2 Day Lake Como Itinerary Plus Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Lake Como for a short break and want to know what there is to do there? This travel blog highlights the best things to do in Lake Como, including a visit to Bellagio, and also explains how to get around the lake.

The stunning setting of Lake Como in Northern Italy was the next stop on our 2-week self-drive Europe trip. Having had a fantastic time exploring Interlaken in Switzerland, we were eager to experience what Italy had to offer.

We knew there were so many great things to do in Lake Como; however, we decided to travel slowly for this part of our itinerary. We wanted to enjoy the sensational views of one of Italy's most beautiful lakes and visit two main locations on the lake: Bellagio, one of the most picturesque places in Northern Italy, and the other, the town of Como.

As we only had two days in Lake Como, we wanted to immerse ourselves fully in the two Italian towns we had chosen to visit and spend time relaxing in our beautiful hotel. Is it worth booking a short break in Lake Como? Yes, it is, and in this post, I tell you why.

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Table of Contents

Getting to Lake Como from Milan

Lake Como is 25 miles from Milan in Lombardy, Northern Italy. It is Italy's most glamorous lake, and George Clooney owns the most famous villa on the lake. Many well-known personalities spend their holidays here, so don't be surprised to see someone famous living La Dolce Vita in your restaurant!

The nearest airport to Lake Como is in Milan; a train service is available from the airport to Como San Giovanni station. It is a 90-minute journey.

There are also trains from the centre of Milan to Lake Como:

The journey from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni station is quick, as it only stops at a few stations. It only takes 45 minutes; however, it has fewer departure times.

The one-hour train journey from Milano Porta Garibaldi to Como San Giovanni is slightly slower. It has more departure times but stops at each station, making the journey longer.

Ensure you purchase the correct train ticket for the Lake Como station you need, as there are two: Como San Giovanni and Como Lago.

If you prefer a guided tour, there are day trips from Milan to Lake Como.

Travelling around Lake Como

Lake Como is the third-largest Italian lake, after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore, so getting around it requires some planning.

How to use Lake Como's car ferry

We arrived in Menaggio on the opposite shore of Lake Como from where we needed to go, so we had to use the car ferry to cross Lake Como to Bellagio. Ferries from Menaggio also sail to Varenna.

It's a quick crossing, and tickets can be bought on arrival, but ensure you arrive at least 15 minutes before sailing as cars start to queue, and it's first-come, first-served.

Once across the water and at the ferry port in Bellagio, we drove up the coast to the sleepy town of Lezzano, where we had booked to stay for two nights. We planned to go sightseeing in Bellagio the following day.

Yellow buildings on the water edge in Bellagio. — Bellagio

How to use the passenger ferry on Lake Como

There are two types of passenger ferries: a fast ferry and a slow ferry. The slow passenger ferry is a great way to get from A to B and take terrific photographs. It is also slightly cheaper than the fast ferry.

The fast passenger ferry does precisely as its name says; it gets you from A to B quickly; however, it doesn't stop at all the towns around the lake. It also costs slightly more than the slow ferry.

Where to stay on Lake Como

We chose the Filario Hotel and Residences because we wanted something modern and with a pool. Many of the hotels in Lake Como are too chintzy for us, so we were glad we found what we were looking for in Lezzeno.

The hotel has underground parking (a big plus on a road trip), beautiful lake-view rooms, a fabulous swimming pool, and a fine-dining restaurant. It's a bit pricey, but it shouldn't break the bank for only two nights.

It is set in the sleepy village of Lezzeno, where not much happens. We walked around the village but saw no sign of life apart from a few cats. There is a local bar and restaurant if you fancy a meal away from the hotel, but who wants to leave the luxury of Hotel Filario!!

lake and mountain view with houses scaterred along the coastline.

Angie wearing a white top sitting in an open air restaurant beside lake como. — I enjoyed the Italian cuisine at Filario Hotel

Lake Como is expensive; however, here are a few other options for accommodation on Lake Como to suit all budgets:

Budget: 2-star Ristorante Bellavista con Locanda. Scores 9.0 /10 from guest reviews. An average nightly stay in June is £67.

Mid Range: 3-star B&B e Residence Abbazia di Piona. Scores 9.0 /10 from guest reviews. An average nightly stay in June is £93.

Comfort Luxe: 4-star Foresteria Lago di Como. Scores 9.6 /10 from guest reviews. An average nightly stay in June is £209.

