4-Day Lake Como Itinerary

Why Visit Lake Como?

Lake Como should speak for itself in terms of charm and attraction, but in case you're on the fence deciding whether or not to go:

• Unreal Scenery – Snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear waters, and lush gardens.

• Charming Towns – Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio each have their own character.

• Elegant Lakeside Villas – Visit Villa Balbianello & Villa Carlotta.

• Outdoor Adventures – Hiking, boat rides, and water sports.

• Incredible Italian Food & Wine – Fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and Lombardy wines.

How to Get to Lake Como

Traveling by train is affordable, reliable, and scenic—plus you skip the stress of traffic and parking around the lake.

From Milan to Varenna:

• Route: Take a direct train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino.

• Duration: ~1 hour.

• Cost: Around €7–10 one way.

• Why Varenna? It's one of the most beautiful lakeside towns and perfectly positioned to explore Bellagio, Menaggio, and other villages via ferry. The train station is just a 10-minute downhill walk to the lakefront and ferry terminal.

• Make sure to sit on the right side of the train for views of Lake Como as you approach Varenna—especially lovely in the morning light

From Milan to Como:

• Route: Trains depart regularly from Milano Cadorna (via Trenord) or Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni.

• Duration: ~40 minutes.

• Cost: €5–7.

• Why Como? Great for a day trip, shopping, and dining—but it's more urban and less quaint than Varenna or Bellagio.

• Varenna wins for charm, ferry connections, and accessibility. It's less crowded than Como, with storybook views and cobbled streets.

You also have the option of catching the ferry! The ferry ride is a highlight of any trip to Lake Como—you’ll glide past historic villas, lush hillsides, and picturesque towns, all reflected in the sparkling blue water.

From Como to Bellagio:

• Slow Ferry: ~1.5–2 hours, costs €10–15.

  • This is the leisurely, scenic option, stopping at several villages along the way.

• Fast Hydrofoil: ~45 minutes, costs €15–20.

  • Great if you're short on time but still want views.

• Personal Tip: Sit on the left side of the ferry (when heading north from Como to Bellagio)—that’s where you’ll get the best views of the grand lakeside villas, like Villa d’Este and Villa Erba.

• Pro Tip: Ferries can get busy in peak summer, especially in the afternoon. Book early if you're on a tight schedule—or go mid-morning when it’s quieter.

Where to Stay in Lake Como

Lake Como is dotted with picturesque towns, each offering a unique vibe. Whether you're after romance, luxury, adventure, or convenience, there's a perfect base for you. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose:

Varenna – The Romantic Escape (Best Base for First-Time Visitors!)

Tucked into the eastern shore of the lake, Varenna is a serene and storybook-perfect town that oozes charm and tranquility.

• Why Varenna? Peaceful, romantic, and full of charm, Varenna is often overlooked for flashier towns like Bellagio, but that’s what makes it so special. Think narrow lanes, flower-draped terraces, and a gorgeous lakeside promenade perfect for golden-hour strolls.

• Best For: Couples, honeymooners, artists, and anyone wanting a slower pace with spectacular views.

• Ferry Access: Easier and more frequent ferry access than Bellagio—making day trips around the lake a breeze.

• I stayed in a cozy lake-view Airbnb perched just above the promenade, and waking up to a watercolour sunrise over the water was pure magic. I’d brew some coffee, step onto the little balcony, and just watch the light slowly fill the valley. It’s one of my happiest travel memories.

Bellagio – The Classic Luxury Spot

Known as the “Pearl of Lake Como”, Bellagio is where elegance meets old-world charm.

• Why Bellagio? Beautiful cobbled streets, boutique shops, and fine dining line this glamorous lakeside village. It’s the place to dress up, sip wine with a view, and soak in the Lake Como dream.

• Best For: Luxury lovers, stylish travellers, and those who don’t mind touristy crowds for a postcard-perfect setting.

• Heads-Up: Ferry access is good, but it’s a little harder to reach directly from Milan (you’ll often need to combine train + ferry).

