Introduction
Lake Como is a long, Y-shaped lake in northern Italy, framed by mountains and lined with villas and gardens. Ferries connect villages such as Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo, and Menaggio, and the lakeside town of Como is under an hour by train from Milan. It's ideal for slow, scenic days — garden visits, boat rides, and lakeside dinners.
Travel highlights
- Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo, and Menaggio by ferry
- Villa gardens such as Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello
- The funicular from Como up to Brunate
- Hiking trails with views over the lake
Local experiences
Ferry-hop the central lake
Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio are linked by frequent boats in season.
Villa gardens
Terraced gardens and lakeside villas, many open spring to autumn.
Brunate funicular
Ride up from Como for views over the lake and the Alps.
Lakeside dinner
Lake fish and risotto by the water.
Where to stay in Lake Como
Bellagio
At the lake's centre, with ferry links in every direction; busy by day.
Varenna
A small, pretty village with a train station on the eastern shore.
Tremezzo & Menaggio
Western shore, near villas and gardens.
Como town
A lively town at the southern end, closest to Milan.
Good to know before you go
- Popular villages are crowded by day in summer.
- Few beaches; swimming is mostly from lidos and pontoons.
- Many villas and some hotels close in winter.
- Lakeside roads are narrow and congested.
