Lake Como Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful Lake Como in Italy with our tourist guide that covers everything from the must-visit places to the local food and culture. Start planning your vacation now!


Introduction to Lake Como

Lake Como is a breathtaking, picturesque lake nestled in the Lombardy region of Northwest Italy. It covers an area of 56 square miles and has a maximum depth of 410 meters. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and dotted with charming towns, this lake is a famous tourist destination in Italy. Lake Como is known for its stunning villas, lush gardens, and scenic views. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Lake Como offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Lake Como

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Villa Carlotta: This stunning villa is a must-visit for art lovers as it houses an impressive collection of artwork from the 18th and 19th centuries.

  2. Villa Monastero: This 12th-century villa is a famous tourist attraction and is known for its beautiful gardens and historical artifacts.

  3. Museo della Seta (Silk Museum): This museum is home to a collection of machinery, instruments, and artifacts that are used in silk production.

  4. Castello di Vezio: This medieval castle offers breathtaking views of the lake and is a popular tourist spot. The castle also houses a small museum with artifacts from the castle’s history.

Natural Attractions of Lake Como: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Bellagio: This charming town is known as the “pearl of the lake” and is located at the tip of the peninsula that separates the lake’s two branches. It’s a great place to explore the lake’s natural beauty and enjoy outdoor activities.

  2. Como-Brunate Funicular: This funicular ride offers some of the best views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. It is a great place to take in the breathtaking scenery of Lake Como.

  3. Villa del Balbianello: This beautiful villa is located on a wooded promontory and offers stunning views of the lake. It is a popular location for weddings and has been featured in several movies, including Star Wars and James Bond.

  4. Lake Lugano: This lake is located on the Swiss-Italian border and is known for its stunning vistas and charming towns.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lake Como

  1. Greenway dei Patriarchi: This 10 km-long hiking route passes through several charming towns and offers stunning views of the lake.

  2. Sentiero del Viandante: This old pilgrim’s path offers some of the most breathtaking views of the lake and is a popular hiking trail for tourists.

  3. Bellagio Loop: This 15-mile bike route takes you through charming towns, beautiful gardens, and spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Lake Como: Activities and Tours

  1. Water Sports: Lake Como is a popular destination for water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and boating.

  2. Wine Tasting: Lake Como is famous for its wine production, and there are several vineyards that offer wine tastings and tours.

  3. Food Tours: Lake Como is known for its delicious local cuisine, and there are several food tours that offer visitors the chance to explore the local food scene.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lake Como

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Como and its old town, visit the Cathedral of Como and Museo della Seta
Day 2 Take a boat tour of the lake and visit Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta
Day 3 Take the funicular to Brunate and explore the town. Hike down to Torno
Day 4 Visit Bellagio and take the ferry to Varenna
Day 5 Visit Tremezzo and see Villa Carlotta and the stunning botanical gardens
Day 6 Explore Lecco and take a windsurfing lesson
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Como

Food and Drink Scene of Lake Como

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Risotto with Perch: A traditional dish made with freshwater perch from the lake, creamy risotto, and saffron.

  2. Pizzoccheri: A hearty dish made with buckwheat pasta, potatoes, cabbage, butter, and cheese.

  3. Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert made with ladyfingers, espresso, mascarpone, and cocoa.

Local Beverages

  1. Bellini: A sparkling cocktail made with peach puree and prosecco.

  2. Grappa: A distilled spirit made from pomace, the pips, skins, and stalks leftover after wine production.

Where to Stay in Lake Como: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hotel Villa Flori: A luxury hotel located on the lakefront with stunning lake views, a restaurant, and an outdoor pool.

  2. Ostello Bello Lake Como: A budget-friendly hostel located in Como’s historic center, offering dorms and private rooms.

  3. Grand Hotel Tremezzo: A five-star hotel located on the west shore of the lake, offering stunning views, a spa, and three swimming pools.

What to Buy in Lake Como: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Silk Products: Lake Como is known for producing some of the world’s finest silk, and you can find a variety of silk products in the local markets and shops.

  2. Olive Oil: Lake Como’s fertile soil and temperate climate make it an ideal location for olive production, and you can find high-quality olive oil in the local shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Lake Como

The people of Lake Como are known for their warm hospitality and love of good food and wine. The locals take pride in their culture and traditions and are happy to share them with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Lake Como

The best time to visit Lake Como is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the outdoors. The summer months are the busiest, and accommodation prices can be higher.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lake Como

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and traditions.

  2. Try the local cuisine and wine.

  3. Take a boat tour of the lake to explore its natural beauty and charming towns.

Don’t:

  1. Swim in the lake outside designated areas.

  2. Leave litter or damage the natural surroundings.

  3. Be loud and disruptive in quiet towns and villages.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lake Como

Lake Como is a safe destination for travelers. However, it is always advisable to take common safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and valuables, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Lake Como

The water in Lake Como is generally safe for swimming, although it is always advisable to check local conditions before swimming. It is also important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during the summer months.

Getting to Lake Como: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lake Como

The closest airports to Lake Como are Milan’s Malpensa Airport and Milan’s Linate Airport.

Bus Stations Near Lake Como

The main bus station in Lake Como is located in Como town center, and there are several bus routes that connect the town to other parts of the lake.

Other Options

There are several train stations located around the lake, with regular trains connecting Lake Como to Milan and other parts of Italy.

How to Get Around in Lake Como

The best way to get around Lake Como is by boat, as it allows you to easily explore the charming towns and natural beauty of the lake. There are also several bus routes that connect the towns around the lake.

Where to Go Next from Lake Como: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Switzerland: Lake Lugano is located on the Swiss-Italian border and is an easy day trip from Lake Como.

  2. Milan: Italy’s fashion and finance capital, Milan, is only an hour’s drive from Lake Como.

  3. Bergamo: This charming town located in the foothills of the Alps offers historical, artistic, and gastronomic delights.

Conclusion

Visiting Lake Como is a truly magical experience, and with its charming towns, stunning villas, and natural beauty, it is a destination that should not be missed. Whether you are a foodie, a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply in search of a relaxing vacation, Lake Como has something for you. Start planning your trip now and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful destinations in Italy.



    Bellagio
    Menaggio
    Nesso
    Paderno d'Adda
    Rota d'Imagna
    Torno