Lake Como

Italy, Europe

Lake Como, nestled in the Italian Alps, is famous for its stunning scenery, charming villages like Bellagio and Varenna, and luxurious villas such as Villa del Balbianello. Visitors can enjoy leisurely boat rides, explore lush gardens, and indulge in exquisite Italian cuisine. The breathtaking landscapes, serene atmosphere, and rich cultural history make Lake Como a perfect getaway for romantics and adventure seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Body of Water

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Lugano

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Lake Como

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a ferry ride on Lake Como

Experience stunning views of the lake and villas.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Villa del Balbianello

Explore the exquisite gardens and historic villa.

Booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Bellagio

Wander charming streets and enjoy breathtaking views.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Hike the Greenway del Lago di Como

Enjoy scenic trails with stunning lake vistas.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Varenna's Villa Monastero

Visit the museum and gardens on the lakeside.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Dine at a lakeside restaurant

Savor local cuisine with beautiful lake views.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Como Cathedral

Admire stunning Gothic architecture and art.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Take a cooking class

Learn to make Italian dishes with local chefs.

Booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Ride the funicular to Brunate

Enjoy panoramic views from the mountaintop.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the lakeside town of Tremezzo

Visit gardens and relax in this picturesque town.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Silk Museum

Discover Como's rich silk manufacturing history.

No booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Enjoy a wine tasting tour

Sample local wines at vineyard locations.

Booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Lake Como Film Festival

Enjoy outdoor cinema in a stunning setting.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-1 (#58 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Italian

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ragù alla Bolognese

Rich meat sauce from Bologna. (National dish)

Pizza Margherita

V

Classic pizza with tomato and mozzarella.

Risotto alla Milanese

V

Creamy risotto with saffron flavor.

Lasagna

Layered pasta with meat and cheese.

Tiramisu

V

Coffee-flavored dessert with mascarpone.

Phrases to learn

English

Italian

Hello

Ciao

(Chow)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Grazie

(Grah-tsee-eh)

Excuse me

Scusi

(Skoo-zee)

How much?

Quanto?

(Kwan-toh)