Lake Como was a breath of fresh air after visiting Rome and Florence on a trip to Italy with my parents. I had never seen anything like this beautiful lake with various quaint Italian villages and a backdrop of the Alps. Lake Como is unforgettable! In this guide to Lake Como, I’ll give my tips, recommendations, and things to do when visiting three of the area’s most popular towns: Varenna, Bellagio and Menaggio. Enjoy!
VARENNA
We decided to stay in Varenna and I am so glad that we did. This Lake Como town is stunning, yet quiet and less touristy. Visiting Varenna is a must.
Hotel Olivedo
We stayed at the Hotel Olivedo and it was absolutely amazing. The hotel is situated right on the shores of Varenna and our hotel room balcony overlooked the lake and the ferry port. I highly recommend this hotel!
Varenna Walk of Lovers
The number one thing to do in Varenna is to walk the “Walk of Lovers”. Varenna’s Walk of Lovers is an amazing pedestrian path over the water.
Hotel Villa Cipressi
If you continue onto the main road, you will walk through part of the town and then along a cliffside. You will eventually overlook the beautiful Hotel Villa Cipressi.
Villa Monastero
Continue walking to the Villa Monastero. The Villa Monastero is a beautiful house museum with a botanical garden and great views of Lake Como!
Bar II Molo
End your day in Varenna at Bar II Molo. It has the most beautiful view of Varenna and delicious drinks!
Wandering the shores of Varenna at sunset is unforgettable.
BELLAGIO
From Varenna, you can take the ferry to Bellagio. Bellagio is the most popular and most touristy town of Lake Como.
Chiesa San Giacomo
You can choose to visit Bellagio’s church, Chiesa San Giacomo.
Salita Serbelloni
Now for the #1 attraction in Lake Como, a street called Salita Serbelloni. I’m sure you’ve seen many photos of this famous view. It does not disappoint! Take your time wandering the adorable streets and shops of Bellagio.
Punta Spartivento
After exploring the town, make your way to the Punta Spartivento observation deck. Here you will have a beautiful view of Lake Como.
Ristorante La Punta
If you need some lunch or dinner, grab a bite at Ristorante La Punta. This restaurant has a great view of Punta Park and Lake Como. When we ate there, the waiter told us that we missed George Clooney and Madonna by one day!
MENAGGIO
From Varenna or Bellagio, you can take the ferry to Menaggio. We basically spent our time in Menaggio wandering the streets and shops, and hanging out by the water. It was lovely and relaxing!
I hope you enjoyed my guide to Lake Como and that it helps you on your future trips to this amazing area!
To read my blog post, “3 Days in Florence: A Perfect Itinerary,” click here.
To read my blog post, “A 2 Day Venice Itinerary,” click here.
To read my blog post, “A Complete Rome Itinerary,” click here.
