Lake Como, Italy
Boat Trips
Lake Como, Italy
Boat Trips
Best Things To Do
1. Take a Boat Tour
Exploring Lake Como by boat is a must-do experience. Whether you opt for a party boat, a romantic sunset cruise, or a delightful dinner cruise, there are numerous tour options to enjoy the lake’s beauty.
2. Hike the Scenic Trails
Lake Como is encircled by hills and mountains, offering fantastic hiking opportunities. Trails of varying lengths and difficulties provide unparalleled vistas of the lake. The “Greenway del Lago di Como” is a popular hiking trail.
3. Relax at the Lakeside Beaches
Spend a leisurely day at one of Lake Como’s beautiful pebble beaches. Enjoy the sun, swim in the clear waters, and take in the stunning surroundings.
4. Explore Villa Balbianello
A visit to Villa Balbianello is a must. Its enchanting gardens are renowned for their breathtaking lake views and have even served as a backdrop in Star Wars films.
5. Take a Cooking Class
Joining a cooking class is a popular activity among Lake Como tourists. Learn to prepare Italian dishes, from pizza to pasta, and don’t miss the chance to select a class with a view overlooking the lake.
6. Day Trip to Milan
Milan, just an hour away by train, is an essential day trip. This cultural hub boasts high-end fashion, vibrant nightlife, and iconic landmarks, including its stunning cathedral.
7. Hire a Boat
Renting your own boat for the day provides the ultimate freedom to explore Lake Como at your own pace. No boating license is required for rentals from many lakeside spots.
8. Discover Bellagio
Known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is the most famous town on the lake. Its charming streets, bars, and restaurants make it an ideal place to spend a day or use as a hub for your Lake Como adventure.
9. Visit the Orrido di Bellano
For a unique experience, explore the Orrido di Bellano, a stunning gorge on the lake’s eastern side. Walk along pathways overlooking the turquoise waters below.
10. Explore the Town of Como
Como is Lake Como’s largest town and serves as a transportation hub. Spend a couple of days here to explore its shops, transportation networks, and museums.
Best Things To Do
1. Take a Boat Tour
Exploring Lake Como by boat is a must-do experience. Whether you opt for a party boat, a romantic sunset cruise, or a delightful dinner cruise, there are numerous tour options to enjoy the lake’s beauty.
Book your boat tour in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to secure your preferred date and time.
2. Hike the Scenic Trails
Lake Como is encircled by hills and mountains, offering fantastic hiking opportunities. Trails of varying lengths and difficulties provide unparalleled vistas of the lake. The “Greenway del Lago di Como” is a popular hiking trail.
Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, and consider bringing along a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints.
3. Relax at the Lakeside Beaches
Spend a leisurely day at one of Lake Como’s beautiful pebble beaches. Enjoy the sun, swim in the clear waters, and take in the stunning surroundings.
To avoid the pebbles on the beach, consider bringing water shoes. They will make your entry into the water much more comfortable, allowing you to walk on the pebbles without discomfort.
4. Explore Villa Balbianello
A visit to Villa Balbianello is a must. Its enchanting gardens are renowned for their breathtaking lake views and have even served as a backdrop in Star Wars films.
Check for guided tours to learn more about the villa’s history and cinematic connections.
5. Take a Cooking Class
Joining a cooking class is a popular activity among Lake Como tourists. Learn to prepare Italian dishes, from pizza to pasta, and don’t miss the chance to select a class with a view overlooking the lake.
Ask for recommendations or read reviews to find a reputable cooking class.
6. Day Trip to Milan
Milan, just an hour away by train, is an essential day trip. This cultural hub boasts high-end fashion, vibrant nightlife, and iconic landmarks, including its stunning cathedral.
Check train schedules in advance and make a list of Milan’s top attractions you’d like to visit.
7. Hire a Boat
Renting your own boat for the day provides the ultimate freedom to explore Lake Como at your own pace. No boating license is required for rentals from many lakeside spots.
If you plan to rent a boat, choose one with a retractable canopy or umbrella to shield yourself from the sun during the day.
8. Discover Bellagio
Known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is the most famous town on the lake. Its charming streets, bars, and restaurants make it an ideal place to spend a day or use as a hub for your Lake Como adventure.
Enjoy a gelato by the lake while savoring the view.
9. Visit the Orrido di Bellano
For a unique experience, explore the Orrido di Bellano, a stunning gorge on the lake’s eastern side. Walk along pathways overlooking the turquoise waters below.
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as some parts of the walkway might be uneven, and be sure to check the opening hours, as they can vary seasonally.
10. Explore the Town of Como
Como is Lake Como’s largest town and serves as a transportation hub. Spend a couple of days here to explore its shops, transportation networks, and museums.
Start your Lake Como adventure in Como, ensuring you’re well-prepared with essentials and information before exploring other destinations.
Top Tips
1.
Swimming Restriction
Swimming is best enjoyed in designated beach areas, as it’s often not permitted in many towns and villages around Lake Como, particularly in the Como area.
2.
Ideal Visiting Time
September and October offer the perfect time to visit. During these months, the summer crowds have diminished, and the water remains pleasantly warm. In contrast, May can bring significantly colder water temperatures.
3.
Strategic Accommodation
Como town is an excellent option for it’s transport connections and vibrant nightlife. Bellagio, with its breathtaking views and luxury hotels, is another popular choice. As-well as Varenna, which provides a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere.
4.
Book in Advance
Ensure you make advance bookings for accommodations, ferry rides, and other activities when planning a visit to Lake Como, especially during the summer season, as it’s a highly sought-after destination.
5.
Limited Public Transport
Lake Como’s public transport options are not comprehensive, and relying on them may not be the best choice. If you intend to explore multiple destinations around the lake, consider renting a car for convenience.
6.
Size of Lake Como
Lake Como is deceptively large, so don’t limit your visit to just Como town. Exploring other areas around the lake can lead to some of the most memorable experiences.
7.
Cash Is Essential
Many small shops, cafes, and bars in the region primarily accept cash. Keep this in mind, especially if you’re coming from a larger city like Milan, where cash is less commonly used.
8.
Narrow Roads Notice
Driving is a great way to explore Lake Como, but be aware that some roads are extremely narrow, posing challenges for less experienced drivers.
9.
Arrive Early at Harbours
Lake Como’s ferries tend to depart on time. Be sure to arrive at the harbours early to avoid missing your scheduled departure times.
10.
Travel Light
Consider leaving your suitcase behind when visiting Lake Como. Many towns feature cobbled streets with steep inclines and declines, making a backpack a more practical choice for mobility.