Best of Como

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Como
Tucked at the base of Italy's stunning Alps, the city of Como is a captivating jewel that enchants visitors with its natural and architectural beauty. The historic town is nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Como, where elegant villas and lush gardens adorn the waterfront. Winding cobblestone streets lead through lively piazzas to the impressive Como Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic masterpiece. Surrounded by towering mountains, the area offers sweeping views and a peaceful ambiance, perfect for leisurely walks and outdoor exploration. With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking scenery, Como is a true Italian paradise.
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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.

Como, Lake Como
Map of Historic Milan & Romantic Lake Como - 6 Days
Historic Milan & Romantic Lake Como - 6 Days

This 6-day trip will immerse you in the bustling local life of Milan and the beauty of one of the grandest lakes in Northern Italy, Lake Como. Visit the villages of Como and Bellagio and be charmed by grand villas, romantic sunsets, and scenic boat rides. In Milan, explore the history of art at the Gothic Cathedral and see Da Vinci's Renaissance masterpiece "The Last Supper", and enjoy apertivos in vibrant neighborhoods.

Colorful Cinque Terre
Map of Nature in Italy: Lake Como & Cinque Terre - 5 Days
Nature in Italy: Lake Como & Cinque Terre - 5 Days

Explore Northern Italy's natural charm starting with Lake Como, where you'll take a boat tour of its extravagant shore lined with mansions. Ride the funicular to the scenic vista in Brunate where you'll catch a panoramic view of Como and the stunning surrounding nature. Transfer to colorful Cinque Terre, where you'll hike from one seaside village to another while enjoying breathtaking sunsets and views of the Ligurian Sea.

Bellagio, Lake Como
Map of Exploring The Villages of Lake Como - 5 Days
Exploring The Villages of Lake Como - 5 Days

Explore three beautiful villages of Lake Como on a quick 5-day trip to Northern Italy. Learn about the history of Como during a guided tour of  Villa Olmo and the Basilica of San Fedele. Take a scenic ferry ride to travel to the traditional village of Varenna. Learn about the significance of iconic villas including Villa Monastero in Varenna, then hop across to Bellagio by boat to visit the botanical gardens of Villa Serbelloni and the neoclassical Villa Melzi.

Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore
Map of Historic Milan & Romantic Lake Como - 5 Days
Historic Milan & Romantic Lake Como - 5 Days

With this quick 5-day trip, discover Milan and the grandeur of Lake Como. Experience elegant villas, charming cobblestone lanes, and romantic gardens in Bellagio, explore the historic center of the town of Como, and take in the views from a funicular at sunset. Delve into centuries of Italian history at Milan's Duomo, admire Da Vinci's masterpiece "The Last Supper", and get a feel for local life in the capital of Italian culture.

Bellagio lakeshore
Map of Discover Milan & Italy's Lakes Region - 8 Days
Discover Milan & Italy's Lakes Region - 8 Days

If spending eight days soaking in the sunshine and views of Italy's lakes district sounds like a dream come true, this relaxed trip is for you. Explore Milan's fashion and cultural capital, with time to go shopping and enjoy the buzzing nightlife. Spend five days on the lake, enjoying leisurely afternoons by the water, trips to the spectacular Dolomite mountains, and touring Napoleon-era villas of Italy's rich and famous.

Lake Maggiore
Map of Historic Milan, Romantic Lake Como & Charming Lake Maggiore - 8 Days
Historic Milan, Romantic Lake Como & Charming Lake Maggiore - 8 Days

On this 8-day trip, you'll get to explore the cultural capital of Milan as well as two of the most beautiful lakes in Northern Italy. Discover Milan's Renaissance art and Gothic architecture with visits to the Duomo and Da Vinci's "The Last Supper" painting. Explore the villages of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore by boat. Visit the magnificent villas in Bellagio and learn how to make fresh pasta in Como. On Lake Maggiore, hop from the charming town of Stresa to Isola Bella, "the beautiful island". Ride a cable car and enjoy panoramic views over the lake at sunset.

