Guide to Lake Como: Must-See Attractions, Special Events, Things to Do
Guide to Lake Como: Must-See Attractions, Special Events, Things to Do
Lake Como, Lago di Como in Italian, is one of Italy’s most famous and picturesque lakes. Located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, it boasts stunning natural landscapes, quaint lakeside towns, and lavish villas.
As one of Italy’s top tourist spots, Lake Como attracts visitors worldwide seeking relaxation, outdoor pursuits, and cultural enrichment. On this page, we delve into the mesmerizing attractions of Lake Como, offering insights into activities and special events awaiting exploration.
Quick Facts about Lake Como
About Lake Como
Lake Como is the third-largest lake in Italy, covering an area of about 56 square miles (146 square kilometers). It is surrounded by majestic mountains, including the Alps, which provide a dramatic backdrop to the serene waters.
Lake Como has been a popular destination for centuries, attracting tourists, artists, and celebrities alike. Visitors come to enjoy the scenic beauty, outdoor activities such as boating and hiking, and the rich cultural heritage of the region. The towns and villages around the lake, such as Bellagio, Como, Gravedona, Lecco, Mandello, Menaggio, and Varenna, are known for their historic architecture, charming streets, and vibrant atmosphere.
Must See Attractions at Lake Como
We can divide the lake into four regions: Central Lake, Upper Lake, Branch of Como, and Branch of Lecco. Each of these areas has its own charm and offers a range of attractions. Let’s take a closer look at them.
Central Lake
Central Lake Como comprises the renowned villages of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, must-visit destinations for first-time visitors to Lake Como.
Bellagio
Positioned on Lake Como’s promontory, Bellagio is renowned for its historic residences, villas, and stunning landscapes. With charming streets lined with handicraft shops, highlights include Villa Melzi with its lake-view gardens and Villa Serbelloni’s park.
Embracing the lake’s central part, Bellagio is aptly called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” offering panoramic vistas, picturesque stairways, and vibrant colors. It serves as a starting point for walks, including to the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Ghisallo and the Cycling Museum, and offers boat connections to other lakeside villages.
Varenna
Known as the “diamond of the Lario,”Varenna on Lake Como’s eastern shore features narrow streets dotted with bars, restaurants, and local shops. The Lovers’ Promenade offers a scenic walkway with breathtaking views.
Villa Monastero, dating back to the late 12th century, now hosts a museum and botanical park. Vezio Castle, over a thousand years old, offers dungeon tours, a tower visit, and a botanical garden with a falconry school.
Menaggio
Situated on Lake Como’s western shore, Menaggio boasts a warm climate and a rich tourist history. Its lakeside promenade is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Lerai beach provides a unique sunbathing experience. Menaggio is also a hub for trekking enthusiasts, with pathways through Val Senagra Park, Plesio, Breglia, and climbs on Mount Grona offering access to Upper Lake and Cavargna Valley paths.
Upper Lake
In the serene realm of Upper Lake Como, removed from the urban clamor of Lecco and Como, as well as the bustling towns of Varenna and Bellagio, tranquility reigns supreme. Here, nature and history take center stage, amidst campsites, beaches, mountains, and the omnipresent winds, Breva and Tivano.
Bellano
Bellano, situated on Lake Como’s eastern shore, just north of Bellagio’s tip, is celebrated for its picturesque lakefront and charming downtown streets lined with shops, boutiques, bars, and restaurants.
The charming village stands as a prominent cultural hub, hosting annual events that attract hundreds of visitors. Among these, the Pesa Vegia is significant, boasting nearly 400 years of history. Held every January 5th, the event evolves while maintaining its timeless legends and magical allure.
Piona Abbey
Explore history at Piona Abbey, established in 1138 on the Olgiasca peninsula. Still inhabited by Cistercian monks, it offers products made with medicinal herbs and guided tours.
Fort Fuentes and Montecchio Nord
Discover historic forts in Colico and Pian di Spagna. Fort Montecchio Nord is a World War I marvel, while Fort Fuentes defended the border with the Grisons territory.
Larian Boat Museum
Located in Pianello del Lario, this museum showcases over 400 unique boats, spanning from ancient times to the present day, offering a journey through Lake Como’s rich navigation history.
Como
Como, the vibrant heart of Lario, brimming with history, art, lively squares, and delightful corners is waiting to enchant you with these beautiful sights:
Branch of Como
Spanning from Argegno to Nesso, the Branch of Como boasts some must-see historical villas along its shores. At 428 meters above sea level, above the village of Ossuccio, is the UNESCO World Heritage Site Sacro Monte di Ossuccio.
Branch of Lecco
In recent decades, Lecco, the second largest city in the Lario region, has focused on developing tourism. Here’s what you can discover:
What Can I Do at Lake Como?
