Things to Do and See in Lake Como

Anyone planning a trip to Lake Como should definitely pay a visit to the town of the same name. Surrounded by enchanting hills, the historic old town in particular awaits visitors with a fantastic ambience. Take a look behind the imposing city walls.

Visit the impressive cathedral and Piazza Duomo, Villa Olmo and the Volta Temple Museum. Marvel at the city's numerous villas as you stroll along the beautiful lakeside promenade. Visit the colorful weekly market to experience the hustle and bustle of the city up close. Or take the funicular from Como to Brunate!

Since 1894, the historic funicularhas been taking passengers from Como to Brunate in just a few minutes. The ride offers breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding villages. However, the cable car ride is also worthwhile if you want to explore the beautiful mountain world above the lake on your own.

Take a relaxing hike to the beautiful Brunate lighthouse, for example. Be enchanted by the picturesque Alps and enjoy the unforgettable panoramic view of the lake at sunset. Afterwards, you can reflect on your impressions in one of the local restaurants.

If you want to experience the magical mountain landscapes surrounding Lake Como in more depth, the two-day Dorsale del Triangolo Lariano hike is the perfect adventure. This nearly 23-mile trekking route begins in the village of Brunate and leads you through the beautiful Lariano Triangle.

Along the way, you’ll pass through the charming harbor of San Giovanni and eventually reach the iconic town of Bellagio. Follow the shoreline a little farther and you’ll be rewarded with a peaceful beach—the perfect spot to cool off with a swim in the lake after your hike.

Between 1782 and 1797, the Marquis Innocenzo Odescalchi had Villa Olmo built in neoclassical style directly on the shores of Lake Como. Over the years, the elegant villa has hosted numerous famous personalities such as Prince Metternich, Giuseppe Garibaldi and Napoleon Bonaparte.

Today, the grandiose rooms and the spectacular landscaped park surrounding the villa are mainly used for exhibitions, congresses and other events. Nevertheless, you should not miss out on a visit to the impressive grounds. The park is open to visitors free of charge all year round. So take a relaxing stroll along the shores of the lake and visit the neoclassical temple.

The picturesque village of Bellagio is sheltered between the two southern arms of Lake Como. Nevertheless, you can easily reach the medieval town by ferry, car or bike. Follow the cobbled, narrow streets and experience Bellagio's unique flair.

Visit the Basilica of San Giacomo, Villa Serbelloni or the beautiful gardens of Villa Melzi. Enjoy the fantastic view from Punta Spartivento and spend a relaxing day at the Lido de Bellagio. Or enjoy one of the most beautiful places on Lake Como on a walk along the charming lakeside promenade. Either way, Bellagio will delight you!

A spectacular backdrop, a fantastic view over Lake Como and a pretty old town make Lecco one of the most popular destinations in the region. Whether you explore Lecco on a relaxed stroll or use the town as a starting point for hiking, mountain biking or climbing tours, a visit to the south-eastern end of the lake is a must.

You can also visit the impressive Villa Manzoni, Palazzo Belgiojoso, the Basilica of San Nicolò or the Viscontea Tower. Take the cable car to hike up Monte Resegone. Or visit the Piani dei Resinelli viewing platform to admire the unique panorama over the lake.

Take the ferry to Varenna to enjoy the fantastic view of the colorful houses that seem to nestle perfectly against the green mountain slopes. Follow the narrow streets through the picturesque old town. Find a spot in one of the many cafés, bars or restaurants to watch the relaxed hustle and bustle of the city in peace.

Visit the fairytale Villa Monastero, the magnificent gardens of Villa Cipressi or the church of San Giovanni Battista. Take advantage of your visit to Varenna to explore the enchanting surroundings on a hike. For example, on a walk to Castello Vezio or on a longer hike on the Sentiero del Viandante to Bellano.

Menaggio is one of the pearls of Lake Como! Enjoy La Dolce Vita here when you visit one of the cozy restaurants in the town center. Be enchanted by the colorful house facades, the dreamy alleyways and the beautiful lakeside promenade. Visit the two villas La Gaetta and Carlotta.

Take the ferry from the town's small harbor to Isola Comacina. Take a day trip to the spectacular Valle d'Intelvi to enjoy the unforgettable view of Lake Lugano. Or use your time in Menaggio for a hike up to Monte Grona!

Wonderful tranquillity and a very special ambience await you at the ancient Abazzia di Piona in the north of Lake Como. The impressive Cistercian abbey is located on a small peninsula off Colico and rises impressively above Lake Como.