Ancient City of Florence, Italy
Nature in Italy: Lake Como, Cinque, Terre Florence - 6 Days

This 6-day tour is perfect for those wanting to relax on the peaceful shores of Lake Como while still tackling Italy's impressive history. You'll hike the villages of Cinque Terre and enjoy the ancient cities of Parma and Florence, where you'll discover endless monuments, art galleries, and museums, including the Accadmia Gallery to see the David. After reveling in the scenic vistas of Levanto on the Ligurian Sea, explore vibrant neighborhoods in Florence, where you'll eat late into the night in buzzy neighborhoods.

Villa Carlotta, Lake Como
Map of Exploring The Villages of Lake Como - 6 Days
Exploring The Villages of Lake Como - 6 Days

This 6-day trip will take you through the beautiful villages of Lake Como in Northern Italy. Learn about the history of Como's cathedral and the silk industry at Museo Didattico della Seta. Stay in the traditional village of Varenna and visit the iconic Villa Monastero. Travel across the lake by boat to wander the cobbled streets of Bellagio and round off the trip with free time to discover Villa Mylius Vigoni in Menaggio.

Dramatic Skies over Lake Maggiore
Map of Discover Milan and Italy's Lakes Region - 11 Days
Discover Milan and Italy's Lakes Region - 11 Days

Spend eleven days visiting the fashion and culture capital of Milan and relaxing on Italy's northern lakes. See world-famous art by da Vinci and shop for luxury items in the city, then head to the countryside for 8 days of sunshine. Explore sprawling summer villas and take a pasta-making class on Lake Como, then tour medieval castles and see Juliet's balcony in Verona near Lake Garda.

Inside the dome of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in the historic heart of Milan
Map of Discover Milan & Italy's Lakes Region - 9 Days
Discover Milan & Italy's Lakes Region - 9 Days

This packed nine-day itinerary is the perfect blend of metropolitan culture and a relaxed lake vibe. Start in Milan, the fashion capital, to see world-famous art and medieval churches. Head to the countryside for a week of exploring lakeside villages and villas, swimming, and market shopping for picnic lunches. From wine tasting to paragliding, Italy's Lakes are waiting to be explored.

Lake Maggiore
Map of Historic Milan, Romantic Lake Como & Charming Lake Maggiore - 9 Days
Historic Milan, Romantic Lake Como & Charming Lake Maggiore - 9 Days

On this 9-day trip starting and ending in Milan, discover two of the most beautiful lakes in Northern Italy. Explore Lake Como by boat, and visit the elegant villas in the villages of Como and Bellagio. On Lake Maggiore, be charmed by the picturesque town of Stresa and the island of Isola Bella, and enjoy panoramic views over the lake with a cable car ride. While in Milan, hit all the highlights including the Duomo and Da Vinci's "The Last Supper" painting.

 Lake Carezza in the Dolomites
Map of Discover Milan and Italy's Lakes Region - 7 Days
Discover Milan and Italy's Lakes Region - 7 Days

Explore Northern Italy's Lakes district on this weeklong getaway trip. Tour the Royal Palace, see art in the Castello Sforzesco, and enjoy the nightlife on Milan's Navigli canals. See da Vinci's The Last Supper, then head to Lake Como and Lake Garda to enjoy small lakeside villages, sprawling summer villas, and a day trip to the Dolomite Mountains.

Romantic town of Verona
Map of Discover Milan & Italy's Lakes Region - 10 Days
Discover Milan & Italy's Lakes Region - 10 Days

From sophisticated Milan to leisurely Bellagio, this 10-day itinerary of Northern Italy is the perfect getaway. See da Vinci's "The Last Supper" and take in the buzzing Milan nightlife, then visit Lakes Como and Garda for a spectacular week on the water. Rent a kayak, go for an afternoon stroll through a sprawling lakeside estate and garden, and take a day trip to the Dolomite Mountains with a visit to the charming Tyrolian village of Ortisei.

