Lake Como is likely one of the attractive locations in Italy to go to, particularly when within the north of the nation. Full of centuries-old cities, attractive views and a shoreline that’s second to none, it’s an space of Italy you can not miss. Not solely that, there’s a heap of one of the best issues to do in Lake Como which are dotted throughout the lake’s edge.
We completely liked exploring Lake Como and visited it as a part of our street journey to Northern Italy. It’s the sort of space the place you possibly can simply spend weeks soaking within the vibe and historical past (which is all over the place).
Although, you possibly can simply get a bit style on a day journey, too. In truth, it’s completely straightforward to go to for those who’re in Milan and searching for a visit outdoors of town.
So, that will help you get probably the most out of your time in Lake Como, I’m sharing a few of our favorite locations that we liked on our go to. This fashion, no matter journey size you determine, you’ll get a heap of attractive locations to discover!
Have a look, beneath, at one of the best issues to do in Lake Como. Have an incredible Italian journey.
1.) Como
Nestled proper on the southern level of Lake Como, Como is the biggest metropolis on the lake’s shores. In the event you’re driving up from Milan, it’s probably that Como will likely be your first port-of-call.
As soon as right here, be sure to cease off at Como’s iconic cathedral (signposted Duomo within the metropolis). You see, it’s one in all Italy’s most iconic 14th-century Gothic and Renaissance cathedrals and is completely attractive.
The towering marble facade is a marvel, filling one facet of Piazza Duomo on one facet and that includes richly detailed statues and stone carvings. Inside, you’ll spot the medieval rose window and a meticulously carved important altar. You possibly can even climb the Como Cathedral’s dome and have a panoramic view of town (which is beautiful).
Additionally, don’t overlook to see the neoclassical Tempio Voltiano, a museum devoted to the work of Alessandro Volta. Tempio Voltiano was erected in 1927 as a commemoration of Volta’s centennial dying anniversary. These days, the museum homes among the authentic gear utilized in Volta’s monumental analysis.
It’s a terrific spot to go to however even higher for those who get caught out with a bit moist climate.
Afterwards, take a gander on the close by Villa Olmo that has probably the most attractive gardens and you’ll even pop inside, too.
Lastly, for some nice views, ramble on as much as Castello Baradello. From the medieval ruins, you’ll get to see all throughout Lake Como. Although, one factor to recollect is that the grounds are intermittently opened and closed. This implies try to be ready for a closed fort when you arrive.
Learn extra: Finest locations in Northern Italy to go to
2.) Brunate
Among the finest issues to do in Lake Como for the views, Brunate’s Terrace is a must-visit when in Como.
Technically simply outdoors the remit of town itself (although it doesn’t really feel prefer it), it’s the sort of place that’s excellent at sundown.
Now, to succeed in Brunate’s terrace settlement, it’s worthwhile to take a funicular from the lakefront’s east finish. On the high, you’ll get an encompassing view of the southern a part of Lake Como, the villages surrounding it, and mountains within the distance.
We liked it! Plus, there’s a heap of little eating places all with attractive terraces. We stopped off at Capolinea Bistrot for some Italian treats and low.
Plus, you possibly can simply see Volta Lighthouse, one other monument devoted to Alessandro Volta. It’s perched proper atop the hill in Brunate.
Learn extra: Finest locations in Milan to go to
3.) Bellagio
Round a 50-minute drive from town of Como, Bellagio is one other spot it’s a must to go to when driving across the lake.
When you’ve parked up, be sure to spend an excellent few hours exploring the waterside promenade, cobbled streets and little eateries that line the paths. It’s completely picturesque and you’ll simply spend a complete day chilling right here (if not longer, if you wish to take it gradual).
Getting hungry, seize a desk on the vine-covered terrace at Ristorante Bilacus. Alternatively, head down the facet streets and go to La Grotta. Their pizza is one of the best in all of Lake Como.
Now, from Bellagio, you possibly can rent your very personal boat and sail the shores of Lake Como. It’s a terrific deal with for an hour, particularly if there’s a couple of of you to separate the associated fee.
Speaking of treats, for a terrific place to remain, verify into the Grand Resort Villa Serbelloni that’s proper on the shore. Now, it’s dear however completely value it for a really special day.
4.) Menaggio
Nestled on the western shoreline of Lake Como (and simple to succeed in by boat from Bellagio), Menaggio is a dreamy lakeside city to go to.
Now, it’s typically mentioned that Menaggio’s promenade provides you among the finest views of Lake Como they usually wouldn’t be incorrect! The entire shoreline round Menaggio is gorgeous.
