Lago di Como - Discovering Italy

Travelling to Lago di Como

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Lago di Como, a pretty good destination in Italy (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Lago di Como and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Lago di Como, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Italy, here's everything to know about Lago di Como for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Lago di Como

Lake Como (Lago di Como) is a stunning lake located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. It is the third-largest lake in Italy and has a length of approximately 50 kilometers. The lake is surrounded by picturesque towns and villages like Bellagio, Menaggio, and Como, which offer breathtaking views, historic landmarks, and beautiful villas. The area is also a popular tourist destination with activities such as boating, hiking, and shopping. Lake Como is easily accessible by train or car from major cities like Milan and is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of northern Italy.

What to visit in Lago di Como

Sure, here are the top tourist attractions in Lago di Como: 1. Villa del Balbianello: A stunning villa built on the edge of a peninsula in the lake, Villa del Balbianello attracts visitors with its beautiful gardens, terraced lawns, and breathtaking views. It has been featured in several movies, including James Bond's Casino Royale.
2. Como Cathedral: This magnificent Cathedral is a must-see for its Gothic architecture featuring intricate details and beautiful frescoes. It is located in the city of Como.
3. Bellagio: Often referred to as the "Pearl of the Lake," Bellagio is a charming village known for its narrow streets, colorful houses and beautiful gardens. It offers amazing views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
4. Varenna: Another picturesque village on the lake's eastern shore, Varenna is known for its charming lakefront promenade and narrow cobblestone streets. The Castello di Vezio, a medieval castle, offers stunning panoramic views of the lake.
5. Villa Carlotta: A beautiful villa and botanical garden located on the lake's western shore, Villa Carlotta features several works of art, including sculptures and paintings, and has a stunning collection of botanical species from all over the world.
6. Menaggio: A popular tourist spot with a beautiful lakefront promenade, Menaggio offers plenty of activities such as hiking, swimming, and boating. It also serves as a great base to explore the surrounding region.
7. Isola Comacina: Isola Comacina is a small, wooded island on Lake Como that was once a stronghold for the Lombards. Today, it is a popular spot for boating and fishing, and has a few restaurants serving some excellent cuisine.
8. Funicolare Como-Brunate: The Como-Brunate funicular is a cable car ride that offers stunning panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Overall, Lago di Como is a beautiful destination with an abundance of natural beauty, history, culture, and activities for visitors to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Italy, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Lago di Como.

When to go on holiday to Lago di Como

The best time to visit Lago di Como is during the months of April to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. The peak season is during July and August, where you can find many tourists and prices can be high. However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you can visit in April, May, September, or October. During these months, the crowds are smaller, the weather is still pleasant and you can find cheaper rates for accommodations. It is worth noting that the weather can be unpredictable in the shoulder seasons, so be sure to pack accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Lago di Como

There are several ways to get to Lago di Como in Italy: 1. By car: You can rent a car from any major city in Italy and take the A9 highway towards Como. The journey takes about an hour.
2. By train: There are regular train services that connect Milan with Como. From Como, you can take the C10 bus or a taxi to reach Lago di Como. The journey takes about an hour and a half.
3. By bus: There are many bus services that connect Lago di Como with Milan and other cities in Italy. You can find bus timetables and tickets online.
4. By ferry: You can take a ferry from some towns around the lake, including Como, Bellagio, and Varenna. This is a scenic option, and there are different routes available depending on the time of year.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Lago di Como, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Lago di Como

Here are some typical foods of Lago di Como in Italy along with a brief description of each one: 1. Polenta e Misultin: A dish of polenta (boiled cornmeal) served with smoked dried shad (Misultin), typical of the Lake Como area.
2. Risotto al pesce persico: A risotto dish featuring the local freshwater fish persico (perch), usually served with saffron and butter.
3. Pizzoccheri: A dish made with buckwheat pasta, potatoes, cabbage and melted cheese, typically served in the Valtellina area north of Lake Como.
4. Tagliolini con sardine: A pasta dish with sardines, garlic, and breadcrumbs. The sardines are usually filleted and cooked with white wine and tomatoes.
5. Cotoletta alla milanese: A simple dish of breaded veal cutlets that is popular throughout Lombardy, including the Lake Como area.
6. Panettone: A sweet bread loaf that is typically eaten around Christmas and New Year's. Panettone originated in Milan but is enjoyed throughout the Lake Como region.
These are just a few of the many delicious dishes you can find in the Lake Como area. Enjoy your trip!
You can find general info about typical foods in Italy here.

