Sail by stunning mansions, stroll lakeside gardens, wander by way of historic cities, and paddleboard beneath mountains – these are simply a number of the finest issues to do in Lake Como.
Lake Como is among the hottest locations to go to in Italy – and for good purpose! It’s beautiful, elegant, world famend, and is only a fast day journey from Milan. Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy, and one of the crucial well-known in Europe. You may spend weeks right here visiting new cities and eating on a number of the finest Italian meals within the nation.
It took us a whopping 9 journeys to Italy earlier than we lastly checked Lake Como off the bucket listing, and we will’t wait to return once more. From Bellagio to Laglio, listed below are the most effective issues to do in Lake Como (in addition to attempt to spot George Clooney, one thing we failed miserably at).
Lake Como Excursions and Lodge Suggestions
Well-liked Excursions
Lodges
Greatest Issues To Do In Lake Como
1. Go to Como
Como is the primary and most important metropolis on Lake Como, and there’s a lot to be explored! One of many high issues to see is the towering 14th-century cathedral located within the Piazza Duomo and you may climb to the highest the place you’ll take pleasure in sweeping views of the town.
Different must-see sights in Como embrace Villa Olmo and its stunning gardens, the ruins of Castello Baradello and the Tempio Voltiano Museum which displays the work of Alessandro Volta.
2. Go to the Pearl of the Lake
The village of Bellagio is extremely stunning like a pearl and that is the place its nickname comes from. With its slim alleys, cobbled streets, steep staircases, historic properties and quaint outlets and eateries, it’s exhausting to not fall in love with this little gem!
Located about an hour away from Como, Bellagio is dwelling to a scenic lakeside promenade, fairly gardens and loads of locations to cease and benefit from the unbelievable views.
3. Basilica di Sant’Abbondio
The Basilica di Sant’Abbondio is an 11th-century Romanesque church with a stately exterior and inside that includes 13th-century frescoes of non secular figures, stunning ceilings, big stone columns and an opulent altar.
4. Catch Some Thrills on the Water
In terms of the water sports activities of Lake Como, there’s a variety of thrilling choices to get you out on the water.
Whether or not you need to strive kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, crusing, kite-surfing, wake-boarding, water snowboarding, or stand-up paddleboarding, there are classes, excursions and leases obtainable from a number of corporations, corresponding to Boat2Go.
Considered one of our greatest days on Lake Como was the day we rented with the Boat2Go Workforce. We have been capable of discover Como from the water and absorb all the gorgeous cities from a special perspective.
If you verify in on your boat rental the workforce will advise you of the most effective areas to go and how one can make the most effective tour. You may select from from two hour leases and up and a boating license isn’t required!
Boat2Go has unbelievable critiques and is household run. Due to this their boats are normally booked properly prematurely so we extremely suggest making a reservation if visiting Lake Como in the summertime season.
(Boat2Go additionally has Sup leases - which is a enjoyable exercise to mix with a ship rental!)
5. Lecco
So far as the alpine villages that encompass Lake Como go, Lecco simply is likely to be essentially the most fascinating and the prettiest. Steeped in historical past, tradition and surroundings, Lecco is a spot the place you may spend an entire day! Be certain to take a look at the Palace of Fears Museum and its many displays together with some that includes stunning artworks.
Basilica of San Nicolo is one other high attraction and lots of guests prefer to take pleasure in an evening out with a reside present on the Lecco Theater. On good days, there’s a sandy seaside with chairs and umbrellas.
6. Go to Castello di Vezio
- Tackle: By way of Del Castellano, 23828 Perledo LC, Italy (GPS)
- Hours: Monday – Friday: 10:00 am -5:00 pm,
Saturday- Sunday – 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Located in an olive grove on a hill above the village of Varenna, Castella di Vezio is a medieval fortress that has towered over the world for over 1,000 years. As soon as used to defend in opposition to invaders, immediately it’s a high attraction for guests wishing to get a greater have a look at its beautiful structure and absorb one of many falconry demonstrations that happen each afternoon.
As you discover the property, you’ll see gardens, statues and maybe even one of many artwork exhibitions which might be hosted on the fortress all year long. The climb to the highest of the hill is a tough one however the views make all of it worthwhile!
7. Go Procuring
The historic downtown space of Como is the most effective place to buy groceries within the area for each the expertise and the vary of retailers obtainable. The realm with its slim streets and bustling squares is bordered by medieval partitions so you may take pleasure in a singular atmosphere surrounded by some fascinating structure.
Contained in the quaint outlets, you’ll discover every little thing from the famend silk merchandise that the town is understood for to native crafts and clothes. That is the place you’ll discover luxurious objects at outlet costs. A conventional lined market and an Armani outlet retailer are simply a number of the purchasing experiences you’ll take pleasure in in Como.
8. Take a Hike Throughout the Tremezzina
Though it’s fairly lengthy at simply over six miles, the hike throughout the Tremezzina and thru the close by villages is a straightforward one full of unbelievable magnificence. Stroll by way of historic villages and see stunning gardens, villas and beautiful areas that have been used as scenes in lots of films together with On line casino Royale and Star Wars.
