The Serene Beauty of Lake Como
Discover the enchanting beauty of Lake Como, where stunning landscapes, charming towns, and Italian culture come together for an unforgettable experience.
Nestled in the stunning Italian Alps, Lake Como is a picturesque destination known for its breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for any traveler seeking a tranquil escape.
A brief summary to Lake Como
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Local tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall for fewer crowds and mild weather.
- Consider taking a ferry to explore multiple villages; it's a scenic and enjoyable way to see the lake.
- Don’t miss the local cuisine; try risotto with perch and sample the regional wines for an authentic experience.
- Pack comfortable shoes for walking, as many villages have steep streets and charming pathways.
- Check the local events calendar; festivals and markets often take place during the summer months.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Ascona, head towards the lakeside promenade. You can start at Piazza Giuseppe Motta, which is a popular and recognizable spot. Walk straight towards the lake, and you will see the beautiful waterfront. Once you reach the promenade, turn left and continue walking along the lake. Enjoy the stunning views of the water and the surrounding mountains. After approximately 20-30 minutes of leisurely walking, you will arrive at the shores of Lake Como, admiring the picturesque scenery along the way.
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Public Transport
From Ascona, you can take a bus to reach Lake Como. Start by walking to the nearest bus stop, which is located at 'Piazza Giuseppe Motta'. Take the bus line 1 towards Locarno. After about 10 minutes, get off at 'Locarno, Stazione FFS' (the main train station). From there, transfer to a bus heading towards 'Menaggio'. This will take you directly to the shores of Lake Como. The total journey may take around 1 hour, including waiting times and transfers.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike in Ascona. Start at the bike rental shop near the lakeside. Follow the bike path along the lake towards the north. The route is well-marked and offers beautiful views of the lake. Pedal along the lakeside path for about 30-40 minutes, enjoying the scenery. You will eventually reach the area around Lake Como where you can park your bike and explore the lake further.
Discover more about Lake Como
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Piazza Martiri
2.0 km
Explore Piazza Martiri, the vibrant heart of Varenna, where stunning views of Lake Como meet rich history and delightful Italian cuisine.
Chiesa di San Giorgio
2.2 km
Discover the enchanting Chiesa di San Giorgio in Varenna, where breathtaking architecture meets serene views of Lake Como.
Chiesa Anglicana dell'Ascensione
3.2 km
Discover the serenity and beauty of Chiesa Anglicana dell'Ascensione in Griante, a historic church overlooking the breathtaking Lake Como.
Fiumelatte
3.6 km
Explore Fiumelatte, the enchanting river of Varenna, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await you in Italy's scenic Province of Lecco.
Chiesa Arcipretale di S. Giovanni Battista
4.6 km
Discover the breathtaking Chiesa Arcipretale di S. Giovanni Battista in Bellagio, a stunning Catholic church with rich history and serene beauty.
Piazza S. Giovanni Battista, 5
4.7 km
Discover the charm of Piazza S. Giovanni Battista in Bellagio, where history meets breathtaking views and delightful Italian cuisine.
Orrido di Bellano
4.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Orrido di Bellano, Italy's largest natural gorge, where stunning landscapes and adventure await in the heart of nature.
Sagrato Sant'Abbondio
5.6 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history at Sagrato Sant'Abbondio in Azzano, Province of Como – a tranquil retreat for every traveler.
Church of St. Peter
6.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of the Church of St. Peter in Varenna, a historic gem by Lake Como.
Chiesa Santo Stefano - Lenno (co)
6.7 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Chiesa Santo Stefano, a historic Catholic church nestled in the heart of Lenno, Province of Como.
Villa del Balbianello
7.1 km
Discover the timeless beauty and rich heritage of Villa del Balbianello, a historic villa offering stunning lake views and enchanting gardens.
Villa Balbiano
7.7 km
Explore the elegance of Villa Balbiano, a historical villa on Lake Como offering luxurious accommodations and breathtaking scenery.
Chiesa Santa Maria Maddalena - Ossuccio-Tremezzina (co)
8.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Chiesa Santa Maria Maddalena in Ossuccio, a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Como.
Piazza Conciliazione
9.7 km
Explore the scenic beauty and vibrant culture of Piazza Conciliazione in Vassena, a captivating destination in Italy's breathtaking Province of Lecco.
Madonna del Ghisallo
10.2 km
Visit Madonna del Ghisallo, a serene shrine in Italy that honors cycling culture while offering stunning views and spiritual reflection.