Villa Cernobbio, Lake Como
Map of Exploring The Villages of Lake Como - 7 Days
Exploring The Villages of Lake Como - 7 Days

Enjoy 7 days exploring romantic Lake Como in Italy's Lake District. Take a guided tour of Como, visit Villa Olmo park, and ride up to Brunate on the funicular railway for unrivaled views across the lake. Walk the Greenway of Lake Como, a 6-mile route along the lakeside, and stop at Villa Balbianello in Lenno. Hop across the lake by boat to wander the cobbled streets and botanical gardens in Varenna and Bellagio.

Lake Maggiore
Map of Discover Milan and the Italian Lakes - 13 Days
Discover Milan and the Italian Lakes - 13 Days

Thirteen is considered a lucky number in Italy, so take time off and explore Northern Italy for thirteen days. Take in the history and amazing street food in Milan, then head to beautiful Lake Como for a week of sunshine, sprawling lakeside gardens, and wine tasting. Continue to Lakes Maggiore and Garda for Sunday mornings at the market, Napoleon-era villas, and the stunning Dolomite Mountains.

Overlooking Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore
Map of Historic Milan, Romantic Lake Como & Charming Lake Maggiore - 7 Days
Historic Milan, Romantic Lake Como & Charming Lake Maggiore - 7 Days

During this 7-day trip, you'll experience the best of Milan and explore two of the most amazing lakes in Northern Italy, Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. Discover the picturesque villages of Bellagio and Como, and visit elegant villas, historic churches, and ride a funicular to mountaintop Brunate at sunset. On Lake Maggiore, stay in the charming town of Stresa, and enjoy a boat ride to Isola Bella, "the beautiful island". In Milan, delve into Italian culture, history, and art when visiting the Gothic Duomo and hip neighborhoods.

Lake Garda
Map of Discover Milan and Italy's Lakes Region - 14 Days
Discover Milan and Italy's Lakes Region - 14 Days

Spend two relaxing weeks enjoying art, culture, and food. Shop for treasures at the Quadrilatero della Moda district and join the locals at the Navigli canals for high-energy nightlife in Milan. Spend four days on peaceful Lake Como, touring sleepy fishing harbors and learning to make the perfect pasta dish. Visit serene lakeside estates on Lake Maggiore, then end on Lake Garda for award-winning wine tasting and Tyrolean charm.

Town of Varenna on Lake Como
Map of Discover Milan and Italy's Lakes Region - 15 Days
Discover Milan and Italy's Lakes Region - 15 Days

Get away from the hustle and bustle on this 15-day Lakes District itinerary. See da Vinci's "The Last Supper" and catch a football game in Milan, then enjoy the city's buzzing nightlife. Tour resplendent summer villas on Lake Como, shop flea markets on Lake Maggiore, then end your trip on Lake Garda, where sunny beaches, charming Tyrolean villages, and the Valpolicella wine region await.

Lake Como
Map of Exploring The Villages of Lake Como - 8 Days
Exploring The Villages of Lake Como - 8 Days

Spend 8 days exploring the villages of Lake Como, at the heart of the Lake District. Begin in the main town of Como with a guided tour of the 14th-century Cathedral of Como and Villa Olmo park. Travel by boat to Tremezzina and walk through charming villages along the Greenway of Lake Como. Discover the elegance and history of villas and botanical gardens in Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio.

The Colorful Village of Vernazza, Cinque Terre
History and Nature in Italy: From Lake Como to Rome - 8 days

Explore the historical heritage of Italy combined with its natural splendor, starting with the scenic areas of Lake Como and Cinque Terre, where you'll cruise the shore by boat and hike from village to village. Stop in Parma to learn the secrets of world-famous prosciutto curing and discover the hidden side of Pisa beyond its leaning tower. End your trip in the ancient cities of Florence and Rome, where private tours will guide you to all the best monuments, museums, and art galleries, including the Accademia Gallery, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and the Roman Forum.

