Are you questioning what are one of the best issues to do in Lake Como? I visited numerous cities surrounding Lake Como on our solution to Bellagio throughout our 2-week Interrail trip around Europe. Lake Como is a really picturesque area of Italy. Therefore, it was one of many journey highlights of our journey, my husband and I in addition to our pals did get pleasure from our go to to Lake Como.

About 84,000 folks name the commune of Como, positioned in northern Italy, house. Como is taken into account by many to be one among Lombardy’s most picturesque and delightful places. The magnificent Lake Como, which begins on the town’s northern edge, incessantly casts a shadow over the neighborhood.

For the reason that Bronze Age, Celtic tribes have made their house in and round Como. The Romans conquered the realm within the first century BC and integrated it into their empire. It served as a significant hub for business exercise and commerce through the Center Ages. Throughout this growth interval, a defensive community was constructed, together with a lot of watch towers; one among these towers continues to be standing at the moment (The Baradello). Following its conquest by the French and the Austrians, Como was lastly integrated into the Kingdom of Italy in 1859.

My husband and I are in Lake Como Italy
My husband and I are in Lake Como Italy

Immediately, Como is a well known vacationer vacation spot the place tens of 1000’s of holiday makers take within the breathtaking Lake Como and the encircling pure magnificence. Town is house to quite a few historic constructions, upscale eateries, and important museums. Quite a few pretty cities and villages encompass the lake, together with Cernobbio, Menaggio, and Bellagio.

I want to share with you my prime picks for one of the best issues to do in Lake Como. I strongly suggest these in case you are planning your journey to this stunning a part of Northern Italy.

Learn extra: 7 Beautiful Places To Visit In Italy For The First Time

Listed here are one of the best issues to do in Lake Como, Italy:

1. Bellagio

Restaurants in Bellagio Italy
Finest issues to do in Lake Como: Dine and benefit from the eating places in Bellagio Italy

Bellagio, which is a couple of 50-minute drive from Como, is one other location you have to see when travelling across the lake.

Spend a superb few hours after you’ve parked exploring the cobblestone streets, quaint eating places, and waterfront promenade. It’s stunning, and you could possibly simply loosen up right here for your complete day (if not longer, if you wish to take it gradual).

Bellagio is considered probably the most picturesque and wonderful cities on Lake Como. This city is located the place the three Lake Como arms converge, so the views are unmatched and you may see each a part of the large lake. The promenade at La Punta additionally affords among the finest photograph alternatives within the area.

There are quite a few high-end shops, pretty gardens, and excellent eating places positioned throughout the city itself. Take into account visiting Bellagio by boat, strolling the promenades, and taking on this picture-perfect location.

The Grand Lodge Villa Serbelloni is one among Bellagio, Italy’s prime motels. It’s one among Bellagio’s solely five-star luxurious motels, one among Lake Como’s oldest, and most opulent motels. Even in case you are not staying at this resort, you possibly can go to the beautiful gardens and implausible location by the lake. Wealthy and well-known folks adore this location. There are rumours that Robert De Niro frequents this location.

Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio Lake Como Italy
Finest Issues to do in Lake Como: Grand Lodge Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio

If you wish to know extra about Grand Lodge Villa Serbelloni, I made a separate resort evaluation article about our keep. You possibly can learn it right here — Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni: A Luxury Hotel Review in Lake Como (Italy).

2. Water Taxi Boat Journey

Como affords boat excursions. On one hand, you might be on and off the lake in a number of hours with a spotlight reel. Full-day excursions allow you to discover at a leisurely tempo with loads of stops. Irrespective of the tour or boat, Lake Como is a must-see.

Water Taxi Boat ride in Lake Como
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como: Expertise the Water Taxi Boat Journey

Nevertheless, in order for you flexibility, Lake Como boat rental is the important thing, particularly if you wish to keep away from vacationers, or love being on the water.

With a ship rental, you possibly can discover secluded coves and hidden seashores, drop anchor and swim within the lake, or cruise round at your leisure. Some boat leases include a captain who will present you across the lake and make suggestions.

If you happen to’re assured sufficient to drive (and have the required boating license when related), you possibly can discover Lake Como to your coronary heart’s content material. It’s the proper solution to see the area from a distinct perspective!

Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a calming day on a yacht, motorboat, or water taxi limousine or an adventurous afternoon exploring hidden caves and coves on a motorized dinghy, a ship rental on Lake Como will depart you with recollections to final a lifetime.

3. Punta Spartivento

At La Punta Spartivento, guests can soak up picturesque vistas of Lake Como.

Punta Spartivento in Lake Como Italy
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como: Go to the Punta Spartivento

La Punta Spartivento, which affords a shocking panorama of Lake Como, is simply one of many many breathtaking vantage factors that may be discovered within the Bellagio space, as you’re already conscious.

It’s a couple of ten-minute stroll from the dock the place the ferries arrive and is located on the very finish of the Bellagio village. It ought to come as no shock that many vacationers take into account this to be their favorite location in Bellagio given the presence of mountains within the background which can be a part of the Alps.

Bellagio -  Punta Spartivento with the view of Lake Como and Lecco
Finest issues to do in Lake Como: Bellagio – Punta Spartivento with the view of Lake Como and Lecco

Nevertheless, even when you do nothing greater than stroll by means of Bellagio, you should have greater than sufficient alternatives to view the lake, significantly when you stroll towards the higher a part of the city. And since there are such a lot of stunning vistas, there isn’t any scarcity of eating places the place you possibly can sit again, loosen up, and take within the view.

4. Varenna

One of many many magnificent villas that may be discovered round Lake Como is the Villa Monastero, which might be discovered within the city of Varenna. Due to its breathtaking look, it ought to come as no shock that that is doubtless probably the most photographed places in Varenna.

Varenna town in Lake Como Italy
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como: Go to Varenna city

A museum might be discovered on the premises, and guests can reap the benefits of the attractive botanical backyard that surrounds the primary constructing. Between the months of March and November, the villa and its gardens are open for excursions.

As well as, the city of Varenna is house to its very personal fortified stronghold. If you wish to see among the most breathtaking views of Venice, a go to to Castello di Vezio is properly definitely worth the effort, despite the fact that it requires you to climb a hill.

In a fashion analogous to that of Villa Monastero, the citadel is open to the general public from March by means of November.

5. Como Cathedral (Cattedrale Di Santa Maria Assunta)

The large Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como), an eclectic construction fusing Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque types, is positioned in Piazza Duomo, the town’s central sq..

Como Cathedral Cattedrale Di Santa Maria Assunta
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como: Go to the Como Cathedral
(Cattedrale Di Santa Maria Assunta)

The first place of worship within the metropolis of Como is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, additionally referred to as the Como Cathedral. Probably the most important constructions within the space. It’s incessantly known as the ultimate Italian Gothic cathedral.

Just a few important tapestries might be discovered inside, together with others from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries that have been produced in Ferrara, Florence, and Antwerp. Moreover, there are a number of artworks by Bernardino Luini and Gaudenzio Ferrari from the sixteenth century.

You gained’t absolutely perceive why this church is hailed as Italy’s finest illustration of the 14th-century transition from Gothic to Renaissance types till you step inside. The principle altar’s deeply carved rose window and facet altars’ polychrome portray and gilding “replace” their extra dated look, however the distinction is enjoyable. Climb to the 18th-century dome when you’re match.

6. Villa Olmo

Stroll alongside the picturesque Passeggiata Lino Gelpi (which begins only a few steps from the Battle Memorial) to achieve the spectacular Villa Olmo, a neoclassical constructing that dates again to 1780. That is the proper tour for anybody who enjoys visiting historic villas.

Villa Olmo in Lake Como Italy
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como: Go to the Villa Olmo

The Villa Olmo property actually has all of it, together with an Italian-style backyard with a view of Lake Como, an English-style again backyard for lounging, and inside rooms which can be adorned with work, statues, and beneficial stucco decorations. And do you want to be taught probably the most great factor? That there isn’t any cost for coming into both the villa or the gardens that encompass it.

In the course of the summer season season (early April to late September), the park is open each day at 7 am and stays open till 11 pm. In the course of the winter season, the park closes earlier at 7 pm (early October to late March). The inside is open for excursions from Tuesday by means of Sunday, between the hours of 10 am and 6 pm.

7. Villa Del Balbianello

If there may be one factor you shouldn’t miss in Lake Como, it’s the breathtaking Villa Balbianello. Lake Como is understood for its opulent villas. This villa exudes traditional magnificence and attraction due to its pretty gardens and gorgeous views of the lake’s western shore.

