One of the most famous towns on Lake Como, Bellagio enjoyed its heyday during the Belle Époque. Nicknamed "the pearl of the lake", it is wonderfully situated on the peninsula that separates the two southern branches of the lake and is one of Italy's must-visit towns. The Villa Serbelloni, which dominates the promontory, is just one of the sumptuous villas that have graced the lakeside landscape since the 18th century . These princely residences, dedicated to the pleasures of the Lombard nobility, are mostly surrounded by magnificent gardens. The old town is elegant, with winding alleys and trendy boutiques, bars and restaurants. So, what's there to do and see in Bellagio? Discover the 9 must-sees in this article.
1. Stroll through Bellagio's old town
To get your visit to Bellagio off to a good start, start with the heart of the village and its charming, colorful alleyways. This is where you can really feel the soul of Bellagio, one of the most beautiful villages to visit around Lake Como. The center is fairly compact, so take your time to discover it. We recommend you start on Lake Como's most emblematic street, the Salita Serbelloni. As you explore the center, don't miss Piazza Della Chiesa and its magnificent Basilica of St. Jacob.
2. St. Jacob's Basilica, a must-see in Bellagio
Bellagio's Church of St. James is a magnificent example of RomanoLombard art, dating from the 12th century and built by Como's master architects, the Maestri Comacini. Located on the way to your walking tour of Bellagio, it's well worth a visit. Inside, you can admire early 20th-century mosaics, a superb 16th-century altar and a beautiful polychrome wooden statue of Christ by an artist of the Spanish Baroque school. Outside, enjoy the charming square on which it stands.
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3. See the Gardens of Villa Melzi
These magnificent gardens on the shores of Lake Bellagio promise romantic strolls. The villa, built between 1808 and 1815 for Duke Francesco Melzi d'Eril, Vice-President of the Cisalpine Republic and Napoleon's ally, is a real gem. You can visit the chapel and the small museum in the orangery, where archaeological finds and Napoleonic memorabilia are on display. The chapel, decorated with cameo frescoes, houses the graves of several members of the former aristocratic family. But the real enchantment lies in the magnificent park, the first example of an English garden on Lake Como, praised by Stendhal.
Discover the three best villas on Lake Como in a single self-guided tour, which you can book right here.
4. Villa Serbelloni Park
The villa was built in 1605 and, in 1778, acquired by Alessandro Serbelloni, who considerably enriched the villa and its vast garden. He created a park adorned with decorative elements and introduced new species of trees and flowers. In 1930, an American princess bought the villa and, in 1959, donated it to the Rockefeller Foundation of New York, which transformed it into a study and conference center. From the villa's promontory, you can enjoya panoramic view of the lake. Its garden is one of the most beautiful in Italy, rich in secular, rare and exotic plants.
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5. What to do in Bellagio Taste Italian specialties at Bilacus
Located in the heart of the historic center, Bilacus is a traditional restaurant specializing in local dishes and Italian classics italian classics. Inside, the yellow-toned dining room opens onto a large terrace shaded by a vine arbor, creating a very pleasant setting. The cuisine is refined, with an emphasis on fish, which chef Marco Rando sublimates. Meat and vegetable dishes are equally delicious, and the wine list is simply exquisite. When it comes to desserts, you'll be won over by our in-house creations.
6. Stop off at Enoteca Cava Turacciolo
A must-visit address to spend a pleasant moment discovering the many wines of the region and Italy. In this charming 18th-century cellar, which has been completely renovated, you can enjoy a rich selection of local and national wines, accompanied by delicious antipasti made with cheese or typical cured meats. The service is attentive and the setting cosy. If you'd like to take a few bottles home with you, you'll find excellent advice on choosing the ideal wine to offer or enjoy.
Take a boat trip from Bellagio to discover the most beautiful parts of Lake Como by booking your excursion here. You'll pass Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello, and admire Villa Melzi and Villa La Cassinella.
7. Stroll through Bellagio's Parco Martiri Della Libertà
For a relaxing green break, don't miss a visit to Bellagio's Parco Martiri Della Libertà. This park is a haven of peace, ideal for a leisurely stroll or family picnic. You'll discover shady paths, well-kept lawns and playgrounds for children. The park is also a place of remembrance, paying tribute to the martyrs of freedom, adding a historical dimension to your visit. A must-see when you visit Bellagio!
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8. Strolling along the shores of Lake Como
For an unforgettable experience, don't miss a stroll along the shores of Lake Como in Bellagio. The shores of the lake offer breathtaking panoramic views, with the mountains as a backdrop and the crystal-clear waters sparkling in the sunshine. Take time to stroll along the quays with ice cream in hand, where you can admire the elegant villas and sublime gardens that line the lake. Or take the time to sit on a bench overlooking the lake, and soak up Bellagio's natural beauty.
We also recommend this guided kayak excursion around Lake Como departing from Bellagio, toexplore the hidden gems of Lake Como, one of Italy's must-sees.
9. Visit the Bellagio Museum of Navigation Instruments
This museum is located a short distance south of the center of Bellagio. Although not easy to find, it's well worth a visit and is open daily from 10am to 1pm. It houses an impressive collection of over 600 navigational instruments, as well as drawings, charts and models illustrating the rotation of the planets around the sun. You'll also discover ancient sextants and octants, chronometers, astrolabes, cardboard telescopes, compasses and sundials. Allow around one to two hours to explore the museum's collection.
