Itinerary
Departure can be arranged from Como, various lakeside towns, or directly from private hotel docks, offering flexibility for every type of traveler.
Among the highlights is Bellagio, the renowned “Pearl of the Lake,” with its charming alleyways and grand historic villas. From here, the cruise continues to Villa del Balbianello, one of the lake’s most iconic residences, famed for its spectacular position and terraced gardens that seem to float above the water.
Throughout the route, guests can admire other emblematic locations such as Varenna—known for its pastel façades and romantic lakefront— and Tremezzo, home to the magnificent Villa Carlotta and its celebrated botanical park. Each stop offers time to explore, photograph, or enjoy a leisurely lakeside lunch.
As the day draws to a close and the lake turns golden at sunset, the experience feels nothing short of extraordinary. Lake Como, with its timeless allure, transforms a simple excursion into a treasured memory.
Tour options
Main Attractions
This guide highlights the must-see destinations for first-time visitors to Lake Como.Como is the largest town in the area and serves as the main entry point for most travelers, easily reachable by car or train. It is an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions, primarily located along the south-western branch of the lake.
Key destinations include Bellagio—one of the most famous villages, situated at the center of the lake—and Varenna, a charming town known for its pastel-colored houses. Notable villas include Villa Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, Villa Melzi, and Villa Serbelloni. Don’t miss Isola Comacina, the lake’s only island. Below is a curated list of the most popular destinations.
Como is the capital and main city of the lake area. It is typically the first arrival point before exploring the surrounding villages, nature, and historic villas. Como is ideal as a base for staying one or more nights or as a departure and arrival point for day visitors. Don’t miss the narrow streets of the historic center, the lakeside promenade, and the panoramic viewpoint in Brunate, reachable by funicular.
Bellagio is one of the best-known villages on Lake Como. Uniquely located at the point where the lake divides into two branches, it is characterized by narrow stepped alleys, passages, arcades, and artisan shops. The parks of Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni—open daily— are among the most beautiful on the lake. A walk to Pescallo and Punta Spartivento offers breathtaking views from different perspectives.
Villa Balbianello is one of Lake Como’s most spectacular sites, offering a unique blend of architecture and nature. Once home to cardinals and noble families, it is now owned by FAI and is open to visitors every day except Mondays and Wednesdays. In recent years, it has become famous for hosting scenes from Star Wars and Casino Royale.
Varenna is a charming village on the Lecco branch of the lake, known for its pastel-colored houses and narrow lanes that descend toward the waterfront. Nearby is Villa Monastero, while a one-hour walk leads to the Castle of Vezio — a medieval tower offering fantastic views of the lake.
Tremezzo, located in the central part of the lake directly facing Bellagio, is well known for the magnificent gardens of Villa Carlotta and the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. Villa Carlotta is a must-see attraction, especially in spring when the azaleas and rhododendrons are in peak bloom. The villa’s interior serves as a museum with a collection of notable sculptures. Open to the public from March to November, the entrance fee is € 12,00. Next door, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo stands as one of the most renowned 5-star hotels on the lake.
Isola Comacina, the only island on Lake Como, lies off the village of Ossuccio, with which it forms a picturesque bay. Rich in history, it was one of the last Roman strongholds to resist the Lombard invasion. Visitors can explore the ruins along forested paths. The entrance ticket is € 6,00.
Cernobbio is the first town you encounter when heading north from Como toward Switzerland, long known as a prominent tourist destination. Its center features a charming lakeside square and promenade. Two of Lake Como’s most famous villas are located here: Villa Erba, built in the early 1900s by the noble Erba family and surrounded by a vast park, now used as an exhibition center; and Villa d’Este, one of Italy’s most iconic 5-star hotels, offering a classic and luxurious experience.
Blevio and Torno are two small villages on the right side of the western branch of Lake Como. Blevio’s shores are lined with historic villas now used as residences, hotels, or private estates. Torno is a charming lakeside village, less famous than Bellagio or Varenna, making it ideal for those seeking a more local and authentic experience.
Moltrasio, Carate Urio, and Laglio are three villages located on the left side of the western branch. Their shores feature numerous villas and gardens, many best viewed from the water. This area is recommended for travelers seeking a peaceful place to stay and to fully enjoy the tranquility of Lake Como.
Nesso is one of the most distinctive villages on Lake Como, located roughly halfway along the road between Como and Bellagio. Its hallmark is the Orrido di Nesso—a dramatic waterfall that forms the backdrop to one of the lake’s most romantic corners. The best way to appreciate this natural wonder is by slowly approaching it by boat to take in the power of the water flowing from the mountains.
Menaggio, one of the most beautiful villages on the western shore of Lake Como, features a compact cobblestone center bordering the waterfront, lined with shops and cafés. It is also a great starting point for hikes into the steep hills of Val Menaggio.
Lecco is the main city at the southern end of the eastern branch of the lake, where the lake narrows and continues as the Adda River. It offers a pleasant lakeside promenade and a lively pedestrian center. Among the notable sites is the bell tower of Lecco, one of its most recognizable landmarks.
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