Looking for things to do in Lake Como, Italy? You’ve come to the right place! This beautiful lake is located in the Lombardy region of Italy and is a popular tourist destination. With its stunning scenery, lovely towns and villages, and wide range of activities on offer, there’s something for everyone in Lake Como. In this blog post, we’ll share with you 12 things to do in Lake Como, Italy.
1. Visit Villa Carlotta
Nestled on the shores of Lake Como, Villa Carlotta is one of Italy’s most beautiful and beloved gardens. Dating back to the 17th century, the garden was created by a nobleman as a gift for his wife.
Today, it is open to the public and features an impressive collection of sculptures and botanical specimens. The highlight of the garden is the impressive Azalea Grotto, which is blanketed in vibrant pink and purple blooms each spring.
Visitors can also enjoy sweeping views of the lake from the villa’s terrace. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy some breathtaking scenery, a visit to Villa Carlotta is sure to delight you.
Address: Via Regina, 2, 22016 Tremezzina CO, Italy
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
2. Take a Dip in Lake Como
Lake Como is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, it is a stunning sight to behold. The clear blue waters are surrounded by lush green trees and towering mountains.
There are many lovely towns and villages to explore, and the scenery is simply breathtaking. One of the best ways to experience Lake Como is to take a dip in its refreshing waters. There are many public beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, and simply take in stunning views.
3. Shop in Bellagio
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Lake Como region, Bellagio is a shopper’s paradise. From high-end designer boutiques to quaint local shops, there’s something for everyone.
Stroll down Via Vittorio Emanuele to window shop at Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, or explore the side streets for hidden gems. For a truly unique experience, visit one of the city’s many markets.
The weekly farmers market is a great place to stock up on locally grown produce, while the flea market offers an eclectic mix of antiques and handcrafted goods.
4. Visit the Como Cathedral
The Como Cathedral is one of the most beautiful and iconic buildings in Italy. Located on the shores of Lake Como, it has been a popular tourist destination for centuries.
The cathedral was built in the 13th century, and its stunning Gothic architecture is a sight to behold. Inside the cathedral, you can see intricate frescoes, marble sculptures, and stained glass windows.
The Como Cathedral is also home to a famous relic – the Shroud of Turin. This linen cloth is believed to be the burial shroud of Jesus Christ, and it is on display inside the cathedral. If you are visiting Italy, add the Como Cathedral to your itinerary.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 22100 Como CO, Italy
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
5. Get Breathtaking Views from Funicular Como
When visiting Lake Como in Italy, be sure to take the Funicular Como up to the mountain town of Brunate. The funicular car ascends nearly 2,000 feet over the course of about 20 minutes, providing riders with some of the most breathtaking views in all of Italy.
On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction, including all the way across the lake to the city of Como. Even on a cloudy day, the views are stunning.
And when you reach the top, you can explore the quaint streets of Brunate or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants. So whether you’re looking for an exhilarating ride or simply want to take in some of the most incredible scenery that Italy has to offer, be sure to take a ride on Funicular Como.
6. Discover Varenna and Menaggio
Varenna and Menaggio are two of the most beautiful towns in Lake Como, Italy. Just a short ferry ride from each other, these two towns offer visitors a chance to experience the best of what Lake Como has to offer.
Varenna is a picturesque town with medieval streets and buildings, as well as a number of churches and monasteries. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the lake from one of the many vantage points. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants to enjoy in Varenna.
Menaggio is another beautiful town on Lake Como. It is slightly larger than Varenna and offers a more lively atmosphere. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, as well as a number of activities such as golfing and tennis. Menaggio also has a number of excellent hotels, making it the perfect base for exploring Lake Como.
Both Varenna and Menaggio are well worth a visit when exploring Lake Como. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful town to relax in or a lively town to explore, you’ll find it in either Varenna or Menaggio.
7. Sample the Local Cuisine
Sample the local cuisine when in Como! The city is known for its delicious dishes, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. For a truly intimate dining experience, try one of the city’s many trattorias.
These quaint eateries often have outdoor seating overlooking the water, making them the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while taking in stunning views. And of course, no trip to Como would be complete without indulging in a gelato or two.
8. Admire the Architecture in Como
As soon as you catch a glimpse of Lake Como in Italy, you’ll be hooked. The clear blue water and the majestic mountains provide a stunning backdrop for the lakeside town of Como. But what really makes Como special is its architecture.
The town is filled with beautifully preserved buildings that date back to medieval times. Take a stroll down Via Vittorio Emanuele, the main shopping street, and you’ll see a variety of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque.
Make sure to visit the duomo, or cathedral, which is one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in all of Italy. And don’t forget to admire the Palladian villas that dot the lakeshore.
9. Take a Day Trip to Isola Comacina
Isola Comacina is a small island in Lake Como, Italy that is well worth a visit. The island is home to a number of historical buildings, including the Church of Santa Maria Annunciata and the ruins of a Romanesque palace. There are also several restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to spend a leisurely day. Visitors can take a boat from one of the many lakeside towns, or hike up from the nearby town of Ossuccio. Either way, Isola Comacina makes for a great day trip from Lake Como.
10. Enjoy the Views from Sentiero del Viandante
Sentiero del Viandante is the perfect spot for breathtaking views. Located in Lake Como, Italy, this scenic trail offers stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The path is well-marked and easy to follow, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike. Along the way, you’ll pass by several quaint villages, each with its own unique charm. And of course, no visit to Lake Como would be complete without taking a dip in the refreshing waters.
11. Hike Up to Monte San Primo
If you’re looking for an adventure while visiting Lake Como in Italy, look no further than Monte San Primo. This popular hiking destination offers breathtaking views of the entire lake and surrounding mountains.
The hike itself is moderate in difficulty, but it’s well worth the effort when you reach the summit. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no restaurants or cafes along the way. And don’t forget your camera – you won’t want to miss out on capturing the incredible scenery!
12. Relax in the Gardens of Villa del Balbianello
Nestled atop the scenic promontory of Bellagio, Villa del Balbianello is one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy. The villa was built in the 18th century by Cardinal Durini, and it has since been owned by a number of notable figures, including writer and director Francesco Borromini.
The gardens feature a wealth of rare and exotic plants, as well as breathtaking views of Lake Como. Visitors can stroll along the winding paths, relax in the gazebo, or take a boat ride to one of the nearby islands.
Address: Via Guido Monzino, 1, 22016 Tremezzina CO, Italy
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
In Conclusion
There’s no doubt about it, Lake Como in Italy is a truly special place. From the clear blue waters to the stunning mountain views, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And with so much to see and do, you could easily spend a week here and still not see everything. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Lake Como for an unforgettable vacation.
