The 5 Most Scenic Photo Spots on Lake Como

A woman sitting on a bench looking out over a lake — Villa Balbianello/ Photo Peter Thomas

Lake Como is one of Italy’s most visually striking destinations, where dramatic mountain landscapes meet elegant villages and historic villas along the water’s edge. For travelers, the appeal lies not only in what there is to see, but in how each place feels at different times of day—from quiet mornings by the lake to golden-hour light reflecting off the hills.

Because Lake Como offers so many photogenic locations, thoughtful planning makes a real difference. Knowing where to go, when to visit, and how to experience each setting allows travelers to move beyond quick snapshots and create memories that truly reflect the journey. This is why photography has become an intentional part of many Lake Como itineraries, rather than an afterthought.

With Picturo, travelers can easily book a professional Lake Como photographer in advance, simplifying the process and removing the need to search locally once they arrive. This allows visitors to stay focused on the experience itself—exploring, walking, and enjoying the lake—while their memories are captured naturally and with care.

This guide highlights five of the most iconic and rewarding photo spots around Lake Como, helping travelers plan a route that balances beauty, atmosphere, and lasting memories.

a cobblestone street in a small town — Bellagio

1. Bellagio Old Town and Waterfront

Best for: Classic Lake Como views, first-time visitors
Ideal time: Early morning or late afternoon

Bellagio is often the first stop for travelers, and for good reason. Its historic staircases, elegant waterfront, and central position where the lake’s branches meet make it one of the most recognizable places on Lake Como.

To experience Bellagio beyond the crowds, arrive early. Mornings are quieter, with soft light illuminating the stone steps and pastel buildings. Walking through the old town before shops fully open offers a more authentic sense of place. Later in the day, the waterfront becomes lively as ferries arrive and cafés fill with visitors.

For photography and memory-making, focus on movement rather than static landmarks—walking along the harbor, pausing on the steps, or watching boats cross the lake. These moments capture Bellagio’s atmosphere more naturally than posed shots.

2. Varenna and the Lakeside Walk

Best for: Romantic travelers, quiet charm
Ideal time: Morning to early afternoon

Varenna offers a slower, more intimate experience than Bellagio. The village feels smaller and more personal, with narrow lanes and colorful houses that sit directly above the water. Its lakeside walk is one of the most atmospheric paths on Lake Como, especially for couples.

Because of its layout, Varenna is best explored on foot. The gentle curve of the lakeside path creates beautiful perspectives, while reflections on the water add depth to every view. This is an ideal location to slow down—walk without a strict plan, stop for coffee, and take in the details.

Travelers looking to preserve these moments often prefer candid, lifestyle-style photography here. With Picturo, it’s easy to book a Lake Como photographer who understands how to capture Varenna’s quiet elegance without interrupting the flow of the experience.

A boat is going down the water near a bridge — The best way to get to Villa Balbianello/ Photo Peter Thomas

3. Villa del Balbianello

Best for: Iconic scenery, special occasions
Ideal time: Early morning or late afternoon (with advance planning)

Villa del Balbianello is one of Lake Como’s most famous landmarks and one of its most visually striking. Located on a wooded peninsula, the villa offers sweeping lake views, formal gardens, and dramatic terraces that feel almost theatrical.

Because of its popularity, visiting requires planning. Tickets are limited, and access by boat adds to the experience. For travelers celebrating an engagement, anniversary, or once-in-a-lifetime trip, this location provides a sense of grandeur unmatched elsewhere on the lake.

When visiting, take time to explore the gardens slowly. The views change as you move through the space, and each terrace offers a different perspective of the lake. Rather than trying to capture everything, focus on one or two meaningful moments—standing at the edge of a terrace, walking through the gardens, or simply taking in the view.

4. Menaggio Waterfront and Promenade

Best for: Relaxed atmosphere, open views
Ideal time: Late afternoon into early evening

Menaggio is often overlooked, but it offers one of the most balanced experiences on Lake Como. Its wide waterfront promenade provides uninterrupted lake views, while the town itself feels less hurried than its neighbors.

This is an excellent location for travelers who want a mix of scenery and comfort. Walking along the promenade, stopping for gelato, or sitting near the water as the sun lowers creates natural, unforced moments. The light here is particularly soft in the late afternoon, making it a favorite for relaxed, natural photography.

Menaggio is also well connected by ferry, making it a convenient base or stop during a multi-town itinerary.

aerial view of city buildings during daytime — Como

5. Como Town and the View from Above

Best for: Variety, dramatic viewpoints
Ideal time: Morning for town exploration, clear days for viewpoints

Como town offers a different side of the lake—more urban, more energetic, and rich in history. Its waterfront is elegant and spacious, while the old town features narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively cafés.

For a broader perspective, heading above the town reveals sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains. From this vantage point, the scale of Lake Como becomes clear, providing a powerful contrast to the intimate village scenes found elsewhere.

This combination of city life and dramatic scenery makes Como an important stop for travelers who want a complete understanding of the destination.

Turning a Travel Itinerary into Lasting Memories

While Lake Como offers endless visual appeal, the most meaningful memories come from intention rather than volume. Instead of trying to see everything, choose locations that resonate with your travel style—romantic, relaxed, or celebratory—and give them time.

Many travelers now plan photography as part of their itinerary rather than an afterthought. With Picturo, booking a Lake Como photographer in advance allows you to enjoy these locations fully, without worrying about documenting every moment yourself. The result is a more present experience and memories captured naturally.