1-Day Lake Como Adventure: Sightseeing and Nightlife with Friends

Lake Como, Italy

1 days

Town of Varenna
View of Cernobbio village and the lake
Old houses and villas in Nesso village
Villa Monastero by the lake
Porta Torre in the historic center of Como

About Lake Como, Italy

Experience the enchanting beauty of Lake Como, Italy, a serene paradise nestled in the foothills of the Alps. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, this luxurious retreat offers breathtaking views, historic villas, and quaint towns. Explore the charming streets of Bellagio, known as the 'Pearl of the Lake', or take a romantic boat ride to admire the grandeur of Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta. Indulge in exquisite Italian cuisine at lakeside restaurants, or hike the surrounding trails for panoramic vistas. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Lake Como's captivating allure promises an unforgettable journey. Let us curate your perfect Italian escape to Lake Como, where timeless elegance meets natural splendor.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Historic Villas, Scenic Gardens, and Vibrant Nightlife in Lake Como

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Villa del Balbianello, a historic villa offering panoramic views of Lake Como. This 18th-century mansion is known for its elaborate terraced gardens and fascinating interiors, including a collection of artifacts from worldwide explorations.

Lunch

Enjoy a lakeside lunch at a local restaurant in Bellagio. Known as the 'Pearl of Lake Como', Bellagio offers a variety of eateries serving traditional Italian cuisine with stunning views of the lake.

Afternoon

Post lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Bellagio, exploring its quaint shops and boutiques. Then, visit the Villa Melzi Gardens, a beautiful lakeside garden featuring a wide variety of plants, sculptures, and an impressive view of the lake.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant in Como city. The city offers a range of dining options, from traditional Italian pizzerias to upscale gourmet restaurants.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Como Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Afterward, enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Como city, with its numerous bars and clubs offering live music and entertainment.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Villa del Balbianello

1
Villa del Balbianello

A beautiful villa offering stunning views of Lake Como, featured in movies like Star Wars and James Bond.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Gardens
Bellagio

2
Bellagio

Known as the 'Pearl of Lake Como', Bellagio is a charming village with picturesque streets, stunning views, and beautiful villas.

Attractions
Neighborhoods
Food and Drink
Shopping
Villa Melzi Gardens

3
Villa Melzi Gardens

A beautiful garden surrounding Villa Melzi, offering stunning views of Lake Como.

Attractions
Gardens
Cultural Experiences
Como Cathedral

4
Como Cathedral

The cathedral is a significant historical and religious landmark, featuring Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Como City Nightlife

5
Como City Nightlife

Como City Nightlife offers a variety of entertainment options from lively bars and clubs to sophisticated lounges and restaurants. It's a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Risotto con pesce persico

Risotto con pesce persico

A popular dish in Lake Como, this is a creamy risotto made with perch fish caught directly from the lake.

Missoltini

Missoltini

A traditional Lake Como dish, Missoltini is made from sun-dried shad fish, which is then grilled and served with polenta.

Polenta uncia

Polenta uncia

A hearty dish from the Lake Como region, Polenta uncia is made from cornmeal, cheese, and butter, often served with porcini mushrooms or meat.

Pizzoccheri

Pizzoccheri

A type of pasta made from buckwheat flour, Pizzoccheri is a traditional dish in the Lake Como area, typically served with potatoes, cabbage, and cheese.

Osso Buco alla Milanese

Osso Buco alla Milanese

A classic dish from the Lombardy region, Osso Buco alla Milanese is a braised veal shank cooked with vegetables, white wine, and broth.

Torta Miascia

Torta Miascia

A traditional dessert from Lake Como, Torta Miascia is a bread cake made with dried and fresh fruits, nuts, and milk.

Amaretti di Saronno

Amaretti di Saronno

These are sweet, almond-flavored biscuits from the Lombardy region, perfect for a light dessert or a snack with coffee.

Panettone

Panettone

Originating from Milan, Panettone is a sweet bread loaf traditionally enjoyed during Christmas and New Year in Lake Como.

