Experience Lake Como
Overview
Lake Como, located in Italy’s Lombardy region, is one of Europe’s deepest and most spectacular lakes, famous for its distinctive Y-shape and dramatic mountainous scenery.
The lake is lined with elegant historic villas, charming towns, and lush gardens, attracting visitors seeking a blend of natural beauty and refined leisure. Its atmosphere is one of exclusive Italian serenity.
Orientation
Getting around Lake Como primarily relies on its efficient ferry service, which connects these numerous towns and villages along the shores, including Bellagio, Varenna, and Como.
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Land Travel: The city of Como is the main transportation hub, connected by regional trains to Milan. Buses run the length of the lake, offering scenic but slower routes.
Ferry Travel: The fastest way to navigate the lake, especially the central part, is via the fast hydrofoil or slower car ferries.
Shopping
Shopping focuses on Italian luxury goods, high-quality silk, and artisanal products reflecting the local traditions:
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Look for local honey, wine from the nearby Valtellina region, and artisanal chocolates at specialty food shops throughout the villages.
The city of Como is famous for its silk production; look for scarves, ties, and fabrics at specialized shops near the cathedral.
The town of Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of the Lake,” offers elegant boutiques selling local olive oils, leather goods, and refined jewelry.
Gastronomy
Lake Como’s cuisine is distinct from the rest of Italy, focusing on freshwater fish and hearty mountain fare:
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The region is not a classic wine area, but the nearby Valtellina Valley produces excellent red Nebbiolo wines, which pair well with local cheeses and cured meats.
Must-try local specialties include missoltini (sun-dried, salted Agone fish) and risotto con pesce persico (risotto with perch). Heartier dishes often feature game meats and polenta.
Additional days in Lake Como
Lake Como is ideally situated for day trips into the Alps, other lakes, and major Northern Italian cities via its excellent rail and road network.
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Take a spectacular train trip north into the Alps on the Bernina Express from Tirano (a short drive from Lake Como). This UNESCO-listed route offers breathtaking views of glaciers and mountain scenery as it crosses into Switzerland.
Journey south by train to Milan (about 40 minutes from Como) to explore its fashion district, the iconic Duomo Cathedral, and the impressive Sforza Castle. Milan offers a vibrant cultural contrast to the lake’s serenity.
Explore the neighboring Lake Lugano, crossing into Switzerland for a different lakeside experience. Alternatively, hike or drive into the Valtellina Valley to sample Nebbiolo wines and explore the alpine terrain.
Museums
The lake’s main cultural draw is its historic villas, which often contain museums or preserved interiors showcasing aristocratic life:
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The city of Como hosts the Tempio Voltiano, a neoclassical temple dedicated to the inventor of the battery, Alessandro Volta.
Visit Villa Balbianello (Lenno), famed for its terraced gardens and role in Hollywood films, which hosts a museum of expeditions. The interiors preserve the possessions of the explorer Guido Monzino.
Explore Villa Carlotta (Tremezzo), celebrated for its extensive botanical gardens and its museum of neoclassical sculptures and paintings.
Other Highlights
Enjoy a guided tour of the stunning Villa Melzi gardens in Bellagio, featuring exotic plants, sculptures, and neoclassical architecture, providing a perfect photo opportunity.
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Explore the charming fishing village of Varenna and walk the scenic Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Walk of Lovers). The iconic lake views are best captured during a ferry ride, particularly in the central area.
Nightlife
Nightlife around Lake Como is generally subdued and sophisticated, focusing on aperitivo and quiet dining rather than large clubs:
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Look for a small, atmospheric enoteca (wine bar) in a back alley in Varenna or Menaggio for a relaxed nightcap after dinner.
The central towns, particularly Como and Bellagio, offer elegant lakeside bars and cocktail lounges where you can enjoy an evening aperitivo with stunning views.