9. Head to Brunate
Brunate is a small city located above the town of Como. It’s principally recognized for its terrace which is known for providing guests spectacular views of the world. The actual enjoyable half about visiting Brunate is in getting there; you’ll must take a funicular from the east facet of Lake Como.
On the high, you’ll discover a couple of nice eating places and sights corresponding to Volta
Lighthouse and The Church of Brunate.
10. Admire Gardens and Villas
Italy is understood for its stunning gardens and villas and also you’ll discover an abundance of each across the shores of Lake Como, particularly within the space referred to as Centro Lago. Villa Melzi and Villa Balbianello, which have been used as movie units for a number of films, are two of essentially the most notable villas to take a look at.
As you discover the world, you’ll additionally see sculptures and statues, lake terraces and exquisite woodland areas that make Centro Lago a preferred place to do some climbing.
11. Villa Carlotta Museum
- Tackle: By way of Regina, 2, 22016 Tremezzina (GPS)
- Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Value of Admission: For ticket info, click on right here.
Gorgeous views, celebrated artworks by well-known artists, unbelievable sculptures and the chance to chill out in lush botanical gardens are simply a number of the stuff you’ll take pleasure in throughout a go to to Villa Carlotta.
This pretty property has been combining nature and artwork for greater than 300 years. The villa as soon as belonged to Princess Charlotte and you may go to the second-floor flats which nonetheless home a few of her private possessions. Admission is €12.
12. View Priceless Artifacts at The Archaeological Museum of Como
- Tackle: Piazza Medaglie d’Oro Comasche, 1, 22100 Como (GPS)
- Hours: Briefly closed for upkeep
Positioned within the Palazzo Giovio, The Archaeological Museum of Como displays a set of artifacts that have been discovered across the space, some courting again to the traditional Greek and Roman durations. Pottery, farming tools, jewellery and stone objects are a number of the stuff you’ll see on show. Admission is €5.
13. Examine Out Piona Abbey
- Tackle: By way of Abbazia di Piona, 55, 23823 Colico (GPS)
- Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:30 am -12:00 pm, 2:30- 6:00 pm
On the japanese facet of Lake Como, you’ll discover Piona Abbey, a peaceable property the place it feels such as you’ve stepped into the previous. This sacred place with its church and cloister is surrounded by stunning surroundings on the foot of a mountain.
Contained in the church, you’ll see frescoes from varied durations and a cross vault with depictions of Christ’s ascent into heaven. On-site, there’s additionally a store the place you’ll discover a collection of herbs, beauty merchandise and liquors produced by the monks who reside there.
14. Immerse in Historical past on the Historic Museum of Giuseppe Garibaldi
- Tackle: Piazza Medaglie d’Oro Comasche, 1, 22100 Como (GPS)
- Value of Admission: For ticket info, click on right here.
Even the historic 15th-century palace that homes the Historic Museum of Giuseppe Garibaldi is fascinating in itself nevertheless it’s what’s inside that’s most intriguing! The museum is split into beautifully-decorated rooms which were renovated to showcase conventional residing quarters from varied Italian eras.
As you discover the museum, you’ll discover displays showcasing a wide range of artifacts. These embrace vintage furnishings, private objects that have been owned by Mr Garibaldi and objects associated to the Battle of San Fermo, The Italian Wars of Independence and the World Wars. Admission is €5.
15. Take an E-Bike Tour of Lake Como
In the event you’ve performed sufficient strolling round Lake Como and really feel {that a} conventional bike trip is just too strenuous however wish to see extra of the area in a shorter period of time, an E-Bike tour may be the proper outing for you!
You may rent one and embark on a self-guided tour or you may be a part of a guided E-bike tour just like the three-hour tour that not solely explores the Lake Como space but in addition explores Lake Piano and Lake Lugano. On this journey, you’ll take pleasure in surroundings consisting of mountains and fairly little villages. You’ll additionally get to trip alongside a historic railway and go to a nature protect.
16. Take a Boat Tour
What higher method is there to take pleasure in a trip on a lake than to really get out on it? Taking a ship tour on Lake Como is the easiest way to essentially expertise it and see the true great thing about the world. How else would you be capable to see the beautiful landscapes and scenic villages all on the similar time?
Whether or not you need to hop on a ship and journey to a particular location on its shores otherwise you need to embark on a full tour with an expert information who’ll level out all the most important sights, there’s no scarcity of corporations providing these providers. Il Medeghino is among the corporations that supply Lake Como Boat excursions.
From the guts of Como, depart on an journey to discover hidden gems that you simply’d in any other case not see from land. Costs are between 190€ and €1600 and Dinner excursions and Karaoke Evening excursions are additionally obtainable.
17. Discover Menaggio
Scenic Menaggio could be discovered on the west facet of Lake Como and is the place you’ll discover nearly fairytale-like vistas with mountains, colourful properties and lakeside promenades.
Whereas there aren’t many sights to go to on this little village, it’s an ideal place to chill out and absorb a serene atmosphere. There are a couple of nice eating places the place you may take pleasure in dinner alongside the lake.
