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HOW TO SPEND A WEEKEND IN LAKE COMO (ITALY)?

Why is Lake Como the most beautiful spot in the North Italy?

It is a place like this where you feel the aristocratic old days romance. It is in the Northern Italy, in the Lombardy’s seductively beautiful lake district where miles of cobalt-blue waters are meeting snow-capped Alps, hills of conifers, cutest villages you can imagine, lined with elegant 19th century neoclassical villas and glorious gardens. This massive Italian “Y” shaped lake in a true gem. Lake Como is the quintessence of La Dolce Vita in the most refined and opulent form. It is a good place to take a break and absorb in the heaven-sent beauty of nature, tear up the itinerary, savour the lakeside cappuccino or aperitivo and simply unwind.

It is my favourite corner of the Earth.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LAKE COMO?

Summer may be the most popular time to visit this famous Lake. But sunny, hot summers, bring high season, high crowds and high rates. If you do not mind, go for it. In my personal opinion, pleasingly mild spring and autumn is the best time to visit Lake Como.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN LAKE COMO?

Start from hoping on a ferry. They are the best way to go around the towns and enjoy the dreamy lake views:

VARENNA

It is easily accessible by train from Milan in less than 1h and a ferry from Como, Bellagio and Menaggio. If you consider spending your vacation in the Lake Como, you should think of  staying in Varenna. It has a romantic promenade along the lake, tiny harbour, and narrow lanes. In the village there are a few shops and many delectable restaurants. Set aside a couple of hours to stroll around the scenic promenade and quaint cobbled streets. Buy a scoup of raspberry and chocolate Italian gelato in a cone, sit down on the nearby stair, close your eyes and feel and taste this place.

MENAGGIO

It is in a proximity to very popular towns like Bellagio and Varenna (where you can get by ferry in 15-30 min) and Tremezzina (easily reachable by bus in 10 min). The heart of Menaggio is Piazza Garibaldi, where you can sit for a coffee, ice cream or pizza while enjoying an awe-inspiring view. It is a perfect spot for a base if you look for a harmony between “tranquil” and “lively”.

BELLAGIO - PEARL OF THE LAKE

Self-proclaimed “Pearl of the Lake” located at the junction of the three arms of Lake Como. Visitors enjoy visiting historic villas, including Villa Serbelloni and Villa Melzi. Belaggio is like a tourist centre, super crowded, super hard to find a parking spot, filled with a bunch of super tacky, jewellery, souvenir stores, and 007 tag price 5 star hotels. Worth to pop in but you will not find in here any peace and quiet.

COMO BOAT TOUR

Rent a boat when you are in Lake Como. It is a bit of splurge but worth it. This will be one of the most memorable things you can do here. You have different options from more luxurious private boat tours lasting 2-6 h with Venetian Limousine and a driver at your disposal and bottle of Prosecco to more classic boat tours. If you look for affordable price and great experience but do not want to go too extravagant, highly recommend Boat2Go located in Vassena.

https://www.boat2go.it/en/

VILLA DEl BALBIanello

This is Heaven. Unarguably the most beautiful and Hollywood’ vibe spot of Lago di Como. For me, the most beautiful nook on the planet Earth. Star Wars or James Bond lovers must know it. Parts of 2006 Casino Royal movie and Star Wars Episode II: Attacks of Clones were filmed here. Even George Clooney wanted to have a holiday villa nearby. Juicy, almost unreal green, ripening aromatic oranges and lemons. Every tree, bush and grass looks like a gardener has just taken care of them. It is all meticulously maintained. You can get here by a small boat from Lenno or walk approx. 10-15 min from the nearest parking. Looks insanely magical covered in mist, shortly after the spring shower. Pure poetry. If you could only visit one spot in Lake Como, go for this one! How would it be to live in here?

NESSO

It is a real oasis for those who seek peace and tranquillity and authentic vibe. Houses made of stones, small boutiques, tons o steps, precisely 340 leading to Orrido di Nesso (Waterfall). Enjoy a stunning view from the Ponte della Civera - bridge made of stone, especially at the sunset. It is all worth the effort. You can also refresh yourself and swim in the water.

AERO CLUB COMO

You can book an air excursion on a seaplane to take in the scenery from up high. Exceptional.

https://aeroclubcomo.com/en/