Lake Como was the very first place in Italy I visited, and it truly set the bar high. Having never experienced alpine lakes before, I was amazed by the dramatic landscapes, snow-dusted mountain backdrops, and the striking clarity of the water. Whether you’re here for relaxation, adventure, or a touch of luxury, Lake Como delivers it all.
Lake Como at a Glance
Nestled in Lombardy, northern Italy, Lake Como is one of the largest lakes in the country and is shaped like an upside-down “Y.” The lake is around 46 kilometres long and reaches depths of more than 400 metres, making it one of the deepest in Europe. It is well-connected by ferries, hydrofoils, and local buses, making exploration relatively easy.
Sunsets on Lake Como were spectacular.
Compared with Lake Garda, Como feels narrower and more intimate, with calmer conditions that lend themselves well to swimming, boating, or simply relaxing on the shore. Its reputation as a playground for the rich and famous is well-deserved—glimpses of historic villas, manicured gardens, and lavish hotels are part of the experience. It has also served as the backdrop for Hollywood, appearing in blockbusters such as Ocean’s Twelve and Star Wars: Episode II.
The Naboo scenes were film on this headland at the very tip.
Bellagio – The Pearl of Lake Como
Situated at the point where the lake splits into three branches, Bellagio is often described as the “Pearl of Lake Como.” Its position makes it a major transport hub, with boats departing regularly to Menaggio, Varenna, and other picturesque lakeside towns.
One of the taxi boat departure points in Bellagio.
The town itself is famed for its elegance. Upscale boutiques line the cobbled streets, and luxury hotels overlook the water. Yet beneath the glamour lies a medieval soul that has survived centuries of change. Narrow lanes, stone stairways, and shaded piazzas invite you to wander at a slower pace.
Places to eat and explore in the backstreets.
The historic centre, known as the Borgo, is compact but rich in sights. Just 350 metres in length, it contains three main streets—Mazzini, Centrale, and Garibaldi—linked by seven medieval staircases. At the heart lies the Basilica of San Giacomo, a 12th-century Romanesque church with striking stonework. Around it, pastel-hued apartment blocks with their colourful shutters give the town its classic Italian charm.
The streets of Bellagio
Pretty looking apartments and shutters.
Arrival & Scenic Approach
We chose to park just outside Bellagio, giving us the chance to walk in along the lakeside. The route took us through the elegant Gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril, known for their immaculate lawns, exotic plants, and peaceful pathways lined with statues. It’s a wonderful introduction to Bellagio, with panoramic views of the lake framed by manicured flowerbeds.
Wandering through the gardens to Bellagio.
From there, we continued through the Monument to Mella Antonio, shaded by ancient trees, before reaching the town proper. It was an easy and memorable stroll that immediately set the tone for the visit.
Eating & Drinking in Bellagio
Bellagio is brimming with places to eat and drink, ranging from casual snack bars to fine dining restaurants. Along the waterfront, cafés such as Bar Sanremo and Bar Pasticceria Rossi offer lakeside refreshments, ideal for soaking up the views.
Chilling out with a sprtiz.
For a quick and affordable option, Mr Panino serves excellent Italian sandwiches perfect for eating on the go, while Gelateria Artigianale is a must for creamy, traditional gelato. Around the Piazza della Chiesa, you’ll find a vibrant mix of gelaterias, souvenir shops, and artisan workshops. Restaurants here range from rustic pizzerias to elegant establishments serving freshly caught lake fish.
Don’t miss the chance to try a spritz or a glass of local wine at one of the many cafés tucked away in shaded alleys—it’s a perfect way to escape the midday heat.
Exploring the Town
Bellagio is not large, but every corner seems to hold something worth pausing for. Artisan shops sell hand-crafted goods ranging from jewellery to ceramics, and there are plenty of opportunities to pick up a unique souvenir. I found hand-painted scenes of Bellagio itself, a perfect keepsake to remember the trip.
The narrow streets provided some great framing for photos and welcome shade.
If you’re interested in history, the Basilica of San Giacomo is the main highlight, but smaller chapels are dotted throughout the town. The stairways connecting the streets are charming in themselves, often lined with colourful flowerpots and small boutiques.
Beyond Bellagio
While Bellagio is a must-see, its popularity does mean large crowds, particularly in the high season. After a full day of exploring, I found myself craving the calm of quieter towns. Luckily, we had chosen to stay just 15 minutes away in a smaller, more secluded village. The difference was striking—the water felt cleaner, the beaches were calmer, and the atmosphere was more relaxed.
Looking out across the lake from where we were staying.
Elsewhere around Lake Como, villages such as Varenna, Menaggio, and Tremezzo each have their own appeal. Varenna is known for its romantic lakeside promenade, while Menaggio offers a more traditional, family-friendly vibe. Tremezzo, meanwhile, boasts the stunning Villa Carlotta and its gardens.
For the adventurous, hiring a paddleboard or canoe is a fantastic way to explore the lake. Out on the water, you’ll gain a completely different perspective of the mountains and villages that dot the shoreline. Ferries and water taxis also make it easy to hop between towns, so you can shape your itinerary however you please.
One of my favorite photos I’ve taken. Sunrise on Lake Como.
Final Thoughts
Lake Como is an extraordinary destination. Whether you’re drawn to glamour and fine dining, or prefer the charm of sleepy villages, there’s something here for everyone. Bellagio deserves its fame, but it’s worth balancing your time there with visits to the quieter corners of the lake.
Everywhere you look the views are spectacular on Lake Como.
If you’re planning a trip, I’d recommend giving yourself at least a few days to explore. Bellagio works well for a day trip, but don’t miss the opportunity to stay in one of the smaller lakeside towns, where the beauty of Como can be enjoyed without the crowds.
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Safe travels, and enjoy your time at Lake Como!