Lake Como is a stunning destination in northern Italy, famous for its breathtaking scenery, picturesque villages, and luxurious villas. It is the perfect combination of Italian charm, nature, peace, and romance. After many years on my bucket list, I finally spent two amazing days in Lake Como, which was enough to visit the highlights. In this post, I will tell you all about 5 charming towns in Lake Como that will leave you breathless: Menaggio, Bellagio, Tremezzo, Griante, and Varenna. Each town has its own unique character, beautiful landscapes, and Instagrammable spots that will make your visit unforgettable.
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1. Menaggio
Overview:
Menaggio is a charming town located on the western bank of Lake Como. It serves as a hub for ferry connections to other towns around the lake, making it an ideal starting point for your exploration. This was the town I chose as my base, and I couldn’t have asked for a better morning view.
Why You Should Visit:
Menaggio’s lakeside promenade is beautiful, merging vibrant flower-filled gardens, historical architecture, and the beautiful scenery of the boats reflecting in the crystal-clear water with the mountains in the background. You can even spot some swans too! The town is less touristy and cheaper compared to Bellagio and offers a more laid-back atmosphere.
You can explore the nearby hills on hiking trails or enjoy water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake. When you are done exploring, take a bus or ferry to nearby towns for more sightseeing.
Highlights:
- The Lakefront Promenade: Stroll along the lakeside promenade, lined with cafes, shops, and beautiful gardens, providing the perfect backdrop for stunning photos.
- Piazza Garibaldi: The main square is filled with charming cafes and shops. It’s not as interesting as the stunning lake views of the promenade, but you may find your Lake Como souvenir.
- Menaggio and Cadenabbia Golf Club: A historical golf club, perfect for lovers of this sport.
Bellagio
Overview:
Often referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is renowned for its stunning views, cobblestone streets, and colorful buildings. This town is one of the most famous and sought-after destinations on the lake, and rightfully so! If you can only visit one town in Lake Como, make sure it is Bellagio, you won’t regret it. But be prepared for the crowds, as it gets busy all year round.
Why You Should Visit:
Bellagio’s unique position at the junction of the lake’s two branches offers breathtaking panoramic views. The town is filled with cute cafés and shops, inviting restaurants with delicious food and unique views, and plenty of photo opportunities.
Highlights:
- Punta Spartivento: This viewpoint is located at the tip of the promontory and provides a stunning view of the lake.
- The Lakefront Promenade: A walk on the lakefront never disappoints. The mountain views are impressive.
- Villa Melzi Gardens: The gardens of this 19th-century villa are beautifully landscaped and filled with statues and sculptures.
- Parco Martiri della Libertà: A public park that I discovered by chance. It is quiet and perfect for a picnic under the shade.
- Salita Serbelloni: The famous street that everyone photographs in Bellagio. Take your photo from the top, at the intersection with Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, and get lost in the beautiful shops you find along the way.
Tremezzo
Overview:
Tremezzo is known for its beautiful villas and gardens, making it a picturesque stop along the lake. It’s located directly across from Bellagio, allowing for stunning views of the famous town. I walked along Tremezzo’s promenade as part of the Lake Como Greenway, a 10km trail along the western bank of the lake, and was so impressed by the views. The sunset was epic, and I had the place all to myself, which felt really good after all the chaos of Bellagio.
Why You Should Visit:
Tremezzo’s peaceful ambiance offers a nice contrast to the busier tourist spots.
Highlights:
- Villa Carlotta: The villa’s gardens are meticulously designed, with blooming flowers and spectacular views of Lake Como. One of the most Instagrammable locations in this town.
- The Lakeside Promenade: The promenade offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, perfect for golden hour photography.
Griante
Overview:
Griante is a small, charming town that often goes unnoticed by tourists but is packed with beauty and local charm. It is located just north of Tremezzo and offers a more authentic Italian experience. I ended up having dinner in Griante, and it was the best experience. I found a cute family-owned restaurant with stunning lake views, delicious food, and a serene atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end a dreamy weekend in Lake Como.
