The Italian Lakes, Italy
These must-visit sites represent the pinnacle of Lake Como's allure and historical depth. Plan your visits to make the most of each location.
Consider purchasing attraction tickets in advance through platforms like GetYourGuide to save time and secure entry, especially during peak season.
These landmarks represent centuries of history and artistic expression.
Medieval castle ruins 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.
Lake Como's only island, with remains of Romanesque churches, artists' houses, and an archaeological 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 panoramic views of the city and southern lake. Accessible by a moderately challenging hike.
Explore remnants of Como's medieval city walls, including Porta Torre, a grand Romanesque gate, providing a glimpse into the city's ancient defenses.
Lake Como'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 ancient Roman bridge, Ponte della Civera, below.
The highest mountain overlooking the central lake, providing extensive hiking trails and panoramic viewpoints. Offers a different perspective on the lake and landscape.
Various lidos (e.g., Lido di Bellagio, Lido di Lenno, Lido di Menaggio) offer facilities for swimming, sunbathing, and often include bars or restaurants. They feature 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 dense forests.
Simply find a quiet spot along the promenade in any town or village to admire the expansive lake views, the colorful houses, and the surrounding mountains.
The mild climate nurtures a rich variety of Mediterranean and subtropical vegetation found 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 stunning views and unique plant collections. Accessible for a fee.
An ancient mule track on the eastern shore of Lake Como. Offers multiple sections for hiking with spectacular views, connecting towns like Varenna, Bellano, and Dervio.
Discovering these less-traveled spots opens unique photo opportunities and a sense of place.
Many villas and museums operate 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, specifically 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 mid-lake shuttle pass for unlimited travel.
Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds than peak 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 may vary.
Extend your exploration beyond Lake Como 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-class museums. A contrast to the lake's serenity.
A luxurious mountain resort in Switzerland, accessible via the scenic Bernina Express train from Tirano (which can be reached by 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. Offers a blend 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 Lakes, a scenic drive or train journey west of Como. Famous for the Borromean Islands and charming lakeside towns.
Day trips to Lake MaggioreA historic city with a charming walled upper town (Città Alta) and a modern lower town. Great for a half-day or full-day visit, accessible by 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, remember 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. Factor in 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 stunning 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 amidst the lake's beauty. Purchase local delights from markets or delis for a personalized picnic.
Remember to pack out everything you pack in, preserving the lake's pristine environment.
Find charming local cafes for morning coffee and pastries, 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 spots offer stunning backdrops for your photos.
Be respectful of private property and local residents when taking photographs.
Utilize ferries and buses to travel between towns, lessening road congestion and environmental effects.
Dine at family-run trattorias and shop at local markets to directly contribute to the local economy.
Respect local waste disposal guidelines. Carry a reusable water bottle and minimize single-use plastics.
