This stunning glacial lake surrounded by Alpine peaks and elegant villas has been a celebrity retreat since Roman times. Take ferries between charming lakeside towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, or visit George Clooney's village of Laglio for star-spotting.
Lake Como — Lago di Como — is a glacially formed Y-shaped lake in Lombardy, 50 kilometres north of Milan and surrounded by the southern Alps, covering 146 square kilometres and reaching 425 metres at its deepest point, making it the third-deepest lake in Europe. The lake has been a retreat for the wealthy since Roman times, and today it is synonymous with lakeside villa culture, celebrity residents, and a landscape of extraordinary scenic beauty that has made it one of Italy's most consistently photographed settings. The three principal towns are Como at the southern tip (the lake's largest city, connected to Milan by rail in 30 minutes), Bellagio at the confluence of the lake's two southern arms (often called the Pearl of the Lake), and Varenna on the eastern shore. Ferries operated by Gestione Navigazione Laghi connect all towns with routes ranging from single crossings to full-day circuits. Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo contains a notable art collection including Canova's Cupid and Psyche and spectacular gardens famous for spring rhododendron bloom. Villa del Balbianello on a wooded promontory near Lenno — used as a filming location for Star Wars Episode II and the 2006 James Bond Casino Royale — is one of the most architecturally striking private gardens in Italy. The funicular from Como city to the hillside village of Brunate takes 7 minutes and provides panoramic views over the lake and the Alps. Menaggio, Cernobbio, and Gravedona offer quieter alternatives to the main tourist centres with authentic lakeside atmospheres.
Good to know
- Hours
- Open 24/7 (ferry services 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM)
- Best for
- scenic beauty, romance, luxury, relaxation
Location
Lake Como, Province of Como
45.9942, 9.2661 View on map
Highlights
- Ferry circuit connecting Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and Tremezzo — the best lake vantage point
- Villa del Balbianello on its wooded promontory — Bond and Star Wars filming location with terraced gardens
- Villa Carlotta gardens with spring rhododendron bloom and Canova's Cupid and Psyche
- Como city funicular to Brunate hilltop village with panoramic Alpine and lake views
- Bellagio's stepped lanes descending to the ferry dock between the two arms of the lake
Tips for visiting
- Base in Varenna or Bellagio for easy ferry access to all towns
- Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello offer stunning gardens
- Take funicular from Como town to Brunate for panoramic views
- Visit May-June for blooming gardens, September for fewer crowds
When to visit
May for rhododendron bloom at Villa Carlotta. September for warm lake swimming and lighter crowds. Morning ferry departures from Como or Lecco offer the clearest Alpine views before afternoon cloud. Bellagio at sunset, after the day-trip boats have departed, is the most atmospheric window.
Accessibility
The main ferry system is accessible at major landing stages. Como city centre is largely flat. Bellagio, Varenna, and most village centres involve steep cobbled lanes and stairs not suitable for wheelchairs. Villa del Balbianello has terraced gardens with uneven paths and steps. Contact individual attractions for specific accessibility information.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best base for visiting Lake Como?
Varenna offers easy ferry connections to all main towns, a quieter atmosphere than Bellagio, and spectacular views across the lake. Bellagio is the most famous base but busier and more expensive. Menaggio suits those wanting more space and a village feel.
How do I get around Lake Como?
Ferries operated by Gestione Navigazione Laghi are the primary way to move between towns — they are frequent, scenic, and run April through October. A day pass covers multiple crossings. The lakeside roads are narrow and very congested in summer; ferries are far more practical than driving.
When is the best time to visit Lake Como?
May and June for spring flowering gardens and pleasant temperatures. September for warm water and reduced crowds. July and August are peak season with maximum crowds and prices. November to March sees most hotels close, but the lake is beautiful and quiet in winter light.