This Lake Como Guide will show you what to do, when to go, where to stay, some safety tips, and much more when taking a vacation on this beautiful Italian Lake. So, stick with us if you want to find out more.
©amawaterways.com
Lake Como Guide – overview
Lake Como, also known as Lario, is the third largest Lake in Italy, following Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore, and one of the most beautiful. Situated at the base of the Alps, it offers some of the world’s most stunning and romantic landscapes. Its distinct Y shape results from the melting of glaciers and the erosive action of the ancient Adda River, which formed the two southern branches, with the celebrated Bellagio lying in the middle. There are plenty of activities to enjoy on Lake Como, especially if you plan on staying for more than a day. The towns are situated at a distance, making it possible to visit at least three or four villages by local transportation. You can stroll through beautiful villas and gardens, relax on your favorite beach, or take a private boat tour. You can even rejuvenate yourself with a nature walk.
If you can, visit Lake Como in shoulder season!
For a peaceful and authentic travel experience, visit Lake Como during the low season, particularly in April or October. This magnificent destination in Italy is renowned for its romantic landscapes and abundant indulgence activities. Whether you prefer walking through villas and gardens, lounging on the beach, or embarking on a private boat tour, Lake Como has it all. Furthermore, the towns are conveniently situated, making it easy to explore multiple villages using local transportation. Without a doubt, Lake Como is a paradise that you cannot afford to miss.
How to get to Lake Como
You can get to Lake Como from Milan in many ways.
It all depends on your travel needs, such as the town you wish to visit, your departure point (the city of Milan or its airports), and your means of transport.
Here, we will give you an insight into how to get to Como, Bellagio, and Varenna, three of the most popular Lake Como towns (from which you can easily reach all others via ferry or bus).
How to get to Como from Milan train stations
Milan Central Station, Milan’s main train station, is where most travelers begin their journey to Como. Two different services operate on this route (travel times, in each case, are about 40 minutes).
Milano Cadorna is another of the major train stations in Milan. If you want to get to Como from Milano Cadorna, take the train to Como Nord Lago (end of the line), and you’ll be there in one hour.
The Suburban line S11, operated by Trenord, starts from Porta Garibaldi, one of the most dynamic areas of Milan, and gets to Como in one hour.
Como S. Giovanni, your arrival point is 12 stops from the start of the line.
How to get to Como from Milan airports
Malpensa Express is the fastest way to get to Como. To reach Como from Milan-Malpensa Airport, proceed as follows: Take the Malpensa Express (departing from both terminals) to Milan and get off at Saronno (after about 20 minutes) at Saronno train station, take the train from Milano Cadorna to Como Lago (40 minutes).
One of the easiest ways to get to Como from Orio al Serio Airport is to first take one of the shuttle services just outside the airport to Milan Central Station (1-hour ride). Then, take the train to Como S. Giovanni station (40 minutes).
The easiest way to get to Como from Milan-Linate Airport is to first take one of the shuttle services just outside the airport to Milan Central Station (30-minute ride). Then, take the train to Como S. Giovanni station (40 minutes).
Travel Tip: When in Como, take the C10 bus to reach western towns like Cernobbio, Argegno, Tremezzina, or Menaggio, or the C30 bus for eastern towns like Nesso or Bellagio. You can also use the lake transportation service.
Note: Click the following link for the most valuable train/bus prices.
Our website includes affiliate links. So, keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. Please read our legal disclaimer document for more information about our Affiliate disclaimer and other disclaimers like Fair-Use disclaimer, etc.
How to get around Lake Como
There are many different ways to get around Lake Como, that’s why this Lake Como Guide will name a few. In general, avoid moving by car and carefully plan your travel with the various services offered by public transportation.
First of all, how to get to Lake Como? As you can imagine, it all depends on where you start from and where you want to get to.
We mentioned these villages because they are the most visited. However, it is still possible to reach the other lake destinations by the following means of transportation.