Lake Como offers a plethora of recreational activities and sports for all types of vacationers. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, you’ll find ideal conditions for water and mountain sports.
Enjoy water activities, like sailing, kiting, surfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, rowing, canoeing, motorboating, or fishing on the lake, while discovering its breathtaking landscapes.
On land, explore hiking trails, mountain tours, climbing routes, biking paths, horseback riding trails, golf courses, and tennis courts. Alternatively, unwind with a game of boccia in a scenic location. With numerous outdoor and indoor options, Lake Como ensures endless fun and adventure for all.
Special Events at Lake Como
Lake Como hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, adding vibrancy and excitement to the region. Here are some notable events:
Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este
A prestigious international event showcasing vintage and luxury cars, held annually at the iconic Villa d’Este in Cernobbio. It attracts car enthusiasts and collectors from around the world.
Como Città della Musica
A series of music events and concerts held throughout the year, featuring both classical and contemporary performances in venues across the city of Como.
Fiera di Sant’Abbondio
A traditional fair held in Como in honor of the city’s patron saint, Sant’Abbondio. It features food stalls, arts and crafts vendors, live music, and carnival rides, attracting locals and tourists alike.
Top Bestseller Bernina Express Ticket
Official Bernina Express panoramic train tickets with mandatory seat reservations, panoramic windows, onboard Wi-Fi, and UNESCO-listed Alpine scenery:
Bernina Express Ticket + Seat Reservation
90+ Reviews
€87.03
Headout
“A once-in-a-lifetime experience. The climb up to the Bernina Pass is unforgettable. Booked early on Headout and everything was seamless.” – Mark, April 2025
Best Handpicked Bernina Express Tour Options
Guided Bernina route tours departing from Milan, Tirano, and St. Moritz using regional Red Bernina trains, combining scenic rail rides with sightseeing stops and free time:
From Milan: Bernina Train Guided Tour to St. Moritz
2.7K+ Reviews
€104
GetYourGuide
“Absolutely stunning train journey! Well worth the money! Lots of snow but would love to do it again in spring/summer […]” Ian, Jan. 2026
From Milan: Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Train Tour
5.6K+ Reviews
€175
GetYourGuide
“Incredible trip, the Bernina route was breathtaking. The blue sky and sun made everything more beautiful….”
Bernina Red Train: Roundtrip from Milan
65+ Reviews
€149
Tiqets
“Wonderful experience through the alps. Roberto was very polite and our driver was fantastic. It’s a long day but the views are spectacular and very much worthwhile doing.” Anonymous, Jul. 2025
From Tirano: Bernina Train to St. Moritz
250+ Reviews
€63
GetYourGuide
“Do it without fear!!! I loved it so much. Beautiful views. I don’t regret it and it’s totally worth it. We came with my grandmother who is in a wheelchair and it was super simple!! I loved it so much” Maryane, Feb 2024
From Saint Moritz: Bernina Train to Tirano
90+ Reviews
€63
GetYourGuide
“Excellent experience, beautiful landscapes! Insuperable”
Affordable Alternatives to Bernina Express Tickets
Regional Bernina Red Train tickets on the same UNESCO-listed route, offering flexible departures and great views; please note this is not the Bernina Express panoramic train:
Red Bernina Train Ticket
180+ Reviews
€30.48
Headout
“[…]This experience must be lived, not heard or seen in pictures. It must be seen with your own eyes, not with someone else’s…” Nicolae, Jan. 2026
Bestselling Train Pass Options
Swiss rail passes providing unlimited train travel across Switzerland, including the Bernina route, with flexible travel days and mobile access. Seat reservations are not included and must be booked separately.
Swiss Travel Continuous Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat
310+ Reviews
€289.40
Headout
“Excellent option and savings! Everything works very well […]A 100!!! It has discounts and free tickets at many attractions.”
