Plan the Perfect Trip With Our Travel Guide to Lake Como
Here’s everything you need to know about travelling to Italy’s third largest lake
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Formed by the movement of a huge glacier, we have the last Ice Age to thank for Lake Como. Full of elegant villas, towering snow-capped mountains and charming towns and villages, this picture-perfect part of Italy is a true once-in-a-lifetime destination.
Our travel experts at Plum Guide have spent plenty of time relaxing on the shores of the lake and sipping on Campari sodas. We know a lot about this area, so to help you plan your perfect trip, check out our comprehensive travel guide to Lake Como.
About Lake Como
From the very beginning, Lake Como has been inhabited by various civilisations, including the Celts and the Romans. It’s seen many changes over the centuries, from the rise of powerful families during the medieval period and becoming a hotspot for art and intellectual activity during the Renaissance to its role as a centre for silk production during the 19th century. This was also around the time that Lake Como started to become a tourist destination, especially for aristocrats, artists, and writers.
Top attractions and activities
Ferry boat transporting cars and people across the lake, with Alps in the background, Lake Como
Exploring the lake
There are various ways to get out on the lake, ranging from private rentals to group tours and hop-on-hop-off boats. The public ferries are best for budgets, allowing you to make different stops around the lake at your own pace. For something more private, how about hiring a classy sailing boat for the day? This way you can access secluded coves, hidden beaches and cliffs that the public ferries don’t call at.
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Hiking
With its incredible natural surroundings, Lake Como is ideal for hiking. An easy option is the 11-kilometre Greenway del Lago di Como trail which takes you along the lake and through villages and pretty gardens. For something a little more challenging, the summit of Monte Grona boasts panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
If you don’t want to miss the views but equally don’t fancy the hike, you can drive up to Sighignola to check out the lake and valley below.
Winged Cupid watering a pair of doves by Bienaimé Luigi (1821), Villa Carlotta on Lake Como, Italy.
Museums and galleries
Lake Como has a fascinating selection of museums showcasing the culture and history of the area. Museo della Seta is dedicated to the history of the region’s silk production, where you can view exhibits of antique weaving looms, fabrics, and garments. For art lovers, the museum within the 17th-century Villa Carlotta features a wide collection, from paintings by Francesco Hayez to works by Italian sculptors Antonio Canova and Luigi Acquisti.
Stunning view from Villa Monastero in Varenna, Lake Como.
Historic villas
Originally built by wealthy families to use as a summer residence, Lake Como is chock-full of stunning villas, plenty of which date back to the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
Many of them are open to the public, and one of the must-visits is the 12th-century Villa Monastero. Its museum provides a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture, while the manicured gardens feature a variety of rare plants and trees, as well as fountains, sculptures, and terraced walkways.
Beaches
On a hot and sunny day, there’s nowhere better to relax than on the lake’s beaches.
Spiaggia Pubblica di Bellagio is Bellagio’s public beach, with nearby amenities like restaurants and cafes.
Parco Ulisse Guzzi is another great spot, with lawns, food vendors, picnic areas and a white pebble beach.
For a more natural feel, Spiagga di Piona on the north side of the lake is surrounded by verdant greenery, and there’s even a small port where you can moor your boat.
Left: Waterfall of Troggia cascading down moss-covered rocks, Lake Como. Right: The town of Lecco.
Hidden gems
What would a travel guide to Lake Como be without a few hidden gems? Tucked away near Introbio is Cascata della Troggia, a gorgeous waterfall accessible on foot via a short trail. Its pool is a wonderful place to cool off on a hot day. Plus, for history buffs, it was mentioned in Leonardo da Vinci's Codex Atlanticus.
For more peace and quiet in nature, head to the less-touristy town of Lecco. Just a stone’s throw away is the Regional Park of Monte Barro, home to woods, pastures, and cliffs where you can hike or cycle your way through stunning scenery.
Eating out
Food is an important part of any holiday, and we couldn’t leave it off our travel guide to Lake Como.
Gorgonzola cheese, one of the world's oldest blue-veined cheeses, is made locally from the mountain pastures surrounding Lake Como.
