Lago Di Como Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

-Hour Layover Highlights from Milan

A quick visit allows a taste of Como city and a glimpse of the lake's beauty, mainly from Milan.

Focus on city views and a quick look at the main city. Arrive at Como city, explore the historic center and Duomo, stroll the promenade. Take the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views. A quick ferry to Bellagio is optional, then return to Como for dinner and departure.

Suggested Flow

Morning: Arrive Como, explore city center & Duomo.
Afternoon: Funicular to Brunate for panoramic views.
Optional: Quick ferry to Bellagio and back.

Weekend & One-Week Experiences

From a brief escape to a comprehensive dive into Lake Como's allure.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

This itinerary focuses on the picturesque central lake area, balancing iconic towns and serene beauty.

Activities

Day 1: Arrive and explore Varenna (Villa Monastero, Castello di Vezio).
Day 2: Central Lake hopping to Bellagio (Villa Melzi) and Tremezzo (Villa Carlotta).
Day 3: Relax in Varenna, consider a hike or water sport.
Focus: Romantic charm, villa visits, central lake views.

Consider booking your experiences via GetYourGuide.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

This itinerary has an in-depth exploration, moving between different bases and seeing more of the lake.

Highlights

Days 1-2: Central Lake immersion (Varenna or Bellagio base).
Days 3-4: Western Shore Villas & Greenway (Lenno or Tremezzo base).
Days 5-6: Como City & Southern Lake (Como base), with day trip options to Milan or Lugano.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

Combine the one-week itinerary with extended stays, allowing for slower travel, more activities, and dives into particular interests.

Extended Adventures

Allocate 2-3 nights per major location.
Add hiking days (e.g., Sentiero del Viandante sections).
Take a cooking class or visit less-explored northern lake towns.
Day trip to Valtellina wine region for wine tasting.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For stays exceeding two weeks, consider renting an apartment or villa for better value and a more authentic experience.

Longer Stays

Rent an apartment or villa for authenticity.
Choose a base in a less touristy town (e.g., Argegno, Domaso).
Enjoy lower costs in non-prime locations.
These locations are still well-connected by public transport.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Lake Como experience to your passions, whether history, food, adventure, family, art, or wellness.

Historical Focus

Como city, Villa del Balbianello, Sacro Monte di Ossuccio, Castello di Vezio.

Culinary Experiences

Cooking classes, local markets, regional dishes (Risotto al Persico, Pizzoccheri), Valtellina wine region.

Adventure Activities

Hiking Sentiero del Viandante, kayaking, SUP, boat rental, paragliding, mountain biking.

Tailored Journeys

Lake Como offers endless possibilities for creating a memorable itinerary. Adapt these frameworks to your preferences and prepare to fall in love with the magic of Lake Como.

Budget-Based Plans

Lake Como caters to various budgets with thoughtful planning.

Backpacker's Guide

Minimize costs with budget accommodation, self-catering, and reliance on public transport. Focus on free activities.

Budget Strategies

Stay in hostels or budget B&Bs further from prime lakefronts.
Self-cater with supermarket groceries, eat pizza al taglio.
Rely exclusively on public ferries and buses; walk extensively.
Focus on free activities like walking the Greenway, public parks.

Prioritize experiences that cost little to nothing.

Mid-range Traveler's Itinerary

Balance comfort with cost, mixing dining options and enjoying attractions without excessive spending.

Mid-Range Approach

Mid-range hotels or comfortable apartment rentals.
Mix casual trattorias with occasional nicer restaurants.
Frequent use of ferries and buses; consider a short private boat tour.
Visit 2-3 major villas, enjoy a group boat tour, relax at a lido.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium services, exclusive experiences, and top-tier comfort. No expense is spared for an opulent stay.

Luxury Accommodation & Dining

Stay in 5-star lakeside hotels (Villa d'Este, Grand Hotel Tremezzo).
Fine dining every evening, private chefs, exclusive wine tastings.
Private boat charters, private car transfers, water taxis.

Exclusive Activities

Exclusive tours, private shopping experiences, spa treatments.
Helicopter tours for aerial views.
Access to exclusive events and private properties.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Smart strategies for maximizing your experience without overspending. Travel during shoulder season for better prices and fewer crowds.

Smart Saving Tips

Travel during shoulder season (April-May, Sep-Oct) for lower prices.
Purchase ferry day passes for multiple lake crossings.
Take advantage of aperitivo for pre-dinner snacks.
Choose accommodation with kitchen facilities for self-catering.

Seasonal Specialties

Each season offers a distinct flavor of Lake Como, influencing activities and atmosphere.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer (June-August): Best for swimming, water sports, outdoor dining.
Check local calendars for sagre (food festivals), music, historical reenactments (summer/autumn).
Off-Season (November-March): Enjoy tranquility, lower prices.
Como city serves as the best base for winter, remaining more active.

Optimal Planning

Plan your itinerary based on your interests and available time. Balance activity with relaxation. Consider traveling in the shoulder season for a good blend of weather and fewer crowds.

Lago Di Como Itineraries