Is Lake Como worth visiting?

Discover Lake Como

Lake Como (Lago di Como) was formed about 10,000 years ago, when retreating glaciers carved a valley shaped like an inverted “Y”. Today, it is one of the deepest lakes in Europe - it reaches up to 410 meters, and its bottom lies more than 200 meters below sea level.

The first people settled here in the Iron Age, but life began to flourish when, in 59 BC, Julius Caesar founded the city of Novum Comum and brought 5,000 settlers. In the Middle Ages, Como became a rival of Milan. Emperor Barbarossa ordered the fortifications to be strengthened and a fleet to be built to defend the lake. The 19th and 20th centuries brought true development. Famous villas such as Villa Olmo and Villa Carlotta were built, and the stunning landscapes attracted artists and writers. Among those who created here were Byron, Wordsworth, Shelley, Tennyson, Longfellow, as well as composers such as Liszt and Verdi. Even history left its mark here - it was near Como that Benito Mussolini was captured in 1945.

Today, Lago di Como attracts tourists with the same things it did centuries ago - beauty, tranquillity, and views that stay in memory forever.

Where is Lake Como?

Lake Como is located in northern Italy, in the Lombardy region, right at the foothills of the Alps. Its shores are surrounded by picturesque mountain peaks and small, colourful towns. The landscape combines Mediterranean charm with Alpine freshness. It is difficult to believe that just 50 km to the south lies the bustling centre of Milan.

Which airport for Lake Como Italy?

The fastest way is to fly to one of the three airports near Milan:

• Malpensa (MXP) - the largest airport located about 50 km from Como,
• Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) - popular for low-cost airlines (approx. 55 km from Como)
• Linate (LIN) - a smaller airport located about 60 km from Como.

There are direct flights to Milan from many major cities worldwide, operated by both full-service and low-cost airlines.

How far Lake Como from Milan?

Getting from Milan to Lake Como is simple and tourist-friendly. The most convenient option is the train, as you do not have to worry about traffic jams, tolls on highways, or parking problems. Trains run frequently, and the journey is fast and comfortable.

From Milan, you can depart from two stations:

1. Milano Centrale - direct trains to Como San Giovanni, the journey takes about 40 minutes.
2. Milano Porta Garibaldi - trains to Como Lago or to Lecco, about 50 minutes.

Tickets can be purchased at stations from machines or ticket offices, as well as online at trenitalia.com. It is worth remembering to validate your paper ticket at the machine before boarding the train - failure to do so may result in a fine.

A car is a good option if you want to visit less accessible towns or plan further trips around Lombardy. However, you need to consider highway tolls, ZTL zones (Zona a Traffico Limitato - restricted traffic areas) in many cities, and limited parking availability.

Buses from Milan to Como run less frequently and are slower than trains, so they are usually chosen by people who want to reach specific places not accessible by train.

You can also take a Lake Como excursion from Milan. You'll visit the towns of Como and Bellagio, and even take a stunning cruise on Lake Como. Check out!

Getting around Lake Como - transport

Once you are at Lake Como, you have several options:

• ferries and boats - connect major towns such as Como, Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. It is a great way to see towns from the water and feel a bit of breeze.
• buses - tickets can be purchased on board (slightly more expensive), at stations, or via a mobile app,
• car or scooter - offers the most freedom, but requires confidence when driving on narrow, winding roads and “luck” in finding parking,
• bicycles and walking trails - there are routes of varying difficulty around Como. Keep in mind that they do not always run right along the lake; sometimes you need to move further away or even bypass a town to avoid main roads and tunnels.

Thanks to well-developed public transport, the connection between Milan and Lake Como is quick, and getting around the area is pleasant and relatively easy.

When to visit Lake Como?

Lake Como has an exceptionally mild climate for northern Italy. The large body of water acts as a natural temperature regulator - cooling in summer and warming in winter. As a result, temperatures by the lake are higher than in nearby mountain valleys, and day-to-night temperature differences are smaller. This combination allows both olives and cypresses, as well as typical mountain plants, to grow here.

Spring (March-May) - an ideal time to visit. Nature comes to life, and magnolias and camellias bloom in villa gardens. Temperatures range from 12°C in March to 20°C in May. There are definitely fewer tourists, the weather is perfect for walking, and even climbing narrow streets.

Summer (June-August) - warm, sunny days (25-30°C) are perfect for relaxing on the beach and boat trips on the lake. In July and August, Como is the most crowded, and accommodation prices are higher.

Autumn (September-November) - golden leaves on the mountain slopes create extraordinary views. September can still feel like summer, but from October, evenings become cooler.

Winter (December-February) - temperatures usually range between 5-10°C. Although it is the quietest tourist season, Como in winter has its charm: fewer crowds, festive decorations, and the possibility of skiing trips to the nearby Alps.

Does Lake Como have beaches?

Most tourists associate the Como area with boat trips and walks, but in summer, it is also a great place to swim and relax by the lake. The water is clean, and from June to August it can reach temperatures of 22-24°C. The picturesque mountain backdrop gives relaxation here an entirely different atmosphere than at the seaside.

Around the lake, you will find public beaches, private areas, and intimate hidden coves. It is important to be careful, as Lake Como is a deep lake and the bottom drops quickly.

