From James Bond to George Clooney, Lake Como has been a playground for the rich and famous for decades. Look past the opulent villas and Hollywood high-rollers, however, and you’ll find that this glacial lake remains a land of tiny fishing villages and humble polenta. Boat tours of lakeshore highlights like Villa Balbianello and Villa Carlotta, along with the jewel-like towns of Bellagio and Varenna, top the list of things to do on Lake Como. Visitors can also delve into the local cuisine with cooking classes, market tours, and winery visits.
Lake Como is popular with A-listers (and celebrity-spotters) in the summer, so spring and fall are the best times to avoid the crowds and enjoy the area’s lush gardens and mild microclimate. In October, you can also experience the medieval Palio del Baradello, a historic reinactment that features costumed processions, games, and banquets. The most famous event of the year, however, is the Feast Day of San Giovanni (June 24th), is marked by a twilight boat procession and fireworks.
Trains run directly from Milan to the towns of Como, Lecco, and Varenna. From there, an efficient local bus and ferry system can take you to the other major lakeside towns. You can also travel between towns (or head to a villa) in a taxi or taxi boat. The hills surrounding the lake offer some of the most scenic cycling in northern Italy; you can rent a bike or e-bike at agencies in the main towns all around the lake.
Lake Como offers some of the most spectacular hiking in Italy’s northern Lake District, but most trails up to the peaks that line the lake shore require a good map and strong calves. The Greenway is an easy alternative suitable for more casual walkers and active families. The flat, scenic route hugs the lake for 6 miles (10 km) and passes through seven of the prettiest lakeside villages, making it simple to break up your walk into short legs.