Luxury: 5-star MUSA Lago di Como. Scores 9.5 /10 from guest reviews. An average nightly stay in June is £922.

Best Time To Visit Lake Como

The best times to visit Lake Como are spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October). During these months, the weather is lovely, the crowds are smaller, and you can enjoy the lake at a more relaxed pace.

Spring is especially magical – think villas draped in purple wisteria and bursts of colour along the lakeside gardens.

Summer (June–August) can be overwhelming. It's peak tourist season, which means busier ferries and higher prices – not to mention the heat. Unless you want that kind of experience, I recommend avoiding the crowds and enjoying Como in its quieter, more authentic seasons.

Two-Day Lake Como Itinerary

Day One - Exploring the beautiful town of Bellagio

If you had to describe a beautiful Italian town, Bellagio would hit the mark, which is probably why it is known in Italy as the 'Pearl of Lake Como'.

It's worth visiting Bellagio to see its tree-lined promenade, winding streets, and beautiful gardens. Exploring this picturesque town is one of the best things to do in Lake Como, so be sure not to miss it.

Angie wearing blue jeans and t-shirt standing beside Lake Como in Bellagio. — A stroll around the promenade in Bellagio is a must.

How to use the bus service in Bellagio

A bus service operates around Lake Como and is much easier than taking your car into Bellagio because finding a parking space is nearly impossible.

Be sure to purchase your bus ticket before boarding from one of the ticket kiosks located in Bellagio or a local village store near your stop. We hopped on the bus in Bellagio to return to our hotel, thinking we could pay on board, but we were mistaken.

We were allowed on by a very disgruntled driver who didn't speak a word of English (and my Italian is not great), but thanks to a bilingual passenger, we were informed that we would need to get off and purchase a bus ticket during the journey.

Almost at our hotel, the bus driver had still not stopped the bus for us to get a ticket, and I thought he had forgotten. Then, suddenly, with no warning, the bus stopped, and the driver pointed to me to get off, indicating a tiny shop where I could buy a ticket.

I dutifully disembarked, entered the shop and was greeted by an elderly lady who, after a few hand gestures and glances towards the bus, sold me my bus ticket.

Back on board, it was one more stop, and I was at my hotel. It had been an interesting lesson into the workings of the Italian bus company, but not as relaxing as I had hoped!

The moral of this story is that when you want to use the bus around Lake Como, buy your bus ticket before you embark.

Easier still to jump in a taxi (which is how we had gone to Bellagio in the morning); it's so much easier than searching for a place to buy bus tickets!

Best Things To Do In Bellagio

Wander through Bellagio's cobbled streets

You can explore Bellagio on foot in a few hours, as it is a small and compact town. Cobbled streets and stairways lead you uphill from the waterfront, passing pastel-coloured buildings and artisan shops.

The walk uphill can be pretty strenuous, especially in the hot Italian sunshine. However, the stunning views across Lake Como are a fitting reward.

Tall Yellow buildings lining a narrow alleyway in Bellagio.

A purple hydrangea flower is in a wine bottle on a table with a pink table cloth.

Shop on Salita Serbelloni, Bellagio's most-photographed street

Salita Serbelloni is the most famous street in Bellagio, leading up a steep hill to the top of town.

This cobblestone street features quaint stores and boutiques offering a diverse range of products, from designer fashion to local delicacies.

There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants and ice cream shops where you can relax and enjoy some delicious Italian food while taking in the stunning views of Lake Como. Our reward for reaching the top of Salita Serbelloni was a large helping of gelato (three scoops!).

Take a photograph from the top of Salita Serbelloni and capture a memorable image of the colourful buildings with the backdrop of Lake Como and the mountains.

Steps leading up a steep hill lined with pastel buildings in Bellagio. — It's a hilly town so get your walking shoes on!

Narrow street leading down to lake como and lined with pastel coloured buildings. — It's a hilly town so get your walking shoes on!

Stroll along Bellagio's promenade

Do as the Italians do and stroll along Bellagio's waterfront promenade.

Lined by flowering trees in the summer and with picture-perfect views of Lake Como, this is a gorgeous spot in Bellagio to relax and take in your surroundings.

We sat there for a while and watched groups of teenagers chatting, old folks walking hand in hand, and ladies who lunch dressed in their finery heading off to Bellagio's restaurants. It all felt so Italian!

