Lake Como is a stunning destination in Northern Italy known for its picturesque landscapes and charming towns. While exploring Lake Como itself is a delightful experience, taking day trips from Lake Como allows visitors to discover even more of the beauty and culture that this region has to offer. From historic cities to scenic countryside, there are plenty of options for day trips from Lake Como that cater to every interest. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, sampling local cuisine, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Italian countryside, day trips from Lake Como provide a perfect opportunity to expand your horizons and create unforgettable memories.
Milan
Travel tips
- Distance of Milan from Lake Como: Approximately 31 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours by train or bus
- How to get there from Lake Como: You can take a direct train from Como San Giovanni station to Milan Centrale station. Alternatively, buses also run between the two cities, with the journey taking a bit longer than the train ride.
- Click for Google maps directions: Milan
Exploring Milan: Things to do
Milan, the bustling metropolis of northern Italy, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and modernity. One of the top attractions in Milan is the iconic Duomo di Milano, a magnificent cathedral that showcases stunning Gothic architecture. Visitors can climb to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper, housed in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. The city is also known for its fashion and shopping scene, with the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offering high-end boutiques and designer stores.
For a taste of Milanese cuisine, head to the Brera district to sample traditional risotto alla Milanese or enjoy an aperitivo at one of the chic bars in the Navigli canal district. Don’t miss out on exploring the historic Sforza Castle and strolling through the picturesque Sempione Park.
Milan’s vibrant energy, rich history, and modern charm make it a captivating destination that should not be missed during your visit to Lake Como.
Bellagio
Travel tips
- Distance of Bellagio from Lake Como: 15 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by ferry
- To get to Bellagio from Lake Como, take a ferry from the Como town center. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Como. Once you arrive in Bellagio, you can explore the town on foot.
- Click for Google maps directions: Bellagio
Exploring Bellagio: Things to do
Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. One of the main reasons why Bellagio is a must-see place is its picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Como, surrounded by lush greenery and majestic mountains.
Visitors to Bellagio can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, lined with colorful buildings and quaint cafes. The town is also home to beautiful gardens, such as the Villa Melzi Gardens, where you can relax and take in the serene atmosphere.
For those interested in history and culture, Bellagio has several museums and historic sites to explore. The Civic Museum of Bellagio showcases the town’s rich heritage, while the Church of San Giacomo offers a glimpse into its religious past.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the hiking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Como. The Punta Spartivento hike is a popular choice, offering breathtaking vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains.
In addition, Bellagio is known for its shopping and dining scene. Visitors can browse local boutiques for handmade crafts and souvenirs, or savor authentic Italian cuisine at one of the town’s cozy restaurants.
Overall, Bellagio is a destination that appeals to travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, enjoying scenic walks, or indulging in local delicacies, Bellagio has something for everyone.
Varenna
Travel tips
- Distance of Varenna from Lake Como: 5 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 20 minutes
- How to get there from Lake Como: You can take a bus from Piazza Matteotti in Como to Varenna-Esino station. Alternatively, you can also take a train from Como Nord Lago station to Varenna-Esino station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Varenna
Exploring Varenna: Things to do
Varenna is a charming village on the eastern shore of Lake Como that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm. With its picturesque waterfront promenade, colorful houses, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, Varenna is a must-see destination for visitors to Lake Como.
One of the top things to do in Varenna is to visit Villa Monastero, a beautiful villa with a botanical garden that offers breathtaking views of the lake. You can also explore the historic Castello di Vezio, a medieval castle perched on a hill overlooking Varenna.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Varenna offers opportunities for hiking and water sports. You can take a leisurely stroll along the Sentiero del Viandante trail or rent a kayak to explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Como.
Don’t miss the chance to sample delicious Italian cuisine at one of the local restaurants in Varenna, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes and traditional pasta recipes.
Overall, Varenna is a hidden gem that captures the essence of Lake Como and provides a peaceful retreat away from the bustling tourist crowds. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing by the lake, Varenna has something to offer for every traveler.
Como
Travel tips
- Distance of Como from Lake Como: 27 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by car
- How to get there from Lake Como: You can take a direct bus from Lake Como to Como city center. The bus station in Lake Como is located near the waterfront. Alternatively, you can take a train from Varenna-Esino station to Como San Giovanni station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Como
Exploring Como: Things to do
Como is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the must-see places in Como is the stunning Como Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade, where you can admire the elegant villas and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Como.
For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Pinacoteca Civica art gallery is a must. Here, you can marvel at a collection of works by renowned Italian artists. Don’t miss the chance to ride the funicular to Brunate, a quaint village perched on a hill overlooking Como. The panoramic views from the top are simply spectacular.
If you’re a fan of shopping, Como’s historic center is dotted with boutique shops and designer stores where you can indulge in some retail therapy. For a taste of local cuisine, head to one of the traditional trattorias and savor delicious dishes like risotto al salto and polenta uncia.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or simply want to relax by the lake, Como has something for everyone. Don’t forget to take a boat ride on Lake Como to fully appreciate the beauty of this enchanting destination.