Interrail Switzerland Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train
200+ Reviews
€202.90
Headout
“[…] The Interrail Swiss pass was very easy to use. I did not have to stress about buying tickets at all. It is also a mobile pass, so that was also convenient.” Ines, Nov. 2024
Popular Products Related to Bernina Express
Useful add-ons such as airport transfers, Lake Como cruises, and Swiss attractions often paired with Bernina train journeys:
Malpensa Airport T1/T2 (MXP): Transfer to/from Milan Center
6.4K+ Reviews
€10
GetYourGuide
“We traveled by bus on Terravision. Fantastic carriers. The buses are very luxurious, clean and spacious. The staff is polite and communicative. Top professionals. […]” Ljupco, Jan. 2026
Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket
9.3K+ Reviews
€19
GetYourGuide
“We liked everything. The audio guide was clear and informative. The company was generous with the samples they provided. Not too crowded. Overall, a very enjoyable afternoon.” Julie, Jan. 2026
Bellagio: Lake Como Shared Boat Tour
1.1K+ Reviews
€30
GetYourGuide
“Really loved this tour, super simple to book, clear directions to the meeting point & lots of language choices for the audio tour. […]“ Carly, August 2025
Other Top-Rated Swiss Train Tickets & Options
Popular Swiss scenic train experiences and mountain railways beyond the Bernina route, including Glacier Express, Jungfraujoch, and Gornergrat:
Top Bestseller Bernina Express Ticket
Official Bernina Express panoramic train tickets with mandatory seat reservations, panoramic windows, onboard Wi-Fi, and UNESCO-listed Alpine scenery:
Bernina Express Ticket + Seat Reservation
Travel one way on the Bernina Express between Chur, St. Moritz, and Tirano with a reserved seat in 1st or 2nd class. Ride in air-conditioned panoramic coaches with free Wi-Fi, USB plugs, and the InfoT(r)ainment audio app while enjoying UNESCO-listed Alpine scenery. An optional Bernina Express Bus connects Tirano and Lugano with advance reservation required.
“A once-in-a-lifetime experience. The climb up to the Bernina Pass is unforgettable. Booked early on Headout and everything was seamless.” – Mark, April 2025
Best Handpicked Bernina Express Tour Options
Guided Bernina route tours departing from Milan, Tirano, and St. Moritz using regional Red Bernina trains, combining scenic rail rides with sightseeing stops and free time:
From Milan: Bernina Train Guided Tour to St. Moritz
Join a guided day tour from Milan to Tirano by coach, then travel on the regional train along the Bernina route from Tirano to St. Moritz. Experience the UNESCO-listed railway, stop at Alp Grüm for Palü Glacier views, admire alpine lakes and peaks, and enjoy free time in St. Moritz before returning to Milan.
“Absolutely stunning train journey! Well worth the money! Lots of snow but would love to do it again in spring/summer […]” Ian, Jan. 2026
From Milan: Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Train Tour
This 13-hour day trip from Milan includes luxury coach transport, a scenic Lake Como cruise, free time in St. Moritz, and a pre-booked Bernina Red Train ticket from St. Moritz to Tirano. Experience serene alpine lakes, high mountain views along the UNESCO-listed Bernina route, and time exploring the elegant Swiss resort town on this full-day adventure.
“Incredible trip, the Bernina route was breathtaking. […] We just wish we had more time for lunch in St Moritz, but we understand considering the train schedule. Otherwise, excellent crew, visit locations and transportation.” Cristina, March 27, 2024
Bernina Red Train: Roundtrip from Milan
Join a full-day roundtrip tour from Milan, traveling by coach to the Bernina route and riding the regional Bernina Red Train to St. Moritz. Cross the UNESCO-listed railway via the Brusio Viaduct and Bernina Pass, enjoy alpine scenery, visit a Swiss chocolate house, and explore St. Moritz before returning to Milan in comfort and style.
“Wonderful experience through the alps. Roberto was very polite and our driver was fantastic. It’s a long day but the views are spectacular and very much worthwhile doing.” Anonymous, Jul. 2025
From Tirano: Bernina Red Train Ticket to St. Moritz
Experience the regional Bernina Red Train with a one-way or roundtrip train ticket from Tirano to St. Moritz, available in first or second class depending on your selection. Enjoy leisure time to explore the beauty of St. Moritz at your own pace during the breaks between transfers. Please note that you’ll need to arrange your own transportation for both arrival to Tirano and return.
“Do it without fear!!! I loved it so much. Beautiful views. I don’t regret it and it’s totally worth it. We came with my grandmother who is in a wheelchair and it was super simple!!👏🏻👏🏻 I loved it so much” Maryane, Feb 2024
From Saint Moritz: Bernina Train to Tirano
Experience the Bernina Red Train with a roundtrip ticket from St. Moritz to Tirano, offering second or first-class options. Take your time exploring the charming Tirano during the transfer. Keep in mind, you’ll be responsible for arranging your own transportation to and from St. Moritz.
“Excellent experience, beautiful landscapes! Insuperable” GetYourGuide traveler, Dec 2023
Affordable Alternatives to Bernina Express Tickets
Regional Bernina Red Train tickets on the same UNESCO-listed route, offering flexible departures and great views; please note this is not the Bernina Express panoramic train:
Red Bernina Train Ticket
Travel on regular regional trains between Chur, St. Moritz, and Tirano, following the same UNESCO-listed Bernina Line as the Bernina Express. Enjoy frequent departures, flexible travel, and large opening windows ideal for photography. Please note this ticket is not valid on the Bernina Express panoramic train, which requires a separate booking and mandatory seat reservation.
