Enchanting Lake Como: A Serene Italian Gem
Discover the serene beauty and rich culture of Lake Como, Italy’s picturesque lake surrounded by charming villages and stunning landscapes.
Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, Lake Como is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and luxurious villas. This picturesque lake, often frequented by tourists and celebrities alike, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a must-visit location while exploring Italy.
A brief summary to Lake Como
- IT
Local tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Consider taking a ferry to explore different towns along the lake; it's a scenic and enjoyable experience.
- Don’t miss the chance to try local delicacies like risotto and fresh fish from the lake.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike, as many trails can be steep and challenging.
- Check for local events or festivals that might coincide with your visit for a unique cultural experience.
Getting There
-
Train
From Lugano, head to the Lugano train station (Stazione FFS), which is located about a 10-minute walk from the city center. Once at the train station, purchase a ticket to Varenna-Esino, which is one of the key access points to Lake Como. Trains run frequently, typically every hour. The journey will take approximately 30 minutes. After you arrive at Varenna-Esino, follow the signs to the ferry terminal, which is a short walk from the station. Take a ferry to the central part of Lake Como, where you can explore the picturesque towns along the lake.
-
Bus
From the city center of Lugano, walk to the local bus terminal, which is located near the train station. Look for the bus line heading towards Menaggio or Bellagio, as these towns are directly on Lake Como. The bus ride will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Upon arrival, you can explore the area, and there are ferry services available to take you across the lake to other towns like Varenna or Bellagio.
-
Ferry
If you're already near the shores of Lake Lugano, you can take a ferry from Lugano to the neighboring town of Campione d'Italia, which connects to services heading to Lake Como. Just walk to the ferry terminal located at the waterfront in Lugano. The ferry ride lasts about 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Campione d'Italia, look for the ferry services that go to various locations on Lake Como, including Bellagio and Varenna.
Discover more about Lake Como
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Piazza Martiri
2.0 km
Explore the scenic Piazza Martiri in Varenna, a vibrant square filled with history, local culture, and stunning views of Lake Como.
Punta Spartivento
2.8 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Lake Como at Punta Spartivento, a premier observation deck in Bellagio, perfect for breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.
Chiesa Anglicana dell'Ascensione
3.2 km
Discover tranquility at the Chiesa Anglicana dell'Ascensione in Griante, a serene Anglican church with stunning views of Lake Como.
Fiumelatte
3.6 km
Discover the serene charm of Fiumelatte, a hidden village in Italy’s Province of Lecco, where stunning landscapes and tranquility await.
Villa Carlotta
3.9 km
Explore Villa Carlotta, an exquisite museum and botanical garden on Lake Como, Italy, showcasing art, history, and stunning landscapes.
I Giardini di Villa Melzi
4.0 km
Discover the enchanting I Giardini di Villa Melzi, a serene botanical garden in Bellagio, offering stunning views and rich historical charm.
Chiesa Arcipretale di S. Giovanni Battista
4.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich heritage of Bellagio at the Chiesa Arcipretale di S. Giovanni Battista, a serene landmark by Lake Como.
Piazza S. Giovanni Battista, 5
4.7 km
Explore the enchanting Piazza S. Giovanni Battista in Bellagio, where stunning architecture meets breathtaking views of Lake Como for an unforgettable experience.
Orrido di Bellano
4.7 km
Explore Orrido di Bellano, the largest natural gorge in Italy, featuring stunning waterfalls and breathtaking landscapes in the scenic Province of Lecco.
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
Experience the historical charm and breathtaking views at the Church of St. Peter in Varenna, a serene gem in the heart of Italy's Lake Como.
Chiesa Santo Stefano - Lenno (co)
6.7 km
Explore the serene Chiesa Santo Stefano in Lenno, a historic Catholic church surrounded by the stunning beauty of Lake Como.
Villa del Balbianello
7.1 km
Experience the enchanting beauty and rich history of Villa del Balbianello, a stunning villa on Lake Como that captivates every visitor.
Villa Balbiano
7.7 km
Experience the elegance of Villa Balbiano on Lake Como, a historical villa offering luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views for unforgettable moments.
Chiesa Santa Maria Maddalena - Ossuccio-Tremezzina (co)
8.0 km
Discover the serene Chiesa Santa Maria Maddalena in Ossuccio, a historical gem overlooking Lake Como, blending spirituality with breathtaking views.
Unmissable attractions to see
LoveComo - Villa Bianca
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of LoveComo - Villa Bianca in Menaggio, a gem of Lake Como's scenic landscape.
Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi in Menaggio, a vibrant square filled with delightful cafes, shops, and stunning views of Lake Como.
Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, 3
1.5 km
Discover the charm of Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi in Menaggio, a picturesque square offering stunning views, local shops, and delightful cafes by Lake Como.
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
Discover the picturesque beauty and tranquil charm of Lungolago di Menaggio, a perfect lakeside retreat along the breathtaking shores of Lake Como.
Menaggio Mini Waterfall
1.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Menaggio Mini Waterfall, a hidden gem in the heart of Menaggio surrounded by stunning alpine views.
Floating Platform of Varenna
2.0 km
Discover the stunning views and serene atmosphere of the Floating Platform of Varenna, a must-visit attraction on the shores of Lake Como.
Porto Riva Grande
2.1 km
Discover the scenic beauty and charming allure of Porto Riva Grande, the perfect marina escape on Lake Como in Varenna, Italy.
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.
Ancient port of Varenna
2.1 km
Discover the captivating charm of Varenna, an ancient port on Lake Como, where stunning views, rich history, and delightful cuisine await.
La Passeggiata Degli Innamorati
2.1 km
Experience the romantic charm of La Passeggiata Degli Innamorati in Varenna, a breathtaking lakeside promenade perfect for couples and nature lovers.
Greenway dei Patriarchi
2.1 km
Explore the picturesque trails of Greenway dei Patriarchi, a serene hiking area in Varenna, Italy, offering stunning views of Lake Como and lush landscapes.
Sentiero del viandante 5 tappe
2.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sentiero del Viandante, a scenic hiking trail along Lake Como with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Varenna Altstadt
2.1 km
Discover the charm of Varenna Altstadt, a picturesque village on the shores of Lake Como, where history and stunning scenery meet.
Church of St. John the Baptist
2.1 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of the Church of St. John the Baptist in Varenna, 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.