Larian cuisine
Larian cuisine is food typical of Lake Como, which is known as Lario in Italian. It makes the most of fresh and seasonal ingredients, including local cheeses like bitto and gorgonzola, fish caught in the lake itself, as well as fresh produce grown in the hills around the lake. Wild game is also popular here – keep an eye out for things like wild boar on menus.
Buckweat pasta are used in local Lake Como specialty dishes pizzocheri, served with served with cabbage, potatoes and cheese.
Local delicacies
Local delicacies to make note of include missoltino (sun-dried fish grilled and seasoned with oil and vinegar), brasato di cinghiale selvatico (wild boar braised in wine), pizzocheri (buckwheat pasta strips served with cabbage or Swiss chard, potatoes and cheese), and risotto con filetti di pesce persico (risotto with perch fish fillets).
Family hands holding four cones of various flavours of gelato in front of Lake Como
Eating out
The good news is that you won’t run out of dining options in Lake Como. For a taste of local cuisine, visit the many traditional trattorias serving up home-style dishes like pasta, risotto and regional specialities. You’ll also find lakeside restaurants, ideal for dining with a view. And, of course, you can't visit Italy without sampling gelato – there are plenty of gelaterias in Lake Como for an after-dinner fix.
Smoked ravioli with local spring herbs, lake shrimps and borage at Feel Como in Como city centre.
Fine dining at Feel Como
As a high-end destination, Lake Como isn’t short of fine dining and Michelin-star restaurants, either. We could write an entire article about our favourite restaurants in Lake Como, but for something really special, we’d have to recommend Feel Como, run by chef Federico Beretta and sommelier Elisa Forlanelli. An elegant and cosy ambiance, serving up exquisite dishes using seasonal produce. Be sure to book a table in their enchanting summer garden, the best place to be on a balmy evening.
Where to go
View of the town of Como, Puglia, and its 14th-century the Duomo.
Como
The largest town in the region
Located at the southwestern end of the lake, this is the main hub for visitors. Como has something for everyone, from excellent shopping to historic buildings. Its 14th-century Duomo is a stunning example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, with a magnificent interior and dome which you can climb for breathtaking views of the city.
Wonder the cobbled streets of Bellagio on Lake Como, lined with shops displaying beautiful silks, good quality handbags, shoes, and jewellery.
Bellagio
Picturesque and romantic
One of the most well-known towns in Lake Como, Bellagio is centred right in the middle of the lake where the two ‘branches’ meet. Bellagio boasts splendid views of the lake and mountains, as well charming cobbled streets, elegant villas and gardens like Giardini di Villa Melzi where you can enjoy romantic lake views.
The architecture of Varenna on Lake Como is characteristic, with colourful homes along the coastline.
Varenna
Colourful buildings and pebbly beach
On the eastern shores of the lake is Varenna, a peaceful village with a scenic waterfront. Chances are, you've seen pictures of Varenna before – it's one of the most photographed spots in the whole area, so it's a must-visit on our travel guide to Lake Como.
Take a stroll down the Walk of Lovers to admire the colourful buildings and pebbly beach. The medieval castle Castello Di Vezio sits above the town and boasts fantastic views, making for a lovely hike. You’ll be relieved to know that during the high season, there’s also a shuttle bus that runs from the town up to the castle.
Bird eye view of Argegno, Lake Como.
Argegno
For a more authentic experience
For a quieter and peaceful environnment, head to Argegno on the western shores. Part of its charm is that there aren’t many attractions geared towards tourists, making it the best place to stay for lovebirds or those wanting an off-the-beaten-path getaway.
Our suggestion is to take the cable car up to Pigra, a small village looking down over Como from 881 metres high. Continue your explorations with a scenic walk down to the old fishing village of Colonno.
Orrido in Bellano is a 15 million years old natural gorge accessible via foot bridges, through waterfalls, natural caves, and striking panoramas.
Bellano
Rich in history and culture
On the lake’s eastern shores is the town of Bellano. This dreamy village is made up of narrow alleyways lined with medieval houses, 18th-century arches and Baroque courtyards.
