Things to do
While you're in town to celebrate with us, we want to make sure you have an amazing time exploring around the lake. Below you'll find some of our favorite recommendations for activities and restaurants around the lake, with the majority of the focus being on things to do in Varenna and Bellagio.
Activities
rent a boat
This is a must-do and the best way to enjoy the lake! Anyone with a driver's license can rent a boat at Lake Como. It is recommended to rent a boat in advance as boats rent out quickly.
Golf
In Menaggio you can find one of the finest Golf Courses in Italy: Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club. The course is tucked in the mountains above Menaggio and is characterized by narrow fairways and steep inclines.
vespa Tour
Want to explore the mountains, discover small hidden villages, or take in some panoramic views of Lake Como? Enjoy the beauty of the lake and the mountains at its fullest on a Vespa or
Scooter.
Learn the techniques of Italian cooking how to make fresh pasta with your favorite home-made sauce be it pesto or original tomato sauce!
Villa Monastero's vast botanical garden and its museum, which collects centuries of history, are something not to be missed during your trip to Varenna or Lake Como.
Strolling through Bellagio's charming streets with gelato in hand was our simplest and favorite way to explore this town.
Villa Cipressi
A functioning hotel set in a 17th century villa overlooking a beautiful botanical garden that can be visited by outside guests. Pathways wind their way through the terraced garden where lush greenery spills down into the lake.
sunbathe in nesso
The arched stone bridge in Nesso has all the feels of a fairytale, a popular spot to jump into the water. And there are picturesque stone steps that lead into the lake for swimming and sunbathing.
lido di bellagio
This beautiful beach club has a history of more than a hundred years and has been the location of comedy movies such as “A Month at the Lake” by John Irving. And it's just a 10 minute walk from the center of Bellagio.
Restaurants
Varenna | Italian Restaurant
Al prato
Al Prato might be the best restaurant in Como. The menu is always changing, but usually includes fresh pastas, seafood and meat. Reservations recommended – the restaurant is tiny!
Varenna | Italian Cafe & Bar
bar il molo
Absolutely charming bar / cafe on the Varenna waterfront that faces picturesque views of the village and a little beach. This place is very popular during high season, expect a long wait for a table if you come during prime hours!
Bellagio | Italian Restaurant
trattoria baita belvedere
A characteristic mountain restaurant with typical and local mountain food in a family atmosphere, with wonderful panoramic view over the three arms of the lake. Reservations needed. 15 minute drive from Bellagio, restaurant offers shuttles.
Bellagio | Gelato
GELATERIA DEL BORGO
The tastiest gelato shop in Bellagio is located at the top of the village. Flavors change daily, but a sampling of options include passion fruit, mango, chocolate, mint, coffee and more.
Bellagio | Italian Restaurant
La Punta
Its menu features lake fish caught by the owners, the wine list has more than 300 Italian and French labels, views are stunning.
Belagio | Italian Restaurant
RISTORO FORMA E GUSTO
Lovely little restaurant with tables on an alleyway in Bellagio. Risto Forma e Gusto serves all the classic pizza, pasta and calzone dishes – very affordable. The bruschetta appetizer is a must.