2 or 3 day Lake Como itinerary: a complete travel guide
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I get it. Planning a 2 or 3-day trip to Lake Como can feel overwhelming, there’s so much to see!
From iconic towns like Varenna, Bellagio and Menaggio to stunning villas and dreamy lake views, it’s hard to know where to start. Add decisions about where to stay and how to get around, and it’s easy to feel lost.
Living in Milan, I’ve visited Lake Como countless times and made all the mistakes: missing ferries, choosing the wrong hotels, trying to do too much… Now I know what works and I’m here to help you plan the perfect itinerary!
This guide covers both must-see highlights and hidden gems like hiking Monte San Primo for the best views over the entire lake, tips for local food, hotels, and even private boat tours. Let’s make your Lake Como itinerary unforgettable!
Itinerary overview
Two days
Three days
Two days
Day one: Bellagio and Varenna
Bellagio
Start your day in Bellagio, famously known as the “Pearl of Lake Como”. It’s one of the most famous towns on the lake, and trust me, it’s not just hype.
Between the cobbled alleyways and its old-world fairytale-like charm, it feels like stepping into a postcard. It’s even better than you imagine!
There’s no need to rush. Lake Como is all about embracing its relaxed pace, so start by enjoying a good breakfast at one of the lakeside cafés and soaking up those dreamy views.
This isn’t the kind of place where you need a strict to do list, it’s more about wandering around. Get lost in the little streets, pop into the many boutiques and just enjoy the vibe.
Via Garibaldi is the main shopping street, but the cobbled alleys leading down to the lake hide some real treasures and are my favorite places to take pictures.
Speaking of shopping, Lake Como is famous for silk. It’s definitely on the pricey side, but if you want a local souvenir that feels extra special (and a little luxe) but also traditional, this is the one to go for.
One spot you can’t miss is Salita Serbelloni, an Instagram famous street lined with pastel buildings that leads down towards the lake. If you’ve seen photos of Bellagio, this is probably the place. It’s probably the most photographed place in the entire Lake Como area.
Just a heads-up if you’re visiting in winter 2024: it’s under renovation, so you might not get that perfect Instagram shot. But hey, there’s so much more to Bellagio that you won’t even mind.
After exploring the town center, take a 15-minute walk to Punta Spartivento. This is where the two branches of the lake meet, and it’s one of those places that will have you stopping to take about a million photos. The landscape here is so beautiful!
Then, spend some time exploring Pescallo, a quiet village just about 20 minutes walking from Punta Spartivento. It’s technically part of Bellagio, but way quieter. If you’re here during July or August, this is where you might still find a little peace and quiet.
Another must-see? The gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril.
The villa itself is private, but the gardens are open from March to October, and they’re stunning. Tickets cost €10. Consider spending about an hour there, maybe more if you’re into photography, those beautifully landscaped paths with lake views will make you want to shoot a million pictures.
Lunch
For lunch, treat yourself to a meal with lake views for a classic Lake Como experience.
La Goletta, one of Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni’s restaurants, is a fantastic choice. It’s on the pricier side but the experience is unforgettable and you’ll get to visit and spend some time in one of Lake Como’s most famous hotels. The restaurant is close to the pool area and you’ll have lunch with fantastic lake views. There are also several options for vegan and vegetarians.
If you’d rather keep things more casual, head to Dai Viga. No lake views here, but their fresh pasta is chef’s kiss (and your wallet will thank you).
After lunch, jump on the ferry to Varenna and spend your afternoon exploring this beautiful village.
Varenna
Varenna is hands down my favorite town on Lake Como!
It’s a small town, but oh-so-charming. Every corner has this magical, romantic vibe that makes you want to slow down and just soak it all in.
One of my favorite spots is the little beach near the old port. The view here is so beautiful, with pastel-colored buildings hugging the lake shore.
You’ll also find plenty of spots nearby to grab a drink or something to eat with gorgeous lake views. Yes, they’re touristy (no surprises there), but when the views are this good, who cares? It’s the perfect spot for a romantic or a treat-yourself kind of moment!
Since you’ll have the afternoon here, start by taking a stroll along the lake.
One of my favorite paths is Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lovers’ Walk), a short but beautiful path with red railings and metal arches that’s suspended over the water. Soooo romantic!