Lugano
Travel tips
- Distance of Lugano from Lake Como: 16 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by car
- To get to Lugano from Lake Como, you can take a bus from Como to Menaggio and then transfer to a train to Lugano. The bus station in Como is Piazzale Giuseppe Mazzini, and the train station in Lugano is Lugano FLP.
- Click for Google maps directions: Lugano
Exploring Lugano: Things to do
Lugano, a charming city in southern Switzerland, is a must-see destination for travelers visiting Lake Como. Known for its stunning views of Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains, Lugano offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication.
One of the top things to do in Lugano is to take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque lakeside promenade. Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you admire the elegant architecture and colorful buildings that line the waterfront. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Parco Ciani, a beautiful park with lush greenery and peaceful walking paths.
For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Museo d’Arte della Svizzera Italiana is a must. This museum showcases a diverse collection of Italian and Swiss art, including works by renowned artists such as Giovanni Segantini and Alberto Giacometti. The museum’s modern design and stunning exhibitions make it a cultural highlight of Lugano.
If you’re looking for a taste of local culture, explore Lugano’s vibrant Piazza della Riforma. This bustling square is surrounded by cafes, shops, and historic buildings, making it the perfect spot to relax and people-watch. Be sure to sample some delicious Swiss cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the area.
In conclusion, Lugano’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and culinary delights make it a must-see destination for travelers exploring the Lake Como region. Whether you’re interested in art, nature, or simply soaking up the charming Swiss atmosphere, Lugano has something for everyone.
Bergamo
Travel tips
- Distance of Bergamo from Lake Como: Approximately 40 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours by car
- How to get there from Lake Como: You can take a direct bus from Como to Bergamo, or alternatively, you can take a train from Como to Lecco and then transfer to a train to Bergamo. The main bus station in Como is Piazzale Matteotti, and the train station is Como San Giovanni. In Bergamo, the main train station is Bergamo Railway Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Bergamo
Exploring Bergamo: Things to do
Bergamo, a charming city in northern Italy, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and stunning architecture. The city is divided into two distinct parts: the historic Città Alta (Upper Town) and the more modern Città Bassa (Lower Town).
One of the top attractions in Bergamo is the Città Alta, a medieval hilltop town surrounded by Venetian walls. Visitors can wander through narrow cobblestone streets, visit the impressive Piazza Vecchia, and explore historic sites like the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Cappella Colleoni.
For panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Alps, take a ride on the funicular to the Rocca di Bergamo. The fortress offers breathtaking vistas and a glimpse into Bergamo’s past.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Accademia Carrara, a renowned art gallery housing works by Italian masters such as Botticelli, Bellini, and Raphael. The gallery’s collection spans from the 14th to the 19th century, providing a comprehensive overview of Italian art history.
Food lovers should not miss the opportunity to indulge in Bergamo’s culinary delights. Try local specialties like casoncelli (pasta filled with meat and breadcrumbs), polenta e osei (a dish of polenta with small birds), and the famous Bergamo salami.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or gastronomy, Bergamo offers a diverse range of experiences that make it a must-visit destination in Italy.
Verona
Travel tips
- Distance of Verona from Lake Como: Approximately 140 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 to 3 hours by train or bus
- How to get there from Lake Como: You can take a direct train from Como San Giovanni station to Verona Porta Nuova station. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Como to Verona with various stops along the way.
- Click for Google maps directions: Verona
Exploring Verona: Things to do
Verona, a charming city in northern Italy, is a must-see destination for travelers exploring the region. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and romantic ambiance, Verona offers a blend of cultural experiences and picturesque landscapes.
One of the top attractions in Verona is the iconic Verona Arena, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that hosts world-class opera performances during the summer months. Visitors can also explore Juliet’s House, a popular tourist spot believed to be the inspiration for Shakespeare’s tragic love story, Romeo and Juliet.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to Castelvecchio Museum is a must, showcasing a collection of medieval art and artifacts. Strolling through the charming streets of the historic center, Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Bra offer vibrant markets, cozy cafes, and impressive landmarks like the Lamberti Tower.
Nature lovers can escape to the peaceful Giardino Giusti, a stunning Renaissance garden with intricate designs and panoramic views of the city. Additionally, a leisurely walk along the Adige River provides a serene setting to admire the picturesque bridges and architecture that line its banks.
Verona’s culinary scene is also a highlight, with traditional trattorias serving up delicious local dishes such as risotto all’Amarone and pastissada de caval. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor a glass of Valpolicella wine, produced in the nearby vineyards surrounding the city.
Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins, admiring the romantic balconies, or indulging in authentic Italian cuisine, Verona offers a diverse range of experiences that make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a taste of Italy’s cultural heritage.