How to get to Bellagio
Bellagio, located on the shores of Lake Como, is easily accessible by several means of transport if you wish to include it in your visit to Milan over 2 or 3 days, for example.
The easiest way is to book a cruise on Lake Como with visits to Como and Bellagio from Milan, but if not, here are a few options for getting there:
- By car
If you're traveling by car, Bellagio can be reached via the SS583 road along Lake Como. From Milan, take the A9 freeway towards Como, then follow the signs to Bellagio. The journey takes about 1h30.
- By train
For those who prefer the train, you can take a train to Como or Lecco station , then continue by boat or bus. Como and Lecco stations are well served by regional and national trains.
- By boat
Boating is a popular and picturesque option for getting to Bellagio. Ferries and hydrofoils depart regularly from Como, Lecco, Varenna and other towns around the lake. The boat trip offers magnificent views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
What to do in Bellagio when it rains?
Even when it's raining, Bellagio has plenty of interesting activities to keep you entertained.
Bellagio is home to several fascinating museums that are well worth a visit. The Museum of Navigation Instruments, for example, features an impressive collection of ancient and modern instruments used for navigation. You can also visit Villa Serbelloni, which hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
Take advantage of the rain to discover the local gastronomy. Bellagio is full of restaurants and trattorias where you can enjoy typical local dishes such as lake fish, homemade pasta and delicious Italian desserts. Don't forget to sample the local wines in one of the many wine cellars.
Bellagio's picturesque alleyways are lined with charming boutiques where you can go shopping. You'll find handicrafts, souvenirs, designer clothes and local produce. It's the perfect opportunity to take home a unique souvenir of your trip.
Where to swim in Bellagio
Bellagio has a number of public beaches where you can swim free of charge. San Giovanni beach, near the ferry pier, is one of the most popular. It is equipped with showers and toilets, and offers a magnificent view of the lake. Another option is Loppia beach, about 15 minutes' walk from the center of Bellagio. This beach is quieter and also offers basic facilities.
If you prefer a more exclusive setting, several hotels and private beach clubs in Bellagio offer swimming facilities. The Lido di Bellagio, for example, is a private beach club offering sun loungers, parasols, a bar and a restaurant. It's an excellent choice for those looking for a little more comfort and service.
Where to eat in Bellagio
Bellagio is full of restaurants offering delicious cuisine and a charming atmosphere. Here is a selection of three restaurants we particularly recommend.
- Ristorante Bilacus: a must for lovers of traditional Italian cuisine
Located in the heart of Bellagio's historic center, Ristorante Bilacus offersa selection of local dishes and Italian specialties, with a particular focus on fish. The yellow-toned dining room opens onto a large terrace shaded by a vine arbor, creating a very pleasant setting. Chef Marco Rando's refined cuisine focuses on fish, but meat and vegetable dishes are just as delicious. The wine list is equally comprehensive.
- La lanterna: the quick and cheap option
A snack bar where you can eat for very little money: panini, of course, sandwiches, hot or cold dishes, at any time of day.
- Caffè Vecchio Borgo: a distinctive café in Bellagio's historic center
From the moment you wake up in the morning, you come here for a coffee and breakfast, to the evening to watch a soccer match. At lunchtime, you sit down and enjoy a simple, typical dish: antipasti, sandwiches, pasta and pizza... In the afternoon, with its large outdoor terrace, the place becomes perfect for a drink while soaking up the atmosphere of the city. The owner and staff are very friendly, so don't hesitate to ask them for sightseeing tips!
How long does it take to visit Bellagio?
One day is enough to visit Bellagio. Start with a stroll through the historic center, exploring the colorful alleyways and visiting the Basilica of San Giacomo. Then head to Villa Serbelloni to admire its magnificent gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the lake. Take time for lunch in one of the local restaurants and do a little shopping in the artisan boutiques. End your day with a stroll along the shores of Lake Como.
Where to stay in Bellagio?
Bellagio is a popular tourist destination, so you'll find plenty of accommodation options in and around the town before you set off to discover the other beautiful villages to see and visit around Lake Como. We recommend staying in the center of Bellagio. However, please note that well-located accommodation is limited, so book as early as possible.
Here are our 3 favorite hotels:
- Our favorite: Residence La Limonera
Located just 100 meters from Lake Como in the historic center of Bellagio, Residence La Limonera boasts a large garden with lemon and olive trees. The 11 apartments, bookable hereare all different, comfortable and well-equipped. They are furnished with taste and attention to detail. We loved the charm and tranquility of the place.
- The one with the best view: Hotel Florence
Would you like to take full advantage of Bellagio's gentle pace of life? The Hotel Florence, which you can book right here, is the perfect stopover. Located on the shores of the lake, this former bourgeois mansion transformed into a hotel offers a stay full of charm and comfort. We enjoyed breakfast on the terrace, as well as dinner in complete privacy, in front of a magnificent sunset.
- Top of the range: Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
Housed in an 18th-century palazzo, enlarged in the 19th century, the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is a 5-star hotel on the shores of Lake Geneva and can be booked here. The 95 rooms and suites overlook the lake or the private park. French tapestries, Persian carpets, marble, murals... make this place a veritable museum. A princely setting as appreciated in its time by Flaubert, who stayed here.
Discover the most popular things to do in Bellagio :