Is Lago di Como an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Lago di Como can be an expensive destination for tourists, especially during peak tourist season (June to August). The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can be quite high compared to other destinations in Italy. However, there are ways to keep costs down, such as traveling during the shoulder season (April to May and September to October) and staying in budget-friendly accommodations or self-catering apartments. It's also worth noting that some activities and attractions, such as hiking and visiting public gardens, are free or inexpensive.

Where to find accomodation in Lago di Como

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Lago di Como would be: 1. Como: This city offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. It's also a great base for exploring the lake.
2. Bellagio: This picturesque town is located in the middle of the lake and is known for its beautiful gardens, villas, and spectacular views. It offers a range of accommodation options, including charming guesthouses, cozy apartments, and luxury hotels.
3. Varenna: This romantic town is located on the eastern shore of the lake and offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. It has a few great hotels and guesthouses.
4. Menaggio: This town is located on the western shore of the lake and offers a variety of accommodation options, from campsites to luxury villas.
Overall, all areas around the lake offer great scenery and sightseeing opportunities.
You can check hotel prices at Lago di Como here:
Booking.com

Is Lago di Como a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Lago di Como is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, it is important to take basic safety precautions to avoid any potential problems. This includes being aware of your surroundings, keeping valuables in a secure place, and avoiding poorly lit or secluded areas at night. It is also recommended to use reputable transportation and accommodation services. If you have any concerns or need assistance, it is always best to contact local authorities or seek help from your hotel or tour operator. Overall, Lago di Como is a popular and beautiful destination that attracts millions of visitors each year.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Italy here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Lago di Como.

What type of travelers will enjoy Lago di Como the most?

Lago di Como is a destination for all kinds of travelers. It is a popular destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway and families seeking a relaxing vacation. The lake area offers a range of activities for both adults and children. For couples, the lake's natural beauty makes it a perfect setting for a romantic escape. You can take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque villages, enjoy a boat ride, visit the historic villas and gardens, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views.
For young people looking for fun, Lago di Como offers a variety of outdoor activities such as watersports, hiking, and cycling. The lake area also has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs to keep you entertained.
Families with kids will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and kid-friendly activities such as beach fun, paddle boating, and visiting nearby theme parks. Overall, anyone who appreciates stunning natural scenery, outdoor activities, history, and culture will enjoy visiting Lago di Como.

How to get around Lago di Como

The most common and convenient way to move around Lago di Como is by using ferry boats or hydrofoils. They offer a scenic view of the lake and stop at different towns along the shore, making it easy to explore the area. Additionally, buses and trains are available in some areas around the lake. However, keep in mind that driving can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads and limited parking options.

What to see around Lago di Como

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Lago di Como: 1. Bellagio: Known as the Pearl of Lake Como, this picturesque town offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It's also known for its historic gardens, boutique shops, and charming streets.
2. Varenna: Another picturesque town along Lake Como, Varenna is known for its colorful houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautiful villas. You can take a walk along the lakefront promenade or explore the medieval Castello di Vezio.
3. Bergamo: This historic town is located just an hour's drive from Lake Como and is known for its well-preserved old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a stroll through the town's narrow alleys, visit the Romanesque Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, or explore the museums and art galleries.
4. Milan: The fashion capital of Italy, Milan is just an hour's drive from Lake Como and has plenty to offer, from world-famous landmarks like the Duomo and La Scala opera house to designer boutiques and trendy restaurants.
5. Lugano: Located just over the border in Switzerland, Lugano is a beautiful town on the shores of Lake Lugano. You can explore the town's historic center, take a boat tour of the lake, or visit the natural park Monte San Salvatore for panoramic views of the Alps.
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