Things To Do In Lake Como

As one of the most breathtaking destinations in northern Italy, Lake Como feels like stepping into a real-life postcard. Framed by dramatic alpine peaks and dotted with pastel villas that spill toward the water, this iconic lake offers romance, elegance, and that slow Italian magic that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

When we designed our Soul Sisters Italy trip, Lake Como felt like the perfect contrast to the energy of Milan and the dreamy canals of Venice. Milan is stylish and fast-paced. Venice is romantic and cinematic. But Lake Como? It’s peaceful, refined, and effortlessly glamorous. It’s where long lunches stretch into the afternoon and boat rides turn into core memories.

This post is both a travel guide and a look at what we actually did. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Milan, a long weekend escape, or adding Lake Como to a larger Italy itinerary, this guide will help you plan it beautifully.

Our Soul Sisters Lake Como Experience

Lake Como is at its most magical in the morning and late afternoon. The light hits the mountains in a way that makes the water shimmer, and the crowds thin out once the day-trippers head back to Milan.

Here’s how we did Lake Como in one unforgettable day:

Morning: High-speed train from Milan to Como San Giovanni. Espresso near the waterfront before boarding the ferry. Slow scenic ferry ride across the lake with views of hillside villas and tiny villages stacked into the mountains.

Midday: Exploring Bellagio’s stone staircases and boutique-lined alleys. Long lakeside lunch with local wine and fresh pasta. Plenty of photo stops because honestly, every corner looks staged.

Afternoon: Ferry to Varenna for a quieter, more romantic vibe. Walk along the Passeggiata degli Innamorati and soak in the views.

If you can, stay overnight. Lake Como after 6 p.m. feels completely different. Calm. Golden. Intimate.

Recommended Apps

Google Maps – Essential for navigating ferry schedules and walking routes between villas and town centers.

Trenitalia – Helpful for booking trains from Milan to Como or Varenna.

Omio – Great for comparing transport options if you’re planning multiple Italian cities.

WhatsApp – Many boutique hotels and boat rental companies communicate through it.

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Must-See Main Attractions in Lake Como

Lake Como isn’t about rushing from landmark to landmark. It’s about slowing down, exploring villages, and soaking in scenery. That said, there are a few iconic places you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

1. Visit Bellagio

Often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio sits at the intersection of the lake’s three branches. Its cobblestone staircases, pastel buildings, and waterfront promenades make it one of the most photogenic towns in Italy. Wander without a plan. Climb the famous stone steps lined with boutiques. Stop for gelato. Then head down to the waterfront for sweeping mountain views. It’s elegant but relaxed, and easily one of the prettiest spots on the lake.

2. Visit Varenna

Varenna feels quieter and more intimate than Bellagio. Its colorful harbor and romantic lakeside walkway, the Passeggiata degli Innamorati, make it perfect for a slower afternoon. It’s less polished, a little more local, and incredibly charming. If Bellagio feels glamorous, Varenna feels poetic.

3. Visit Como Town

Como is often the gateway to the lake, especially if you’re arriving from Milan. We actually took a tour of the city but I think we could have just walked it on our own. The historic center is lively and walkable, with cafés, shops, and beautiful architecture. Don’t miss the Como Cathedral, a stunning Gothic-Renaissance cathedral that dominates the main square. For incredible views, take the funicular up to Brunate and look down over the lake from above.

4. Visit Villa del Balbianello

One of the most famous villas on the lake, Villa del Balbianello is known for its dramatic terraced gardens and cinematic views. It has been featured in films and sits on a wooded peninsula that feels almost surreal. Even if you don’t tour the interior, seeing it from the water by boat is unforgettable.

5. Visit Villa Carlotta

Located near Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta is famous for its botanical gardens and art collections. In spring, the azaleas and rhododendrons are breathtaking. It’s a perfect stop if you love gardens, history, and slow scenic wandering.

Traditional & Local Things To Try

Lake Como cuisine reflects both alpine and northern Italian traditions.

• Risotto al pesce persico – Creamy risotto topped with lightly fried perch from the lake. Delicate, buttery, and distinctly local.
• Polenta uncia – A comforting mountain dish made with polenta, butter, and melted cheese. Hearty and perfect on cooler evenings.
• Missoltini – Sun-dried lake fish grilled and served with polenta. Traditional and deeply tied to the lake’s fishing culture.
• Spritz or local Lombardy wine – Aperitivo hour by the water feels essential here. Order a glass and watch the boats drift by.

Famous Spots To Eat & Drink

Ristorante Bilacus – Bellagio

A cozy courtyard restaurant known for fresh pasta and classic lake dishes. Romantic without feeling stuffy.

La Punta – Bellagio

Located at the very tip of Bellagio with panoramic views where the lake splits in two. Come for the scenery, stay for the seafood.

Crotto dei Platani – Brienno

Historic lakeside restaurant carved into rock. Known for elegant local cuisine and incredible sunset views.

Bar Il Molo – Varenna

Perfect for a casual aperitivo right on the water. Simple, scenic, and relaxed.

Getting Around Lake Como

Lake Como is best explored by ferry. The public ferry system connects Bellagio, Varenna, Como, and smaller villages. Sitting on the upper deck feels like a slow-moving sightseeing tour.

If you’re arriving from Milan, trains to Como or Varenna take about an hour. From there, ferries and walking will get you almost everywhere you need to go.

Water taxis and private boat rentals are available but come at a premium. If you want the glamorous experience, though, it’s worth it.

Comfortable shoes are essential. Many towns are built vertically, with staircases and cobblestone streets.

Final Thoughts

Lake Como isn’t just beautiful. It’s peaceful in a way that feels rare.

It’s long lunches overlooking the water. It’s mountains reflected perfectly in the lake. It’s ferry rides where every turn reveals another pastel villa tucked into the hills.

For us, Lake Como wasn’t about checking off attractions. It was about slowing down. Sharing wine by the water. Taking too many photos. Letting the afternoon stretch.

If Milan feels energetic and Venice feels romantic, Lake Como feels serene and timeless.

Stay tuned for our full Italy itinerary with affiliate links for hotels, restaurants, and travel guides so you can plan your own unforgettable Lake Como escape.