Lake Como is truly a dream destination, and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. I visited recently and wanted to share some tips to help you make the most of your trip. There are a few things I learned that can save you time and make your experience smoother, especially when it comes to getting around and seeing the most famous towns.
Getting Around Lake Como
Navigating Lake Como is primarily done by ferry, and it’s the best way to see the different towns. The ferries are frequent, especially in season, and offer stunning views as you travel across the water. I found it easiest to base myself in Como town itself, as it’s very accessible by train from Milan and has excellent ferry connections to all the major spots.
Choosing Your Base Town
Como is a lovely town to stay in. It has a beautiful historic centre right by the lake and is well-connected by train. Staying here meant I could easily explore other places like Bellagio and Varenna. My hotel was very close to the ferry dock, which was incredibly convenient.
How to catch ferries
One of the most important things to know is how ferry tickets work, especially for popular routes. The ferry companies don’t always let you buy tickets in advance for the same day. This means you might have to queue up at the ticket office, and these lines can get quite long, particularly during peak times or popular travel slots. I learned this the hard way! It’s a good idea to get to the ferry dock early, even before it opens, if you want to secure a spot on an earlier ferry. Aim for before 7 AM if you want to be sure of getting on a morning service. I would also suggest checking the last ferry times back to your base town, so you don’t get caught out and miss your return journey.
Ferry Ticket Tips
When I visited, I noticed a significant queue at the ferry dock for tickets to the popular towns like Bellagio and Varenna. Even at the start of October, when it wasn’t the peak of summer, the lines were substantial. All the morning slots were filled by the time I reached the front. I managed to get a ticket for a mid-day ferry, which worked out, but it meant a later start to my day. There are usually different ferry options, including slower, longer rides and faster ones. The faster option to Bellagio took about 45 minutes and cost around 15 Euros. It’s worth checking the schedules and prices for the different types of ferries available from Como.
Planning Your Ferry Return
When you arrive at a town like Bellagio, it’s wise to think about your return trip. I heard stories of people getting stuck because they didn’t secure their return ferry ticket. The ferry services can be limited, especially later in the day. I made sure to get back in line for my ferry back to Como shortly after arriving in Bellagio to avoid any potential issues. The last ferries typically run around 6 PM, so always keep that in mind for your timing.
Exploring Lake Como’s Iconic Towns
Lake Como is famous for its stunning beauty, and the towns scattered around its shores are truly special. Bellagio and Varenna are often highlighted, and for good reason. They offer a classic Italian lake experience with beautiful architecture, scenic views, and lovely places to eat and shop.
Discovering Bellagio
Bellagio is often called the “pearl of Lake Como,” and it’s easy to see why. It’s a very pretty town with narrow, cobblestone streets winding up the hillside. You can wander through the streets, popping into the many boutique shops that sell local crafts and souvenirs. We enjoyed a delicious pepperoni pizza with an Aperol Spritz overlooking the lake; it was a perfect moment. If you enjoy gardens, Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni are nearby and offer beautiful grounds to explore. Just strolling through the town with a gelato in hand is a wonderful experience.
What to do in Bellagio
When you’re here, take time to simply walk around and soak in the atmosphere. The views of the lake are spectacular from almost every angle. I recommend comfortable shoes because the cobblestone streets can be uneven. Trying local food from the small cafes and restaurants is also a must.
Visiting Romantic Varenna
A short ferry ride from Bellagio, Varenna is another gem on the eastern shore of Lake Como. It has a very romantic and charming feel. As soon as you arrive by ferry, you’ll find the Passeggiata degli Innamorati, or “Lover’s Walkway,” a beautiful path right along the lake. This walkway offers incredible views of the lake and the colourful houses climbing the hillsides. Varenna feels a bit more peaceful than Bellagio, but it still has plenty of lovely cafes, artisan shops, and gelaterias. It truly looks like a postcard, exactly like you see in photos online.
Varenna’s must-see spots
While the lakeside path is a highlight, don’t miss exploring the narrow streets that lead up from the lake. Riva Grande is another spot that’s very photogenic. Enjoying a coffee or a gelato here while watching the boats go by is a simple pleasure.