Menaggio – The Outdoor Adventure Hub

On the western shore, Menaggio is a scenic and laid-back base surrounded by mountains and hiking trails.

• Why Menaggio? Less touristy than Bellagio, but still well-connected. Great for families, hikers, or travellers who want to explore Lake Lugano as well.

• Activities: Hiking, cycling, boat rentals, and access to alpine villages nearby.

• Best For: Active travellers and anyone seeking a balance between lake views and mountain vibes.

Como – The City Base

If you’re short on time or prefer an urban feel, staying in Como town offers convenience and comfort.

• Why Como? It’s the largest town on the lake, with direct train access from Milan, making it a super convenient base for short trips. It also has great shopping, museums, and local dining—but don’t expect the quaint charm of the smaller lakeside villages.

• Best For: Travellers who prioritise ease of transportation, solo travellers, or those using Lake Como as a hub to explore more of Lombardy.

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Varenna

Welcome to Varenna, your romantic base on Lake Como! With its pastel-coloured buildings, quiet cobbled alleys, and dazzling lake views, this little village feels like something out of a watercolour painting. Day one is all about soaking in the slow pace and scenic charm.

Stroll Along the Lakefront Walkway

Start your trip with a gentle walk along Passeggiata degli Innamorati (“Lovers' Walk”), a scenic lakeside pathway hugging the edge of the cliffs. Lined with ivy-draped villas, flowering balconies, and calm water lapping at the stone walls, this walk sets the tone for the peaceful vibe of Varenna.

Make sure to pop into Caffè Varenna for a cappuccino or affogato, and sip it while sitting on one of the public benches that overlook the water. I spent nearly an hour there just people-watching and watching the ferries glide in—pure bliss after a travel day.

Hike to Castello di Vezio – A Hidden Medieval Gem

For the best views over the lake, make the 30-minute uphill trek to Castello di Vezio, a medieval castle perched above the village. The hike winds through olive groves and quiet lanes, and while it’s a bit of a workout, the reward is totally worth it.

• 🕒 Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM

• 💶 Entry Fee: €5

• 📍 Access: The path begins just behind the main square in Varenna.

• The climb left me sweating (bring water!), but the view at the top quite literally stopped me in my tracks. I arrived just before sunset, and the lake was bathed in rosy pink and burnished gold. I stood by the battlements, completely alone, just watching the light shift across the water—it felt like time had paused.

• Don’t Miss: The eerie white “ghost” sculptures scattered throughout the castle gardens—they’re hauntingly beautiful and make for unique photo ops!

Sunset Dinner at Ristorante La Vista

End your day with a romantic dinner at Ristorante La Vista, part of the charming Albergo Milano hotel. The restaurant’s terrace overlooks the lake and the snow-dusted Alps in the distance—sunset here is unforgettable.

🍽 What to Order:

• Risotto al pesce persico (perch risotto) – a local specialty, buttery and rich with tender lake fish.

• Pair it with a chilled Lombardy white wine, like a Lugana or Valtellina.

• Make sure to book a table in advance for a seat along the railing. I watched the sky turn lavender as sailboats floated by—easily one of my favourite meals in Italy.

Day 2: Bellagio & Villa Balbianello

Today is all about elegance, lakeside glamour, and cinematic views. You'll explore the iconic town of Bellagio—nicknamed the Pearl of Lake Como—and visit one of Italy’s most breathtaking villas. Pack your camera, your most comfortable walking shoes, and a sense of wonder.

For a day mapped out for you to your heart's content, make sure to book onto an incredible guided tour of Bellagio from Como - enjoy a ferry ride to Bellagio, known as the 'Pearl of the Lake,' with views of elegant villas and gardens

Morning Ferry to Bellagio

• Catch a 15-minute ferry from Varenna to Bellagio. Sit outside on the upper deck if you can—the short journey offers panoramic views of the Alps and the charming villages dotted along the lake’s edge. It’s the kind of ride where everyone goes quiet just to take it all in.

