When the Roman poet Virgil dubbed Lake Como “our greatest lake,” he clearly had a crystal ball stashed somewhere. Fast forward two millennia, and this northern Italian gem still reigns supreme. Picture this: lush green hillsides cascading into waters so vibrant they make a peacock jealous—cobalt blues and emerald greens swirling together like nature’s finest cocktail.
These days, grand villas lord over the landscape, while quaint towns cling to the shoreline like sequins on a starlet’s gown. Sure, Hollywood’s glitterati helped put Lake Como on the A-list, but beneath that glitz and glam lies a modest charm that deserves its own standing ovation. Whether you’re here for the flash or the feels, the top things to do in Lake Como offer a bit of both worlds.
From hidden gems to the must-sees, this list of things to do in Lake Como will have you packing your bags faster than you can say “Ciao, Bella!”
Table of Contents
Top 10 Things to do in Lake Como
Exploring Como’s Historic Charm: A Walk Through Time and Timeless Elegance
Nestled in the lake’s southwestern embrace, Como’s historic center is the ultimate launchpad for all your “things to do in Lake Como” adventures. But let’s not just dash off to the next town without first giving this charming city its well-deserved moment in the spotlight. Enclosed by remnants of a 33-feet-high medieval wall, Como’s quaint heart is a treasure trove of sights that will make your Instagram followers green with envy.
Wander the lively pedestrian streets, where shops and restaurants cozy up to each other like old friends. Discover hidden gems like the fairy-tale Piazza San Fedele or the 15th-century Duomo—a Gothic cathedral so magnificent it might just make you believe in love at first sight. Down by the lake, you’ll find Daniel Libeskind’s Life Electric sculpture, a nod to Como-born scientist Alessandro Volta, who had a lightbulb moment and invented the electric battery.
So, if you’re jotting down things to do in Lake Como, make sure Como’s historic center tops the list!
Unraveling Como’s Silk Legacy: A Must-See Stop on Your Lake Como Adventure
Looking for unique things to do in Lake Como that go beyond the usual lakefront strolls? Enter the Silk Museum—a shimmering tribute to Como’s centuries-old silk-making prowess. While the Comaschi have been spinning silk since the Renaissance, it wasn’t until the 19th century that Como claimed its throne as Italy’s silk capital, a title it still wears with pride. Today, fashion designers from around the globe flock to this stylish city to source their luxurious fabrics.
Adjacent to the Setificio silk trade school, the Silk Museum offers a deep dive into the silk-making process, from silkworm feeding (yes, it’s a thing) to dyeing and garment creation. The permanent exhibit is a treasure trove of fabric samples, historic documents, tools, and machines—basically everything you never knew you needed to know about silk. For those itching to take home a silky souvenir, head to A. Picci or Inseta in the historic center, or make a quick 20-minute drive to the Mantero outlet in Grandate.
Address: Via Castelnuovo, 9, 22100 Como CO, Italy
Website: museosetacomo.com
Villa Gaze: A Grand Tour of Lake Como’s Most Spectacular Estates
If you’re hunting for things to do in Lake Como that scream “la dolce vita,” then a villa-hopping adventure is a must. Start with Villa del Balbianello, dramatically perched on a lakeside peninsula in Tremezzina. This 18th-century gem is a Hollywood darling, starring in both James Bond and Star Wars flicks. Over in Varenna, Villa Monastero boasts an eclectic house museum wrapped in a lush garden, with trees collected from every corner of the globe.
Next, get lost in the leafy labyrinth of Bellagio’s Villa Serbelloni Gardens, offering jaw-dropping views where the lake’s three branches meet. While in Bellagio, don’t miss the colorful Villa Melzi garden, where azaleas and exotic plants play hide-and-seek with a serene Japanese pond. Meanwhile, in Cernobbio, the UNESCO-listed Baroque gardens of Villa d’Este flaunt their 25-acre grandeur.
And then there’s the showstopper—Villa Carlotta. With its regal pastel pink facade and a 20-acre terraced garden blooming with over 500 plant species, it’s a floral fantasia. From azaleas to a rhododendron forest and arched citrus tunnels, this estate has it all. Inside, you’ll find rooms adorned with intricate frescos and a collection of neoclassical and Romantic art.
Address: Via Regina, 2, 22016 Tremezzina CO, Italy
Website: villacarlotta.it
Bellagio & Torno: Two Enchanting Stops on Your Lake Como Bucket List
When it comes to things to do in Lake Como, Bellagio and Torno are non-negotiable. In Bellagio, get ready to lose yourself in the charming staircase streets—seriously, don’t forget where you parked! A stroll to Punta Spartivento, where the lake’s three branches converge, offers serenity and spectacular views. Over in Torno, history buffs can channel their inner Da Vinci at Villa Pliniana, where the Renaissance genius once marveled at a rhythmic spring that still dances to its own beat.
If that’s not enough to tickle your fancy, head to Varenna for a romantic wander along Lover’s Promenade, or stand in awe of Orrido di Nesso, a dramatic waterfall plunging over 650 feet. Whether you’re seeking scenic strolls or historic haunts, these lakeside gems offer endless things to do in Lake Como, making each visit a journey through time, nature, and pure Italian charm.
Address: Via Plinio 20, 22020 Torno CO, Italy
Website: villapliniana.it
Cruise Control: Lake Como’s Scenic Boat Rides
When it comes to things to do in Lake Como, setting sail is non-negotiable. The lake’s magic truly reveals itself from the water, where public ferries double as your ticket to hop from one charming town to the next. Want a more curated cruise? Group boat tours offer a guided glide with local experts narrating every nook and cranny. For those who prefer to captain their own adventure, private boat tours from Como Classic Boats, La Dolce Vita, and Lake Como Boat Tours are the ultimate way to explore—George Clooney’s got nothing on your Lake Como lifestyle!