Beautiful Lake Como, Italy
History and Nature in Italy: Venice to Rome - 12 Days

From a romantic gondola ride in Venice to exploring ancient ruins in Rome, this 12-day tour is the perfect harmony of history and nature. Aside from Venice and Rome, you'll also discover the ancient cities of Pisa, Florence, and Parma by sampling the region's famed prosciutto, visiting monuments and museums, eating traditional dishes in hip neighborhoods, and encountering some of Italy's most treasured art. Enjoy the country's natural charm with boat rides and scenic hikes in Lake Como, and walking from one colorful village to another in beautiful Cinque Terre.

Town of Bellagio
Map of Discover Milan and Italy's Lakes Region - 12 Days
Discover Milan and Italy's Lakes Region - 12 Days

This twelve-day itinerary in Northern Italy is perfect for adventurous travelers with some time to spare. Start in Milan, the fashion and cultural capital, to see world-famous art and shop for luxury and designer items. Explore botanical gardens and family restaurants in Bellagio, then tour the Borromean Islands and browse the lakeside market in Lake Maggiore. End at Lake Garda for a Dolomite day excursion and wine tasting.

Panoramic View of Como, Italy
History and Nature in Italy: From Lake Como to Rome - 9 Days

Find the perfect balance of Italy's history and natural beauty on this tour, starting with boat rides and scenic vistas on Lake Como before heading to the scenic hills of Cinque Terre, where you'll hike from one colorful village to another. Transfer to Pisa and Florence, meandering the cobblestone streets in search of endless monuments, museums, and art galleries, including the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and The David. End your trip with a private tour of Vatican City and Ancient Rome, all while enjoying traditional dishes in Rome's hip and buzzy neighborhoods. 

Beautiful Florence by Night
History and Nature in Italy: Venice to Rome - 13 Days

Your exploration of Italy's historical and natural charm starts in the streets of Venice and continues through the ancient cities of Parma, Pisa, Florence, and Rome, where you'll discover museums, art galleries, monuments, and more. Enjoy a sunset gondola ride, a private food tour, traditional dishes in hip neighborhoods, and a guided visit to Vatican City and the Roman Forum. Trade bustling city centers for outdoor experiences like boat tours and day hikes in Lake Como, as well as the unforgettable memory of traversing colorful villages in Cinque Terre.

Cinque Terre, Italy
Map of History and Nature in Italy: Venice to Rome - 14 Days
History and Nature in Italy: Venice to Rome - 14 Days

Combine the historical splendor of Italy with its natural charm in this 14-day tour, highlighting the ancient cities of Venice, Pisa, Florence, and Rome with sunset gondola rides, regional dishes in local neighborhoods, and guided walking tours, plus visits to many museums, art galleries, and monuments. Enjoy tasting wine in the picturesque hills of Tuscany, plus guided tours of Siena, Vatican City, and the Roman Forum. Swap lively city centers for outdoor experiences in Lake Como and Cinque Terre, like boat tours, day hikes, and traversing the seaside in search of colorful villages.

Lake Maggiore
Map of Historic Milan, Romantic Lake Como & Charming Lake Maggiore - 10 Days
Historic Milan, Romantic Lake Como & Charming Lake Maggiore - 10 Days

During this 10-day trip, you'll experience the best of Milan and visit two of the most beautiful lakes in Northern Italy. Admire the mix of Gothic and Renaissance art and architecture in Milan, and taste local street food. On Lake Como, enjoy a guided tour of the traditional lakeside villages of Varenna and Bellagio, and take the scenic route by boat to the town of Como and visit its cathedral. On Lake Maggiore, discover the picturesque town of Stresa and the island of Isola Bella, and take a cable car ride for views out over the lake at sunset.