Grab a gelato, wander at your own pace and maybe stop at one of the tiny beaches for a quick swim or just to chill.
After that, it’s time to explore the alleys.
Varenna is full of them: tiny, charming, and just begging to be photographed. It’s the kind of place where you just follow your feet and enjoy the atmosphere.
But let’s talk about the real stars of Varenna: Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi. Both are home to gorgeous botanical gardens, but if you can only pick one, make it Villa Monastero.
This is the spot where you’ll find those dreamy photos of statues and twisted columns overlooking the lake. It’s even more stunning in person, I promise.
The gardens at Villa Monastero are breathtaking, and if you ask me, they’re even better than Villa Melzi’s in Bellagio.
My favorite time to visit is around an hour and a half before sunset. The light is magical, the crowds usually have already left and you’ll have the perfect mix of peace and jaw-dropping views.
If you’re curious, you can also tour the villa itself for a couple of euros more, but don’t worry if you don’t have time because the gardens are the real highlight here. I personally have never been inside to be honest.
Tickets for the garden cost €10 and can be bought online. I’d plan to spend at least an hour, maybe more if you want to have a bit of photoshoot.
My favorite way to end the day is with a drink at Il Molo, a lakeside bar with beautiful views, especially at sunset. Order a glass of wine, sit back, and take in the landscape. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day.
One last tip: If you’re following this itinerary, I’d recommend sleeping in Varenna.
If your hotel is in another town and you have to take the ferry back, make sure to plan ahead. Summer queues can get really long, and if the last ferry fills up, you’ll be stuck in Varenna. And let’s just say taxis around here are not cheap, especially if you have to reach the other side of the lake!
Save yourself the stress and get to the dock early enough to be sure to get your spot.
Day two: Villa Balbianello, Villa Carlotta and Menaggio
If you’re staying in Varenna, start your day with a peaceful stroll before the crowds arrive. Just you, the quiet streets and the lake… you’ll love it!
Once you’ve soaked up the calm, it’s time to head to Villa del Balbianello in Lenno, one of my absolute favorite villas and gardens on Lake Como.
To get there, you’ll need to take the ferry. Depending on the season and schedule, some ferries are direct, while others might require a stopover in Menaggio or Bellagio.
Villa Balbianello
Villa Balbianello is a stunning villa with romantic gardens on a promontory overlooking the lake. You’ll find statues, beautifully sculpted plants, and dreamy views everywhere you look.
The loggia is a highlight: a picture-perfect spot that’s just as breathtaking in person as it looks in photos. It’s no wonder Villa Balbianello is a hotspot for weddings and proposals!
The villa is super famous and you probably recognized it: 007 Casino Royale and Star Wars were shot here.
We couldn’t resist recreating the famous Naboo scene here: meet my boyfriend Luca and our dog Balù in our amateur remake 😂.
When visiting, you can choose between exploring just the gardens or touring the the villa too. Getting tickets for the interiors is quite difficult depending on the time of year, but the real highlight is totally the garden, so I’d recommend focusing on that.
You might visit the garden in half an hour, but I highly recommend staying at least an hour. Last time we spent about 1 hour and 15 minutes with plenty of photo stops.
During high season, it will take you longer to visit the garden if you want to take pictures because there can be long lines at the most popular spots (especially at the Star Wars filming locations).
Get your Villa Balbianello gardens tickets here!
Tickets cost €13 and have free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours before your visit. Same-day tickets are almost impossible to find, so it’s best to book in advance!
How to get to Villa Balbianello
Getting to Villa Balbianello from Lenno ferry station is super easy. You’ve got two options: walk or take a taxi boat.
The walk takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on how many photo stops you make (if you’re anything like me, that number will be high!). It’s a beautiful path and not at all difficult, so if you’ve got the time and energy, go for it.
The taxi boat is quicker… in theory. It leaves from the dock in front of “Ristorante Lago” (here) and it’s just a 5-minute ride, but you’ll need to factor in wait times.
There’s a boat roughly every 20 minutes but during busy times, you will have to wait your turn and there’s often a queue. Tickets cost €6 one way or €9 for a round trip.
