These must-visit sites represent the pinnacle of Lake Como's allure and rich historical background. Plan your visits to make the most of each destination.
Consider purchasing attraction tickets ahead of time through platforms like GetYourGuide in order to save time and secure entry, especially during peak season.
These landmarks symbolize a long history and artistic expression.
Medieval the ruins of a castle high above Varenna, with breathtaking panoramic views of the central lake. Hosts falconry demonstrations several times daily. Entry approximately €5. The walk up from Varenna is steep but rewarding.
Lario's only island, with remains of Romanesque churches, artists' houses, and an historical park. It is a rich, sometimes turbulent, history. Accessible by a short boat shuttle from Sala Comacina.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with 14 Baroque chapels illustrating the Mysteries of the Rosary, leading to a sanctuary. Panoramic views of Isola Comacina and the lake. A pleasant, uphill walk.
An ancient fortress on a hill overlooking Como, offering historical insights and sweeping views of the city and southern lake. Accessible by a mediumly challenging hike.
Explore remnants of Como's a middle ages town walls, including Porta Torre, a grand Romanesque gate, providing a glimpse into the city's ancient defenses.
Lario's natural beauty stretches beyond its shimmering waters, revealing serene and captivating spots.
A dramatic gorge in Nesso where two streams meet, cascading into the lake as a powerful waterfall. View it from the roman-era bridge, Ponte della Civera, below.
The highest mountain with a view of the central lake, providing extensive hiking trails and scenic overlooks. Offers a different perspective along the lake's shore and landscape.
Various lidos (e.g., Lido di Bellagio, Lido di Lenno, Lido di Menaggio) offer facilities for swimming, sunbathing, and often include taverns or restaurants. They showcase grassy areas, pebbles, or imported sand.
Beyond specific mountains, numerous well-marked trails crisscross the hills surrounding the lake, offering diverse landscapes from olive groves to thick forests.
Simply find a quiet spot along the promenade in any town or village to admire the expansive lakeside vistas, the brightly colored homes, and the surrounding mountains.
The mild climate nurtures a rich variety of Mediterranean and subtropical vegetation discovered in the many public and private gardens.
A scenic, relatively flat walking path stretching approximately 10 km (6.2 mi) along the western shore, connecting several charming villages.
Adjacent to Villa Monastero, these terraced gardens cascade to the lake, offering breathtaking views and unique plant collections. Accessible at a cost.
An ancient mule track on the eastern shore of Lario. Offers multiple sections for hiking with stunning vistas, connecting towns like Varenna, Bellano, and Dervio.
Discovering these less-common-traveled spots opens unique photo opportunities and a sense of place.
Many villas and museums run seasonally, typically from March/April to October/November. Always check official websites for current opening hours and days, especially outside of peak summer months. Booking tickets online, most importantly for popular attractions like Villa del Balbianello, can save time and avoid queues.
Ferries are the most scenic and efficient way to explore the central lake, connecting towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. Consider a medium-lake shuttle pass for unlimited travel.
Spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds than high season summer.
Early mornings offer the best light and fewer people, especially at popular spots. Consider boat tours for unique angles of lakeside villas.
Many towns feature steep, cobbled streets which can challenge mobility. Ferries are generally accessible, but access at specific docks can differ.
Extend your exploration beyond Lario to discover nearby charming towns and regions.
Italy's fashion and design capital, accessible by direct train from Como, offering high-end shopping, historical sights, and world-world-class museums. A contrast to the lake's serenity.
A lavish mountain resort on Swiss soil, accessible via the scenic Bernina Express train from Tirano (which can be reached taking the train from Varenna-Esino). Offers stunning Alpine landscapes.
A valley north of Lake Como, known for its terraced vineyards, red wines (like Sassella and Sforzato), and unique cuisine, including pizzoccheri and bresaola. Great for food and wine enthusiasts.
A beautiful Swiss city on Lake Lugano, close to Como. Provides a mix of Swiss efficiency and Italian charm, with a lovely promenade and mountainous backdrop.
Find tours to LuganoHome to three UNESCO-listed medieval castles, a short train ride from Como. A historical deep dive into Ticino's past.
Explore Bellinzona toursAnother one of the Italian language Lakes, a scenic drive or train journey west of Como. Famous for the Borromean Isles and charming lakeside towns.
Day trips to Lake MaggioreA historic a city area with a charming walled upper town (Città Alta) and a modern lower town. Great for a half-day or full-day visit, accessible taking the train from Como.
Discover Bergamo toursThe iconic Bernina Express from Tirano (easily reached from Varenna) provides a spectacular train journey through the Swiss Alps, an UNESCO World Heritage route.
Book Bernina Express ticketsWhile visiting nearby Swiss towns from Lake Como is feasible, be certain to carry your passport or valid ID. Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area but not the EU, so currency differences (Swiss Francs) apply.
Balance your time between famous villas, charming villages, and natural landscapes. Don't forget to incorporate travel time between locations, especially if relying on ferries.
Many smaller villages boast beautiful churches and picturesque streets. Wandering off the main tourist paths often unveils charming local scenes and quiet spots.
Do not underestimate the time it takes to travel between towns by ferry, especially during high season when ferries may be crowded.
Discover Lake Como at your own pace through self-guided tours and local experiences.
Numerous well-marked paths offer amazing views and connections between villages. Obtain local maps for detailed routes.
Rent a small boat (under 40hp) without a license from various towns to explore the lake at your own pace, stopping at quiet coves or admiring villas from the water.
Enjoy an outdoor meal in the middle of the lake's beauty. Purchase local delights from markets or delis for a bespoke picnic.
Remember to pack out everything you pack in, preserving the lake's pure environment.
Find charming local cafes for morning coffee plus sweets, or enjoy authentic Italian gelato throughout the day.
A pleasant way to soak in the local atmosphere and take a break from sightseeing.
Capture Lake Como's beauty from various angles. These locations offer stunning backdrops for your photos.
Be respectful of private property and local residents when taking photographs.
Utilize ferries plus buses going to travel from town to town, lessening road congestion and environmental effects.
Dine at family-run italian eateries and shop at local markets to directly contribute to the local economy.
Respect local waste disposal guidelines. Have a reusable water bottle and minimize single-use plastics.