Experiencing Como Town
My base in Como was excellent. The hotel was right in the heart of the city, making it easy to get to restaurants and shops. Even if you don’t stay here, Como is worth exploring. The Duomo di Como (Como Cathedral) is a magnificent building that’s right in the centre of town and is a focal point. The atmosphere in Como is lively and pleasant. From the train station, Como Nord Lago, it’s a short walk to key areas and accommodations. The walk from the station to the Duomo, for example, is incredibly short and puts you right in the middle of everything.
Dining in Como was consistently good; every restaurant we tried served delicious food. The variety means you can eat something different every night.
Unique Views and Experiences
Beyond the towns, Lake Como offers some truly unique vantage points and activities that I highly recommend.
Ascending to Brunate
One of the best experiences I had was taking the Funicular (a cable car) up to Brunate. This small village sits high above Lake Como, about 700 metres above sea level. The view from up there is absolutely breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see across the lake and even into Switzerland. The funicular itself has been running since 1894, which is amazing. It’s an easy journey, taking only about 7 minutes to reach the top. The funicular runs every 30 minutes, so you don’t have to wait too long.
What to expect in Brunate
Up in Brunate, you’ll find some cafes, small churches, and interesting houses. The main draw, however, is the panoramic view. It’s the perfect place for photos and to simply admire the vastness of the lake and the surrounding Alps. The station for the funicular is also a manageable walk from the centre of Como, making it a very accessible day trip.
Family Moments by the Lake
It was wonderful sharing these sights with my family earlier this year. My daughter, Lily, was absolutely fascinated by the funicular; seeing her excitement as we ascended was a special memory for both Michael and me. Ethan, my youngest, delighted in chasing pigeons in the piazza in Bellagio, a simple but joyful moment that perfectly captured the relaxed feel of our holiday. These small family memories are what make travel so rewarding.
Gardens and Lakeside Strolls
If you like beautiful gardens, both Bellagio and Varenna have options. Villa Melzi in Bellagio offers lovely lakeside gardens that are perfect for a peaceful walk. Varenna has the Giardini di Villa Monastero, which are also stunning. Walking along the lake’s edge, taking in the scenery, and enjoying the fresh air is a quintessential Lake Como experience that I highly recommend for everyone, including families with young children.
Practical Travel Advice for 2026
Planning a trip to Lake Como is exciting, and a few practical tips can make your journey even better. While visiting in 2026, you’ll find the lake just as beautiful as ever.
Staying Connected
One thing I found invaluable was having reliable internet access. I used an eSim for my phone, which made things so much easier. I could use maps, look up restaurants, make reservations, and plan activities without constantly searching for Wi-Fi. It saved me a lot of time and stress, especially when I was out exploring and needed to quickly find information. I highly recommend looking into an eSim for your travels.
Do you need an eSim
Getting an eSim allowed me to easily switch between my home SIM and the local data plan. This was incredibly helpful for navigation and staying in touch. It’s a modern travel essential, in my opinion.
Comfortable Footwear is Key
As I mentioned, many of the towns around Lake Como have cobblestone streets and hills. Wearing comfortable shoes is non-negotiable! You’ll be doing a lot of walking, whether you’re exploring Venice’s alleys or the charming lanes of Varenna or Bellagio. Make sure your shoes are broken in and suitable for walking long distances or climbing stairs.
What shoes to wear
I found my sturdy walking shoes to be perfect for navigating the uneven surfaces and steep paths found in the lakeside villages. Avoid high heels or anything that could make walking difficult.
Best Time to Visit
While I visited in October, which was lovely and less crowded, the spring and summer months are also popular. Each season offers its own charm. Summer is warm and vibrant, with everything in full bloom. Spring brings beautiful flowers and milder temperatures. Even autumn, as I experienced, has its appeal with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. For 2026, any of these seasons would offer a unique experience.
Lake Como is a place where you can truly relax and enjoy the scenery. I hope these tips help you plan your own wonderful visit to this magical part of Italy.