Best Places to Visit in Lake Como
The lake divides into distinct zones, and the choice of base shapes everything else. Here is where holidays to Lake Como work best across the main options.
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Como Town: The southern gateway and the most practical base for first-time arrivals. The Duomo — a cathedral begun in 1396, mixing Romanesque and Gothic in equal measure — dominates the central square. The Museo della Seta explains the full silk production process using original equipment and is one of the few places in Europe where the complete craft survives in a museum setting. A well-planned holiday Lake Como can be built entirely from here using the ferry and rail connections.
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Bellagio: The most recognised of the lakeside villages, positioned exactly where the lake's two southern branches divide. The waterfront and the stepped lanes above it are worth the visit — though Bellagio fills quickly in July and August and is more rewarding in May, June, or September. Worth two nights as a base for exploring the central lake by ferry.
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Varenna: On the eastern shore, roughly 25 km from Como by road, Varenna is smaller than Bellagio and noticeably quieter. The ferry crossing to Menaggio takes eight minutes. Villa Monastero and its lakeside garden are here; the main promenade is one of the most photographed stretches of waterfront on the lake. A strong first choice for a holiday to Lake Como centred on slower days and good evening dining.
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Menaggio: On the western shore opposite Varenna, with more amenity than the smaller villages without losing the lakeside character. Ferry connections run in all directions, and the town suits families and couples in equal measure.
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Cernobbio: Just 5 km north of Como town, home to Villa d'Este — a grand hotel in continuous operation since 1873. The village is worth an evening regardless of where you are staying; the lakeside road and the regular Como-Cernobbio ferry both connect it easily.
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