Lake Como is one of Italy’s most beautiful destinations. Each year, its charming villages, luxurious villas and breathtaking scenery attract visitors from around the world. Whether you want a relaxing boat ride, a scenic hike or a cultural experience, you’ll find so many unforgettable things to do in Lake Como.
A self-drive tour of Italy gives you the freedom and flexibility to journey through Lake Como at your own pace. Amble through picturesque towns, soak in the culture at impressive cathedrals and dine al fresco at waterfront restaurants.
Look no further if you’re wondering what to do in Lake Como. Check out this essential guide to the top things to experience on your trip.
1. Visit picture-perfect lakeside towns
You’ll find many enchanting towns and villages lining the lake’s shores. Some offer a lively atmosphere with bustling cafés and designer shops. Others provide a tranquil escape, with narrow cobbled streets and sensational views of Lake Como.
Menaggio is a great starting point. You can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the lakeside, shop in boutique stores, or sip Italian coffee in Piazza Garibaldi.
Close by is Bellagio, one of Como’s most glamorous towns. Locals call it the “Pearl of Lake Como”, and you’ll soon see why. It has elegant streets, historic villas and several fantastic trattorias (“restaurants”). Bellagio’s central position on the lake makes it an excellent access point to nearby towns.
Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Bellagio, you'll arrive in Varenna, a peaceful village known for its pastel-coloured houses and scenic waterfront views. It’s one of the best places to go in Como if you’re looking for a relaxing escape.
Or, if you prefer a bit of bustle, head to Como itself. Como is the largest city on the lake and is easy to reach from Milan. Many people consider it the gateway to the area, and it has plenty to keep you entertained.
Here, you can wander through the charming cobbled streets or browse the stalls at the weekly Mercato Mercerie market. If you’re an art lover, stop at the Pinacoteca Civica gallery, where you’ll find an impressive collection of Italian masterpieces.
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2. Savour delicious Italian food and wine
Indulging in local cuisine is often the highlight of any trip to Italy, and Lake Como is no exception. Take the opportunity to sample classic Northern Italian dishes, such as saffron risotto and handmade pasta.
Many restaurants also serve freshwater fish from the lake. Regional specialities include risotto al pesce persico, a creamy rice dish made with perch from the lake.
If you’re a wine lover, you’ll be well catered to, as this region has many grape growers and winemakers. The most popular grapes are Nebbiolo and Barbera, but Chardonnay and Riesling also grow well here.
Spend an afternoon at a vineyard to sample some world-class wines. Late spring to early autumn is the best time to visit Italy if you’re keen on a vineyard visit. The grapevines are in full bloom, and the weather is usually bright and mild.
- Related: Top things to do in Northern Italy
3. Tour elegant villas
Dozens of historic villas line the lake’s shores. These enormous buildings were once private residences of noble families, but several are now museums or cultural landmarks.
Today, you can walk through their pristine gardens and opulent interiors. Exploring these marvellous stately homes is one of the best things to do in Lake Como.
For some, you’ll need to book a ticket online in advance, as reservations are mandatory. Others offer tickets at the entrance, so it’s best to check ahead.
Villa del Balbianello
Villa del Balbianello is one of the best-known villas on the lake. Its stunning gardens and lakefront terraces offer sweeping views of the water.
This villa has also appeared in several films – you might recognise it from Casino Royale or Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.
Villa Monastero
Spend a few hours at Villa Monastero in Varenna to explore beautifully maintained gardens with expansive lake views. It’s the perfect place to soak up the Italian sunshine!
Stroll through the botanical gardens, learn about the villa’s history and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Villa Melzi
Villa Melzi in Bellagio is also known for its exquisite gardens. You can roam lakeside paths lined with sculptures, exotic plants and panoramas of Lake Como. A trip here lets you appreciate the natural beauty of this incredible area.
Villa Olmo
Villa Olmo is an impressive neoclassical villa and one of the most remarkable sites in the city of Como.
The villa often hosts exhibitions, which let you explore its interior while admiring the art and artefacts on display. If no exhibitions are running during your stay in Como, you can still walk through the gardens and admire the lake.