Tip: If you travel to Lake Como using public transport, we suggest renting a boat or taking a ferry afterward. Because that way you will enjoy the best views.
©Valerio Carleto/Lake Real Estate
What to visit
Lake Como has charming towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Como. Each location offers shopping, nature walks, beautiful villas and gardens, and unforgettable experiences. Review the guide to find the best destinations for your interests and consider the length of your stay and travel needs.
Take a boat tour.
When visiting Lake Como, taking a boat trip or tour is an absolute must to immerse yourself in its beauty fully. Whether you’re staying for a day or longer, take advantage of this incredible opportunity to relax and appreciate the stunning views of the Lake from a unique perspective. Remember to bring a power bank to keep your camera charged so you can capture every moment!
There are two types of boat tours available: public and private. The public boat service provided by Navigazione Laghi is an affordable and convenient option for traveling between popular towns along the Lake’s shores. However, a private boat tour is the way to go if you want to enjoy the Lake at your own pace and create your itinerary. It’s perfect for couples or groups of friends who want to experience a romantic sunset cruise with a bottle of prosecco.
©Daniele Monga
Relax on the beach.
If you plan to visit Lake Como in the summer, check out the fantastic beaches lining the shores. These beaches are perfect for relaxing on hot summer days and even offer the opportunity to go sailing or windsurfing in some cases. It’s best to head to the central and northern parts of the Lake for the best beaches. Remember that the most popular beaches can get quite crowded, so it’s a good idea to get there early or reserve a spot at a nearby lido.
Lake Como Guide – Villa Carlotta
©comolakesideblog.com
Some of the most popular Lake Como’s villas and gardens
Lake Como is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate historical mansions and stunning gardens. From mid-March to mid-November, you can visit numerous historic residences such as Villa Balbianello, Villa Melzi, and Villa Monastero. These mansions offer guided tours and classical music events during the summer months. Some of these mansions have special openings even in the off-season, so check their official websites beforehand.
Discover the lesser-known side of Lake Como.
Many trails of varying types surrounding Lake Como are suitable for walkers with different experience levels. Along these trails, you can find typical restaurants that serve authentic flavors of the area. I have created a continuously updated section on hikes and walks around Lake Como that offers information about the highlights and facilities you can find along your walk.
Have you heard of Spina Verde Park? It’s a protected forest located southwest of Como, home to many sites of panoramic, historical, and natural interest. One of the most exciting attractions is the tower of Castello Baradello, which can be reached by following a path that starts from Piazza San Rocco, near the town center, and leads to the building in about 30 minutes. It’s worth checking out!
©lagodicomo.com
The Greenway del Lago di Como is an 11.5 km (7 mi) walking route in one of the most picturesque areas of western Lake Como. It follows the ancient Via Regina, the road the Romans built to connect Como with territories beyond the Alps.
The Greenway, which passes through the villages of Colonno, Sala Comacina, Tremezzina, and Griante, offers splendid views and examples of architecture, villas, and gardens (e.g., the unmissable Villa Carlotta)—an excellent opportunity for anyone to see Lake Como from a different perspective.
Val Sanagra, also known as Val Senagra, is a vast area rich in flora, fauna, and ancient rural settlements between Menaggio and Grandola ed Uniti.
It takes its name from the stream that flows through the valley and creates beautiful waterfalls often topped by fascinating Romanesque stone bridges.
Val Sanagra is an ideal place to retreat on hot summer days, sheltered from the crowds that characterize Lake Como’s most popular destinations in high season. In addition to offering trails suitable for most people, the valley is also home to a farmhouse where you can taste local products or stay overnight and an eco-museum for a different day out.
Lake Como traditional food: Missoltini with polenta
©Quicomo
Local cuisine
Local dishes from Como draw inspiration from the surrounding countryside and the famous Lake. The region relies on seasonal local produce that is both nutritious and sustaining. Today, restaurants in the villages that line the Lake’s shores reference that agricultural tradition, offering a selection of freshwater fish dishes and hearty stews. Dairy products, such as butter and local cheese, also feature heavily, adding flavor and richness to the base ingredients. Try some of Como’s best regional dishes during your holiday.