• As I stepped off the ferry into Bellagio’s harbour, it truly felt like stepping into a film set. The pastel buildings glowed in the morning sun, bougainvillea spilled over balconies, and there was this laid-back, sun-drenched elegance everywhere. I grabbed a gelato (yes, before noon!) and just wandered with a smile plastered on my face.

Stroll the Villa Melzi Gardens – A Peaceful Escape

Just a short walk from the Bellagio town center, you’ll find the Gardens of Villa Melzi, a serene stretch of lakeside beauty featuring exotic trees, lily-covered ponds, classical statues, and Japanese maples.

• 🕒 Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM

• 💶 Entry: €8

• 📍 Location: South of the Bellagio peninsula, easy flat walk.

• I brought a small pastry and cappuccino to-go from Bar Sanremo and enjoyed it while sitting on a shaded bench overlooking the water. The only sounds were the rustle of leaves and birdsong—it was a perfect mid-morning pause from sightseeing

Midday Ferry to Villa Balbianello – A Cinematic Dream

Catch a ferry to Lenno (about 20 minutes from Bellagio), and from there, you can either walk (~25 mins) or take a water taxi directly to Villa del Balbianello—a jewel of Lake Como and filming location for Casino Royale and Star Wars: Episode II.

What Makes It Special: The villa is perched dramatically on a wooded promontory, surrounded by perfectly pruned gardens and offering jaw-dropping views in every direction. Inside, you’ll find antique maps, explorer memorabilia, and rich tapestries.

• 🕒 Open: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed Mondays & Wednesdays)

• 💶 Entry: €11 garden / €22 full guided villa tour

• Personal Story: Walking through the immaculate topiary and stone pathways with the lake shimmering around me, I felt like I was floating in a dream. The breeze, the scent of cypress, and the silence—it’s one of the most enchanting places I’ve ever visited. I didn’t want to leave.

Wine Tasting at Enoteca Cava Turacciolo

After your villa visit, head back to Bellagio and unwind with a tasting at Enoteca Cava Turacciolo, a cozy wine cellar carved into stone. The atmosphere is intimate and authentic—perfect for learning about Northern Italy’s wine regions.

What to Try:

• Nebbiolo – Bold, structured red from the Piedmont region.

• Lugana – Crisp white from nearby Lake Garda, perfect for sipping lakeside.

• Pair with: A small cheese and charcuterie board (highly recommend!).

• Chat with the staff—they’re super knowledgeable and passionate. I learned more about Italian wine in one hour there than I had in a year of tastings!

Evening in Bellagio

Wrap up the day with a romantic dinner under the stars. Bellagio has no shortage of incredible dining options, but if you're after both a mouthwatering meal and a jaw-dropping view…

🍽 Dinner Recommendation: Ristorante Bilacus
Located up a charming stone staircase, this family-run gem offers beautiful terrace seating and some of the best pasta I had on the lake.

🍝 What to Order:

• Tagliolini al tartufo (truffle pasta)

• Homemade gnocchi with lake fish

• Tiramisu to finish (trust me—worth it)

• Pro Tip: Reserve in advance and ask for an outdoor table on the upper terrace!

Day 3: Menaggio & Outdoor Adventures

If you’re craving a more rugged, outdoorsy experience after the elegance of Bellagio, today is your day. Menaggio, on the western shore of Lake Como, offers stunning mountain trails, peaceful waters, and a slower, more local vibe. It’s ideal for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone ready to unplug and get moving.

Morning Hike to Rifugio Menaggio – Alpine Views Without the Crowds

Kick off the day with a hike to Rifugio Menaggio, a scenic mountain hut perched 1,400 meters above the lake. The trail starts from Breglia (a short bus or taxi ride from Menaggio) and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way. It’s a moderately challenging climb, but the payoff? Unbeatable.

Wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water. There’s a small café at the top (open seasonally), but you can’t beat a bring-your-own lunch.

I picked up a picnic from a local deli in Menaggio—crusty Italian bread, creamy taleggio cheese, and salty prosciutto. I ate it sitting on a rock ledge at the summit, with eagles soaring above and Lake Como shimmering below. It wasn’t just the best view of the trip—it might’ve been the best meal of my life.

