— By Vanessa Caceres —
Ready to take the fam to a relaxing trip around Italy’s Lake Como?
It’s a popular destination for many reasons. There are spectacular views of the lake along with charming small towns where you can shop. Or, just sit at a restaurant with your drink of choice and some excellent Italian food. Of course, you could always look out for the famous locals, like actor George Clooney and his wife Amal.
Lake Como, located in northern Italy’s region of Lombardy, is just an hour’s train ride from Milan and also close to the border with Switzerland. Whether Lake Como is your main destination or a side trip, there are plenty of family-friendly activities you can do.
Here are six activities to pursue while exploring Lake Como, Italy.
Get Your Steps in Around Orrido di Bellano
Orrido di Bellano in Bellano, Italy
Your visions of Lake Como will likely focus on the lake. What you may not expect to find is a huge gorge called Orrido di Bellano, located in the town of Bellano. The gorge formed 15 million years ago and with it, several caves and ravines also were created. A visit to Orrido di Bellano will take you through maze-like stunning views of rocks and waterfalls both above and below.
Hold on tight to your phone — this isn’t the place to drop it! If you’ve ever visited the Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia, Orrido di Bellano may remind you of that. Wear comfy shoes for your visit to Orrido di Bellano as there’s a good deal of walking involved.
Take a Ferry Ride Around the Lake
Bellano, Italy
Although you can drive to Lake Como’s various villages, the real way to see more of Lake Como is with its ferry rides. Hop on the ferry for specific destinations. Or, just take a scenic ride where you can gaze at the lake and perhaps see snow on the tops of nearby mountains. Try out a fresh spring or summer look with blue water and lots of greenery. You also can use the ferry to visit towns like Varenna, Bellano, and Bellagio (all named in this story). The ferry service also offers private boat tours if you want a trip with less crowds.
Fun fact: Lake Como is shaped vertically like a skinny body and two long legs at the bottom. The ferries will hop around from the legs to the rest of the “body” to reach small towns.
Stop for Gelato in Varenna
Gelato in Varenna, Italy
Varenna is a charming town with restaurants, shops and lakeside views. It may not be as well-known as towns like Como, but it’s still famous (after all, the town was on the cover of a “Rick Steves Italy” book in 2017). If you get to Varenna from the ferry, you may hear romantic music playing as you make your way to the walking path called Passeggiata degli Innamorati.
Your next step should be to one of Varenna’s gelato shops. Treat your family and yourself to cones or cups of pistachio, hazelnut, or another delicious flavor from places like Gelateria Riva di Riva Duilio, La Passerella, or other gelaterias that you may find. Sit beside the water, and enjoy the view along with your sweet treat. After all, gelato is no-calorie in Italy, right?!
Make Your Way to Villa Monastero in Varenna
Signs in Varenna, Italy
You and your family won’t want to miss Villa Monastero, considered one of the most beautiful villas along Lake Como. A former women’s monastery, the villa was transformed in the 19th and 20th centuries into a museum and botanical garden where there’s always something blooming year-round. The museum has four centuries of history that reflect different styles through the years. Villa Monasterio is also a conference center and hosts private events like weddings.
Window Shop, Take Your Time, and Have a Meal in Bellagio
Bellagio, Italy
If you’re in Lake Como, it’s almost a given that you’ll have to make it to bello Bellagio. This picturesque town is often featured in social media posts that feature Italy, thanks to a historic, colorful look that just screams lakeside living in Italia. Because of this, Bellagio also attracts crowds. Your best game plan in Bellagio is to arrive as early as you reasonably can and take your time to stroll among its shops and eateries. Plan to enjoy a meal near the lake — or, at a hidden eatery that’s off the beaten path. Don’t forget to visit Basilica of St. Giacomo (see next tip).
Spend a Few Quiet Moments at the Basilica of St. Giacomo in Bellagio
Bellagio, Italy
Gain a better understanding of Bellagio history with a stop at the Basilica of St. Giacomo, which was built between 1075 and 1125 by the Masters of Como. The basilica showcases Roman-Lombard art, like stunning religious frescoes and stone carvings as well as Romanesque architecture.
Exploring Lake Como
As you make your way around Lake Como, don’t forget other terrific towns, like the actual town of Como, Colico, and Lecco. In any of these small towns, you’ll discover something new about Lake Como’s lure.
Photos and video by Vanessa Caceres
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About the Author: Vanessa Caceres is a freelance travel, health, and business writer living in Florida. She has written for publications like U.S. News and World Report, Visit Florida and Visit Sarasota. Find more of her work at the Florida Culture website, the Italy Dreams website, or on Instagram.
