Excursions
Beyond the Shore: Towns to Discover
Bellagio: The Pearl of the Lake
Widely considered the most beautiful town in Europe, Bellagio sits at the point where the three branches of the lake meet.
- Why visit: To wander the "salite" (steep stone stairways) lined with silk shops and to stroll the elegant gardens of Villa Melzi. It is the quintessential Lake Como experience.
- How to get there: Park in Lenno (just 2 minutes away) and take the 15-minute walk along the promenade to the ferry. Pro tip: Grab a gelato along the way to enjoy the lake views as you go.
Varenna: Romantic & Picturesque
Directly across the water, this ancient fishing village has a softer, more intimate feel.
- Why visit: A romantic fishing village featuring the "Lovers’ Walk" and the towering gardens of Villa Monastero.
- How to get there: Park in Lenno (just 2 minutes away) and take the 15-minute walk along the promenade to the ferry. Pro tip: Grab a gelato along the way to enjoy the lake views as you go.
Menaggio: Lakeside Charm
A vibrant town with a grand, palm-lined promenade and a classic Italian piazza.
- Why visit: It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon of dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing). Enjoy a coffee in the square or take the kids to the local mini-golf and lido.
- How to get there: A quick 10-minute drive north or a short hop on the C10 bus.
Como: The Historic Capital
Located at the southern tip of the lake, Como is a bustling city where history meets high fashion.
- Why visit: A vibrant blend of history and high-end Italian style. Wander through the walled old town, where narrow cobblestone alleys open into grand, sun-drenched piazzas filled with boutique shopping and alfresco dining. Marvel at the stunning Gothic-Renaissance Cathedral (Duomo), take a leisurely stroll along the elegant waterfront promenade, or ride the funicular up to Brunate for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the Alps.
- How to get there: For speed, take the C10 bus or drive (approx. 40 mins). For the experience, take the "Aliscafo" (fast hydrofoil) from Lenno for a dramatic 30-minute journey down the lake.
Nearby villages to discover
- Nearby Gems: Continue your journey through the local charm of Argegno, Lenno, Mezzegra, and Tremezzo—each just minutes away and home to some of our favorite local spots.
From the Lake to the City: Exploring the Region
Milan: The Global Capital of Fashion & Design
- Why visit: Just an hour away, Milan offers a sharp contrast to lake life. Stand in awe beneath the spires of the Duomo, walk the glass-domed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, or explore the world-class boutiques of the Quadrilatero della Moda.
- How to Reach by Train: Take the C10 bus (see our Timetables section) or drive 40 minutes to Como San Giovannistation. Frequent direct trains reach Milano Centrale in approximately 40 minutes. Check Trenitalia Timetables.
- How to Reach by Car: For an stress-free drive into the city, we recommend the Comasina Parking or Lampugnano Parking Hub Located near the San Siro Stadium, this is a massive, secure facility that allows you to avoid city traffic and take the Metro directly to the Duomo from either location.
- Milan Metro (subway) information: https://www.atm.it/it/Pagine/d...
Monza: Racing Legend
- Why visit: Beyond its racing legacy, Monza is a city of hidden elegance. Explore the historic town center, a sophisticated pedestrian area filled with boutique shops and alfresco dining. At its heart lies the magnificent Duomo of Monza, home to the ancient Iron Crown of Lombardy. After a morning of shopping, take a stroll through the Monza Park, one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe, offering a peaceful escape of woodland and manicured lawns.
- How to get there: By Train: Take the train from Como San Giovanni; many of the direct lines toward Milan stop in Monza, making it a very easy 30-minute journey.
- By Car: It is an easy drive down the SS36 highway (approx. 45–50 minutes). It is a perfect detour to combine with a trip to Milan or for a dedicated day of park-side relaxation.
Shopping mall: Il Centro