Map Of Italy Lake Como

Introduction

Located in the Lombardy region of Italy, Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in the country. The lake is surrounded by picturesque mountains, charming villages, and luxurious villas, making it a perfect destination for travelers looking for a relaxing and scenic getaway. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Lake Como has to offer.

Top Attractions

Villa del Balbianello

Villa del Balbianello is a stunning villa located on the tip of a wooded promontory overlooking Lake Como. The villa was built in the 18th century and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and terraces that offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The villa has been used as a location for many movies, including Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones and Casino Royale.

Como Cathedral

Como Cathedral is a beautiful and historic church located in the heart of Como. The cathedral was built in the 14th century and is known for its Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The cathedral is home to many beautiful works of art, including tapestries, paintings, and sculptures.

Hidden Gems

Orrido di Nesso

Orrido di Nesso is a hidden gem located in the small village of Nesso. The Orrido is a natural gorge that has been carved out by the Pessetta stream. Visitors can walk along a narrow pathway that runs along the side of the gorge, offering breathtaking views of the waterfalls and rapids below.

Isola Comacina

Isola Comacina is a small island located in the middle of Lake Como. The island is home to a small village that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Visitors can explore the winding streets and alleys of the village, as well as the remains of the ancient Romanesque church.

Food Scene

The food scene in Lake Como is centered around traditional Italian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes include risotto alla milanese, ossobuco alla milanese, and polenta. There are also many excellent seafood restaurants located along the shores of the lake.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling to Lake Como can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. One of the best ways to save money is to visit during the shoulder season, which runs from April to June and from September to November. During this time, prices are lower and there are fewer crowds.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking

The mountains that surround Lake Como offer some of the best hiking in Italy. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Some of the best hikes include the Sentiero del Viandante, the Greenway del Lago di Como, and the Monte Barro Regional Park.

Water Sports

There are many water sports available on Lake Como, including kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing. Visitors can rent equipment and take lessons from local operators.

Historical Landmarks

Villa Carlotta

Villa Carlotta is a beautiful villa located in the town of Tremezzo. The villa was built in the 18th century and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and terraces. The villa is home to many beautiful works of art, including sculptures by Antonio Canova.

Castello di Vezio

Castello di Vezio is a medieval castle located in the town of Varenna. The castle was built in the 11th century and is now a museum that offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Family-Friendly Activities

Jungle Raider Park

Jungle Raider Park is an adventure park located in the town of Civenna. The park features a variety of obstacles and challenges, including zip lines, rope bridges, and climbing walls.

Acquaworld Water Park

Acquaworld Water Park is a family-friendly water park located in the town of Concorezzo. The park features a variety of water slides, pools, and attractions that are perfect for kids of all ages.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Valtellina Wine Region

The Valtellina wine region is located just north of Lake Como and is known for its excellent wines, including the Nebbiolo-based wines of the Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and wineries, as well as sample some of the region’s best wines.

Colico Wildlife Park

Colico Wildlife Park is a small zoo located in the town of Colico. The park is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, and bears.

Natural Wonders

Bellano Ravine

The Bellano Ravine is a natural gorge located in the town of Bellano. The gorge has been carved out by the Pioverna stream and offers breathtaking views of the waterfalls and rapids below.

Mount Resegone

Mount Resegone is a mountain located just north of Lake Como. The mountain offers some of the best hiking and climbing in the region, as well as breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Vibrant Nightlife

The nightlife in Lake Como is centered around the many bars and clubs located in the towns along the lake. Some of the best places to go include the Lido di Bellagio, the Beach Club at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, and the Tremezzina Lounge.

Local Markets

There are many local markets located throughout Lake Como, offering a wide variety of goods and products. Some of the best markets include the Como Market, the Lecco Market, and the Bellagio Market.

Beaches and Mountains

The beaches and mountains of Lake Como offer some of the best scenery in Italy. Visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the many beaches located along the shores of the lake, as well as hiking and climbing in the surrounding mountains.

Cultural Immersion

Lake Como is home to many cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters. Some of the best places to go include the Villa Olmo, the Teatro Sociale di Como, and the Pinacoteca Civica.

Art and Music Scene

The art and music scene in Lake Como is centered around the many galleries and music venues located in the towns along the lake. Some of the best places to go include the Villa Monastero, the Villa Erba, and the Teatro San Carlo.

Walking Tours

There are many walking tours available in Lake Como, offering visitors the chance to explore the many historic and cultural attractions of the region. Some of the best tours include the Como City Tour, the Bellagio Walking Tour, and the Varenna Walking Tour.

Architectural Marvels

Villa Melzi d’Eril

Villa Melzi d’Eril is a beautiful villa located in the town of Bellagio. The villa was built in the 19th century and is known for its neoclassical architecture and beautiful gardens.

Villa Serbelloni

Villa Serbelloni is a stunning villa located in the town of Bellagio. The villa was built in the 15th century and is known for its beautiful gardens and breathtaking views of the lake.

Historical Sites

Palazzo Gallio

Palazzo Gallio is a beautiful palace located in the town of Gravedona. The palace was built in the 16th century and is known for its Renaissance architecture and beautiful gardens.

Castello di Corenno Plinio

Castello di Corenno Plinio is a medieval castle located in the town of Dervio. The castle was built in the 13th century and is now a museum that offers visitors the chance to explore the history of the region.

Biking Routes

There are many biking routes available in Lake Como, offering visitors the chance to explore the beautiful scenery and historic sites of the region. Some of the best routes include the Como-Brunate Funicular, the Bellagio-Erna Bike Trail, and the Varenna-Esino Lario Bike Trail.