Blossom trees lining the promenade in Bellagio. — The tree-lined lakeside promenade in Bellagio is so beautiful.

promenade beside Lake Como lined with blossom trees.

Visit the beautiful Parco di Villa Serbelloni.

The Parco di Villa Serbelloni is a stunning park located near the town centre, spanning 50 acres. It has breathtaking views and plenty to explore, including the English Garden. Perfect!

This garden features winding pathways, blooming flowers, and stunning sculptures that captivate your senses. Visitors can also find several monuments dedicated to past celebrities who stayed at the villa throughout its history.

You can purchase tickets to the park at the tourist office located in the main square, near the St. Giacomo church.

If you fancy staying in Bellagio, the exclusive Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is near the park, offering luxury, decadence and five-star service.

Rent a boat and discover the beauty of Lake Como from the water

Exploring Lake Como by boat is an unforgettable experience and a must-do activity.

With its stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters and picturesque towns and villages, it's no wonder this Italian lake has inspired visitors for centuries.

village with yellow houses on the shores of lake Como. — The view of Bellagio from the Lake Como ferry.

Whether you're looking to relax or get active on the water, renting a boat in Lake Como for a few hours is the perfect way to experience all it offers.

Sightseeing cruises are available for those who prefer a captain to skipper the vessel. You will see some of the most popular Lake Como sights from the water, including Villa Balbianello, renowned for its stunning architecture and picturesque gardens, as well as being the filming location for the James Bond movie Casino Royale.

Boat Jetty on Lake Como. — Speedboats are moored on the jetty on Lake Como.

Enjoy lunch at Trattoria Baita Belvedere and take in the stunning view

If you're looking for a unique dining experience in one of Italy's most beautiful lake towns, look no further than Trattoria Baita Belvedere in Bellagio.

This charming trattoria is situated atop the hills, overlooking Lake Como, and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The restaurant is nestled within an old stone farmhouse, adding to its rustic charm.

The menu at Trattoria Baita Belvedere features classic Italian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients from the surrounding area.

Stroll around the grand surroundings at Villa Melzi or Villa Carlotta

Villa Melzi is a stunning example of 19th-century Italian architecture, built in 1808 by Duke Giulio Melzi d’Eril.

With its beautiful, lush gardens, lakeside setting and amazing views, Villa Melzi has become one of the most iconic sights on Lake Como and is a must-see when visiting this part of Italy.

Stunning white 3-story Italian villa Melzi.

Villa Carlotta is another stunning villa on the shore of Lake Como. The 18th-century villa and its extensive gardens are open to visitors throughout the year, offering an unforgettable experience of Italian culture and history.

When you visit Villa Carlotta, you can see several beautiful sights that have been preserved from centuries past. One of the most impressive features is the grand entrance gate, with a central archway flanked by two classical statues.

Visit Enoteca Cava Turacciolo - Bellagio's famous wine bar.

Enoteca Cava Turacciolo is a charming wine shop and restaurant offering a unique experience perfect for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy fantastic Italian food and drinks in Bellagio.

At Enoteca Cava Turacciolo, you can find an extensive selection of wines. From crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio to robust reds like Sangiovese, there is something here for everyone’s taste. And don’t forget to accompany a glass with one of the popular charcuterie boards - Delicioza!

Stay in Bellagio and enjoy the town's vibe

If you want to stay in town, Bellagio offers a variety of high-end and budget accommodations. One thing to remember is that they get booked quickly, as Bellagio is an extremely popular destination. Make sure you book in advance to secure your favourite hotel.

The one featured in this photograph is Hotel Florence. It is a 3-star hotel with excellent reviews and, best of all, the most beautiful lake and mountain views.

You can check here for the availability and pricing of Bellagio accommodations.

The ornate cream and green exterior of Hotel Florence.

View towards Como showing the green dome of the cathedral.

Day Two - Exploring the town of Como

Up bright and early on day two, we visited the town of Como at the north end of Lake Como. Driving time between Bellagio and Como is approximately 45 minutes if you don't get stuck in a traffic jam!

This time we took the car, as trying to find somewhere to buy bus tickets is tricky if you don't speak Italian. Luckily, as Como is a large town, we found plenty of parking spaces.

Como Cathedral dominates the town, and its green domes are visible from a distance. We chose to walk around the lake rather than head into the main town centre as it was a hot day, and truthfully, we couldn't drag ourselves away from the stunning lakeside views.