Visit ancient churches like the 14th-century parish church of St Nazario and Celso, and the 15th-century Church of Santa Maria. For something a little different, the Orrido di Bellano is a magical gorge dating back 15 million years. Accessible via a series of suspension footbridges, visitors can admire the thundering waterfalls and clear lakes of this natural wonder.
Plum Guide's best vacation rentals in Lake Como
Guest favourites rentals in Lake Como
1. Lakeside Daydream, Blevio
Up to 12 guests • 6 bedrooms, 6 beds • 7 bathrooms • 6,458 sq/ft
Lakeside Daydream, Plum Guide home in Lake Como
You’ll find this 18th-century villa on the eastern shore of Lake Como, a short drive from the old town of Como, home to restaurants and artisanal shops. Outside, you’ll find a large garden with a swimming pool, a patio for alfresco dining and a terrace for sunbathing – not to mention unobstructed views of the water.
There’s also a private boat dock here. Inside, the antique furnishings may not be to everyone’s taste, but we think it adds to the charm. With flexible sleeping arrangements, this place is an excellent choice for families and groups of friends alike.
2. Lakeside Bliss, Argegno
Up to 8 guests • 4 bedrooms, 5 beds • 3 bathrooms • 2,152 sq/ft
Lakeside Bliss, Plum Guide home in Lake Como
This lakeside villa in Argegno, a sleepy town near the Swiss border, is the stuff that dreams are made of. Stylish and perfectly located, it's the ideal spot for a group of friends or family who are ready to fall in love with the stunning Como landscapes.
3. Ocean's Eleven
Up to 6 guests • 2 bedrooms, 4 beds • 2 bathrooms • 861 sq/ft
Ocean's Eleven, Plum Guide home in Lake Como
Arrive in style at this lakeside property on board a resplendent Riva speedboat, thanks to its private jetty. Disembark and step inside to discover a spacious open-plan living area and kitchen, kitted out with all the culinary accoutrements you might need to whip up delicious homemade meals, just like nonna used to make.
When you're not sunbathing and swimming in the lake, explore the surrounding village of Laglio. With slopes full of vineyards and olive groves, and pastel-coloured villas, it's one of the most elegant lakeside locations. But don't take our word for it. George Clooney purchased his nearby eighteenth-century estate back in 2002 and still returns multiple times a year, some two decades later.
4. Lake Song, Como city centre
Up to 2 guests • 1 bedroom, 1 bed • 1 bathroom • 484 sq/ft
Lake Song, a Plum Guide home in Como city centre, Lake Como.
Beautiful Lake Como is just 100 metres from this home, while other attractions nearby include the pretty Giardini del Tempio Voltiano with its museum, just over a five-minute walk away. Or head to Como Cathedral and Basilica di San Fedele – both are around five minutes on foot. There are a variety of cafés and restaurants for lunch on your doorstep, or head back to this elegant apartment.
Planning your trip to Lake Como
Best time to come
Spring: With its subcontinental climate, late spring is the best time to visit Lake Como. From April to early June, the weather is warm and mild, the snow has melted, and the crowds are fewer than in the summer months. It’s also the best time to get out and about in nature and enjoy trees and flowers coming into bloom.
Summer: The busiest time of year, with July, August, and September being the prime months for swimming.
Autumn: If you'd like to watch the leaves change – pack a rain jacket, as showers are likely once October rolls around.
Winter: The temperatures drop dramatically – swap sightseeing for skiing at the resorts in the Alps.
How to get to there
Flying: The closest airport to Lake Como is Milan Bergamo(BGY) Airport.
Using public transport: Como is the main transport hub in and around Lake Como, and the best way to get there is by train – it takes approximately forty minutes from Milan. Other large towns such as Bellagio and Varenna are also well connected with bus and train links.
Boat: The public ferry allows to get from town to town around Lake Como.
Driving: While a car isn't necessary, we suggest hiring a vehicle to make the most of the area. Some of the more picturesque hiking paths and villages aren't as easily accessed on public transportation.