Franciacorta

Franciacorta

A sparkling wine from the Lombardy region, Franciacorta is often enjoyed as an aperitif or with meals in Lake Como.

Negroni Sbagliato

A popular cocktail in the Lombardy region, Negroni Sbagliato is made with Campari, sweet vermouth, and sparkling wine instead of gin.

Grappa

Grappa

A traditional Italian brandy, Grappa is made from grape pomace and is often enjoyed as a digestive after meals in Lake Como.

Espresso

Espresso

A staple in Italian culture, Espresso is a strong, rich coffee often enjoyed in the mornings or after meals in Lake Como.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Lake Como, Italy is from April to October. During these months, the weather is most pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This period also offers the most daylight hours for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, if you prefer a quieter vacation, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October, when the crowds are fewer but the weather is still comfortable.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

April 25

Thu

Liberation Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

June 2

Sun

Republic Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St. Stephen's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Driving around Lake Como can be a great way to explore the area at your own pace. There are numerous car rental companies available. However, be aware that the roads can be narrow and winding, and parking can be limited in some areas.

The train is a convenient way to travel around Lake Como. The main railway stations are Como, Lecco, and Varenna, which connect to other towns around the lake via bus or ferry.

Ferries are a popular way to get around Lake Como. They offer a scenic and relaxing way to travel between the various towns and villages around the lake. The main ferry terminals are in Como, Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna.

Buses are another option for getting around Lake Como. The bus network is extensive and connects most towns and villages around the lake. Buses are usually less crowded than ferries and can be a good option during peak tourist season.

Taxis are available in all towns around Lake Como. They can be a convenient but more expensive option for getting around, especially for shorter distances or if you have a lot of luggage.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in some areas around Lake Como. This can be a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. However, availability can be limited, especially in smaller towns and during peak tourist season.

Cycling is a popular way to get around Lake Como, especially in the warmer months. There are numerous places to rent bicycles, and many towns have dedicated bike paths. This can be a fun and active way to explore the area.

Many of the towns and villages around Lake Como are small enough to explore on foot. This can be a pleasant way to see the sights, especially in areas with pedestrian-only zones. However, be aware that some areas have steep hills or cobblestone streets.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 118; Fire: 112, 115; Police: 112, 113;

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type FPower socket type L

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Lake Como, Italy as a first time visitor

1

Lake Como is located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy.

2

The lake is shaped like an inverted 'Y' and is surrounded by mountains and hills.

3

The lake is known for its deep blue waters and its stunning views.

4

The climate at Lake Como is mild and humid, with temperatures ranging from 32°F to 86°F (0°C to 30°C) throughout the year.

5

The best time to visit Lake Como is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer.

6

The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.

7

Italian is the official language spoken in Lake Como. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

8

Lake Como is easily accessible by train from Milan, with a journey time of approximately one hour.

9

Public transportation around the lake is well organized. You can use the public boats to travel between towns.

10

Driving around Lake Como can be challenging due to narrow roads and heavy traffic, especially during the summer months.

11

Lake Como is famous for its villas and gardens, many of which are open to the public.

12

The lake is also known for its local cuisine, which includes fish from the lake, polenta, and regional cheeses.

13

It's customary to tip in restaurants, usually around 10% of the bill. However, check your bill as service may already be included.

14

Tap water is safe to drink in Lake Como.

15

Lake Como is a popular destination for water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.

16

The lake is also a great place for hiking and mountain biking, with numerous trails offering stunning views.

17

Remember to pack a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat for your visit to Lake Como, especially in the summer months.

18

It's a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater, as evenings can be cool, even in the summer.

19

Most shops in Lake Como close for a few hours in the afternoon for 'riposo', the Italian version of a siesta.

20

Lake Como is a popular destination, so it's a good idea to book accommodation and activities in advance, especially during the peak summer months.

Basic Italian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Ciao

Chow

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Arrivederci

Ah-ree-veh-der-chee

Leaving someone

Please

Per favore

Pehr fah-voh-reh

Asking for something

Thank you

Grazie

Graht-see-eh

Showing appreciation

Yes

See

Agreeing with someone

No

No

No

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Mi scusi

Mee skoo-see

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Mi dispiace

Mee dee-spya-che

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Parla inglese?

