Your Guide to a Lake Como Itinerary
Lake Como offers a variety of experiences, from exploring charming lakeside villages to enjoying breathtaking views and visiting historical villas. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day trip or an extended stay, crafting the perfect itinerary will ensure you experience the best the region has to offer.
Day Trip Itinerary
- Start For a day trip, start by visiting Como for a morning stroll around the historic center and a visit to Villa Olmo.
- Next Take a ferry to Bellagio and explore its cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and lush gardens.
- Finish Finish your day with a visit to Villa del Balbianello in Lenno, and enjoy the stunning views of the lake as the sun sets.
3-Day Itinerary
- Day 1 Start in Como, visiting landmarks like the Cathedral of Como and Villa Olmo, and then take the funicular up to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake.
- Day 2 Take a ferry to Bellagio, wander through its quaint streets, visit Villa Melzi, and enjoy the lakeside views. In the afternoon, head to Varenna, explore its cobblestone alleys, and visit Villa Monastero.
- Day 3 Explore the town of Tremezzo and the stunning Villa Carlotta, followed by a visit to Lenno to admire Villa del Balbianello. Enjoy a relaxing evening in a lakeside cafe.
Over 5 Days Travel Roadmap
- Day 1 Arrive in Como, explore the town's historic center, including the Cathedral, Villa Olmo, and Brunate for panoramic views.
- Day 2 Take a day trip to Bellagio, enjoy its charming streets, gardens, and views, then take a ferry to Varenna to explore the picturesque village and Villa Monastero.
- Day 3 Visit Tremezzo and Villa Carlotta, then take the ferry to Lenno to see Villa del Balbianello, before enjoying dinner with lake views.
- Day 4 Spend a day hiking around the Lake Como Mountains, exploring trails such as the ones leading to Monte San Primo or Monte Grona for stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas.
- Day 5 Take a boat ride to Menaggio, enjoy the lakeside views, and relax at one of its cafes. Spend the afternoon visiting Villa Mylius or other nearby attractions before heading back.
How Many Days Do You Need In Lake Como?
To fully experience Lake Como, 3-4 days is ideal, allowing you to visit key towns like Como, Bellagio, and Varenna, explore historic villas, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes, though longer stays can offer more opportunities for hiking and day trips.
Extended Itineraries Beyond Lake Como
After your visit to Lake Como, consider heading to Lake Garda, just a 2-hour drive away, known for its charming towns like Sirmione and its beautiful Mediterranean climate. Alternatively, Milan, only an hour away, offers world-class shopping, historical landmarks like the Duomo and The Last Supper, and a vibrant urban culture.
Everything you need to know
Answers to the most frequently asked questions:
Lake Como pairs perfectly with a visit to Milan, which is just an hour away. You can also combine it with stops in Lugano (Switzerland) or other lakes like Lake Maggiore or Lake Garda.
Yes, 3 nights is a great amount of time to explore the main towns, take a boat ride, and enjoy some relaxing meals with a view. It gives you a nice balance of sightseeing and downtime.
2 to 4 days is ideal for most travelers. It's enough to see the highlights, visit multiple towns by ferry, and soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
Train Travel Tip
Always check train schedules in advance, as some routes may have limited service on weekends or holidays.
