Lake Como, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Lake Como, Italy's serene alpine retreat, where charming villages, historical sites, and breathtaking landscapes create an unforgettable experience.

Home
Travel Guides
Italy
Lake Como

Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, Lake Como is a stunning retreat that has captivated visitors for centuries. With its deep blue waters, lush greenery, and charming lakeside villages, it is no surprise that this destination is a favorite among tourists from around the world. The lake's unique Y-shape is dotted with picturesque towns such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. Each offers its own blend of historical architecture, cobblestone streets, and cozy cafes. Take a leisurely boat ride across the lake to experience the breathtaking views and serene ambiance that define Lake Como. Apart from its natural beauty, Lake Como is steeped in history and culture. Visit the opulent Villa Carlotta with its splendid gardens or explore the medieval Castello di Vezio. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking to unwind, Lake Como offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lake Como.

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Consider staying in towns like Varenna or Menaggio for a more authentic and tranquil experience.
Take a ferry tour to explore multiple towns around the lake in a single day.
Pack comfortable walking shoes to navigate the cobblestone streets and hilly terrain.
Sample local cuisine, especially fresh lake fish and traditional Italian dishes.

Explore Lake Como: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Lake Como

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta - Duomo di Como

Discover the stunning Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, a captivating blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture in the heart of Como, Italy.

4.7

Ponte dei Salti

Discover the enchanting Ponte dei Salti, a historical bridge in Verzasca Valley, Switzerland, where stunning views and rich heritage await.

4.8

Faro Voltiano

Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at Faro Voltiano, a stunning lighthouse in Brunate, Italy, overlooking Lake Como.

4.6

Porta Torre

Explore Porta Torre, a historical gem in Como, Italy, that showcases medieval architecture and offers stunning views of the vibrant Piazza Vittoria.

4.3

Best landmarks in Lake Como

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta - Duomo di Como

Discover the architectural grandeur of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, a highlight of Como's rich history and cultural heritage.

4.7

Villa Carlotta

Explore the enchanting Villa Carlotta, a captivating museum and botanical garden on Lake Como, offering art, history, and breathtaking views.

4.7

Villa del Balbianello

Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Villa del Balbianello, a must-visit villa on the shores of Lake Como, Italy.

4.8

Villa Olmo

Discover the elegance of Villa Olmo, a neoclassical villa on Lake Como, offering stunning gardens, rich history, and breathtaking views.

4.6

Best restaurants in Lake Como

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Ristorante Pizzeria Funicolare

Experience authentic Italian cuisine with stunning views at Ristorante Pizzeria Funicolare on Lake Como.

4.2

Ristorante Cervo

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Cervo by Lake Como – where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.

4.1

Ristorante Momi

Discover Ristorante Momi: Authentic Italian Cuisine with Stunning Views of Lake Como - A Must-Visit Destination for Food Lovers.

4.5

Ristorante Una Finestra Sul Lago

Experience authentic Italian flavors with breathtaking views at Ristorante Una Finestra Sul Lago in Carate Urio.

4.4

Best bars in Lake Como

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Alle Terrazze Como

Discover Alle Terrazze Como, where culinary delights meet breathtaking views of Lake Como for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.2

Vintage Jazz Food & Wine

Discover the culinary artistry of Vintage Jazz Food & Wine, where exquisite flavors meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of Como.

4.1

il Birrivico

Discover the essence of Italian hospitality at il Birrivico, a cozy bar and restaurant in the heart of Como, offering delicious local cuisine and stunning ambiance.

4.7

Fresco Cocktail Shop

Experience the art of cocktails at Fresco Cocktail Shop, Como's premier destination for artisanal drinks and unforgettable evenings.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Lake Como

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Lido di Bellagio

Experience the best of Italian cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Lido di Bellagio, a premier bistro and disco club on the shores of Lake Como.

4.3

Continental Club & Restaurant

Experience the ultimate nightlife at the Continental Club & Restaurant in Colico, where delicious pizzas meet vibrant dance floors and unforgettable moments.

3.9

Pan Pero Rosso lounge Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Pan Pero Rosso Lounge Bar, where delightful cocktails meet the stunning views of Lake Como.

4.5

Villa Papaya

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Villa Papaya, a stunning disco club in the heart of the Province of Como, Italy.

4.2

Best shops in Lake Como

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

SOLDOUT MILANO - Como

Discover unbeatable fashion deals at SOLDOUT MILANO in Como, your ultimate outlet mall destination for trendy clothing and accessories.

4.1

Como souvenir

Explore Como Souvenir: Your gateway to unique Italian treasures and handcrafted mementos from the enchanting city of Como.

4.0

Azalea Silk of Como Bellagio

Experience the allure of Italian craftsmanship at Azalea Silk of Como Bellagio, where luxury meets elegance in every silk accessory.

3.8

Quelli della Pelle

Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Quelli della Pelle, your destination for unique leather goods in Bellagio, Lake Como.

4.8

Explore Lake Como on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Lake Como, mapped for you.