In many towns, you will also find rentals for kayaks, pedal boats, SUP boards, and boats.

Free beaches at Lake Como

• Lungolago di Lecco (Lecco) - the most popular beach, located near the historic centre and the train station. Narrow, with golden sand and stones.
• Malgrate Beach (Lecco) - a quieter place, often overlooked by tourists. There are many stones, so it is worth bringing a sunbed and water shoes.
• Ristorante Orsa Maggiore (Lecco) - the beach is located a few kilometres from Lecco, near a restaurant. It is a peaceful, relaxing place for sunbathing.
• Spiaggia di Gravedona (Gravedona, northern part of the lake) - a long beach with a grassy area, ideal for water sports and picnics.

Paid beaches at Lake Como

• Lido di Lenno (Lenno, near Villa del Balbianello) - a beach bar with a beautiful view.
• Lido di Menaggio (Menaggio) - sunbeds, a separate entrance to the water, great for families with children.
• Lido di Cernobbio (Cernobbio, near Como) - a private pool and sunbathing area.

Why visit Lake Como? What to see at Lake Como?

In the Como area, the lake plays the main role - everything revolves around it, and the best attractions are those with a view of the water. However, you will also find more: elegant towns with historic architecture, museums, and historic villas. What to see in Como?

The most beautiful towns around Lake Como

Como

The provincial capital, known for its beautiful old town, the Duomo di Como cathedral, and defensive walls. Please keep in mind the funicular to Brunate, from where there is a spectacular view of the lake.

Bellagio

The “pearl of Como”, located at the junction of the lake’s two branches. Narrow streets, elegant boutiques, and the gardens of Villa Melzi are its trademark. The town has attracted filmmakers - “Casino Royale” and one of the “Star Wars” films were shot here.

Varenna

A romantic town with colourful buildings and the charming promenade Passeggiata degli Innamorati (“walk of lovers”). It is also worth seeing the Castello di Vezio towering above Varenna. The town has a different atmosphere from Como and Bellagio - fewer luxury hotels and more shops with local products and crafts.

Menaggio

A lively town with a promenade, old town, cafés, and a great base for boat trips on the lake.

Lecco

Larger town on the southeastern shore, known from the novel “The Betrothed” by Alessandro Manzoni and surrounded by beautiful mountains. The Funivia Piani d’Erna cable car will take you to a viewpoint over the southern part of the lake, where you will also find trekking routes and restaurants. Trains from Milan and Bergamo arrive in Lecco, making it a common “gateway” to Lake Como.

Nesso

Small town almost “embedded” into the slope of the Alps. Walking through its streets is not easy - it involves constant climbing and stairs. The effort is worth it, as the views are incredible at every step. The main attractions in Nesso are the Orrido di Nesso waterfall and the stone bridge Ponte della Civera.

Villas and gardens around Lake Como are worth seeing

In Tremezzo, it is worth visiting Villa Carlotta, which today serves as a museum. It is renowned for its extensive botanical garden filled with azaleas and rhododendrons, where you can spot small lizards basking in the sun. In the 19th century, it was gifted to the Prussian princess Maria Charlotte as a wedding present - hence the name.

In Bellagio, right on the lake shore, you will find the elegant gardens of Villa Melzi, created in the early 19th century as a summer residence of the vice president of the Kingdom of Italy, Francesco Melzi d’Eril. Designed in a neoclassical style, they impress with their geometric layout, sculptures, and exotic plants. It is an ideal place for a peaceful, romantic walk.

In Varenna, there is Villa Monastero, whose history dates back to the 12th century, when a Cistercian monastery stood here. Today, it houses a museum and a two-kilometre-long garden stretching along the lake shore, offering some of the most beautiful views of Lake Como.

In Lenno, you will find Villa del Balbianello, probably the most recognisable residence on Lake Como, known from the films “Star Wars: Attack of the Clones” and “Casino Royale”. It was built on the site of a former Franciscan monastery. Over the years, it belonged to aristocrats, travellers, and collectors until, in the 20th century, it became the property of Guido Monzino, an explorer and mountaineer, who left behind extraordinary collections. After his death, the estate was handed over to the Italian FAI foundation.

Viewpoints at Lake Como

• Brunate - above Como, accessible by funicular. The panorama of the entire lake and the Alps is truly breathtaking.
• Greenway del Lago di Como - a walking trail along the western shore of the lake, leading through small villages, olive groves, and viewpoints.
• Punta Spartivento - a place where the two branches of the lake meet, perfect for photos.

Small but unique attractions

• Orrido di Bellano - a natural gorge with walkways and waterfalls, perfect for trekking.
• Isola Comacina - an island on the lake with the ruins of a Romanesque church.

Summary - What to see at Lake Como?

Lago di Como combines natural beauty, rich history, and Italian dolce vita. Surrounded by mountains, blue water, and charming towns, it attracts both lovers of active sightseeing and those who prefer lazy days on the beach. Here you can see traces of ancient Romans, medieval castles, aristocratic residences, and locations featured in major film productions.

Each season has its charm: from spring flowers in gardens to golden autumn on mountain slopes. No matter whether you stay in lively Como, romantic Varenna, or elegant Bellagio, you will find something for yourself.