Lake Como is shaped like an upside-down Y, with the town of Como at the southwest tip, Lecco at the southeast and a tangle of small villages in between. The most scenic stretch is the central part around Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio.
Our top pick: Lake Como: 4-Hour Boat Tour with Stops in Bellagio and Varenna
Top things to do
- Ferry-hop between the villages: short crossings link Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Cadenabbia; buy tickets at the pier.
- Bellagio: stepped lanes of boutiques and cafés on the promontory where the lake splits.
- Varenna: a pastel village with a lakeside walk and villa gardens.
- Villa gardens: several historic villas open their terraced gardens to visitors in the warm months (check opening days online).
- Como old town and Brunate: a funicular climbs from Como to the hilltop village of Brunate for a wide lake view.
- Boat tour past the villas: a shared or private cruise is the easiest way to see the grand houses from the water.
- Walk the Greenway: a gentle lakeside path on the western shore.
Lake Como: 4-Hour Boat Tour with Stops in Bellagio and Varenna
Cruise past the villas with time in both villages. 4.7/5 from over 540 reviews.
Como Lake: Boat Tour with a Visit to Bellagio and Varenna
A shorter shared cruise from Como. 4.6/5 from over 210 reviews.
From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, Varenna and Private Boat Tour
A guided day from Milan. 4.3/5 from over 1,100 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Go early or stay overnight: day-trippers from Milan fill Bellagio from late morning. An overnight stay lets you see the villages in the quiet early and evening hours.
Where to stay
Choose Bellagio for the classic view, Varenna for a calm village feel, or Como for the easiest train connection to Milan. See our guides to Bellagio and Varenna.
Check hotel prices on Lake Como
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to see Lake Como?
By boat. Public ferries link the main villages, and guided boat tours pass the villas and stop for time in places like Bellagio and Varenna.
How many days do you need at Lake Como?
Two to three days lets you visit several villages without rushing. A day trip from Milan is possible but short.
Which village is best for a first visit?
Bellagio and Varenna are the most popular, and are linked by a short ferry crossing, so you can see both in one day.
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