These are the most beautiful places at Lake Como
Last year, when I took a train towards Lake Como, I did it with the motto ‘we'll see’ and zero research. That turned out to be a bit naïve, because in my mind it was much smaller than in the gigantic reality, and while you can definitely do ‘we'll see’, it's handy to know what you shouldn't miss if you want to make the most of a short time. You can't tick off all the nice villages if you plan to stay only briefly. Where should you stop the car or where should you jump off the boat? These are the most beautiful places at Lake Como. Well-known and unknown villages.
Most beautiful places Lake Como
Bellagio
A no-brainer. Bellagio, often called the Pearl of Lake Como, is located at the tip of the peninsula that divides the lake in two, offering views over both the western and eastern parts of the lake. The narrow, cobbled streets are lined with boutiques, restaurants, and cafés. Unfortunately, also with tourists, because Bellagio is beautiful and a kind of hub. A highlight is Villa Melzi, a stunning villa with a lush garden full of exotic plants and sculptures.
Tremezzo
Tremezzo is known for its luxury villas, beautiful gardens, and the Wes Anderson-like hotel that I have been in love with for years: Grand Hotel Tremezzo. The main attraction is Villa Carlotta, an 18th-century villa with an impressive art collection and lush gardens famous for their flowers, especially in spring when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom. There are also plenty of walking paths here.
Varenna
I find Varenna much more beautiful than Bellagio. I asked a waiter from a local top restaurant what his favorite town was, and his answer was this picturesque and quiet fishing village, known for its colorful houses leaning against the hills. You arrive by boat just around the corner, after which you take a beautiful path along the water that is, with a bit of luck, overgrown with wisteria. A visit tip is Castello di Vezio, a medieval castle with a panoramic view of the lake and the botanical gardens of the ridiculously beautiful Villa Monastero.
Menaggio
Menaggio is a lively place on the western shore. Perhaps more of a nice village than a beautiful village by Lake Como, because there is especially a lot to do here; from water sports to golfing and hiking. The historic center has Piazza Garibaldi, surrounded by cozy cafés and shops. Also, take a walk along the Lungolago, the promenade along the lake.
Lenno
In the charming and relatively quiet Lenno, you will find one of the biggest attractions of the lake: Villa del Balbianello, a gigantic villa often used as a film location, including in James Bond's Casino Royale. Lenno also has a weekly market where you can buy local products.
More nice villages and towns by Lake Como
Nesso
The serene Nesso has narrow, winding streets and charming houses that lean against the hills. The village is particularly known for the roaring Orrido di Nesso. From this gorge, formed by the confluence of two rivers, an impressive waterfall cascades down, flowing through the village. An old stone bridge, the Ponte della Civera, fairy-tale-like crosses in front of the waterfall, from which you also have a view from the water. If you have little time, you can also just pay attention to the ferry that sails closely by.
Argegno
On the western shore of Lake Como. One of the highlights is the cable car to Pigra, a small mountain village above Argegno, where you have a fantastic view over the lake. The village below has a cozy square for a coffee stop.
Faggeto Lario
Faggeto Lario consists of a number of small hamlets built against the mountain slopes, with a beautiful view over the lake. They are not necessarily interesting themselves, but ideal for nature lovers and hikers, due to the many paths winding through the forests and mountains. The old church of San Giorgio is a sight with its historical frescoes and peaceful location.
Lezzeno
Lezzeno is an elongated village that stretches along the shore of Lake Como, between Bellagio and Argegno. It has some beautiful pebble beaches where you can swim. In addition, you can enjoy water sports such as kayaking and sailing here, and the surroundings are ideal for walks and bike rides along the lake and through the hills.
Dervio
A village on the north side of Lake Como that is perfect for water sports enthusiasts. Dervio has a long promenade along the lake and a marina where you can sail, windsurf, and kitesurf. The historic center of Dervio has narrow streets and old houses, and from the high castle of Orezia, you again have a fantastic view of the lake.
Como city
The most fashionable city on Lake Como. Here you will find everything you want to know and do in Como.