Streets of Rome and Vatican City
History and Nature in Italy: Venice to Rome - 15 Days

Spend two weeks exploring the historical and natural charm of Italy, focusing on the highlights of ancient cities like Venice, Pisa, Florence, and Rome, where you'll enjoy sunset gondola rides, guided tours, traditional meals in hip neighborhoods, and endless visits to museums, art galleries, and monuments. Travel in style with private, guided tours of the medieval city of Siena, the Chianti Wine Region, Vatican City, and the Roman Forum. Swap the bustle of city life for solitude in Lake Como and Cinque Terre, enjoying boat tours, day hikes, and traversing the seaside in search of colorful villages.

Charming Streets of Rome, Italy
History and Nature in Italy: Venice to Rome - 11 Days

Perfect for those looking to explore Northern Italy's range of historical and natural charm, this 11-day trip visits important sites in Venice, Pisa, Florence, and Rome, plus Lake Como and Cinque Terre. Enjoy your trip in style with private guides and transportations ensuring your discovery of museums, art galleries, and monuments, as well as the region's famous prosciutto. Satisfy your bucket list with a gondola ride at sunset, authentic meals in hip neighborhoods, a boat tour of Lake Como's famed mansions, and an incredible hike from one Cinque Terre village to another.

Florence at Sunset
History and Nature in Italy: From Lake Como to Rome - 7 Days

An excellent combination of nature and history, this tour starts on the shores of picturesque Lake Como before heading to the colorful hills of Cinque Terre. Enjoy relaxing on the waterfront and hiking from one colorful village to another. End the tour in the ancient cities of Florence and Rome, where private guides will take you through the historical streets to the best art galleries, museums, and monuments, including the Vatican Museums, the Roman Forum, and the Accademia Gallery to see the David.

The Evening Glow of Ancient Rome
History and Nature in Italy: Venice to Rome - 10 Days

Combing nature, history, and culture, this Italian tour takes you through the ancient cities of Venice, Pisa, Florence, and Rome, plus Lake Como and Cinque Terre, all with luxury private transfers and guides. Enjoy meandering through museums, art galleries, and monuments, as well as trying the regions famous prosciutto, riding a gondola at sunset, and discovering hip neighborhoods. Relax on the shores of Lake Como before settling in Cinque Terre, where you'll hike from one village to another.

Bellagio reflected in Lake Como in northern Italy
Map of Explore Northern Italy from Milan - 5 Days
Explore Northern Italy from Milan - 5 Days

Explore Northern Italy's cities and landscapes in this packed five-day trip. Start in Milan, the fashion, culture, and business capital of Italy, to see the 16th-century Royal Palace-turned-art museum and enjoy the buzzing nightlife at the Navigli canals. Continue to Lake Como to enjoy a day on the lake and a trip on the funicular to see views of the snow-capped Alps. End in Bologna and Turin to explore medieval churches, the National Cinema Museum, and endless cafés and aperitivo bars.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping mall
Map of The Best of Milan & Lake Como - 5 Days
The Best of Milan & Lake Como - 5 Days

Explore the best of Northern Italy on this 5-day trip to Milan and Lake Como. Milan is a city full of Rennaissance art and historic architecture, as you'll experience as you visit its famous Gothic Duomo and other highlights. Learn how to make fresh pasta and Italian cocktails during a cooking class, and take a day trip to Lake Como and visit the beautiful villages of Bellagio, Varenna, and Como.

Santa Lucia Archway in Bologna
Discover Northern Italy, From Florence to Milan - 12 Days

Discover the best of Italy's northern regions, starting in the medieval city of Florence, with guided walking tours and wine tastings in Tuscany. Make your way through San Marino and the coastal cities of Riccione and Ravena before heading into Emilia-Romagna for a culinary exploration through Bologna and Parma. Take a cooking class and learn how to identify wine with a sommelier, then enjoy exploring the extravagant shores of Lake Como and the fashion-focused streets of Milan.