Lake Como Essentials

Lake Como is located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. The nearest major airports are Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY). From these airports, you can take a train or rent a car to reach Lake Como. The main train stations serving the area are Como San Giovanni (for the western shore) and Varenna-Esino (for the eastern shore). Alternatively, you can drive from Milan, which takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Lake Como offers various transportation options including trains, buses, and ferries, which connect the towns around the lake. Trains are frequent and reliable for travel between Milan and Como or Varenna. Buses run along the lakeshore and are a good option for visiting towns not directly on the train line. Ferries and hydrofoils operate on the lake, providing scenic and efficient travel between towns like Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna. Taxis and car rentals are also available, but parking can be limited in the smaller towns.
The official currency of Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops around Lake Como. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in more remote areas or for market shopping. ATMs are readily available in all major towns around the lake.
Lake Como is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other tourist spot, it is advisable to stay vigilant. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transport, so keep an eye on your belongings. The towns around Lake Como do not have high-crime areas specifically targeting tourists, but it is always wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the emergency number for police, medical, and fire services in Italy. Hospitals and medical clinics are available in major towns such as Como and Lecco. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress stylishly but comfortably, as Italians take pride in their appearance. Avoid overly casual clothing when dining out or visiting upscale areas. Religion: Do respect religious sites by dressing modestly; cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Buongiorno' (good morning) or 'Buonasera' (good evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don't ask for condiments like ketchup, as it may be seen as disrespecting the chef's creation.
To experience Lake Como like a local, visit the weekly markets held in various towns for fresh produce and local goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the area. Don’t miss taking a stroll on the Greenway del Lago di Como, a scenic walking path that connects several lakeside towns. For a unique experience, rent a small boat to explore the lake on your own terms and discover hidden coves and beaches.

When is the best time to visit Lake Como?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Lake Como

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Lake Como. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-dehr-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pehr fah-vo-reh/preh-goh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsyeh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusi/Mi dispiace
  [skoo-zee/mee dees-pyah-cheh]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stai?]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too?]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [pahr-lee een-gleh-zeh?]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-pee-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vohr-reh-ee veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, pehr fah-vo-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non mahn-joh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-reh-ee pah-gah-reh, pehr fah-vo-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vah-ee vee-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiamate la Polizia!
  [kyah-mah-teh lah poh-lee-tsya]
- Call a doctor!Chiamate un dottore!
  [kyah-mah-teh oon doh-toh-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-no pehr-soh]
- I'm illSto male
  [stoh mah-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-reh-ee kohm-prah-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwar-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah?]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?Può abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoh ahb-bahs-sah-reh eel preh-tsoh?]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [keh oh-reh soh-no?]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
- Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [soh-no leh dyeh-chee eh meh-tzah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Due
  [doo-eh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [seh-ee]
- 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
- 8Otto
  [oht-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dyeh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dov'è...?
  [doh-veh]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-ree-tsoh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (nella mappa)?
  [pwah-ee mohs-trahr-mee (neh-lah mahp-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohs-shee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-lyet-toh (pehr)]

History of Lake Como

The history of Lake Como can be traced back to the Bronze Age, around the first millennium BC, when it was inhabited by the Celtic tribes known as the Orobii. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was a significant settlement long before the Roman conquests.
Lake Como, or Larius as it was called by the Romans, became an important hub during the Roman Empire. The Romans appreciated its strategic location and mild climate, leading to the establishment of luxurious villas along its shores. Notable Romans, including Pliny the Younger, had estates here. The remains of Roman roads, bridges, and other structures still bear witness to this era.
During the Middle Ages, Lake Como was a contested region among various noble families and city-states. Fortified castles and towers were erected to defend against invasions. The town of Como itself was a significant medieval center, with its Romanesque cathedral, the Como Cathedral, begun in 1396 and completed in 1740, standing as a testament to this period.
The Renaissance brought a period of prosperity and cultural flourishing to Lake Como. Wealthy Milanese families built grand villas and gardens, which became centers of art and learning. The influence of the Renaissance is still evident in the architecture and art found around the lake. By the Enlightenment period, Lake Como had become a favored retreat for European aristocrats and intellectuals.
The Napoleonic Wars had a substantial impact on Lake Como. Napoleon Bonaparte's influence led to the annexation of the region into the Cisalpine Republic, and later the Kingdom of Italy. Many of the region's fortifications were dismantled during this time, and new infrastructure projects were initiated, including the construction of roads and the enhancement of navigational routes on the lake.
In the 19th century, Lake Como emerged as a popular tourist destination, especially among the British aristocracy and other affluent Europeans. The construction of the Como–Colico railway made the region more accessible, further boosting its appeal. The picturesque landscape, combined with the elegant villas and gardens, attracted writers, artists, and musicians who found inspiration in its serene beauty.
Lake Como played a minor but notable role during the World Wars. In World War II, the region was under German control until the final days of the conflict. It was near Lake Como that Benito Mussolini was captured and executed in 1945. In the post-war period, Lake Como continued to thrive as a tourist destination, evolving into a luxurious getaway spot for the global elite, with modern amenities complementing its historic charm.