grab a gelato, then get lost in the many shops and winding alleyways.
If you’re into shopping, this is the place – you’ll find boutiques with handbags, shoes, ceramics… You name it, they’re selling it here. Also much to my surprise, Lake Como is known for producing some of the world’s finest silk, which you’ll find for sale in all forms around town.
For some of the best photo opp’s in Bellagio, head to the top of the Principle Staircase and the Salita Antonio Mella for the classic “I went to Lake Como” shots.
Once you’ve taken in the town, head to the gardens of Villa Melzi, or stroll down to Punta Spartivento, the point at the end of the peninsula where Lake Como forks in two. Take in the view here or grab a bite to eat at the restaurant on the point.
READ MORE: The Complete Travel Guide to Florence, Italy
Afternoon – Take a Boat Tour of Lake Como
Following your morning exploring the town of Bellagio, fulfill your 1950’s Italian movie fantasies and take a boat tour of the lake in a vintage Riva.
The boat tour was truly a highlight of our trip to Italy – while the excursion wasn’t cheap, it was a very memorable experience that was the icing on the cake of our trip to Lake Como.
Most boat tours leave from Bellagio, so this is the perfect spot to jump on one and explore some lesser-accessible areas of the lake.
We had a fantastic experience with Bellagio Water Limousines. Their small group boats take you on a cruise across Lake Como to a small village for lunch, then to the iconic Villa Balbianello for a guided tour.
Does the villa look familiar? The grounds of Villa Balbianello were famously featured in Casino Royale and Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones.
The villa’s movie appearances aren’t the only appeal – it’s interior and history are equally impressive. Originally a Franciscan monastery built in the 13th century, it was later converted into a villa that was passed down through the ranks of the wealthy Visconti family.
The villa’s most recent owner, Count Guido Monzino, led the first Italian expedition to Mount Everest. Don’t miss his fascinating collection of memorabilia from his travels upstairs.
Thinking of having your wedding here? Get in line – allegedly there is a two-year waiting list for weddings!
Evening – Aperitivo, Sunset & Dinner
Still basking from your afternoon boating on the Lake, wander through Bellagio for aperitivo before taking the ferry back to Varenna.
Once the sun sets, head to an intimate dinner at Borgovino. This seven-table restaurant tucked down a winding alley serves up local classics like spaghetti with lake fish and their very own secret pasta – don’t ask, just order it.
What to Pack for Lake Como
Like many places in Italy, you’ll want to step the dress code up a notch in Lake Como.
Think comfortable dresses and sandals for exploring during the day, as well as a sun hat for some shade as you’re boating on the lake. For evenings you’ll feel comfortable in a dress or jeans and nice top, but word to the wise – stick with flats, as the villages are very hilly!
Shop my favorite travel essentials here:
While the climate Lake Como is mild, don’t forget you are still in the Alps. Though it’s typically warm during the summer months, be sure to bring a pashmina for the evenings as it can get chilly.
If you see rain in the forecast, don’t fret – the Italians are notoriously on the pessimistic side with their weather forecasts! A 90 percent chance of rain could turn out to be just a small shower, like we experienced on our visit last June. I’d also recommend tossing a small umbrella and rain jacket into your suitcase just in case.
Lake Como is a place that truly lived up to the hype, and it far exceeded my expectations. I hope that you’ve found this Lake Como itinerary to be informative and inspiring for your future travels!
Have you been to Lake Como? If so, what was your favorite part about it? Share below in the comments, or if there is anything that I missed I’d love to hear your tips!
Cheers and happy travels,
Meredith
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