Lake Como truly feels like something out of a fairy tale, surrounded by the Lombardy Alps and dotted with charming towns. It’s Italy’s deepest lake and the third largest, offering so much to see and do. I was especially drawn to the exclusive lakeside atmosphere, the stunning mountain views, and the beautiful old-town scenery. Planning our 2026 trip there felt like a dream, and now I get to share some of my favorite finds with you.
Explore Villa Carlotta’s Gardens
Villa Carlotta is a stunning place where art and nature meet. Its 14 acres of gardens are absolutely lush, with winding paths, rare trees, and vibrant flowers. Michael and I loved just wandering through, taking in the beauty. It’s easy to see why this villa is such an iconic landmark in the region. Inside, there are art collections across two floors, including sculptures and rooms dedicated to historical figures. It’s a wonderful spot for a relaxed afternoon.
Take a Scenic Boat Tour
You simply must take a boat tour on Lake Como. It’s honestly the best way to experience the lake. While the local ferries are practical, I highly recommend booking a more dedicated sightseeing tour. We saw so many beautiful villas from the water, and learning a bit about the lake’s history added so much to the experience. There are options for sunset dinner cruises too, which sounded romantic, though with Lily and Ethan, a daytime trip worked better for us. Booking ahead, especially in peak season, is a good idea.
Visit Villa Del Balbianello
Villa Del Balbianello is famously “Hollywood heaven” and you can really see why. It’s been a filming location for movies like Star Wars, and standing there, you understand immediately. The 18th-century villa and its grounds are so elegant. I loved imagining the movie stars who’ve walked those same paths. It’s a truly beautiful spot that feels special, and the architecture is just lovely to admire.
Hike the Sentiero Del Viandante
For a bit more adventure, the Sentiero Del Viandante is fantastic. It’s an old Roman mule track that runs along the eastern shores of the lake. Don’t feel you have to do the whole 45km! We tackled a section that allowed us to hike between picturesque villages. It was perfect for a half-day adventure, offering amazing views of Lake Como and the mountains, with plenty of charming spots to stop for a meal. Ethan managed surprisingly well on the easier parts, and Lily loved spotting the castles along the way.
Wander Villa Melzi’s Gardens
If you adore botanical gardens, Villa Melzi is a quieter, more serene alternative to some of the busier spots. The gardens are open to the public, and they are a treasure trove of beauty. Inspired by Napoleonic France, the villa itself is neo-classical, but the garden is the real star. It’s filled with statues, cedar trees, azaleas, and rhododendrons. It felt like stepping into a perfectly curated romantic landscape. Lily was fascinated by the water lilies.
Experience Sagra Di San Giovanni
We were lucky enough to be visiting in June, which meant we could experience the Sagra Di San Giovanni festival. It’s a truly special event with a huge fireworks display that reenacts historical battles. The fireworks over the lake were absolutely breathtaking. It’s a fantastic way to get a glimpse into local traditions and history. Watching the display from a promenade was magical, but I imagine seeing it from a boat must be even more spectacular.
Discover Villa Monastero
Villa Monastero offers a different kind of garden experience. Its terraced gardens are meticulously arranged with stone, overlooking the lake. It has a more formal feel than Villa Melzi but is equally beautiful. What struck me most were the stunning viewpoints and the ornate seating areas, perfect for simply soaking in the scenery. We also went inside to see the rooms, which gave us a great sense of the period architecture and opulence.
Enjoy Watersports on the Lake
Being on the deepest lake in Italy means you should definitely get out on the water in a more active way. Forget crowded party boats; Lake Como offers a more tranquil experience with watersports like kayaking. We took a kayak tour, which was a lovely, peaceful way to see the shorelines and enjoy the quiet. For the more active, rowing, sailing, diving, and fishing are readily available. It’s a wonderful way to stay active while exploring.
Climb to Castello Di Vezio
Castello Di Vezio is a beautiful walled castle overlooking the town of Varenna. The walk up is moderately challenging, taking about 30 minutes, but the reward is immense. The castle itself is packed with history, and the views from its tower are simply spectacular. Looking out over Lake Como and the surrounding mountains is an unforgettable experience. They even offer tours of the castle dungeons, which sounds a little spooky but also intriguing!
Go Wine Tasting
No trip to Italy is complete without indulging in some wine, and Lake Como, part of the Lombardy region, offers some excellent opportunities. The area has diverse grape varieties. Visiting in autumn is ideal as you can experience the grape harvest. Wine tasting here isn’t just about the delicious drinks; it’s also a wonderful way to learn about the region’s culture and history. We found tours that combined wine tasting with scenic vineyard visits, which sounded delightful.
Day Trip to Menaggio
If you’re staying in Como town, taking day trips to other lakeside communities is a must. Menaggio is a fantastic choice, especially if you want a swim. It has a lovely lido and several public beaches. We visited during the warmer months, and the swimming was superb. Spiaggia Lerai is a popular spot. Menaggio is easily accessible by bus or ferry, and the journey itself, following the western shores, offers continuously breathtaking views.
Hike the Greenway Del Lago Di Como
For a relaxed walk with constant views, the Greenway Del Lago Di Como is perfect. It’s more of a sightseeing trail than a strenuous hike, covering about 10km and taking around 4 hours. You’ll pass charming hamlets and wander through shaded woodlands. It’s considered an easy hike with well-maintained paths, making it accessible for most people. It was a wonderful way to see the smaller villages along the waterfront.
Explore the Orrido Di Bellano
The Orrido Di Bellano is a natural gorge carved over millions of years. You walk along a walkway attached to the rock face, with a river rushing through the base. It’s a truly unique and atmospheric experience. The sound of the water is quite powerful. They even decorated some of the darker sections of the walkway with fairy lights, adding to the magical feel. It’s a relatively short visit, about 1.5 hours, but incredibly memorable.
Enjoy the View from Punta Spartivento
For one of the most scenic spots, head to Punta Spartivento. This observation deck extends out over the water, offering incredible panoramic views. With the Swiss Alps in the distance and the shimmering lake below, it has a serene and almost magical quality. There are seating areas and picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for a romantic picnic or just a quiet moment to appreciate the landscape. It’s an easy walk from Bellagio’s ferry terminal.
Visit the Tempio Voltiano
For a dose of science and history, the Tempio Voltiano is fascinating. This museum is dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the Como-born inventor of the electrical battery. It’s incredible to see his scientific instruments and some of his other inventions. The museum offers a well-preserved look at the life and work of a truly pivotal figure in technological advancement. It’s a great indoor option, especially if you’re interested in history and science.
Wander Como’s Old Town
No visit to Lake Como would be complete without exploring the Old Town in Como itself. It has everything you could wish for in a historic Italian center: cobbled streets, beautiful architecture, and fantastic restaurants. We had a wonderful meal with a view of the timeless stonework. After eating, we explored Como’s cathedral, Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, and the Basilica di San Fedele. Porta Torre, a city gate from the 12th century, is another noteworthy landmark.
Planning your trip to Lake Como for 2026 is an excellent idea. You’ll find a place that offers both relaxation and adventure, with stunning scenery at every turn. I hope sharing my experiences helps you plan your own unforgettable visit.