Piazza Duomo, Milan
Map of The Best of Milan, Parma, & Lake Como - 6 Days
The Best of Milan, Parma, & Lake Como - 6 Days

Explore the best of Northern Italy on this 6-day trip to Milan and Lake Como. Start your trip in Milan to learn about Rennaissance art and history, and discover the secrets of making your own homemade pasta and classic cocktails from a local expert. Spend a day in Parma eating prosciutto and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, then escape the city with a day trip to the villages of Bellagio and Varenna on Lake Como, before heading home from Milan.

Milan Duomo
Map of Venice to Milan via the Lakes Region - 8 Days
Venice to Milan via the Lakes Region - 8 Days

Travel across Italy from Venice to Milan with this 8-day itinerary. Discover why so many people fall in love with Venice as you take a tour of the canal network and St Mark's Square and explore the Cannaregio district. Experience the Italian lakes district as you stay on Lake Garda and enjoy day trips to the village of Malcesine and a guided tour of two of Lake Como's most spectacular villages. In Milan, learn about the history of the Gothic Duomo and Renaissance art on a city tour led by a local expert.

Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta in Aquileia
Map of Explore Northern Italy: Trieste, Venice, Milan, Bologna, & More - 14 Days
Explore Northern Italy: Trieste, Venice, Milan, Bologna, & More - 14 Days

One of Italy's biggest attractions has always been its food, and you can sample plenty of it over the course of these two weeks. You'll relax by the seaside, walk through former Roman cities, and hike over mountains as you make your way to various tasting and art experiences to satisfy all of your sense.

Grado Lagoon
Map of Explore Northern Italy: Trieste, Venice, Milan, & More - 13 Days
Explore Northern Italy: Trieste, Venice, Milan, & More - 13 Days

The Friuli Venezia Giulia region and its neighbors are a work of art in themselves, but you can explore some of its smaller properties as well on this 13-day trip. Study the art of mosaic-making, visit  Roman ruins at Aquileia, and hike the mountain scenery of the Carso Ridge before you leave the region for its neighbors. Then seek out Da Vinci's works in Milan and handmade traditions in Venice before you return home.

Bologna Cafés
Map of Food & Wine in Bologna, Milan & Turin - 9 Days
Food & Wine in Bologna, Milan & Turin - 9 Days

On this 9-day food and wine itinerary, indulge in Italy's best regional produce. You'll start in Bologna and Parma sampling the high-quality cured meats and cheeses sold in bustling markets, as well as exploring iconic buildings and piazzas. Move on to the foodie-friendly city of Mila and, wander the Navigli District, enjoying aperitivos with locals along the canals. Take a day trip out to Lake Como for a relaxing tour of the villages and a boat ride. End your trip in the Piedmont region, origin of the Slow Food movement, and go on a full-day wine tasting experience in the Langhe Hills.

Other popular travel destinations in Italy
Tuscany · Rome · Florence · Venice · Amalfi Coast · Sicily · Milan · Naples · Sorrento · Palermo · Italian Riviera · Lake Como · Lake Garda · Taormina · Verona · Syracuse · Cinque Terre · Siena · Emilia Romagna · Capri · Bologna · Agrigento · Piedmont · Chianti · Turin · San Gimignano · Bellagio · Lakes District · Catania · Umbria · Puglia · Alberobello · Lecce · Salento · Bari · Dolomites · Aeolian Islands · Bolzano · Mount Etna · Montepulciano · Ragusa · Mount Vesuvius · Sardinia · Valle d'Itria · Ostuni · Val d'Orcia · Neive · Polignano a Mare · Bolgheri · Alpe di Siusi · Valtellina · Tricase · Maremma · Barbaresco · San Cassiano (Dolomites) · Moltrasio · Mazara del Vallo · Langhe