Unmissable attractions to see
Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi in Menaggio, a picturesque square surrounded by vibrant cafes, lush gardens, and stunning architecture.
Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, 3
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi in Menaggio, where stunning lake views, rich history, and vibrant local culture come together.
Menaggio
1.6 km
Explore Menaggio, a charming town on Lake Como, where stunning landscapes meet rich culture and history in the heart of Italy.
Lungolago di Menaggio
1.6 km
Explore the captivating beauty of Lungolago di Menaggio, a serene lakeside promenade offering stunning views and a taste of local culture.
Menaggio Mini Waterfall
1.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Menaggio Mini Waterfall, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the Italian Lakes, perfect for relaxation and stunning photography.
Floating Platform of Varenna
2.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Como at the Floating Platform of Varenna, where serene views and stunning landscapes await every visitor.
Molo Riva Grande
2.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Molo Riva Grande, a stunning lakeside pier in Varenna, Italy, surrounded by breathtaking views and charming cafes.
La Passeggiata Degli Innamorati
2.1 km
Experience the romantic charm of La Passeggiata Degli Innamorati, a scenic stroll along the stunning shores of Lake Como in Varenna.
Varenna Altstadt
2.1 km
Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty and historic charm of Varenna Altstadt, a must-visit destination on Lake Como.
Church of St. John the Baptist
2.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of the Church of St. John the Baptist in Varenna, a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Como.
Varenna
2.2 km
Discover Varenna, a picturesque village on Lake Como, rich in history, stunning views, and Italian charm.
Lago di Como versante Lecco Varenna
2.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Varenna, a picturesque village on Lake Como's eastern shore, rich in history and stunning views.
Villa Monastero
2.3 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich history at Villa Monastero, a botanical garden and museum by the enchanting shores of Lake Como.
Castello di Vezio
2.3 km
Discover the enchanting Castello di Vezio, a medieval fortress offering stunning views and rich history above the shores of Lake Como.
Vietato Lordare il Lavatoio
2.6 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty of Vietato Lordare il Lavatoio in Menaggio, a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Como.
Essential places to dine
Ristorante Mistral
3.0 km
Experience exquisite Italian and Mediterranean cuisine at Ristorante Mistral with breathtaking views of Lake Como.
Hosteria Del Platano
3.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with stunning views at Hosteria Del Platano in Varenna.
Trattoria San Giacomo
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with stunning lake views at Trattoria San Giacomo in Bellagio.
La Terrazza Lake Como
3.7 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at La Terrazza Lake Como while enjoying stunning views over one of Italy's most beautiful lakes.
Ristorante La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi
4.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ristorante La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi overlooking Lake Como with exquisite Italian and seafood dishes.
Locanda La Tirlindana
8.8 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Locanda La Tirlindana on Lake Como.
Roteo
9.1 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Roteo in Sala Comacina with stunning views over Lake Como - a perfect blend of taste and scenery.
Trattoria del Porto
15.6 km
Experience exquisite seafood and authentic Italian dishes at Trattoria del Porto, where every meal offers stunning views of Lake Como.
Ristorante Vapore
18.7 km
Experience the best of Italian and seafood cuisine at Ristorante Vapore with stunning views of Lake Como in Faggeto Lario.
Ristorante Una Finestra Sul Lago
19.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with breathtaking views at Ristorante Una Finestra Sul Lago in Carate Urio.
Ristorante Antico
19.6 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Antico in Lugano—where every dish is a celebration of flavor.
Locanda Gandriese
19.7 km
Discover the flavors of Sardinia at Locanda Gandriese in Lugano – where authentic cuisine meets breathtaking views.
Ristorante le bucce di Gandria
19.7 km
Experience authentic Swiss cuisine with stunning views at Ristorante le bucce di Gandria near Lake Lugano.
Grotto Castagneto
20.4 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Grotto Castagneto in Brè sopra Lugano - where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking Swiss landscapes.
Il Sereno Al Lago Restaurant
20.5 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Il Sereno Al Lago Restaurant on Lake Como.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lavanda del Lago
1.5 km
Explore Lavanda del Lago, the enchanting gift shop in Menaggio, offering exquisite lavender products and unique local crafts in a picturesque setting.
Il Pozzo
2.1 km
Discover unique local treasures at Il Pozzo, Varenna's charming store offering handmade crafts and authentic Italian souvenirs.