We decided to walk to the villa and take the taxi boat back, and I highly recommend this combo! You get the scenic walk on the way there and a quick, easy ride back when you’re ready to relax.
Lunch
After your visit to Villa Balbianello, it’s time to head to Tremezzo.
Getting there is quick and easy: hop in a taxi (5 minutes), catch the ferry (10 minutes), or take a bus (15 minutes).
By the time you arrive, it will probably be lunchtime, and you’ll have some great options to choose from. You’ll find plenty of Italian restaurants along the lakefront, all are reasonably priced but they’re quite touristy.
If you’re after something truly special that won’t break the bank, head to Ristorante La Fagurida.
It’s a hidden gem tucked slightly up the hill, just a quick 5-minute taxi ride away. The panoramic lake views are magical, the food is authentically Italian, and the warm, friendly vibe will make you feel like you’re dining at a local’s home.
It’s one of those places you’ll be raving about long after your trip! I’d choose this option if I were you ☺️
Villa Carlotta
Villa Carlotta is that gorgeous white villa you likely spotted earlier in the day on your way to Lenno.
It was built in the late 17th century as a summer residence for aristocrats 💅
What really makes it famous are its huge botanical gardens: 8 hectares of pure magic. They’re often considered some of the most beautiful gardens in all of Italy and I totally agree.
The gardens are incredible year-round, but each season has its charm.
My favorite months are April and May, when you’ll find an insane amount of Azaleas and Rhododendrons in full bloom. Fairytale effect guaranteed!
As you can see in the picture above, autumn is another great option, with fewer crowds and lovely foliage colors!
Tickets are 15€ and you can buy them here.
Aperitivo at Grand Hotel Tremezzo
After visiting Villa Carlotta, why not treat yourself to an aperitivo at the famous Grand Hotel Tremezzo?
It’s a much more budget-friendly way to soak in the hotel’s elegance compared to spending 1.000€ (minimum) for a night here.
For around €30 per person, you’ll get a drink and some snacks, all served with those incredible lake views. Trust me, it’s worth every cent!
Menaggio
When you’re ready, head to Menaggio, your final stop of the day and the last town in Lake Como’s famous golden triangle.
Many people adore Menaggio because it’s a little quieter than Bellagio or Varenna, but still colorful, lively and very welcoming.
Start with a stroll through the town center, where you can soak in the relaxed vibe. Make sure to visit Piazza Garibaldi, the main square, which is surrounded by bars and restaurants.
Whether you want to grab a coffee, enjoy a drink, or simply people-watch, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and wrap up your day.
Consider a private boat tour
If you’re looking for the real Lake Como experience, consider following this same itinerary with a private boat tour on day one or two. It’s more expensive, but completely worth it.
No ferry schedules, no crowds, just full flexibility to explore at your own pace. You can dock directly at spots like Villa Balbianello, saving time for sightseeing.
For photographers, it’s a dream: you’ll access hidden corners of the lake and get close to the villas, which look their absolute best from the water.
For a real romantic experience, opt for a classic wooden boat!
A private tour is perfect for special occasions or simply avoiding the summer chaos. If it’s in your budget, go for it! It’ll be a memory you’ll cherish forever.
Here’s a detailed guide with all my favorite private and shared boat tours.
Three days
Day one and two
Exactly the same as the 2 days itinerary ☺️
Day three: hike to Monte San Primo or explore Como
For your last day on Lake Como, you’ve got two great options: hiking up Monte San Primo for insanely beautiful views and some time in nature, or exploring the city of Como if you’re in the mood for some urban vibes.
Monte San Primo (my favorite choice)
If you’re up for an adventure, this is easily my top pick.
Monte San Primo is the tallest mountain (1,685m) in the Bellagio area and the views from the top are insane. You’ll get a panorama over the lake that, in my opinion, is the best in the entire region.
On clear days, you can even see the Alps in the distance!
The hike itself is easy, about 10km round trip with a 600m elevation gain. It takes around 2 hours to reach the top (though I’ll admit I’m not the fastest hiker). The trail is both easy and incredibly scenic, so you’ll be enjoying the views the whole way up.
A must-visit along the way is Rifugio Martina, a cozy mountain hut that’s super popular with locals.
