Top Must-See Spots at Lake Como

Our recommendations for Lake Como

Lake Come is one of the most beautiful places in Europe (or even on this planet?).

You can find scenic motives, amazing lake views and cute little towns literally everywhere! But what is the best way to explore Lake Como? How can you save money and avoid being scammed? What towns and cities should you visit around the lake? And what is totally not worth it?

We will answer you all these questions in this short guide.

Places you need to see at Lake Como

Varenna:

Varenna is in our opinion the most scenic city at Lake Como. You can walk the magic pathway at the lake, enjoy the most stunning views (it’s like on a postcard), wander the old streets of the town, visit Villa Monastero or simply enjoy a Spritz at one of the Restaurants.

Bellagio:

Bellaggio is a beauty for itself! Unfortunately, it gets very busy there most of the time.

So, try to be there as early as possible and walk away from the touristy spots, especially where the ferry leaves. Walk the beautiful old town and try to shop some unique souvenirs while walking up the hill to the other side of the city.

As Bellaggio is located between the two arms of Lake Como, you have a lake view on both sides of the city – and one even is with fewer crowds! Try to visit the gardens of Villa Melzi.

Gravedona:

Gravedona is one of the lesser-known towns around Lake Como, which makes it even more beautiful! We enjoyed stunning sunsets and refreshing Spritz there.

It is really small but definitely worth a visit!

Tremezzo:

Tremezzo is located near Menaggio and more luxurious with its beautiful hotels, private beach clubs and yachts. But it is also so so pretty! When visiting Tremezzo you should see Villa Carlotta: One of the biggest villas around Lake Como with ancient roman art and a huge botanical garden! Also, inside the villa you’ll find a museum that shows the traditional rooms where the actual owners as well as princess Carlotta lived in.

Milan:

If you have enough time, have a daytrip to Milan and enjoy the best shopping spots here!

You can go there by train directly from Varenna.

How to save money at your trip to Lake Como

Accommodation:

We experienced that Air BnBs around Lake Como are often cheaper than hotels. Also, you should stay in a lesser-known town like Gravedona to save some money for accommodation.

Restaurants:

We know, lake views are amazing! But don’t eat in Restaurants at touristy places that offer you a lake view. It’s by far way more expensive than in many other restaurants and also they charge you with the servizio extra for the view.

Try to go more off the main streets, in a lesser-known town or somewhere where no tourists are – we promise you: you pay much less and get the best and authentic Italian food. Btw: never pay more than 7€ for a Spritz!

Public transportation:

Taxi boats are crazy expensive at Lake Como. So better use the public ferry to get from point A to point B. But make sure to buy your tickets in advance online as it gets pretty crowded there.

Markets:

When you are in Italy, you have to go to a public market – it’s a must-do!

Here are the market times around Lake Como:

COMO	Tuesday, from 8 to 4 Thursday, from 8 to 4 Saturday, from 8 to 6
BELLAGIO	3rd Wednesday of the month, from 8 to 3
GRAVEDONA	1st and 3rd Wednesday, from 8 to 1
VARENNA	Wednesday, from 8 to 1
MENAGGIO	2nd and 4th Friday, from 8 to 2