This all being mentioned, there aren’t many points of interest to discover when you’re right here – however that’s all a part of its allure. You possibly can simply take a beautiful stroll and absorb the Italian allure of this timeless spot.
In the event you fancy staying in a single day, verify into the Grand Resort Victoria idea and spa. Once more, this may be dear within the peak summer season months however it’s a beautiful deal with.
Learn extra: Finest locations in Northern Italy to go to
5.) Villa Carlotta
Visiting Villa Carlotta is likely one of the finest issues to do in Lake Como for those who’re searching for a lazy day of sightseeing.
Nestled within the Tremezzina Riviera, a Lake Como favorite for guests, Villa Carlotta is unbelievable for its lush gardens and world-renowned work and sculptures.
Now, you possibly can finest go to its gardens in Could, when the entire panorama is brimming with the vivid bloom of camellias and rhododendrons which are so attractive. I can’t say I’m one of the best at recognising flowers however the perfume of the blooms have been simply unbelievable.
6.) Basilica di Sant’Abbondio
Sure, I do know it’s within the metropolis of Como however I simply needed to point out this in its personal proper!
Whereas Basilica di Sant’Abbondio is predominantly Romanesque in type, this Eleventh-century church is a surprising mixture of all of the architectural developments that helped form Como over the centuries. It’s nearly like a timestamp to see the completely different influences that took maintain within the area.
For me, the historic basilica, with its Thirteenth-century frescoes is simply unbelievable to see. I’m such a sucker for church buildings and non secular buildings in Italy. They’re all so stunning.
Now, whereas the basilica itself is well-maintained and in good situation, some gadgets have been eliminated. As an illustration, the stone carvings beforehand discovered on the exterior of Basilica di Sant’Abbondio at the moment are inside the Museo Civico (if you wish to take a gander).
7.) Varenna
Simply reached by boat from Bellagio or Cadenabbia, Varenna is likely one of the finest issues to do in Lake Como when exploring the little communes across the lake itself.
With picture-perfect streets and a surprising lakeside setting, Varenna is a good spot to go to for those who don’t fancy battling the crowds in Bellagio within the busier summer season season.
As soon as right here, take a completely chilled stroll by its medieval streets and don’t overlook to take a look at the gardens of Villa Monastero. Oh, and naturally, the walled fort (full with battlements and a drawbridge) of Castello di Vezio.
8.) Head to the museums
One other Como favorite, you’ve acquired to take a while to discover among the museums which are perched round Como itself. The Archaeological Museum of Como and the Historic Museum of Giuseppe Garibaldi are two such spots.
Exploring historical pre-history as much as the center ages, it’s the sort of place that museum-buffs will completely love. Many of the reveals got here from native excavations, so that you’ll have a glimpse into the evolution of communities and settlements round Lake Como.
That being mentioned, you may spot a couple of historical Greek and Egyptian artefacts, too.
However, the Historic Museum of Giuseppe Garibaldi will take you thru the historical past of Como, that includes a group of handmade laces, reveals highlighting native Italian traditions, and particulars of the battle of Risorgimento.
Now, if museums aren’t your factor, perhaps give them a miss and follow exploring Lake Como’s attractive shoreline.
Learn extra: Finest locations in Northern Italy to go to
9.) Villa Melzi
Nestled inside Bellagio, Villa Melzi was constructed within the early 1800s by Melzi (who was a complete big-wig through the very first Italian Republic (again in Napolean instances).
The entire villa is completely iconic, however so are the gardens and park.
Now, Villa Melzi itself isn’t sometimes open to most people, however you possibly can stroll by the landscaped terraces and wander past the water backyard and the white neo-Moorish pavilion.
Better of all, for a couple of cash further, you should buy a two-day ticket that’s nice for those who’re staying in a single day in Bellagio.
10.) Lecco
Round a 30-minute drive from Bellagio, Lecco will probably be your final, or first, cease on Lake Como (relying on which manner you drive).
For us, it was our final cease as we headed from Milan, through Como and up the coast through Bellagio to Lecco.
As soon as right here, make sure you cease off on the Palace of Fears; a museum that homes hundreds of reveals with a extremely cool up to date artwork assortment. You possibly can spend hours inside.
Additionally, don’t overlook to go to the long-lasting Basilica of San Nicolò that stands proudly in Lecco. It’s mentioned that the location has been residence to some type of spiritual constructing for nearly 1,000 years.
Getting hungry? Cease by Trattoria Corte Fiorina which’s perched proper inside the metropolis. Their freshly made ravioli with fish from Lake Como is scrumptious.
For a night out, e book tickets to the Lecco Theatre that’s completely grand. It’s unbelievable to go to, although you may must brush up in your Italian.
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