The food here is fantastic, especially the polenta! Plus, the views while you eat? Absolutely next level.
Just a heads-up: the rifugio is close to a parking lot (about a 20-minute walk), so it tends to get busy during the weekend. Definitely book a table in advance if you plan to eat here. It’s worth it, trust me.
Como
If you’d rather stick to a city vibe, head to Como, the largest town on the lake. It’s about an hour away from Varenna by ferry.
Once you arrive, start with a stroll along the waterfront promenade. I used to come here all the time in spring just to wander around with a gelato in hand, it’s super relaxing.
If you don’t want to hike to Monte San Primo but you still want some views, take the funicular to Brunate, which brings you up to a higher point for a nice view over the lake. It’s not nearly as epic as Monte San Primo, but still pretty impressive and much easier to get to!
Don’t miss the Cathedral of Como, a stunning piece of architecture that’s right in the heart of the city.
How to Get Around Lake Como
Exploring Lake Como is a piece of cake, just hop on the ferry! It’s the easiest way to explore the lake.
Trust me, you won’t need a car at all.
In fact, driving around Lake Como can be more of a headache than it’s worth. The roads are often narrow and winding, and many town centers have ZTL zones (limited traffic areas) where cars aren’t allowed.
Accidentally drive into one? Yep, you’ll get fined, not the souvenir you were hoping for.
And let’s not even get started on parking, which can feel like mission impossible during high season. Save yourself the hassle and follow the locals’ advice: take the ferry!
If you do have a car though, no worries. When you arrive, just park it and forget about it for the rest of your stay.
Everything you need to know about using the ferry
There are different types of ferries:
- Battello: pedestrian only ferries (most likely what you’ll take)
- Traghetto: ferries for cars and pedestrians.
Make sure you’re at the right dock! If you see a ramp for cars, that’s for the traghetto. Battello docks are usually near the ticket office and only have pedestrian access.
Another difference:
- Standard ferries: Slower but with outdoor seating for amazing views and photos. For the full Lake Como vibe, I’d stick with the standard ferry unless you are really tight on time.
- Fast ferries: Quicker but no outdoor space and cost a bit more.
A fast ferry A standard ferry
How to buy tickets for the ferry
You can use the official website Navigazione Laghi (make sure to select Lake Como), but booking online isn’t always smooth.
If no ferries show up, it’s likely a timing issue. For example, if you look for ferries at 1 PM and the first one is at 2:30 PM, the site won’t display anything at all. You have to know almost the exact time to book them online.
The easiest thing to do is downloading the PDF timetable and choosing beforehand:
- Navigate to Lake Como > Download Timetables PDF.
- Use the PDF to find the ferry you want.
- Go back to the website to check ticket availability.
If you need fast service tickets (marked in red on the PDF) you will have to buy the at the ticket office, they can’t be bought online.
You won’t need a day pass for this itinerary because it would cost you more than individual tickets, but if you do need one, you will also have to buy it at the ticket office.
👉 Pro tip: during low season Arriving 15 minutes before departure is usually enough. In spring and summer Queues can be very long, so book your tickets in advance and get there earlier! If the ferry fills up you might have to wait for the next one.
Where to stay in Lake Como
If you’re planning to follow this itinerary, the best area to stay is the Golden Triangle, which includes Varenna, Bellagio, Menaggio and Tremezzo.
Here are my recommendations for Varenna and Bellagio:
Where to stay in Varenna
Varenna is my top pick. It’s not only beautiful but also super convenient, thanks to the train station. Plus, it’s often a little more affordable than Bellagio.
Two excellent options here are:
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Hotel Royal Victoria
An elegant 4-star hotel in the heart of Varenna, right in front of the lake. The rooms are beautifully decorated and if you don’t like swimming in the lake (like me) there’s a beautiful outdoor pool you can use. The restaurant also has one of the most beautiful and romantic terraces on the lake.
Hotel Royal Victoria is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a luxurious stay that won’t break the bank.
👉 Check prices and availabilities here -
Hotel Villa Cipressi
Set in a historic villa with stunning botanical gardens right on the lake, this hotel feels elegant yet cozy. Slightly more affordable than Royal Victoria, it’s a great choice if you’re after charm, comfort, and incredible views without the higher price tag.
