Itineraries for Your Trip to Lake Como
1 Day in Lake Como for First Timers
Some of my best childhood memories take place on Lake Como—jumping into the bracingly cold water, running around the grounds of Villa del Balbianello, and making my way through gelato flavors in the pretty town of Menaggio. There’s so much to experience around the lake and all of it against a gorgeous mountain backdrop.
Because Lake Como is so large, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip here, especially without much time on your hands. However, choosing a convenient home base and taking advantage of the lake’s ferry system is a great way to see all the sights. Here are some suggestions for spending one day on Lake Como.
Spending time on Lake Como involves boat travel, so bring layers to protect against the breeze.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a visit to Villa del Balbianello, which you might recognize from Star Wars.
On Lake Como’s southern tip, Como is the largest city on the shoreline. Start the day at a coffee bar like a local, then get to know this city’s Roman and Medieval history on a walking tour. You’ll visit important historical sites like the Piazza Cavour, a 14th-century cathedral, and the Porta Torre, a tower built to guard the entrance to the city. Bring a camera to snap photos of the city and its lake views.
To fully appreciate the Lake Como area, you must experience it from the water. This afternoon, enjoy a classic lunch of lake fish and polenta at a waterfront restaurant before touring the lake by boat. Local guides will take you to some of their favorite destinations, sharing stories of life on Lake Como as they go. You’ll cruise by picturesque fishing villages, stop to admire grand lakeside villas, and take in views of rock gorges and verdant mountains.
Italian cuisine varies by region, but pasta is constant throughout. To cap off a fun day on Lake Como, take an evening cooking class, where you’ll learn to make classic pasta dishes by hand with a local chef. After a meal, stroll around Como to digest as you experience the city after hours. You’ll see locals and visitors alike gathering in cocktail bars, music lounges, theaters, and open piazzas.