Villa del Balbianello in Lake Como Italy
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como: Go to the Villa del Balbianello

This promontory is accessible through a stunning path that winds from Lenno Bay by means of some pretty woodland; this stroll is a spotlight and is good for hikers.

The Baroque villa complicated generally known as Villa Balbianello, which is located on the Punta, was constructed over the positioning of a monastery within the 18th century. Even James Bond 007 On line casino Royal and Star Wars: The Clone Assault selected to movie a few of their episodes right here as a result of it’s so unimaginable.

Though staying right here is sadly not an choice, you possibly can tour the gardens, take a look at the structure, and uncover extra about its intriguing former proprietor, Guido Monzini, who led the primary Italian expedition to Mount Everest. His reminiscence is being honored in a museum on the villa’s higher flooring, which even homes the sleigh he rode to the North Pole in!

8. Cisterian Abbey of St. Mary of Piona

The situation of the Abbey of Piona, which is panoramic and distant, has an extended historical past. A small peninsula with the Como Lake encircling it and the Alps within the distance. An oratory for Santa Giustina was constructed on this mysterious location in 610 A.D.

Cisterian Abbey of St. Mary of Piona in Lake Como and Lecco
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como: Go to the Cisterian Abbey of St. Mary of Piona

A primary church, constructed within the Romanesque fashion and devoted to the Virgin Mary, was devoted in 1138. It was later expanded and embellished. The present priceless cloister, the guts of the abbey, was constructed in 1252.

At present, the abbey is house to Cistercian monks. They dwell by the adage “Ora et Labora,” which implies to work and pray. To help themselves, the monks run the abbey, tending to the crops and producing and promoting their very own items.

Within the morning and afternoon, visits are free. A guided tour will also be requested upfront. Each day holy plenty are held within the church.

9. Go Climbing

The area is famend for its quite a few mountaineering trails, despite the fact that that isn’t why the vast majority of vacationers go to Lake Como.

Go for some hiking walks around the lake
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como: Go for some mountaineering walks across the lake

One of many easy routes with pretty views for a leisurely Sunday stroll is the mountaineering path on Monte Bisbino. There is no such thing as a specialised tools wanted. The Monte Bisbino mountain is located at a top of 1325 meters. The route begins in Cernobbio (Through Della Liberta) and travels by means of the Rovenna neighborhood. The street will get a little bit narrower after Rovenna. Round it’s a birch-spruce forest.

The Grigna is a portion of a mountainous massif that stretches from the cities of Lecco to Bellano and rises up from the japanese arm of Lake Como. The Grigna Settentrionale (North Grigna) and the Grigna Meridionale are two distinct peaks on the massif that divides Lake Como from the Valsassina (South Grigna). The Grigna Settentrionale rises 2,410 meters (7,907 toes) above sea degree and can also be known as merely Grigna or Grignone. At 2,177 meters/7,142 toes, the Grigna Meridionale (additionally spelled Grignetta) is a little bit decrease.

With a top of 1436 meters, Monte Palanzone is the second-highest mountain within the area after Monte San Primo. A chapel within the form of a pyramid was constructed on the summit in 1900 by the Como-based Circle Alessandro Volta and restored in 1981 and 2002 with assist from the alpine group Palanzo.

You possibly can see Lake Como and the Po Valley from the summit. The restaurant on the Mount Palanzone Refuge, also referred to as the Riella Refuge, which is located on the base of the height, affords a standard Alpine menu.

Just some kilometres away from Bellagio is Mt. San Primo (1682 m), whose summit affords an unmatched view. 5 kilometers of ski slopes are served by 2 ski lifts, and there may be additionally a slope for bobsledding and sledging. The best mountain within the Larian Triangle, San Primo, gives a wide ranging view of Como’s Prealps due to its strategic location.

Sentiero del Viandante, which runs from Abbadia Latriana to Piantedo on the japanese shore of Lake Como, is one other well-known hike. This multi-day path has a size of about 45 km and is from the Roman period. You possibly can hike a part of the path, however your complete path would require a separate journey to Lake Como.

10. Funicular Como Brunate

Wish to take within the magnificent view of Como? Go to Brunate, a city that has a hilltop location 715 meters (about 2,345 toes) excessive and affords a view of Como.

