Welcome to Lake Como, a stunning region in Northern Italy known for its beautiful lakes, charming villages, and delicious food. Whether you’re a foodie looking to sample the local cuisine or a traveler seeking breathtaking views and cultural experiences, Lake Como has something for everyone. Here is a comprehensive travel guide to the best of Lake Como, with recommendations for top villages to visit and the best restaurants in the region.
Practicalities:
Getting there & getting around:
A quick 1.5 hour flight from London to Milan and a 45 minute drive to Como. Como is accessible by train, if you choose not to drive, as driving on windy Italian roads are not for everyone. We chose to stay in the mountains, in an Airbnb, so we did need a car, so be mindful when booking your accommodation.
Forms Needed:
- NHS Vaccine Pass
- Insurance
Price:
Below is a rough guide for 2 people for a long weekend of 3 days/ 3 nights
- Hotel: £300
- Car Hire: £120
- Food: £50/PD
How Long To Stay:
We went for a weekend, I feel a long weekend of 3 to 4 days would be plenty of time to explore all of Lake Como
When To Go:
Lake Como in June is for blooming flowers and spending all day on a boat exploring the lake’s looming villas and secret coves because the weather is just that perfect.
Temperatures reach a high of about 20°C (68°F) throughout the month, but as June gets closer to July thermostats reach anywhere from 23°C to 25°C (73°F to 77°F). While the average low temperatures sit around 15°C (59°F) when the sunsets at night.
What To See & Do in Lake Como:
Top Villages to Visit:
Bellagio: Located at the tip of the “finger” of Lake Como, Bellagio is known as the “pearl of the lake.” This charming village is home to winding cobblestone streets, colorful gardens, and breathtaking views of the lake. Be sure to visit the beautiful Villa Melzi, which boasts an elegant Italianate garden with sculptures and fountains, and the historic Basilica of San Giacomo, which dates back to the 11th century.
Varenna: Located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Varenna is a picturesque village known for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and stunning views of the lake and mountains. Don’t miss the beautiful Castello di Vezio, a medieval castle perched on a hill above the village, and the Castello di Perledo, a castle with panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Tremezzo: Located on the western shore of Lake Como, Tremezzo is a charming village with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful lakeside promenade. Be sure to visit the beautiful Villa Carlotta, a grand Italianate mansion with a stunning garden and art collection, and the historic Church of San Giovanni Battista, which dates back to the 12th century
Enjoy Delicious Food
There are many incredible restaurants across the city, there is a heavy focus on seafood and Italian food, so not the most vegan friendly, but here are a few favourites you can’t miss:
Here are some of the best restaurants in Lake Como, according to locals and travelers:
Ristorante La Terrazza: Located in Bellagio, Ristorante La Terrazza is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its creative Italian cuisine and stunning lake views. The menu features dishes made with fresh, local ingredients and an extensive wine list.
La Goletta: Located in Varenna, La Goletta is a popular seafood restaurant with a menu featuring fresh fish and seafood dishes, as well as pasta, meat, and vegetarian options. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a beautiful terrace with views of the lake.
Trattoria del Porto: Located in Tremezzo, Trattoria del Porto is a family-owned restaurant with a menu featuring traditional Italian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a beautiful outdoor terrace with views of the lake.
Ristorante il Gatto Nero: Located in Menaggio, Ristorante il Gatto Nero is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its creative Italian cuisine and stunning lake views. The menu features dishes made with fresh, local ingredients and an extensive wine list.
Trattoria dei Sapori: Located in Como, Trattoria dei Sapori is a popular restaurant with a menu featuring traditional Italian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a beautiful outdoor terrace with views of the lake.
