Top Experiences in Lake Como

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
5.0
(2)
6 hours
·
Private group
Explore Lake Como and its incredible scenery with a cable car, boat, and foot tour. Then, explore Brunate and visit Torno to admire the city from above. Learn the history and interesting facts about the lake while walking in the surrounding woods and tasting some local delicacies with a delicious picnic lunch.Start at the funicular station in Como and ride up the cable train to Brunate, known as the “beautiful balcony of Como.” Along the way, your guide will share some local insight about the city, lake, and surrounding mountains, which can only be truly understood and appreciated from atop the hill. Next, enjoy a scenic and easy hike beloved by tourists and locals alike. You’ll pass through the area’s breathtaking landscapes, mysterious boulders, and pendulous stones, making your way to an ancient village. The hike is a perfect way to enjoy Lake Como at a more leisurely pace that’s both relaxing and fun. Finally, you’ll cross the mountains of Blevio, Sorto, and Cazzannoro and arrive at Monte Piatto. Nearby, you’ll find the so-called Pietra Pendula, a large erratic boulder that seems to lean on another smaller stone precariously. After a delicious picnic lunch filled with local and regional delicacies, you’ll continue toward the small village of Piazzaga, where you’ll discover the mysterious Massi Avelli (stone tombs). Then descend to the picturesque village of Torno overlooking the lake, and return to Como by boat.Read more about unique and interesting experiences in the...
Truffles, traditionally served shaved over pasta
4.5
(2)
3 hours
·
Private group
Enjoy exploring the picturesque city of Como on a delicious food and wine tour, an experience ideal for quality food lovers! As you follow your guide through the quaint streets of the city’s historic center, you’ll taste exquisite food and savor fine wines and cocktails. You’ll visit three of the city’s best gastronomic locations, sampling various Italian specialties, wines, Apertivo, and more.As a curious foodie, perhaps you’ve wondered what happens beyond pizza and pasta in Italian gastronomy. On this tour, not only will you sample those signature Italian staples from high-quality ingredients, but you’ll also discover some of the region’s most important delicacies. For wine lovers, enjoy tasting the beloved wines from the Lombardy region and across northern Italy. Learn about these delicate varietals and the importance of the area and its soil composition. To end your food and wine tour, you’ll visit a special and traditional gelateria in Como.Read more about unique and interesting activities in the Northern Lakes Region and other culinary experiences in Italy.
2.0
(1)
3.5 hours
·
Small group
Enjoy an authentic cruise and discover the secret corners of enchanting Lake Como. As you glide through the water, you’ll savor breathtaking views over the lake, admire its architectural wonders and villas, and stop to taste local delicacies and wine while getting lost in Bellagio's charming streets. Known as “the most visited town,” Bellagio has attracted visitors since the Renaissance, thanks to its ideal position where many industries, including the silk industry, flourished.The best way to experience Lake Como is with a cruise. From Piazza Cavour in Como’s historical center, your guide will lead you to your boat and set off along the romantic coastline. Enjoy the natural splendor and admire the lake’s luxurious villas as your guide shares insight into why Lake Como has a global reputation of elegance and nobility. Listen to the thrilling tales of fortresses and castles, furious naval battles, and crowned monarchs who built spectacular villas with large Baroque or Romantic gardens. You’ll also learn about Julius Caesar, who founded Novum Comum (Como city).Along the way, you’ll view many famous villas, such as Villa Olmo, Villa D’Este, Villa Versace, Villa del Balbianello, and Villa Carlotta. Look closely to admire the lush botanical gardens that several villas feature, plus the charming details within towns like Cernobbio and Tremezzo. It’s a must-do to stop at the “pearl of the region,” Bellagio. Bellagio attracts visitors from all around the world yet still maintains...
Old stone houses in the village of Cadenabbia
2 hours
·
Private group
Discover the most beautiful towns and historical villas on Lake Como with a non-stop boat cruise. Choose from either the north or south route that traverse the lakefront. With either option, you’ll enjoy scenic landscapes, charming details of lakeside towns, lush gardens, mountain views, and grand mansions.If you take the North tour, you’ll pass the scenic towns of Bellagio, Tremezzo, and Varenna, plus Comacina Island, the famous Villa Carlotta, and Villa Balbianello. On the South tour, you’ll see some of the most beautiful villas of Lake Como, including Villa Erba, Villa D’Este, Villa Fontanelle (former Versace home), Villa Pliniana, Villa Oleandra (George Clooney’s mansion), and Villa Balbianello. In addition, enjoy stunning views of Comacina Island, the Roman Bridge of Nesso, a cascading waterfall, and the majestic Alps in the background.Read more about unique and interesting experiences in the Northern Lakes Region.