🕒 Hike time: ~4 hours round-trip
🗺️ Route: Breglia > Monti di Nava > Rifugio Menaggio
🥾 Difficulty: Moderate

Midday: Kayaking on Lake Como – Glide Through Paradise

After your mountain adventure, head down to the lakefront and rent a kayak from the Menaggio harbour. It’s a peaceful and fun way to explore the coastline—and it gives you a completely different perspective of the lakeside villages and villas.

Go in the morning or early afternoon, when the lake is calmest. Paddling beside old stone boathouses and peering into hidden coves felt like discovering secret corners of Italy.

💶 Rental Cost: ~€15/hour
📍 Rentals: AC Boat Menaggio, or LarioSport Kayak

Paddle toward Villa La Gaeta, the famous "James Bond villa" from Casino Royale, which is just a short distance north.

Dinner at Ristorante La Piazzetta – A Cozy Culinary Finale

Cap off your adventurous day with a delicious and relaxed dinner at Ristorante La Piazzetta, right on Menaggio’s charming town square.

What to Order:

• Diavola pizza (spicy salami + thin, crispy crust = heaven)

• Pizza with gorgonzola & pear (trust me, the sweet-savory combo is unreal)

• A glass of Valtellina red wine to wash it down

Sit outside if the weather’s nice—Menaggio’s little piazza is the perfect place to people-watch and soak in the small-town charm.

After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Menaggio promenade. It’s beautifully lit at night, with benches, palm trees, and views that stretch across the lake to Varenna and Bellagio glowing in the distance. A soft breeze, the sounds of lapping water, and the twinkle of lakeside lights—it’s the perfect way to end your day.

Day 4: Relaxing in Tremezzo & Villa Carlotta

After days of hiking, ferry-hopping, and exploring, your final day on Lake Como is all about slowing down and soaking in the elegance. Tremezzo, with its grand villas, lush gardens, and golden-hour lake views, is the perfect place to unwind and reflect.

Morning at Villa Carlotta – Botanical Bliss

Begin your day with a visit to Villa Carlotta, one of Lake Como’s crown jewels. This 17th-century villa is famous not only for its opulent interiors and neoclassical sculptures, but also for its sprawling botanical gardens—a colourful, living canvas that changes with the seasons.

Garden Highlights:

• Spring: Rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias in full bloom

• Summer: Palm-lined terraces and bursts of hydrangeas

• Year-round: Bamboo forests, citrus trees, and waterfalls

Inside the villa: You’ll find works by Canova and Hayez, period furniture, and panoramic windows that frame the lake like a painting. Walking through the rose-scented terraces felt like wandering through a dream. I stopped to journal near a small fountain surrounded by lemon trees—pure serenity. One of my favorite quiet moments of the entire trip.

🕒 Open: 10 AM – 6 PM
💶 Entry: ~€12
📍 How to Get There: 5-minute walk from Tremezzo ferry stop

Afternoon Ferry Ride – The Scenic Loop

After your garden stroll, hop on the ferry and treat yourself to one last leisurely cruise on the lake. The triangle route between Tremezzo, Bellagio, and Varenna is widely considered the most beautiful ferry journey in all of Lake Como.

• Grab a seat on the upper deck and sit on the left-hand side heading north—you’ll pass stately villas, blooming gardens, and tiny pebble beaches with incredible photo ops. This is the kind of boat ride you just let wash over you.

💶 Cost: ~€5–€10 depending on the route
🕒 Duration: 15–30 mins between each stop
📷 Don’t forget your camera—sunlight reflecting off the water is chef’s kiss.

Final Dinner at Al Veluu – Sunset & Fine Dining

Wrap up your Lake Como escape with an unforgettable meal at Al Veluu, perched above Tremezzo. It’s a refined, romantic restaurant that’s all about local ingredients, sweeping views, and top-notch hospitality.