Best Things To Do In Como

Fall in love with the lakeside views of Lake Como

One of the best free things to do in Como is to walk along the promenade that leads around Lake Como. It's lined with historic buildings, a park, a cafe, and benches to rest your legs and watch the world go by.

Take a moment to enjoy your surroundings, feel the sun on your face, and breathe in the fresh air. And hey presto, a smile will come to your face. It did on mine!

This promenade was one of my favourite places to visit in Lake Como, and I highly recommend adding it to your Lake Como itinerary.

Angie standing smiling looking at Lake Como. — Here I am enjoying the breathtaking views of Lake Como.

Watch events unfold on the lake, from seaplanes taking off to sightseeing boats cruising along the waterway. You'll be surprised how busy life on the lake is!

Green metal bench beside the lake in Como. — Beautiful seating spots line the shore of Lake Como.

We were fascinated to watch the Como seaplanes take off and land.

Red and white seaplane taking off on Lake Como.

Two people getting on a blue and white seaplane on Lake Como — Sightseeing seaplanes give you the chance to see Lake Como from above.

Tour the impressive Gothic Como Cathedral

Take a tour of the beautiful Gothic-style Roman Catholic cathedral while in Como. It was built in 1396 and is one of northern Italy's most impressive architectural monuments.

The main façade of the Cathedral Maria Assunta is decorated with sculptures representing historical religious figures. Inside, you can see the stunning marble floor with intricate geometric patterns and a grand altar surrounded by elaborately carved wooden choir stalls.

It is one of the most impressive examples of Lombard-Gothic architecture in Europe and a must-see attraction in Como.

Opening hours for visitors: Monday to Friday, opening from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm.

Brick built cathedral with three green roofed domes.

Explore Villa Olmo

Stroll along Lake Como's promenade, and you'll see some impressive sights. One is the beautiful Villa Olmo.

This 18th-century villa is home to majestic gardens, a stunning collection of art and artefacts and an impressive neoclassical façade that provides spectacular views over Lake Como.

The villa has been home to many wealthy families and is now a popular tourist attraction. We didn't go inside but sat in the shaded area in front of the villa to enjoy an ice cream!

The most iconic feature of Villa Olmo is its extensive park-like grounds, which are full of lush greenery and stunning flowers that bloom throughout the year.

Opening hours for visitors: Tuesday to Sunday, opening from 10 am to 6 pm. The gardens are open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Admission is free except for temporary exhibitions and events.

Yellow stone mansion with manicured conifer trees in the front entrance. — Villa Olmo.

Yellow building with statues on the ballustrade on the roof.

Go shopping at Mercato San Fedele

Explore this traditional market, which offers a diverse selection of local produce, souvenirs, and handmade items crafted by talented artisans from all over Italy.

Take the funicular to the village of Brunate

For the most far-reaching views over the town, lake and mountains, jump aboard the Como funicular to reach the village of Brunate.

Once up there, take some time to stroll around the village and visit the beautiful church of Sant'Andrea Apostolo. Afterwards, enjoy a bite at one of Brunate's restaurants.

Opening hours and prices can be found on the Como-Brunate funicular website.

See Lake Como by electric bike

If you've taken a boat ride, strolled along the promenade, and ridden the funicular to the hills, perhaps a bike ride might interest you.

Go for a ride on an eco-friendly electric bike and let the bike take the strain as you easily navigate the scenic streets.

The bike pick-up is by the Como Nord station and the funicular.

Try some delicious Italian cuisine in Como

From traditional Italian cuisine to modern gastronomic experiences, Como offers a diverse range of culinary options to suit every type of food enthusiast.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or an intimate dinner, Como has something for everyone.

Piazza Roma Ristorante Como is a favourite in the town centre, serving traditional Italian dishes in a cosy setting.

Tour Teatro Sociale

If time permits, be sure to visit this historic theatre, which was erected in 1786. It features grand interiors filled with marble busts, columns and painted ceilings depicting scenes from Greek mythology!

Is Lake Como worth visiting for two days?

In reality, you will need to stay longer than two days to see all of Lake Como's highlights; however, if you plan to stay for two nights in Lake Como, you will still have a chance to experience many of its highlights.

I feel that I could enjoy some Lake Como sightseeing and tick-off activities on my itinerary in two days, and I now know that I will return later to see more.

However long you have to spare, even a day trip to Lake Como from Milan, you'll see one of the most beautiful lakes in the world!

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