Par-la in-gle-se

Communicating language proficiency

I don't understand

Non capisco

Non ka-pee-sko

Communicating lack of understanding

Where is...?

Dove è...?

Doh-veh eh

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Bagno

Bahn-yo

Looking for the restroom

Help

Aiuto

Ah-yoo-toh

In case of emergency

Food

Cibo

Chee-bo

Looking for a place to eat

Water

Acqua

Ah-kwah

Asking for water

Beer

Birra

Beer-rah

Ordering a drink

Check, please

Il conto, per favore

Il con-toh, pehr fah-voh-reh

Asking for the bill

How much does it cost?

Quanto costa?

Kwan-toh cost-ah

Asking for the price

I would like...

Vorrei...

Voh-rei

Making a request

Good night

Buonanotte

Bwoh-na-noh-teh

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Sweater or light jacket

  • Swimwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Scarf (for visiting religious sites)

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Travel-size first aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license (if planning to rent a car)

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Euros)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Memory card for camera

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Lake Como

  • Italian phrasebook

  • Umbrella

  • Backpack or daypack

  • Travel pillow

Weather Conditions

Lake Como, located in Northern Italy, is known for its Mediterranean climate. The weather here can vary greatly depending on the time of year you visit, so it's important to plan accordingly. During the summer months (June to August), the weather is typically warm and sunny, with average high temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). This is the perfect time for outdoor activities such as boating, hiking, and exploring the beautiful villas and gardens around the lake. However, it's also the busiest tourist season, so be prepared for crowds. In the fall (September to November), temperatures cool down a bit, averaging between 59°F and 77°F (15°C to 25°C). This is a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather and fewer tourists. The changing foliage also adds a beautiful touch to the already stunning landscape. Winter (December to February) in Lake Como is quite chilly, with average temperatures falling between 32°F and 46°F (0°C to 8°C). While the lake itself is less active during this time, it's a great season to enjoy winter sports in nearby mountain resorts. Spring (March to May) sees a gradual warming, with temperatures ranging from 46°F to 68°F (8°C to 20°C). The blooming flowers and lush greenery make this a beautiful time to visit. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate, especially in the evenings. Also, don't forget to pack a rain jacket or umbrella, as Lake Como does get rain throughout the year, particularly in spring and autumn. Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're prepared for the conditions. Enjoy your visit to beautiful Lake Como!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

8° / -1°

January is the coldest month in Lake Como, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothes and be prepared for potential snowfall.

February

9° / 0°

February is still quite chilly, but it's a great time to enjoy the serene, winter atmosphere of Lake Como. Snow is less likely, but still possible.

March

15° / 3°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to rise. The weather can still be unpredictable, so pack layers.

April

20° / 6°

April is a beautiful month to visit Lake Como, with spring in full bloom. The weather is generally mild, but there can be occasional rain showers.

May

24° / 10°

May offers warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it a popular time to visit. Expect the occasional rain shower, but overall, the weather is pleasant.

June

28° / 14°

June marks the start of summer, with long, sunny days and warm temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and boating.

July

31° / 17°

July is the hottest month in Lake Como, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It's a busy time for tourism, so book accommodations and activities in advance.

August

31° / 17°

August is equally hot as July, with plenty of sunshine. It's a perfect time for swimming in the lake and enjoying outdoor dining.

September

25° / 13°

September sees the start of autumn, with slightly cooler temperatures. The weather is still pleasant, making it a great time to visit without the summer crowds.

October

20° / 8°

October offers mild temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. It's a quieter time to visit, but pack layers as evenings can be chilly.

November

14° / 4°

November is a cooler month, with temperatures dropping and more frequent rain. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothes and an umbrella.

December

9° / 1°

December is a festive time in Lake Como, with Christmas markets and lights. It's cold, and there's a chance of snow, so pack warm clothes.

Did you know?

Did you know that Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore?

1 of 10

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