DEALS ISLAND
3.0 km
Explore the elegance of Italian fashion at Deals Island, a charming dress store in the heart of Bellagio, Lake Como.
L'angolo delle idee
3.1 km
Explore the enchanting L'angolo delle idee in Bellagio, where local crafts and unique souvenirs await to capture your memories of Italy.
Barindelli & Trezzi (S.R.L.)
3.2 km
Explore Barindelli & Trezzi in Bellagio for exquisite Italian fashion accessories that capture the essence of style and elegance.
Bellagioseta
3.2 km
Explore Bellagioseta in Bellagio for unique reversible clothing that embodies Italian style and sophistication amidst stunning Lake Como scenery.
Ferrario Renata
3.2 km
Discover Ferrario Renata, a charming clothing store in Bellagio offering unique fashion and personalized service amidst stunning Lake Como scenery.
MILEDO Boutique
3.2 km
Explore the elegance of MILEDO Boutique in Bellagio, where Italian style meets exceptional quality in a charming lakeside setting.
Grandi Carlo di Alberto Gaviglio
3.3 km
Discover the essence of Bellagio at Grandi Carlo di Alberto Gaviglio, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and artisan crafts.
Castelletti Bellagio
3.3 km
Discover timeless elegance and contemporary fashion at Castelletti Bellagio, a premier women's clothing store in picturesque Bellagio, Italy.
Saraceno
3.3 km
Discover Saraceno in Bellagio, where Italian fashion meets exquisite craftsmanship in a charming designer boutique experience.
3GRANDI
3.3 km
Explore 3GRANDI in Bellagio for unique ceramics, exquisite jewelry, and handcrafted gifts that embody the beauty of Lake Como.
Azalea Silk of Como Bellagio
3.3 km
Experience the allure of Italian craftsmanship at Azalea Silk of Como Bellagio, where luxury meets elegance in every silk accessory.
Azalea Luca Gandola
3.3 km
Experience the charm of Bellagio with a visit to Azalea Luca Gandola, where Italian style meets exceptional quality in clothing.
Corner Shop Bellagio
3.3 km
Explore the exquisite jewelry at Corner Shop Bellagio, where craftsmanship meets the enchanting charm of Lake Como's picturesque landscapes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cantina Follie
4.3 km
Discover exquisite local wines and charming ambiance at Cantina Follie, the perfect retreat for wine lovers in Tremezzina.
Lo Scalo Craft Drinks By The Lake
8.2 km
Discover Lo Scalo Craft Drinks By The Lake, where exquisite cocktails and stunning lake views create an unforgettable Italian experience.
Gaia Bar
9.1 km
Discover the charm of Gaia Bar in Sala Comacina, your perfect spot for relaxation and local flavors amidst stunning views.
Stop to Livigno
18.8 km
Stop to Livigno: Your cozy retreat for authentic Italian cuisine and delightful breakfasts in the breathtaking Valtellina region.
Bar Ticinese
21.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Lugano at Bar Ticinese, where excellent drinks and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Vermouth by Martini
22.3 km
Experience the best of Lugano with exquisite cocktails and small plates at Vermouth by Martini, a must-visit cocktail bar for any traveler.
Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa.
22.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and authentic Italian flavors at Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa in the heart of Lugano.
Bar Kulma
22.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar Kulma, a must-visit bar in Lugano offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Trinity Irish Pub
23.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Trinity Irish Pub in Lugano, where Irish culture meets Swiss charm through hearty food, lively drinks, and unforgettable entertainment.
Beverly Bar
23.0 km
Discover the cozy ambiance and delightful drinks at Beverly Bar, a must-visit spot in Lugano for every traveler.
Gian Bar
23.0 km
Gian Bar in Lugano: A cozy bar with a vibrant atmosphere, serving delicious drinks and light bites in the heart of Switzerland's picturesque city.
The Market Lugano
23.2 km
Discover The Market Lugano: A top-notch bar and restaurant offering exquisite cocktails and a diverse menu in a vibrant atmosphere.
Bar Lando
23.2 km
Discover Bar Lando in Lugano, where vibrant nightlife meets the delightful experience of traditional hookah in a modern bar setting.
Bar Oops
23.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lugano at Bar Oops—a local favorite for drinks, socializing, and unforgettable memories.
Pub Piccolo Principe
23.3 km
Discover the essence of Lugano’s nightlife at Pub Piccolo Principe, where locals and tourists alike gather for a cozy drink and vibrant atmosphere.