- Missoltino: Traditional sundried fish
- Risotto with perch: A typical Larian dish you should use.
- Miascia is a sweet bread cake linked to the tradition of the poor cuisine of Lake Como.
- Fried alborelle, or bleak, is commonly featured on many restaurant menus around Lake Como.
Three or more days on Lake Como
Any town will do if you visit Lake Como for 3-4 days without mobility issues. Public transportation is available to reach different destinations. The central area has the most tourist attractions, making it crowded during the high season. Consider visiting during April or October, when the weather is perfect, and the site is less crowded. First, determine which towns or attractions you want to see and then locate the most convenient place to stay. Keep in mind that towns in the Lake’s center are about 15-30 minutes by boat from each other, while Como to Bellagio takes around 1-2 hours.
Villa Ponti Bellavista
©myprivatevillas.com
1-day trip
If you have only one day to spend in Lake Como, choose a town easily accessible by train, such as Como, Varenna, or Lecco, and visit its surroundings. With careful planning, you can see more than one town daily. For instance, you can take a train to Varenna from Milan and then take a ferry to Bellagio or Menaggio in 15 minutes. Another option is to take a boat ride from Como to Cernobbio, only 15 minutes away from the city.
Where to stay
Choosing the best place to stay in Lake Como is difficult, especially if you live far away. There are so many towns to visit that you may need clarification on what kind of accommodation to choose and in which part of the Lake to stay overnight. That’s why the Lake Como guide will give you a few hints to help you.
If you plan to visit Lake Como for 3-4 days and have no mobility problems, virtually any town will do. Local public services will enable you to reach all other destinations comfortably.
The Lake’s central area is where most tourist attractions are concentrated. Therefore, it is the one that tends to be most crowded in high season (this is why we also recommend planning your vacation at different times, such as April or October,r when the weather is perfect and the area is less crowded).
Our advice is first to figure out which towns or attractions you want to take advantage of and, from there, locate the place that allows you to reach them all most conveniently. Consider that the towns in the center of the Lake are about 15-30 minutes by boat from each other, while to go from Como to Bellagio, for example, you have to consider about 1 – 2 hours.
If you only want to devote one day to Lake Como, for example, because you are coming from Milan, we would choose a town you can easily reach by train, such as Como, Varenna or Lecco (and their surroundings).
If you plan your travels carefully, you can visit more than one town daily.
For example, you can reach Varenna from Milan and, from there, take the ferry that will take you to Bellagio or Menaggio in 15 minutes. Or you can reach Como from Milan and visit Cernobbio, a 15-minute boat ride from the city.
Note: Find the best rooms here.
Lake Como Gudie – insider tip
Only some people know that looking at the whole of Lake Como from a precise point is possible. So, if you reach the Lake’s center by boat, you can admire all three branches: Como, Lecco, and Colico.
The best-kept secret is the “Sagra di San Giovanni. A fireworks event that usually happens in June. Therefore, book a boat, take some wine and a dessert, and join the hundreds of locals to watch the fireworks.
While many tourists flock to the famous towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, there’s a lesser-known ancient path known as the Greenway del Lago di Como, which shares Ghachem. This walking route, approximately 10km, connects the village of Colonno to Cadenabbia. It offers spectacular views of the Lake, charming ancient alleys, and old villas. It’s less-frequented than the main tourist spots, offering a quieter, more authentic Lake Como experience.”
Many people don’t know that it is beautiful even in wintertime. It is a renowned summer destination. Still, only locals know the beauty of the Lake transformed into the most magical winter wonderland.
Lake Como curiosities
Lake Como is rightly one of northern Italy’s most popular summer destinations. Many people know the Lake for its beautiful scenery and elegant villas. But there is more to Lake Como than meets the eye.
