Top superb little towns on Lake Como_ Bellagio_Varenna_Menaggio_Como

Zigmund
Aug 5
2 min read

Lake Como, with its stunning scenery and elegant atmosphere, offers a wealth of attractions for visitors. While there are many beautiful villages and historic sites to explore, here are four of the best things to see when visiting Lake Como:

The Picturesque Towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio: Often referred to as the "Golden Triangle" of Lake Como, these three villages are connected by a convenient ferry service and offer a classic Lake Como experience.
- Bellagio: Known as the "Pearl of Lake Como," it's famous for its charming cobblestone streets, upscale boutiques, and lush gardens, particularly the Gardens of Villa Melz
- Varenna: A quieter and more romantic village, Varenna features colorful houses, a scenic lakeside promenade known as the "Walk of Lovers," and the impressive Villa Monastero and Castello di Vezio.
- Menaggio: Located on the western shore, Menaggio offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a beautiful waterfront promenade, a lively central piazza, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Historic Villas and Their Gardens: The lake is dotted with magnificent villas, many of which have stunning gardens open to the public. Visiting a few of these is an essential part of the Lake Como experience.
Villa del Balbianello: This is arguably the most famous villa, situated on a dramatic peninsula with breathtaking views. It's known for its terraced gardens and has been featured in movies like Casino Royale and Star Wars.
Villa Carlotta: Located in Tremezzo, this villa is renowned for its world-class botanical gardens, which are particularly spectacular during the spring bloom of azaleas and rhododendrons.
Villa Monastero: In Varenna, this villa boasts a long, beautiful garden that stretches along the lakeshore, offering a serene and picturesque walk.
A Boat Tour of the Lake: To truly appreciate the scale and beauty of Lake Como, you must get out on the water. A boat tour provides unparalleled panoramic views of the villages, dramatic mountains, and opulent villas from a unique perspective. You can choose from public ferries, which are a great way to hop between towns, or a private boat tour for a more personalized experience.
The City of Como and the Brunate Funicular: The city of Como, the largest on the lake, offers a mix of historic charm and modern life. Its historic center is worth exploring, with the majestic Duomo di Como (Cathedral) as a centerpiece. From Como, you can take the historic funicular up to the hilltop village of Brunate. This short, scenic ride offers a "balcony on the Alps" experience, with spectacular aerial views of the city and the lake.