What to Order:

• Tagliata di Manzo (perfectly grilled sliced beef served with rosemary potatoes and local olive oil)

• Homemade pasta with truffle or seasonal mushrooms

• Pair it with a glass of Sforzato di Valtellina—a rich red wine from the nearby Alps

  Make a reservation for sunset and request a table on the terrace. As you sip wine and watch the lake shift from blue to gold to indigo, you’ll realize there’s no better way to say goodbye to Lake Como.

🕒 Open: Dinner from 6:30 PM
📍 Location: Up the hill from Tremezzo (short taxi or 20-min uphill walk)
💶 Expect to spend: €40–€80 per person

After dinner, take one last lakeside walk back in Tremezzo. The promenade is peaceful, and the lights of Bellagio shimmering across the water make for the perfect ending scene to your Italian escape.

Best Food & Restaurants in Lake Como

Lake Como isn’t just about the stunning views and charming villages—the food scene here is seriously underrated. From lakeside trattorias to fine dining with a view, the local cuisine is a beautiful reflection of the region: fresh, comforting, and full of heart.

Must-Try Local Dishes

These classic Lombard specialties are a must when dining around the lake:

• Risotto al Pesce Persico: This signature dish of the lake is made with delicate filets of perch, pan-fried and served over creamy saffron risotto. It’s comforting and elegant all at once—the perfect pairing of lake and land.

• Pizzoccheri:A rich, hearty pasta made with buckwheat noodles, sautéed cabbage, potatoes, garlic, and melted local cheese (usually Bitto or Valtellina Casera). It’s the ultimate Alpine comfort food—perfect after a day of hiking or exploring.

• Lugana Wine: This crisp, refreshing white wine comes from the southern end of Lake Garda but is very popular in Lake Como. It’s zesty with floral notes and pairs beautifully with lake fish or lighter pasta dishes.

• Bonus: Try a spritz made with Limoncello or Bitter Bianco—a regional twist on the classic!

Top Restaurant Picks Around the Lake

Whether you're dining with a view or tucking into pasta in a cozy alleyway, these are some of the best places to eat across Lake Como:

Ristorante La Vista (Varenna)

✨ Romantic, Scenic, Refined

This elegant spot is perched just above the lake, and the view alone is worth the visit. Add in a seasonal menu focused on fresh local ingredients—like risotto al pesce persico, truffle pasta, and handmade desserts—and you’ve got a dinner to remember.

Make a reservation for sunset and ask for a terrace table—you’ll thank me later.

Trattoria San Giacomo (Bellagio)

✨ Rustic, Authentic, Lively

This tiny gem in the heart of Bellagio is loved by locals and travellers alike. The vibe is rustic and casual, and the pasta? Heavenly. Go for the pappardelle with wild boar ragù or the gnocchi with gorgonzola and walnuts.

Get there early or expect a wait—no reservations, but totally worth it.

Al Veluu (Tremezzo)

✨ Luxury, Romance, Grilled Perfection

Nestled on a hillside above Tremezzo, Al Veluu combines fine dining with heartfelt hospitality.

Known for their open-fire grilled meats, hand-rolled pastas, and an incredible wine list, it’s ideal for

a special occasion or final night splurge.

What to Order: The tagliata di manzo (sliced grilled beef), and pear ravioli with sage butter.

Bonus Spots:

• La Piazzetta (Menaggio): The best pizza I had in Lake Como—crispy, cheesy perfection.

• Il Cavatappi (Varenna): A tiny, tucked-away gem with creative takes on traditional dishes.

• Aperitivo in Bellagio: Try Bar Sanremo or Aperitivo Et Al for lakeside drinks and antipasti boards.

Final Travel Tips for Lake Como

✔️ Visit in the Shoulder Seasons – April-June & September-October = Fewer crowds!
✔️ Book Ferries & Villas in Advance – Peak season sells out fast.
✔️ Avoid Overpacking – Many streets have steep staircases & cobblestones.
✔️ Try Aperitivo by the Water – Nothing beats a spritz at sunset!