Lake Como is the deepest lake in Italy.
The depth that gives the waters their vivid blue color makes for such spectacular vistas! At its deepest points, the waters of Lake Como are more than 425 meters deep. We’re also guessing that’s why the waters of Lake Como are so cold!
Lake Como has its very own lake monster, Lario!
The first reported “sighting” was 1946 when a sizeable reptile-like creature was spotted swimming in the Lake. It was named Lariosauro after the prehistoric reptile fossilized remains found near Lake Como (Lariosaurus balsami).
There have only been a handful of sightings over the years, so it must be very shy!
Lake Como is the capital of Italy’s silk production.
Lake Como is a beautiful but expensive destination in Italy. Silk production in the area dates back to the 6th century when two priests smuggled silkworms out of China. The Duke of Milan ordered mulberry trees to be planted on the Lake’s shores in the 15th century, leading to the expansion of the silk industry. A prestigious school for silk artisans was established in the 19th century and continues to train talented silk masters.
Safety Tips
Lake Como is a safe destination for travelers. The region has a low crime rate, and local authorities prioritize visitor safety. The picturesque towns and villages around the Lake are generally safe to explore alone during the day. However, it’s recommended to take basic precautions to ensure personal safety. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and secure your belongings. Travelers can confidently use public transportation in Lake Como, including trains, buses, and ferries, which are well-maintained, reliable, and safe. If you prefer to drive, the roads around the Lake are generally well-maintained. Still, following traffic rules and being aware of the narrow and winding streets is essential. Solo female travelers should feel relatively safe in Lake Como. Taking basic safety measures, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, will enhance your safety. Overall, Lake Como provides a safe and welcoming environment for solo travelers, and staying informed and using common sense can lead to a worry-free visit to this stunning Italian destination.
Note: If you’d like to learn more about travel safety or everyday travel traps, please read our article.
©kated.com
Lake Como Guide – FAQs
How many days in Lake Como is enough?
3-4 days is a good starting point to visit Lake Como if you want to experience the small towns and villages around the Lake. However, you can visit Lake Como on a day trip from Milan if you need more time.
What is the most beautiful part of Lake Como?
Bellagio. Cernobbio (The village of Cernobbio undoubtedly represents one of the most prestigious locations to spend a holiday on Lake Como.), Laglio and Moltrasio, Varenna, Tremezzo, etc. The list is endless.
Where do famous people go in Lake Como?
The Villa Balbianello, an 18th-century mansion, was a filming location for Mr. Craig and his Hollywood crew. It is situated on a peninsula that extends into the emerald green waters of Lake Como, an area filled with the vacation homes of the world’s wealthiest people. It is worth noting that Richard Branson’s villa is also located on the same peninsula as Balbianello.
Note: Find the best rooms here.
Do we need a car in Lake Como?
If you’re up for some adventurous driving, you could get to Como by car. While you don’t need a car in Lake Como, parking and driving are limited; you could even take your vehicle on selected ferries. That said, make sure you book a hotel with a parking spot. Otherwise, you’ll be in trouble.
What kind of food is Lake Como known for?
The most famous dish is polenta, either yellow wheat or buckwheat, served with meat, fish, or cheese. Lake Como’s traditional fish is misultitt (dried), bleak, lavarello, perch (often served with risotto), salmon trout, pike, and chub. As for cheese, Lake Como offers semuda, zincarlin and triangolo del Lario.
Lake Como Guide – Final wordings
Como is a costly place to stay. However, the price tag comes together with its beauty. And once you visit it, you will forget all about the prices. We saw it as a part of our Milano vacations. And for us, it was one of the most memorable stays. What about you, have you already seen it? If so, please share with us your experiences in the comments below. We know we have yet to encompass all in this Lake Como guide, so we’d like you to fill in the gaps.
Take a look at
References and sources:
Photo credits:
Featured photo: ©kated.com