Take an unforgettable journey through time and learn more about the centuries of history here. Visit the magnificent cloister, which was built between 1252 and 1257 by Prior Bonaccorso de Canova. Or recharge your batteries in the beautiful capitular hall.

In the north of Lecco, Abaddia Lariana invites you to enjoy a fantastic beach vacation on Lake Como. Find a suitable spot on the beautiful pebble beach, relax in the shade or refresh yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. The playground adjacent to the beach is also a plus for travelers exploring Lake Como with small children.

Alternatively, you can combine a day of swimming in Abaddia with a hike in the Alps. In addition to numerous hiking trails, there are also challenging routes to explore the fairytale surroundings on foot or by bike.

The Bosco Incantato in Dazio, located in the Valtellina region near Lake Como, is a magical excursion perfect for travelers of all ages. As you wander through this enchanting forest, keep your eyes open—you’ll find more than 100 whimsical sculptures carved into ancient tree trunks and wooden pillars.

Whether you're exploring with kids or simply young at heart, it’s a place that sparks imagination at every turn. After your walk or hike, you can relax and enjoy a meal at one of the cozy local restaurants—or continue your adventure and discover even more of Lombardy’s hidden gems.

If you would like to explore the surrounding area during your visit to Lake Como, you should also take the opportunity to explore Milan. You can easily reach the world-famous metropolis by train and visit exciting sights such as Milan Cathedral, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele or the Parco di Castello Sforzesco.

Experience modern Milan in the Porta Nuova district and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere on Corso di Como or the lively Corso Garibaldi. Feast in one of Milan's many restaurants or enjoy an unforgettable visit to the theater at La Scala di Milano.

The sight of the Piani dei Resinelli viewing platform, which only opened in 2021, will not only make the hearts of active holidaymakers and outdoor fans beat faster. However, to experience the postcard panorama there, you first have to negotiate 15 hairpin bends amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery and walk for around half an hour to reach the viewing platform .

But it's worth the effort, because from here you have probably the best view over Lake Como, Lago di Garlate and the Lariano triangle all the way to Brianza. If you like, you can combine the excursion with a picnic at lofty heights.

A short ride on the cable car from Argegno to Pigra brings you straight into the fresh mountain air of northern Italy. In just a few minutes, you’ll ascend nearly 2,300 feet in elevation—rewarded with spectacular views over Lake Como and the stunning surrounding landscapes.

Pigra isn’t just about the view, though. It’s a hub for hikers, offering access to countless scenic trails. One of the best is a beautiful 7.5-mile loop that circles through the forests and hills. After your adventure, relax with a well-earned break at a cozy café back in the village. Whether you stay a few days to soak in the peaceful vibe or set out on more hikes, Pigra is a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

Mandello del Lario blends authentic Italian charm with excellent visitor amenities, making it a perfect stop along Lake Como. Stroll through the town’s historic center, and savor local cuisine at one of the many inviting restaurants and cafés.

Walk along the scenic lakeside promenade and take in stunning views of the water, or head to the Lido di Mandello to relax on the sandy beach and swim in the clear, refreshing lake. Mandello also makes a great base for further exploration—whether by ferry, train, or a leisurely day trip to nearby towns and trails.

A visit to the Bellano Gorge near Livo is a real adventure for the senses. Over the millennia, water has carved its way through the massive mountains here. Thanks to the wooden footbridges and narrow paths, visitors can now discover this natural treasure up close.

So don't hesitate to follow the circular trail to enjoy the natural grottos, bizarre rock formations, countless waterfalls and the turquoise-blue waters of the river in the Orrido di Bellano. If you like, you can even take a dip in one of the natural pools or enjoy some refreshments in the first-class osteria after your hike!

Take a peaceful hike from Colico to the Torri di Fontanedo and soak in sweeping views of Monte Legnone—the highest mountain in Lombardy, rising to nearly 8,560 feet—as well as the sparkling waters of Lake Como.

Recharge in the serene surroundings, and immerse yourself in the rich flora and fauna of northern Italy. Find a quiet spot to enjoy a picnic on one of the many benches along the trail, or treat yourself to local delicacies at a cozy osteria at the end of the loop. It’s the perfect way to slow down and connect with the beautiful landscape.

If you prefer cycling over hiking, you can bike from Lecco along the scenic banks of the Adda River all the way to Milan. This nearly 37-mile route takes you through dense forests, charming villages, and open fields, offering a beautiful cross-section of the Lombardy region.

Along the way, you’ll cross historic bridges and experience some of northern Italy’s most picturesque landscapes. When you’re ready to return to Lake Como, you can either cycle back or hop on a train for an easy ride home.