Itineraries for Your Trip to Lake Como
3 Days in Lake Como for First Timers
Some of the most enjoyable swims of my life have been in Lake Como, where the water is refreshingly cold even in the height of summer, the pebbly beaches are full of locals, and the views are amazing no matter which way you look. That’s right—the lake isn’t just for admiring or traveling on. It’s for exploring, too.
If you’re planning an extended stay in Lake Como, there is plenty of time to work some water activities into your visit alongside town hopping and cultural experiences. Whether you’re more interested in history, culture, cuisine, or views, this part of Italy has it all. Here is how to spend your three days in Lake Como.
Wear layers to protect you from the sun and wind when boating around the lake.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a visit to Bellagio.
There is so much to see in the Lake Como area, and the easiest way to do it all is by boat. So, on your first day, soak up the alpine scenery on a cruise to see some nearby highlights. That includes the picturesque town of Bellagio, which you can combine with a jaunt into Switzerland on a fun day trip.
Once you’re back in Como, spend the evening tasting some of the best local food and wine, such as regionally made cheese and cold cuts.
On your second day on Lake Como, take advantage of the area’s many outdoor activity offerings. You can take a leisurely swim from one of the beaches along the lake or, for a little more action, try water sports. To soak up all the sights at a different pace and learn about local history along the way, try exploring by bicycle.
Delicious, fresh food is the perfect complement to a day spent outdoors, so this evening, unwind with a cooking class. You’ll learn how to make classic dishes like pizza and tiramisù.
This part of Italy is well-known for its truffles and mushrooms, which grow in the forests that border the beautiful lake. On your last day in town, learn how these high-quality products are harvested by hunting for them yourself on a guided experience.
Spend your last evening on the water and snap some photos of the lake at sunset before a classic local dinner of lake fish and polenta at a waterfront restaurant.