Waiting for a boat ride at Bellagio pier
8 hours
·
Private group
Discover the beauty of Lake Como by exploring the charming lakeside villages of Varenna and Bellagio. Along the way, you’ll view some of the most extravagant villas with their exquisite botanical gardens. You’ll start in Bellagio, renowned for its grand estates and scenic shoreline. Stroll through the village and observe impressive buildings and picture-perfect cobblestone lanes lined with cafes and shops. Make a stop at the botanical gardens of Villa Serbelloni and the neoclassical Villa Melzi. Both feature spectacular rare and exotic plants and a Japanese pond. These were once the residences of Francesco Melzi d’Eril, vice president of the Italian Republic during the Napoleon era. Spend some time enjoying the views of Lake Como from the elegant terraces and gardens. Next, jump on the ferry and cross the lake to Varenna. As you stroll along the quaint cobbled streets, stop at Piazza San Giorgio square in the center. Here you'll see the Church of San Giorgio and its locally sourced marble paving. Follow some of the narrow passageways just off the square, lined with small artisan shops selling leather and other local products. Varenna has many beautiful and extravagant villas built by wealthy families. Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi attract visitors each year, and the latter is now a luxury hotel. Both villas are famed for their botanical gardens containing many rare plant species, including cypress trees. You can enjoy lunch at one of the villa hotels or in the town...
Villa Monastero
3 hours
·
Small group
Discover the charming lakeside town of Varenna with its grand Villa Monastero, and taste some of the best local products, such as wine and cheese. You'll start with a quick, 20-minute ferry from Bellagio. As you glide across the water, admire the natural scenery, enjoy the colorful harbors, and listen to your guide explain the history of Varenna. For many, Varenna is Lake Como’s hidden gem. This compact and photogenic city dates back to the 8th century, revealing ancient cobblestone alleys and endless views over the lake and its surrounding mountains. Varenna will welcome you with trendy waterfront restaurants, a charming harbor, and twisting medieval lanes. Less crowded and touristy than other towns on Lake Como, you’ll enjoy the Passeggiata Degli Innamorati, the Varenna Walk of Lovers. As you meander the streets and alleyways, you’ll stop to taste Italian wines and cheeses at two different locations. Then enjoy a traditional Aperitivo (drink and light snacks) with the locals.The tour ends with a visit to Villa Monastero’s beautiful botanical gardens. Enjoy a relaxing moment in front of the lake and admire the variety of exotic plants adorning the villa.Read more about unique and interesting activities in the Northern Lakes Region of Italy.
0.5 hours
·
Private group
Fly over Lake Como with a seaplane, admire the beauty of the Lake from a unique perspective, and feel the vibrations on the most ancient seaplane school of the world! Aeroclub Como, founded in 1930, is an institution in the Lakes District since it hosts one of the most important hangars for seaplanes. The AeroClub offers the chance to take lessons by seaplane or join private or group flights above Lake Como. Experience the pleasure of being in the cockpit, observing the instrument panel, and helping guide the aircraft. Land on Lake Como anywhere you want and live an experience in the air like never before!Read more about unique and interesting activities in the Northern Lakes Region.

Experiences in Lake Como, Italy

Beautiful Lake Como
Top Experiences in the Northern Lakes Region: Lake Como & Lake Garda

Italy has its fair share of beautiful lakes, but the most popular area to relax along freshwater is the Northern Lakes District. Here, you'll find the big three: Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore (amongst others). Of all the scenic pools, Como and Garda steal the show with their dramatic mountainous surroundings, posh grand villas, and elaborate garden terraces. You can explore impressive waterfront castles, charming cobbled streets in historic villages, and even the famed Amarone wine region.

Milan's Impressive Duomo
Best Things to Do in Milan

Known as a global fashion capital, this historic city is much more than high-end shopping. Its reputation sprouts from a fashion heritage dating back generations. You'll find authentic shops honoring the exceptional "Made in Italy" label selling everything from handmade bags to shoes to watches, clothing, and more. But Milan also offers a fascinating history with incredible architecture and the third-largest church globally, the Duomo. Attend an opera, visit the nearby Lakes District, or join the locals by bar-hopping for an evening Apertivo.

Learn more about Lake Como : Best of Lake Como
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