Explore this exotic destination!
1. Spend an entire day on the lake
The biggest attraction in Lake Como is quite obviously the lake itself.
Water taxis leaving from most of the major towns offer a range of tour options – all day group tours, dinner tours, and private tours. Tour guides will point out sights on the lake – like George Clooney’s villa. Alternatively skip the guided tour and buy an all day hop-on hop-off ferry pass instead.
2. Varenna Caffe
This town easily takes the award for the most picturesque spot on the lake. Slightly less busy than its popular neighbour Bellagio, Varenna is the perfect lunch spot. Go to the Varenna Caffe and trial one of their eight different kinds of bruschetta. Look past the traditional basil and tomato, and instead try taleggio cheese and strawberry; or apricot and Brie.
3. Shop in Bellagio
As your ferry pulls into Bellagio it’s easy to understand how this town inspired one of the most famous hotels in Las Vegas. Spend the day wandering up and down the spiralled cobblestone streets. Poke your head into the various jewellery shops and boutiques. By the end of the day your bag will be filled with treasures.
4. Explore the great outdoors
After living off a diet of pizza, pasta and gelato, fitting in some physical activity to your itinerary might not sound like a bad idea. Luckily Lake Como has no shortage of outdoor pursuits to occupy visitors. For a challenge hike the 1700 metres up Monti di Tremezzo. If you don’t want to leave the lakeside, book in for a kayaking tour of the lake at the Bellagio Water Sports Kayak Club.
5. Visit Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo
If you make time to see one specific sight on Lake Como, then opt for Villa Carlotta. Stroll through the pristine gardens, and admire the magnificent architecture of the 18th century building. If you’re not lucky enough to be staying there already, take a drink break at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. This lakeside hotel lives up to its name with a pool that quite literally floats in the lake.