👉 Check prices and availabilities here
Where to stay in Bellagio
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Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
A luxurious 5-star hotel with panoramic lake views and a rich history, originally built as a private villa in 1856. Rooms combine historic charm with modern comforts, and amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, and two beautiful gardens. Dining options feature the Michelin-starred Mistral Restaurant and casual La Goletta, which also has vegan options.
👉 Check prices and availabilities here
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Hotel Du Lac
A cheaper (but not budget) option. This lovely hotel is located on Bellagio’s lakefront too, just steps from the ferry terminal. It offers cozy rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning lake views.
If Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is a bit out of budget but you still want to have a premium stay, this is a great choice.
👉 Check prices and availabilities here
How to get to Lake Como
By train
If you’re following this itinerary, your best option is arriving at the Varenna-Esino train station. It’s the most convenient stop for exploring the lake and the destinations in this guide. Other stations like Como might seem like good options, but they’re farther from where you’ll want to spend most of your time.
👉 Pro tip: use Trainline to book your tickets. It’s the same price as the official website, but easier to navigate and use.
By car
Parking can be a bit of a challenge, especially in Bellagio during high season. If you’re planning to follow this itinerary, I’d recommend parking in Varenna. There’s a large multi-story parking garage there (paid, but usually reliable), and you’ll have a much better chance of finding a spot compared to other towns.
By plane
If you’re flying in, the most convenient airports are in Milan and Bergamo. Here’s how to get from each airport to Lake Como:
- Orio al Serio (Bergamo): About 1 hour 20 minutes by car. If you’re using public transport, take a bus to Milan Centrale and then a direct train to Varenna-Esino (around 2 hours total).
- Malpensa: About 1 hour 30 minutes by car. By public transport, catch a train to Milano Centrale then switch to a direct train to Varenna-Esino (around 2 hours 15 minutes total).
- Linate: The closest airport, just 1 hour 15 minutes by car. By public transport, take the metro to Milano Centrale (you’ll need to change lines) and then hop on the train to Varenna-Esino (about 2 hours overall).
FAQs about a Lake Como itinerary
What should I bring to Lake Como?
It depends on the season! Summer is hot, so light, quick-drying clothes and a swimsuit are perfect. Spring can be unpredictable so pack a jacket and maybe an umbrella, just in case.
Autumn is all about layers: a wool coat and jumper are perfect for cooler days, especially in November when temperatures can drop to 2°C!
Winter gets very cold, so thermal layers, a scarf, gloves, and a hat are non-negotiable.
Comfy shoes are a must year-round, and don’t forget something dressy if you’re planning a fancy dinner, some places have a dress code.
When is the best time to visit Lake Como?
Autumn is my favorite season. The lake is peaceful, the colors are gorgeous and in early autumn most hotels and villas are still open.
Spring is another great choice, locals and tourists return to enjoy the sunshine as everything reopens.
Summer is beautiful but crowded and expensive; swimming in the lake is lovely, but it’s far from the peaceful vibe you see on Instagram.
Winter, however, isn’t for everyone: most hotels, villas and restaurants are closed, and it’s very cold.
How much time do I need in Lake Como?
Two nights in Lake Como is ideal, giving you two full days to explore without rushing. It’s the perfect amount of time for this itinerary. It’s relaxing and much more enjoyable than just a day trip!
If you only have 1 day in Lake Como, it’s enough to see the highlights, but you’ll need to move quickly and won’t have much time to just soak in the views.
If you have more time, Lake Como makes a great base for hikes or extra day trips!
Is 4 days in Lake Como too much?
Four days in Lake Como isn’t too much at all! You won’t need to rush through the highlights, and you can add some variety to your itinerary.
I’d suggest spending 2–3 days exploring the lake’s charming towns and using the extra day or two for a hike or a day trip.
What can I combine with Lake Como?
Lake Como pairs beautifully with Milan, it’s nearby and often overlooked by tourists, but it’s full of history, culture, and fantastic food.
You should also consider heading to Switzerland to visit the Alps. From Varenna, you can take a direct train to Tirano, where the stunning Bernina Express departs. It’s an unforgettable scenic journey through the Alps!
Need help planning your Italy trip? 🇮🇹
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