18. Hit the Seashores
When the temperatures warmth up, the most effective place to be is at one of many superb seashores round Lake Como. Most of those seashores are free to make use of and a few even have tools obtainable corresponding to chairs and umbrellas.
With temperatures hovering within the mid-80s in summer time, you’ll possible need to take a refreshing dip within the clear waters but when swimming isn’t your factor, you may all the time sunbathe. A number of the high seashores are Menaggio Seashore, Sorico Seashore, Moltrasio Seashore, Bellagio Seashore and Lenno Seashore.
19. Get an Aerial View of Lake Como
Throughout your travels round Lake Como, you’ll see the world on foot and maybe even by automobile, bike and boat, however there may be one different approach to benefit from the stunning panorama of the area and that is by helicopter.
The Scenic Views Luxurious Helicopter Tour provided by The Vertical Tour takes you over the lake and villages so you may get an aerial view of the villas, terraces, gardens and high sights.
20. Catch a Spectacular Sundown
It’s stated that the most effective locations to observe the sundown are on the japanese facet of Lake Como however there are various locations to take pleasure in one of many space’s magical sunsets in all places across the lake.
Brunate, Torno, Piona, Dervio, Lezzeno and Blevio are only a few of the most effective locations however some individuals desire to observe the solar go down from one of many many restaurant terraces that grace the area with a cocktail or glass of wine in hand.
21. Go to the Forte Di Fuentes
- Tackle: By way of Forte Fuentes, 23823 Colico (GPS)
- Hours: For the month-to-month operation hours, verify right here.
- Value of Admission: For ticket informations, click on right here.
Located about 40 minutes away from Lake Como, The Forte Di Fuentes makes for the proper day journey in Northern Italy. The 17th-century former army fort sits atop the Hill of Montecchio and affords guests the chance to be taught extra concerning the nation’s fascinating previous. Admission is €5 per individual.
22. Go to The Sacred Mount of Ossuccio
- Tackle: By way of Santuario, 22010 Ossuccio CO (GPS)
- Hours: Monday -Sunday: 7:00 am -6:30 pm
You understand a spot is particular when it has a UNESCO World Heritage Website designation and such is the case with the beautiful sanctuary at The Sacred Mount of Ossuccio.
Stroll alongside a cobbled street from a close-by village to this peaceable place. Right here you’ll discover greater than a dozen 17th and 18th-century baroque chapels with lots of of statues depicting the lifetime of Christ. Get pleasure from beautiful surroundings consisting of meadows and olive timber.
23. Hike Alongside The Sentiero Del Viandante
Among the finest climbing trails at Lake Como is The Sentiero Del Viandante. Though this path is sort of lengthy, it may be performed in sections and the part that you simply’ll possible need to do is the one which travels alongside the east facet of the lake.
The path is an historic Roman route and outdated mule observe and as you hike alongside it, you’ll see beautiful views of the lake, chestnut timber, olive groves and marble quarries. In the event you’re there on the proper time, chances are you’ll even catch a sundown.
24. Dine at La Vita e Bella Ristorante
- Worth: $$
- Delicacies: Italian
- Tackle: Viale Lecco, 23, 22100 Como CO (GPS)
- Web site: See menu
Stated to be probably the greatest eating places within the Lake Como space, La Vita e Bella Ristorante is generally recognized for its big selection of scrumptious salads and collection of wholesome meals together with vegan choices.
Calm down in a comfortable atmosphere or benefit from the views from the terrace when you dine on conventional Italian dishes and mouth-watering desserts made with solely the best components obtainable.
25. Pattern Native Wine
- Worth: $$
- Delicacies: Wine bar
- Tackle: Enoteca Cava Turacciolo- Salita Genazzini, 3, 22021 Bellagio CO (GPS)
- Web site: See menu
As Lake Como is located within the famed Lombardy Wine Nation area of Italy, it appears becoming that no less than one wine tasting needs to be part of your go to.
A number of the hottest locations to pattern native wine within the space embrace Capitan Drake, Enoteca Cava Turacciolo, La Cantina del Laghee and the famend Enoteca Principessa. Cellar Excursions affords guided luxurious wine tastings.
26. Laglio
Laglio is an enthralling city to stroll round and is split into the 2 centres of Laglio and Torriggia. From right here you may stroll the city, have a scrumptious fish meal lakeside, or take a cruise across the shores.
When is the Greatest Time to Go to Lake Como?
The most effective time to go to Lake Como, and the lake district usually is in the summertime months. June-September is while you’ll have the most effective climate. Sunny days await you throughout the Italian summer time, although it will possibly attain as much as 30° on some days, so that you’ll need to be within the shade or by water on these scorchers.
That being stated the summer time can be the busiest time and July and August will yield extraordinarily excessive costs on lodging, with the biggest variety of crowds. You’ll must ebook your journey to Lake Como properly prematurely you’ll danger getting squeezed out of fine lodging.
Loads of Italians take their holidays round this time. If you wish to expertise Lake Como with fewer individuals and barely decrease costs head there in June, September, or October.
EXPLORE MORE OF ITALY
I hope you loved this information on what to do in Lake Como. Listed here are a couple of related articles for extra journey round Italy.