Visitors discovering the shores of Lake Como, also known as Lario in Italian, for the first time can't help but be captivated by the wonder that once captivated Stendhal. Evocative, romantic and rich in natural and cultural beauty, this corner of paradise enjoys a temperate climate at the foot of the Alps. With its inverted "Y" shape, Lake Como is not only Italy's third largest lake in terms of surface area, but also its deepest. It was in the 17th and 18th centuries that Lake Como acquired its international reputation as a holiday resort, with the construction of sumptuous villas. In this article, we invite you to discover the 11 most beautiful villages to visit around Lake Como, gems that combine history, culture and natural beauty to offer an unforgettable experience.
1. The must-see Bellagio
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. Bellagio is one of the lake's most chic and unmissable locations, where you might even bump into a few Hollywood stars.
Petit Futé tip you can rent a kayak right here near Bellagio, and paddle at your own pace through the magnificent waters of Lake Como!
Another option: book a private boat trip around Lake Como to discover Bellagio's most beautiful sites right here.
2. Varenna, one of Italy's most beautiful villages
Situated on the lake, Varenna is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and one of the most beautiful villages around Lake Como. It is very popular with the locals, who come here on Sundays to stroll along the staircase lanes of this small fishing village. From the pier, a walk along the water's edge leads to the historic center, where you'll find the beautiful 14th-century church of San Giorgio , adorned with medieval frescoes. We recommend you explore its historic and majestic hilltop sites, such as Villa Monastero and Castello Vezio, a medieval-style castle with panoramic views over Lake Como. A little further south of Varenna, you can also discover Italy's shortest river: the Fiumelatte (250 meters).
The best way to explore this magical place? Discover Lake Como by bike! Click here to book your bike in Varenna (you can choose between an electric bike and a mountain bike).
3. Tremezzo, one of the most beautiful villages around Lake Como
Tremezzo 's origins date back to Roman times. In the Middle Ages, the village was part of the defensive system of the island of Comacina. In the 18th century, it was enriched with magnificent villas, such as Villa Carlotta. Tremezzo is renowned for its beautiful waterfront, boutiques, alleyways and luxury hotels. The lakeside Olivelli public park is home to the Tarocchiera bar, housed in an old house where wealthy local families used to come to play tarot. Other attractions include a grand staircase linking the two parts of the park and a large fountain featuring two dolphins being ridden by young children.
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4. Cernobbio for a magnificent panorama of Lake Como
This elegant town is rich in luxury hotels, the most famous of which is the splendid Villa d'Este, dating from the mid-16th century. Its neighbor, the neo-Renaissance Villa Erba, hosts conferences, exhibitions and meetings from all over the world; for the record, it was here that George Clooney and Jean Dujardin filmed one of the famous Nespresso commercials. Shopping enthusiasts will find elegant boutiques and prestigious restaurants in Cernobbio. From Cernobbio, a winding road leads to Mount Bisbino, whose summit offers a wonderful panorama of Lake Como.
Set sail on a shared boat tour from Como, which you can book right here. Discover part of the lake and its magnificent villas, including Villa Erba, Villa d'Este and George Clooney's famous Villa Oleandra.
5. Laglio: the ideal starting point for hiking around Lake Como
This pretty little village, surrounded by cypress trees, is very photogenic, especially from the lakeside promenade. In the center, colorful houses huddle together, and a small 17th-century church, San Giorgio, stands in the middle. All around, sublime villas surrounded by swimming pools and immense parks catch the eye. Among them is George Clooney's 18th-century Villa Oleandra, where the actor has been relaxing since 2002 (we can only imagine him with a good Italian coffee). Laglio is a great place to stroll around, but you can also take advantage of the surrounding area to enjoy the beautiful hikes overlooking the lake - but be warned, most of them are quite difficult.
