Top Things to Do and See Around Lake Como, Italy

The garden of Villa Cipressi Hotel shows the biodiversity of each region in Italy
The garden of Villa Cipressi Hotel shows the biodiversity of each region in Italy | © Cristina Fumi Photography / Alamy Stock Photo
Luca Pinelli

In the Lombardy region of northern Italy, Lake Como comprises many villages and villas that are worth a visit. Whether you are looking to explore history at the duomo, or venture onto the water, the lake and its environs are the perfect choice for an Italian holiday. Here are a few things to do in Bellagio if you’re undecided.

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Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
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CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
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1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

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CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
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2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
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CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
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3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
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SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
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1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

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SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
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2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
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Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
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1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

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Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
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2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
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Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
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3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
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Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
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1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

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Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
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2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
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Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
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3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
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Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
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1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

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Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
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2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
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Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
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3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
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Duomo od Como, for magnificent architecture

Take a seat at a restaurant or bar in the square out front and admire the magnificent 15th-century neogothic façade of the Duomo, including sculptures of Pliny the Elder and the Younger. The interior doesn’t disappoint either – with more than 400 years in the making, it spans architectural styles. Entrance, of course, is free.

Villa del Balbianello, for a mixture of impressive art and nature

This estate, on the western bank of the lake, offers an enchanting view of the area. Accessible by boat or via a short hike, the late 16th-century villa sits in a lovely garden with an assortment of beautiful flowers and greenery, creating a combination of art and nature that is hard to find elsewhere. It is a must-see for nature and history buffs.

Taxi Boat Varenna, for a boat trip on the lake

This service offers short or long trips from Varenna to various attractions on the lake. The shortest tour is that of Varenna, lasting half an hour, and the longest is called George’s tour, which takes you past the villas dotting the shoreline, including George Clooney’s, in Laglio (2.5hrs). The boatman will also give suggestions as to where to have lunch or dinner on the lake.

Jungle Raider Park, for adventure enthusiasts

Jungle Raider Park – which has two different locations in Civenna and Margno – is an adventure park with everything from ziplines to bungee jumping out in nature. It has seven different levels of difficulty, including paths specifically designed for children or beginners – or those feeling a little less daring.

Basilica of Sant’Abbondio, for history lovers

The Basilica of Sant’Abbondio dates back to the 5th century CE, making it one of the oldest churches in the area; however, the current Romanesque structure was built in the 11th century. The simple decor is balanced by a highly ornamented apse, with frescoes dating back to the mid-14th century. The building was constructed over different periods, so you can see how it was shaped by the trends of each era and understand more about the history of Como.

Museum Moto Guzzi, for motorcycle fans

This museum will definitely appeal to those with a passion for motorcycles and engines in general, as it lays out the history of motorcycles via displays of vehicles from different eras. Admission is free of charge, and it is conveniently situated if you are touring the various villages on the lake.

Botanical Garden at Hotel Villa Cipressi, for gardens with a view

The garden of Villa Cipressi Hotel shows the biodiversity of each region in Italy

Part of the wonderful lakeside Hotel Villa Cipressi that was built in the 1400s, the Botanical Garden is open to the public, whereas the rest of the building belongs to the hotel and its restaurant. The century-old garden, running down to the lake, features an abundance of plants and flowers that nature lovers will adore. It is spread over different levels that overlook the water so you get lots of beautiful views.

Forte di Fuentes, for seeing a Spanish fort

This historic fortress is significant in that it represents one of the few remains of the Spanish dominion of the area. Dating back to the 17th century, it sits on the northern part of the lake, near Colico. If you are interested in local history, this really is a must, as walking through what used to be a stronghold, inclusive of a square and a church, will unravel tales of war and culture to boot.

Enoteca Principessa, for wine tasting

This winery can be found in Bellagio, where the lake divides into two branches. The proprietor is very knowledgeable and friendly and will guide you through his wide selection of great local wines. It is also possible to purchase wines and have them shipped home, even if you live on another continent. This place is definitely worth a stop-off if you fancy sampling one of Lombardy‘s most famous exports.

Sentiero del Viandante, for the best hiking

If you are a fan of hiking and can’t decide among Como’s many trails, this should be a contender. It is 45km (28mi) long, so it should be broken up into three or four stretches. Taking ramblers through the east coast of Lake Como, the path dates from Roman times and is the perfect way to explore the beauty of nature and art in the area.
If you’re heading elsewhere, visit Milan for an unforgettable trip. See what there is to do there and which neighbourhoods are considered the most trendy. Check out our guide on the most breathtaking destinations in Northern Italy, too.

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