Things to do in Lake Como

Lake Como is a stunning Italian lake district renowned for its dramatic Alpine scenery, elegant villas, and charming lakeside villages, and while it has a luxury reputation, savvy travelers can experience its beauty by staying in smaller towns, using ferries strategically, and eating where locals do.

Solo-woman-friendlyGreat for first-timersVery safeWalkable

Why go to Lake Como

Villa del Balbianello
A jaw-dropping 18th-century villa perched on a wooded promontory with terraced gardens and iconic lake views, a cinematic masterpiece.
Varenna Village
Arguably the most enchanting village on the lake, with pastel-colored houses, narrow lanes, and postcard-perfect waterfront promenades.
Bellagio
The 'Pearl of the Lake' sits at Como's famous Y-junction, offering boutique-lined cobblestone streets and sweeping panoramic vistas.
Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como)
A stunning Gothic-Renaissance cathedral in the city of Como, free to enter and loaded with centuries of intricate art and architecture.
Brunate Funicular & Views
A short funicular ride from Como city climbs to the hilltop village of Brunate, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramas over the lake and Alps.

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Good to know in Lake Como

Transit: Use the regional Navigazione Lago di Como ferries, a day pass (~$18) beats buying individual tickets and lets you hop between villages freely; trains from Milan Centrale reach Como in 40 minutes for under $6.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Italy; rounding up or leaving €1-2 on the table at a sit-down restaurant is generous and appreciated, 15-20% American-style tips are not expected.
Tap water: Tap water is safe to drink throughout the Lake Como region; ask for 'acqua del rubinetto' to avoid paying $3-5 for bottled water at restaurants.
Free-entry days: Italian state museums and sites offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month, Villa del Balbianello is FAI-managed and has its own free days; check the FAI website before visiting.

Trip essentials

Tours & activities

Skip-the-line tickets and day trips, often cheaper booked ahead.

Data eSIM

Maps and rides the minute you land, no roaming bills.

Flight delay compensation

Delayed or cancelled flight? Claim up to 600 EUR you may be owed.

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