(IT) Lake Como: Exploring Menaggio, Bellagio, Varenna, and More

Lake Como, nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, is a destination that exudes charm, elegance, and natural beauty. With its shimmering waters, quaint villages, and historic villas, it’s no wonder this region has captured the hearts of travelers for centuries. This 3-day itinerary will guide you through the best of Lake Como, with a base in the delightful town of Menaggio. From exploring iconic villas to wandering through picturesque towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Como, this itinerary ensures you experience the magic of Lake Como to the fullest.

Day 1: Arrival in Menaggio and Exploring the Town

Morning: Arrival and Check-In
Begin your Lake Como adventure by arriving in Menaggio, a charming lakeside town that will serve as your home base. Menaggio is centrally located, making it an ideal spot to explore the lake. Check into a cozy hotel or a lakeside B&B, many of which offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Afternoon: Discover Menaggio
Spend your first afternoon exploring Menaggio. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, admire the colorful facades of its buildings, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere. The town square, Piazza Garibaldi, is a lively spot to enjoy a coffee or a light lunch. If you’re traveling with kids, treat them to some delicious gelato from one of the local gelaterias. Menaggio is known for its creamy, flavorful ice cream, and the little ones will love the variety of flavors.

Evening: Lakeside Dinner
Wrap up your day with a leisurely dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Savor traditional Italian dishes like risotto, fresh fish, and pasta, paired with a glass of local wine. The views of the lake at sunset are simply magical, setting the tone for the days ahead.

Day 2: Bellagio, Varenna, and Villa Monastero

Morning: Ferry to Bellagio
Start your day early and take a ferry to Bellagio, often referred to as the "Pearl of Lake Como." Ferries are the most convenient way to travel around the lake, but keep in mind that there are usually two queues: one for purchasing tickets and another for boarding at the designated gates (Gate 1 or Gate 2). Ferries can sometimes run 5 to 10 minutes late, so plan accordingly to avoid any stress.

Explore Bellagio
Once in Bellagio, spend your morning wandering through its charming streets. Visit boutique shops, enjoy the stunning views of the lake, and take in the beauty of this iconic village. Don’t miss the gardens of Villa Melzi, which are open to the public and offer a peaceful retreat with vibrant flowers and serene pathways.

Afternoon: Varenna and Villa Monastero
After lunch in Bellagio, hop on a ferry to Varenna, a picturesque village on the eastern shore of Lake Como. Varenna is quieter than Bellagio but equally enchanting, with its colorful houses and romantic waterfront.

One of the highlights of Varenna is Villa Monastero, a historic villa with beautifully landscaped gardens that stretch along the lake. The villa itself is a museum, showcasing elegant interiors and a glimpse into the region’s history. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely walk, offering plenty of photo opportunities with the lake as a backdrop.

Evening: Return to Menaggio
Head back to Menaggio in the evening and enjoy a relaxed dinner. If you’re up for it, take a lakeside stroll under the stars before calling it a night.

Day 3: Iconic Villas and Como Town

Morning: Villa del Balbianello
On your final day, visit the iconic Villa del Balbianello, located in Lenno. This stunning villa is famous for its breathtaking location and has been featured in movies like Star Wars and Casino Royale. It also holds a special place in pop culture as the wedding venue of Bollywood stars Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh. You can reach the villa by boat or take a scenic walk from Lenno. The villa’s gardens and interiors are a must-see, offering panoramic views of the lake.

Afternoon: Villa Oleandra and Como Town
After visiting Villa del Balbianello, make your way to Villa Oleandra in Laglio, the summer residence of Hollywood actor George Clooney. While the villa is privately owned and not open to the public, the surrounding area is worth exploring. Take a walk along the lake and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this quaint village.

Next, head to Como Town, the largest town on the lake and a hub of activity. Stroll through the historic center, visit the stunning Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como), and explore the lively Piazza Cavour. If time permits, take the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Evening: Farewell Dinner in Menaggio
Return to Menaggio for your final evening. Treat yourself to a special farewell dinner at one of the town’s fine dining restaurants. Reflect on the beauty of Lake Como and the memories you’ve made over the past three days.

Tips for Traveling Around Lake Como

1. Boat Ferries: Ferries are the best way to get around Lake Como. Remember that there are usually two queues: one for buying tickets and another for boarding at the designated gates (Gate 1 or Gate 2). Ferries often run 5 to 10 minutes late, so plan your schedule accordingly.

2. Gelato for Kids: Menaggio is a great place to indulge in gelato. Look for local gelaterias offering a variety of flavors, from classic chocolate and vanilla to unique options like pistachio and stracciatella.

3. Comfortable Shoes: The towns around Lake Como have cobblestone streets and steep paths, so wear comfortable shoes for walking.

4. Timing: Start your days early to make the most of your time, especially if you’re visiting popular attractions like Villa del Balbianello.

5. Plan for Delays: While ferries are reliable, they can sometimes run behind schedule. Build some buffer time into your itinerary to avoid stress.

Conclusion

Lake Como is a destination that captures the heart with its natural beauty, historic villas, and charming towns. This 3-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence. By staying in Menaggio, you’ll have easy access to the lake’s highlights, including Bellagio, Varenna, Villa Monastero, Villa del Balbianello, and Como Town. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a loved one, Lake Como promises an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, hop on a ferry, and get ready to fall in love with this Italian gem!