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4. Take a day trip to Lake Lugano
Some people visit Lake Como as a short break from nearby Milan. But if you’re planning a longer getaway, you could treat yourself to a day trip further afield. Lake Lugano straddles the Swiss-Italian border and is an ideal choice if you want to dip into Switzerland while you’re here.
You can reach Lugano from Como in about 40 minutes if you have a car. Otherwise, a train or bus will get you there in less than 1 hour.
Once you arrive, visit the local sights and experience the blend of Swiss and Italian influences. Go shopping under the arched arcades on Via Nassa, or take a moment to reflect in the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo.
You might also enjoy a trip up Monte San Salvatore – a funicular makes the steep ascent easy! Head up the mountain for striking views of Lake Lugano and the Alps.
Elsewhere on this lake, you'll find other vibrant towns and opportunities for activities like water skiing. You could also sample delicious Swiss chocolate or go hiking. What’s not to love?
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5. Cruise Lake Como on a boat tour
Taking a ferry ride is a brilliant way to see Lake Como from a different perspective. But if you want to take your adventure up a notch, consider a private boat tour.
With a guided boat tour, you’ll glide across the turquoise waters while a professional guide shares facts and stories about the towns you see. Plus, you can stop wherever you choose. It’s a fun and flexible way to get out on the water and make the most of your time in the region.
You could also rent a boat and drive it around yourself. You’ll visit parts of the lake that interest you most while spending a memorable day out with friends or family. Steer along the shoreline to see grand hotels, imposing villas and picturesque countryside.
Lake Como is also known as a hot spot for celebrity homes. You might even glimpse George Clooney’s stunning Villa Oleandra in the charming town of Laglio. Clooney has owned the property since 2002, and it’s become one of the most iconic residences along the lakeshore.
6. Explore historic landmarks and museums
Lake Como is rich in history and culture, with fascinating landmarks scattered around its towns. Spend some time discovering the region’s grand cathedrals and fascinating museums.
Como Cathedral
Como Cathedral in the city of Como is one of the lake’s most iconic buildings. Admire its Gothic facade, then head inside to see its intricate frescoes and magnificent domed ceiling.
Basilica of San Giacomo
If you’re in Bellagio, don’t miss a trip to the Basilica of San Giacomo. This Romanesque church dates back to the 11th and 12th centuries and contains gorgeous artworks by Renaissance Italian artists.
Castello di Vezio
Perched above Varenna, the ruins of the Castello di Vezio (“Vezio Castle”) are well worth a visit. You can see the castle walls and learn about the area’s history and geography.
That said, the main appeal is undoubtedly the astounding lake views. Grab a drink from the bar, then gaze at the far-reaching lake below and the lush countryside around you. Don’t forget your camera!
Silk Museum
Lake Como is famous for its silk production. If you’re interested in the tradition of this local craft, the Silk Museum in Como is an ideal destination.
You’ll discover the entire silk production process, from harvesting the silkworm cocoons to weaving and dyeing the delicate fabrics.
7. Wander scenic hiking trails
Hiking through the spectacular countryside above the water is one of the top things to do in Lake Como if you’re outdoorsy. With rolling mountains framing the lake, you’ll find plenty of excellent hiking trails.
If you’re up for a challenge, hike up to Monte Nuvolone. This 14-kilometre (8-mile) round-trip from Bellagio takes about 5 to 7 hours and includes some steep sections. But the effort is well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como.
If you’d prefer something gentler, try the Greenway del Lago di Como. It’s a 10-kilometre (6-mile) walking trail on the southwestern branch of the lake and a fantastic option if you want to explore quieter villages. With its flat terrain, it’s an ideal route if you’re travelling with children.
Discover the best things to do in Lake Como
By now, you’ve got a good idea of what to see in Lake Como, Italy. With so much to experience, you’ll find that any amount of time here is well spent!
For the most flexibility, we highly recommend exploring Lake Como and beyond on a self-drive tour of Italy. You’ll love travelling around the country at your own pace and making spontaneous stops along the way.
Book with Nordic Visitor, and our regional travel experts will take care of the planning for you. A dedicated travel consultant will arrange your car rental, accommodation and excursions. You’ll also get a hand-marked map and a travel guide full of handpicked attractions.
Get in touch with us to plan your dreamy Lake Como adventure.