Book my excursion from Milan to Lake Como
6. The peaceful village of Lierna
Between Mandello del Lario and Varenna lies the peaceful village of Lierna, rarely visited by holidaymakers and one of the most beautiful villages around Lake Como. Riva Bianca is one of the most beautiful beaches on Lake Como. This small pebble beach, partly grassy, offers a magnificent panorama of the mountains. If you want to do more than just swim, rent a boat and enjoy the glistening lake under the sun. In the hamlet of Castello, an ancient medieval village that has remained unchanged over time, stands the original Romanesque church of Santi Maurizio and Lazzaro. To the south, in Olcio, were the quarries of beautiful black marble, also used for the construction of Como Cathedral. A beautiful village to visit after seeing the must-sees of Milan!
7. Lecco
The town gives its name to the Lecchese region, a rich and industrious province whose growth was linked to the exploitation of iron ore mines between the 17th and 19th centuries. Today, it is the second most important town on the lake. It boasts some interesting old streets and medieval remains. Its reputation stems from the fact that it is home to the Manzoni family, the Milanese family of the famous author of "Promessi Sposi" (The Betrothed). It was between the mountains surrounding Lecco and the shores of this branch of Lake Como that the novelist found the inspiration for his great historical novel.
8. Menaggio, one of the most beautiful villages to visit around Lake Como
One of the lake's liveliest destinations, Menaggio owes its success to its advantageous geographical position and enchanting natural setting. Its main square and pretty alleyways are well worth a visit. Here, you can enjoy a pleasant stroll through a well-preserved historic center, with its church, picturesque alleyways and the pretty lungolago, the promenade that runs alongside the lake and offers magnificent views. On the surrounding hills, several hamlets are well worth a visit, including Castello di Menaggio, characterized by the ruins of an ancient 10th-century castle.
We recommend booking this E-bike tour of Lake Como and Lake Lugano from Menaggio, which will let you explore the charming landscapes of Lakes Como and Lugan.
9. Nesso and its Roman bridge: one of the most beautiful villages on Lake Como
Nesso is famous for its exceptional Roman bridge, from which young locals take beautiful jumps into the deep blue water during the summer months. Its mighty waterfall, born of the merging of the Tuf and Nose rivers, called Nesso Ravine, gushes 200 meters between the rocks, offering a magnificent spectacle. Don't miss the Santo Martino church in Careno (1.5 km from Nesso), built in the early 12th century. This simple church is a rare example of Romanesque architecture still standing, with a lovely, typical bell tower. The single nave surmounted by a cross vault and fragments of illegible frescoes add to the charm of the place.
10. Brienno, a small village clinging to the mountain
Located on the western shore of Lake Como, between Como and Menaggio, Brienno is a small village clinging to the mountains, one of the most beautiful villages to visit around Lake Como. Ideal for a stopover between two visits, Brienno is the perfect place to discover the beauty of the area on foot. A good place to start is the church of San Vittore (now Sant'Anna), which preserves visible traces of its original 11th-century structure, one of the oldest on Lake Como. For meals, the Crotto dei Platani restaurant, one of the best on the lake, offers a romantic ambience.
11. Como, of course!
The capital of its eponymous province, Como owes its reputation to its superb lake and its traditional activity, silk manufacturing. Inhabited since prehistoric times, the lakeside city gained in importance thanks to its strategic position during the Roman occupation. Como Cathedral is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1396 and took several centuries to complete. Admire the colorful stained glass windows, sculptures and frescoes inside. Stroll through the Piazza del Duomo, the central square surrounded by historic buildings and cafés.
Discover the most popular things to do on Lake Como:
What to visit on Lake Como in one day?
Visiting Lake Como in a day can be a challenge, but with the right planning, you can discover some of the region's most iconic sites. Here's a suggested itinerary for a busy day:
Morning
- Como
- Duomo di Como: Start your day with a visit to Como Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture.
- Stroll along the lungolago: Enjoy a stroll along the lake to admire the panoramic views.
- Bellagio
- Take a boat from Como to Bellagio, often called "the pearl of the lake".
- Villa Serbelloni: Visit the gardens of Villa Serbelloni for spectacular lake views.
- Historic center: Stroll through the picturesque alleyways and visit the church of San Giacomo.