Keep your eyes peeled for Varenna’s dramatic cemetery perched on the hillside, the ancient Ponte della Civera in Nesso, the grandeur of Grand Hotel Tremezzo, and of course, Villa Oleandra, Clooney’s not-so-secret hideaway in Laglio, where the hedges are almost as high as his A-list status.
Sail Down Memory Lane: The International Museum of Vintage Boats
If you’re listing things to do in Lake Como, make sure to dock at the International Museum of Vintage Boats. Tucked along the western shore of the lake’s upper branch, this museum is a nautical treasure trove. Since 1982, boat enthusiast GianAlberto Zanoletti has turned a 19th-century factory into a paradise for anyone who appreciates a good old-fashioned boat ride—emphasis on old-fashioned.
The museum’s collection spans three buildings and showcases 400 vessels, ranging from charming rowboats to speedy motorboats, and yes, even some sneaky smuggling vessels. It’s like stepping into the past with every oar, net, and engine telling a story of Lake Como’s rich maritime history.
In 2021, the museum launched a permanent exhibition on Ernesto Riva, the so-called “Ferrari of Boats.” Riva’s legacy, dating back to 1771, is still going strong in Laglio, just a hop, skip, and a sail away from George Clooney’s villa.
So, if you’re cruising through your list of things to do in Lake Como, don’t miss this spot—where vintage boats and modern-day marvels collide!
Address: Via Regina, 1268, 22010 Pianello del Lario CO, Italy
Website: museobarcalariana.it
Ghosts and Glory: A Journey to Isola Comacina
Among the must-see things to do in Lake Como, Isola Comacina is a hauntingly beautiful gem that tells tales of both glory and tragedy. Nestled beside Tremezzina’s shoreline, this six-hectare island has been through the wringer—from a vibrant Roman settlement to a 12th-century blaze that left it abandoned for centuries. But don’t worry, Isola Comacina isn’t just a ghost story; it’s a living testament to history.
Today, the island is a serene nature park where ancient ruins whisper secrets of the past. Wander through the remains of the San Giovanni Romanesque church and marvel at the 1930s artist residences that peek through the lush greenery. This isn’t your average stroll through history—it’s more like a treasure hunt where the prize is a perfect picnic spot surrounded by Lake Como’s stunning views.
So, if you’re jotting down things to do in Lake Como, pencil in a visit to Isola Comacina—where ancient history and untouched nature create the ultimate island escape.
Address: 22010 Tremezzina, Province of Como, Italy
Website: isola-comacina.it
Orrido di Bellano: Nature’s Thrilling Waterfall Extravaganza
When exploring things to do in Lake Como, don’t overlook the Orrido di Bellano—an ancient gorge that’s like nature’s own rollercoaster. Carved into the rugged hillside on the lake’s upper eastern shore, this 15-million-year-old marvel boasts a 66-foot-high waterfall that’s more than just a splashy entrance to an adventure.
Wander along multi-level walkways and prepare for an all-sensory experience as the path takes you past serene ponds, playful cascades, and dramatic rock formations. It’s like walking through a living, breathing postcard from eons ago—minus the photo filters.
The name “Orrido” might sound like a horror movie title, but don’t let it spook you. Sure, the waterfall is loud, and yes, there’s a spooky hexagonal tower nearby known as Ca’ del Diavol (the Devil’s house) rumored to have hosted some wicked rituals. But, it’s all part of the thrilling charm. If you’re seeking things to do in Lake Como that mix natural wonder with a touch of mystery, the Orrido di Bellano is your go-to spot.
Address: Piazza S. Giorgio, 23822 Bellano LC, Italy
Website: discoveringbellano.eu
Borgo Corenno Plinio: A Medieval Wonderland with 1000 Steps
When on the hunt for things to do in Lake Como, Borgo Corenno Plinio is the ultimate medieval escapade—if you don’t mind a bit of a workout! This enchanting hamlet, affectionately dubbed the “village of 1000 steps,” is a journey through time with a side of cardio.
Start your time-travel adventure in the piazzetta, where the 12th-century Saint Thomas Becket of Canterbury church and a castle with battlements straight out of a fairytale await. Then, brace yourself for a descent through a charming maze of red-roofed stone buildings and 493 cobblestone steps that lead to the lake-level historic pier. If you’re not exhausted yet, just remember you’ll have to climb those steps again to get back—consider it a workout and a history lesson rolled into one.
Entry is a bargain at just over $4, which goes toward preserving this picturesque slice of history. So lace up those walking shoes and dive into one of the most scenic things to do in Lake Como!
Address: 23824 Dervio, Province of Lecco, Italy
Website: corenno.it
Hikes and Beaches: Embrace the Wild Side of Lake Como
Think Lake Como is all about luxury and lounging? Think again! For those seeking things to do in Lake Como beyond sipping espresso on a yacht, the hiking trails and beaches offer a refreshing twist. Lace up those hiking boots and tackle the dozens of trails winding through lush hillsides and quaint funicular towns.
The Greenway, stretching over 6 miles, connects Colonno, Sala Comacina, and other charming villages. For an extra dose of history, hike to Sacro Monte di Ossuccio—part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Mountains of Piedmont and Lombardy. It’s like a history lesson with a side of fresh air!
When it comes to beach time, don’t just settle for the fancy beach clubs. Embrace your inner mermaid with a wild swim at Lake Como’s best public beaches. From Dongo’s tranquil shores to the pebbly San Giovanni and the turquoise haven of Onno, these spots are perfect examples of things to do in Lake Como that will have you diving headfirst into fun. So, get ready to swap your designer shoes for hiking boots and swimwear—there’s a wild side to Lake Como waiting to be explored!