Why You Should Visit:
Griante is known for its beautiful villas, including the stunning Villa del Griante. The town’s quieter atmosphere provides a perfect retreat from the busier tourist areas. This is where the Lake Como Greenway ends, so there are a lot of beautiful views guaranteed.
Highlights:
- The Villas: Villa del Griante and Villa Cadenabbia have beautiful gardens and lake views.
- The Church of San Martino: This small church is perched on a hill and offers panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding area.
Varenna
Overview:
Varenna is a picturesque fishing village on the eastern shore of Lake Como. It’s known for its steep streets, charming lakefront, and rich history, making it the second most famous town in Lake Como, after Bellagio.
Why You Should Visit:
Varenna offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Bellagio, even though it can still be a bit crowded compared to Tremezzo or Griante. The “Lover’s Walk” along the promenade invites visitors for a scenic walk from the ferry pier to the town center. There is also a small beach where people gather for a quick swim.
Highlights:
- The Waterfront Promenade, or Passeggiata degli Innamorati: This beautiful lakeside promenade, known as Passeggiata degli Innamorati, translates to “Lovers’ Walk.” It’s a romantic pathway that stretches along the water’s edge, adorned with vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
- Villa Monastero: The gardens of this villa are beautifully maintained and offer stunning views of the lake.
- Church of San Giorgio: Located in the central square, it is a beautiful example of Lombard medieval architecture.
When I think of Italy, cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice immediately make my eyes shine of excitement. Milan, on the other
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Disclaimer: I did visit Como, but I decided not to include it on the list, as I think you could definitely pass it. The views from the promenade are pretty, yes, but it wasn’t as magical as other towns. Nothing stood out to me, and I didn’t feel as safe there. You can take a walk if you catch your train there, but just be aware that the best of Lake Como awaits you in many other towns.
Lake Como is a true Italian gem with beautiful towns, each offering its unique charm and picturesque views. From the vibrant streets of Bellagio to the serene shores of Griante, every corner of this stunning region is worth exploring. Make sure to visit these 5 charming towns for a truly unforgettable Italian experience and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
I hope this article “5 Towns in Lake Como That Will Leave You Breathless” helped you to plan your trip to Lake Como! Leave your opinion in the comments and follow me on social networks so you don’t miss my next trips. Use #travelplannerholic to get noticed.
With Love,
Catarina Vieira
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Sadly this is the one part of Italy we have not spent enough time in. So it was great to read about the great towns we can visit when we finally get to Lake Como. We love water towns like this with great views and charming streets to wander. And I like that you have included some of the less touristic spots that we love to explore. Need to get this on the travel planning board.
I hope you get the chance to visit! Lake Como is such a beautiful destination in Italy
I travelled to Lake Como many years ago, on a road trip from Milan, but had no idea about all these towns. I think I will need to plan another visit with this info 🙂
Do you remember which ones did you visit? I still have a few others on my list for a future trip 🙂
We enjoy Varenna, it’s laid back feel, and also hikes starting from there. Such a beautiful town.
I really enjoyed it too, it is beautiful!
What a dreamy place! No wonder so writers like Goethe and Mark Twain have celebrated Lake Como.
Definitely worth all the celebration, it is unreal!
I have never visited this region of Italy so I appreciate your suggestions of charming small towns to visit. Could you find walking tours?
I decided to explore on my own, and didn’t see any walking tours happening in the towns I visited. I believe most guided tours in Lake Como include more than one town, as well as boat or ferry rides.
Just this week I was talking about how I would love to get into Northern Italy for some time. This post makes me want to visit even more!
It is a beautiful region! If I had more I would have visited Lake Garda as well
What magical places. Thanks for your honest opinion about Como and for sharing this succinct guide to the best towns to visit.
Thank you for your comment and feedback!
I’ve been to Lake Como a couple of times and each time I discover something new. Now I can discover more towns.
Please let me know if you have any other suggestions, I would love to visit again!