Funicular Como Brunate in Lake Como Italy
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como: Expertise the Funicular Como Brunate

A small city referred to as Brunate is located within the mountains above Lake Como. You possibly can take a implausible funicular practice that climbs the mountain and stops at Brunate when you journey to the japanese fringe of the lake near the town of Como.

You may get to Brunate shortly by taking the Como-Brunate cable automobile, which departs from Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, which is a brief distance from the Como Lago practice station.

The views from this city, that are merely magnificent when you get to the highest, assist you to soak up each the splendour of the Lake and the town of Como. You possibly can loosen up and breathe within the crisp mountain air on one of many many terraces and eating places that supply breathtaking views.

For individuals who are feeling significantly daring, a two-hour hike will take them to Mount Boletto’s summit, the place they may have much more breathtaking views of this enchanted locale.

Moreover, from Brunate, you possibly can stroll for about 20 minutes to get to the Faro Voltiano (Volta Lighthouse), which is open every single day from 10:30 a.m. to six:30 p.m., apart from non-holiday Wednesdays (closed in case of unhealthy climate).

11. Villa Carlotta

If you wish to get pleasure from a leisurely day of sightseeing, probably the greatest issues to do in Lake Como is to go to Villa Carlotta.

Villa Carlotta is wonderful for its lush gardens and well-known work and sculptures. It’s positioned within the Tremezzina Riviera, a preferred Lake Como vacation spot for vacationers.

The most effective time to go to the gardens is presently in Could, when your complete panorama is ablaze with the gorgeous camellia and rhododendron blooms.

Rhododendrons in numerous colours and historic cedars are among the many many uncommon timber and vegetation that make up the famend botanical backyard. There is sufficient to preserve you occupied for hours, whatever the climate, in addition to a implausible museum with a powerful artwork assortment.

As well as, there’s a implausible museum close by with a powerful artwork assortment, so regardless of the climate, there will likely be lots to maintain you occupied for hours. A bookstore, a welcoming café, and a serene picnic space with breathtaking views are additionally obtainable on the museum.

12. Lecco

Lecco, which is positioned roughly a half-hour drive from Bellagio, is almost certainly going to be both your first or final cease on Lake Como (relying on which means you drive).

Steve and I at Lake Lecco
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como: Go to the Lake Lecco — Steve and I at Lake Lecco

As we made our solution to Lecco from Milan, through Como, and additional up the coast through Bellagio, it was our ultimate cease earlier than arriving there.

If you get to this location, make it a degree to take a look at the Palace of Fears, which is a museum that options 1000’s of shows and a very cool assortment of up to date artwork. You could possibly simply kill a number of hours inside.

As well as, remember to pay a go to to the revered Basilica of San Nicola, which dominates the panorama of Lecco. It’s believed that the situation has hosted a spiritual construction of some sort for the higher a part of the previous thousand years.

Getting hungry? Go to Trattoria Corte Fiorina, which is conveniently positioned in the midst of the town. Their freshly made ravioli that includes fish from Lake Como is a tasty dish.

Make plans to spend the night on the completely magnificent Lecco Theatre by buying tickets upfront. Although it’s a tremendous place to go to, it’s best to most likely brush up in your Italian earlier than going there.

I hope that helped you in planning in your go to to Lake Como. You’ll not remorse visiting this stunning a part of Northern Italy! You by no means know, you would possibly stumble upon George Clooney in your go to right here.

Have you ever been to Lake Como? Which half is your favorite? Let me know within the remark field beneath!

Best Things to Do in Lake Como (Como, Italy)
Finest Issues to Do in Lake Como (Como, Italy)

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Every little thing Zany Journey Weblog exploring the UK and past. Sharing journey guides, suggestions, historical past and tradition. Our journey media model is based by journey and resort trade knowledgeable – Ryazan Tristram, a Twin Citizen (British – Filipina) based mostly in Birmingham, UK. Every little thing Zany is a good and award-winning journey weblog. Our work and contributions have been featured in Huffington Publish, CNBC, Discovery Channel, GMA, Readers Digest, and Lonely Planet. Our missions are to construct an excellent journey group and useful resource of journey suggestions, visas and journey guides for travellers. Be part of us as we journey across the UK and past with a mission to share one of the best of the world.



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