Afternoon
- Varenna
- Take a boat from Bellagio to Varenna.
- Villa Monastero: Explore the botanical gardens of Villa Monastero, offering magnificent views of the lake.
- Castello di Vezio: If you have time, climb up to the castle for a panoramic view.
- Tremezzo
- Take a boat from Varenna to Tremezzo.
- Villa Carlotta: Visit this magnificent villa and its gardens, famous for their collection of sculptures and exotic plants.
Evening
- Menaggio
- Take a boat from Tremezzo to Menaggio.
- Walk on the lungolago: Enjoy a stroll along the lake and admire the views.
- Dinner: End your day with dinner in one of Menaggio's restaurants, offering delicious local cuisine typical of Italy !
What to visit on Lake Como in three days?
Do you have time after spending 2 or 3 days in Milan ? Visiting Lake Como in three days allows you to discover a wide variety of historical, cultural and natural sites. Here's a detailed itinerary to maximize your time and make the most of your stay:
Day 1: Como and Bellagio
Morning
- Como
- Duomo di Como: Start by visiting the magnificent Gothic cathedral.
- Piazza del Duomo: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the main square.
- Broletto: Admire the ancient town hall and its civic tower.
Afternoon
- Bellagio
- Take a boat from Como to Bellagio.
- Villa Serbelloni: Visit the gardens of Villa Serbelloni for spectacular views of the lake.
- Historic center: Stroll through the picturesque alleyways and visit the church of San Giacomo.
- Walk on the lungolago: Enjoy a stroll along the lake.
Day 2: Varenna and Tremezzo
Morning
- Varenna
- Take a boat from Bellagio to Varenna.
- Villa Monastero: Explore the botanical gardens of Villa Monastero, offering magnificent views of the lake.
- Castello di Vezio: Climb up to the castle for panoramic views.
Afternoon
- Tremezzo
- Take a boat from Varenna to Tremezzo.
- Villa Carlotta: Visit this magnificent villa and its gardens, famous for their collection of sculptures and exotic plants.
- Walk on the lungolago: Enjoy a stroll along the lake.
Day 3: Menaggio and Lecco
Morning
- Menaggio
- Take a boat from Tremezzo to Menaggio.
- Historic center: Explore the picturesque alleyways and the church of Santa Marta.
- Walk on the lungolago: Enjoy a stroll along the lake.
Afternoon
- Lecco
- Take a train or boat from Menaggio to Lecco.
- Ponte Azzone Visconti: Admire this historic bridge overlooking the River Adda.
- Basilica di San Nicolò: Visit this 18th-century basilica.
- Maison de Manzoni: Discover the Manzoni family's holiday home, where the author of "Promessi Sposi" found inspiration for his novel.
Tips
- Transport: Use the boats by booking here to get between the various towns. Ferry schedules are regular and offer a pleasant way to travel.
- Reservations: If possible, book in advance for villa tours and restaurants, especially in high season.
By following this itinerary, you can discover Lake Como's main sights in three days, while enjoying the region's natural beauty and rich history.
Where to take the Lake Como ferry?
- Como
- Pier: Como's main pier is located near Piazza Cavour, close to the town center.
- Destinations: Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, Tremezzo and other villages around the lake.
- Bellagio
- Pier: The Bellagio pier is located near the town center, offering magnificent views of the lake.
- Destinations: Como, Varenna, Menaggio, Tremezzo and other villages.
- Varenna
- Pier: Varenna's pier is located near the town center, close to Villa Monastero.
- Destinations: Bellagio, Como, Menaggio, Tremezzo and other villages.
- Menaggio
- Pier: The Menaggio pier is located near the town center, offering panoramic views of the lake.
- Destinations: Bellagio, Como, Varenna, Tremezzo and other villages.
- Tremezzo
- Pier: The Tremezzo pier is located near the Villa Carlotta.
- Destinations: Bellagio, Como, Varenna, Menaggio and other villages.
- Lecco
- Pier: Lecco's pier is located near the town center, offering views of the River Adda.
- Destinations: Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and other villages.
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