“[…]This experience must be lived, not heard or seen in pictures. It must be seen with your own eyes, not with someone else’s…” Nicolae, Jan. 2026
Bestselling Train Pass Options
Swiss rail passes providing unlimited train travel across Switzerland, including the Bernina route, with flexible travel days and mobile access. Seat reservations are not included and must be booked separately.
Swiss Travel Continuous Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat
This all-in-one travel pass gives you unlimited access to Switzerland’s public transport, including the breathtaking Bernina Express route (seat reservation not included). It covers scenic train rides, lake cruises, city transport, and 500+ museums. Travelers also enjoy up to 50% discounts on popular mountain excursions like Titlis and Pilatus.
Important: Only valid for residents outside Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
“Excellent option and savings! Everything works very well […]A 100!!! It has discounts and free tickets at many attractions.“ Mariana, May 2025
Interrail Switzerland Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train
Designed for European residents, the Interrail Switzerland Pass offers unlimited train travel across Switzerland for any 3 to 8 selected days within one month. Travel freely on the national rail network in 1st or 2nd class without fixed dates, enjoying flexible itineraries and seamless mobile access. Seat reservations are required on selected trains.
“[…] The Interrail Swiss pass was very easy to use. I did not have to stress about buying tickets at all. It is also a mobile pass, so that was also convenient.” Ines, Nov. 2024
Popular Products Related to Bernina Express
Useful add-ons such as airport transfers, Lake Como cruises, and Swiss attractions often paired with Bernina train journeys:
Malpensa Airport T1/T2 (MXP): Transfer to/from Milan Center
Travel comfortably between Malpensa Airport (Terminal 1 or 2) and Milan city center with a direct shared bus transfer. Enjoy air-conditioned coaches with free Wi-Fi, generous luggage allowance, and flexible tickets valid all day. Skip costly taxis and relax knowing you can catch the next available bus if you miss your departure.
“We traveled by bus on Terravision. Fantastic carriers. The buses are very luxurious, clean and spacious. The staff is polite and communicative. Top professionals. […]” Ljupco, Jan. 2026
Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket
Discover the world of Swiss chocolate at the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum with an interactive, audio-guided visit. Learn about cocoa’s journey from bean to bar, admire the iconic 9-meter chocolate fountain, explore modern production exhibits, and enjoy unlimited tastings of Lindt’s finest creations inside this immersive chocolate experience.
“We liked everything. The audio guide was clear and informative. The company was generous with the samples they provided. Not too crowded. Overall, a very enjoyable afternoon.” Julie, Jan. 2026
Bellagio: Lake Como Shared Boat Tour
Cruise Lake Como on a shared boat tour departing from Bellagio and admire iconic villas from the water. Sail past Villa Carlotta, Villa del Balbianello, Villa Melzi, and Isola Comacina while enjoying panoramic views of lakeside gardens and historic estates. An onboard audio guide app brings the scenery to life during this relaxed sightseeing cruise.
“Really loved this tour, super simple to book, clear directions to the meeting point & lots of language choices for the audio tour. […]“ Carly, August 2025
Other Top-Rated Swiss Train Tickets & Options
Popular Swiss scenic train experiences and mountain railways beyond the Bernina route, including Glacier Express, Jungfraujoch, and Gornergrat:
Glacier Express (Ticket with Seat Reservation): Zermatt to/from Chur/St. Moritz
Travel one way on the Glacier Express between Zermatt and Chur or St. Moritz with a guaranteed seat reservation in 1st or 2nd class. Ride aboard panoramic, air-conditioned coaches with free Wi-Fi, USB plugs, and access to the InfoT(r)ainment audio app. Enjoy a slow, scenic journey through the Swiss Alps, passing highlights like the Rhine Gorge and Landwasser Viaduct.
Round-Trip Train Tickets to Mount Gornergrat from Zermatt
Ride the iconic Gornergrat cogwheel train on a round-trip journey from Zermatt to Gornergrat at 3,089 meters. Enjoy priority boarding for the best views toward the Matterhorn as you travel through alpine landscapes. At the summit, take in panoramic views of 29 peaks, including the Matterhorn and Dufourspitze, and explore Europe’s highest-altitude shopping and viewing areas.
“Surreal. The beauty is beyond human imagination. Any word used to describe the beauty of Swiss Alps is an understatement. The train ride was very comfortable.” Sujoy, Sep. 2025
From Interlaken: Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Round-Trip Train Tickets
Travel round trip from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe by train, choosing the Eiger Express gondola via Grindelwald or the historic rack railway via Lauterbrunnen. Enjoy access to the Sphinx Observatory, Ice Palace, Alpine Sensation, and snow-covered Plateau, with a scheduled descent seat time and optional seat reservations available to reduce waiting during peak periods.
“It is the best family travel experience we had. All the staff are amazing. Very accommodating and very friendly. The view is SPECTACULAR! […]” Sheryl, Nov. 2025
