Itinerary: 2 Days To Explore Lake Como

view of rock mountain and village from the lake

I like to encourage “slow travel,” but I understand that sometimes travelers want to get the most out of their vacation in Italy and have lots to see in a short time. Here are my recommendations for two days in Lake Como to visit some main attractions while experiencing an authentic local lifestyle.

MilanoStyle.com Travel Itinerary for 2 days in Lake Como

What to do at Lake Como

DAY 1: Explore Lake Como

How to Get To Lake Como

italy, lake como, bellagio

Arriving from Milan

Lake Como is 30-40 minutes from Milan. Fly to Malpensa, Linate or Bergamo. Regional trains depart from Centrale Station or Garibaldi Station.
Keep in mind that trains only run up the eastern side of the lake. If you are staying on the western side, you can take a train to Como and from there, a bus or taxi. Contact an advisor for transport recommendations.

Where to Stay

Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni Bellagio Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni has one of the most admired positions on the shore. Situated lakeside, steps away from the ancient medieval town center, it offers the peace and tranquility of a secluded getaway, yet the convenience of being near shopping, transportation, and sightseeing. Rates from โ‚ฌ830.

Alternatively, check into the Hotel Excelsior Slendide, a lakeside boutique hotel with a hidden terrace and pool. Rates from โ‚ฌ230.

What to See & Do

pink houses

Explore Bellagio

Situated in the central region of Como Lake, Bellagio is renowned for its breathtaking views of its two branches. While it boasts popular tourist spots, Bellagio also provides a picturesque view of the lake and a charming town center that is delightful to wander around.

Where to eat

Lunch at La Goletta

You don’t need to be a guest to dine at the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni poolside restaurant, La Golettaโ€”a chic dining experience. Chef Ettore Bocchia, Of Mistral, the Michelin Star restaurant on the upper level of the hotel, also oversees all preparations at La Goleta. Be sure to try the local Persico (Perch). Book a Table.

If you are looking for a mega luxurious experience, book a Michelin-star lunch on a vintage motorboat.

What to See & Do

white and brown concrete houses near body of water during daytime

Visit Varenna

Take a walk to the center of Bellagio and explore the boutiques and hidden corners. Ferry boats leave regularly from Bellagio to Varenna. Take the public ferry or a private taxi boat. Be sure to visit the San Giorgio Church, Villa Monastero, and stroll along the lakeside promenade.

Pro tip: try to avoid visiting Varenna on weekends.

What to See & Do

Sunset Cruise & Apertivo

Romance is hard to avoid here at Lake Como! Embrace the moment on a sunset cruise with an apertivo with an expert captain gently navigating a vintage motorboat while enjoying the views with your loved one.

Where to Eat

Dinner at Alle Darsene di Loppia

Ristorante Alle Darsene di Loppia is a popular dining spot in the hamlet of Loppia, Bellagio, renowned for its exquisite Italian cuisine made from regional delicacies and local produce. Its lakeside location offers stunning views and a serene, romantic atmosphere. Book a table.

DAY 2: Explore Lake Como

What to See & Do

Villa Balbianello

Flavors of Lake Como Walking & Boating Tour

The best way to experience Lake Como is with a local on a boat! This full-day tour of Lake Como will give you a complete overview of the lake, introduce you to the foods and flavors of the region, and bring you to scenic locations like Vezio Castle and Villa Balbianello (where an iconic scene in Star Wars was filmed!)
Rates from โ‚ฌ550.

Search more tours of Lake Como

What to See & Do

Explore more of Lake Como

If boats are not your thing, go hiking or walking at Lake Como on the Greenway or the Viandante trails. Lake Como is surrounded by mountains and there is so much to explore!

Search activities in Lake Como

Have you got more time?

There is so much to see and do at Lake Como; contact an advisor for more ideas abut visiting Lake Como.

Recommended activities in Lake Como:

Plan Your Trip

Personalize this itinerary

Ciao, Iโ€™m Celia – I can help you plan your trip to Milan & Lake Como. Let’s review your planned itinerary or create one from scratch! Book an appointment

Experience Lake Como like a true insider

Experience Lake Como like a true insider, indulging in the authentic Italian lifestyle that this magical location offers. Visit charming, lesser-known villages nestled along the lake’s edge, enjoy traditional Italian cuisine in family-owned trattorias, and explore the lush, green mountainside on foot or by bike. Swap the bustling, crowded tourist boats for a private boat hire, allowing you to explore the lake at your own pace. Like a true insider, find peace in the simple pleasures of life at Lake Como.

Letโ€™s design your perfect journeyโ€”here is a sample of things you can do in Lake Como.

Feel free to browse the site for ideas or save time and contact a travel advisor to order a custom itinerary or book a one-on-one consultation today!


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Celia Abernethy

Celia Abernethy lives in both Milan and Lake Como in Italy. She shares her discoveries from her travels and experiences in Italy and beyond on MilanoStyle.com and LakeComoStyle.com, giving readers an insiderโ€™s view of what to do, where to go, and how to do it in style. Celia contributes to several lifestyle and travel publications.

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