3-Day Itinerary for Exploring Lake Como’s Best Highlights
Lake Como is magic — where natural beauty meets timeless elegance.
When I first arrived, I felt as if I had walked into a postcard.
The lake’s crystalline waters, framed by green mountains and traditional villages, create an unforgettable setting for an ideal getaway.
So, I’ve created this 3-day itinerary for you to experience all the best of Lake Como.
Whether it’s your first time there or back, this guide includes everything you need to know — iconic sights and hidden gems, as well as advice to ensure your visit goes smoothly.
So let’s dig in and discover Lake Como highlights, from day to day.
Day 1: Bellagio and Varenna
Morning: Arrive in Bellagio
Begin your trip with by staying in Bellagio, nicknamed the “Pearl of Lake Como.”
Wander its cobblestone streets and check out boutique stores full of artisanal stuff.
Don’t miss the Villa Melzi Gardens, a gorgeous lakefront estate with immaculate gardens.
Stop for a cappuccino and croissant at a nearby café as you take in the view.
Lunch: Lakeside Dining
Have a long, leisurely lunch at La Punta, a restaurant at the tip of Bellagio with panoramic lake views.
Revel in Italian classics like lake fish risotto or a simple Margherita pizza alongside a glass of local wine.
Afternoon: Ferry to Varenna
Take a ferry to Varenna, one of the prettiest towns by the lake.
Stroll along the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lovers’ Walk), a scenic path clinging to the shoreline.
On the water’s edge, the Villa Monastero has ornate gardens.
Evening: Sunset Drinks
Head to Bar Il Molo for drinks at sunset. Its terrace overlooking the lake makes it a perfect place for an aperitivo.
Sip a spritz and some light bites while watching the sun set behind the mountains.
Day 2: Como Town and Brunate
Morning: Explore Como Town
Begin your day in Como Town, the lively heart of the lake.
Check in at the Como Cathedral (Duomo), an impressive Gothic-Renaissance structure.
Stroll through the historic center, visiting local shops and the colorful Mercato Coperto market.
Lunch: Old School Italian.
Dinner: Ristorante Sociale, a cute restaurant with homemade pasta and rustic atmosphere.
Do not skip the saffron risotto or the polenta with braised meat.
Afternoon: Funicular Ride to Brunate
Go up one of the funiculars from Como to the hillside village of Brunate.
From there, take in stunning views of the lake and neighboring Alps.
If you’re feeling energetic, you can follow the path to the Volta Lighthouse for even more impressive views.
Evening: Dinner Back in Como
Head back to Como Town for dinner at The Market Place, a Michelin recommended restaurant offering innovative Italian cuisine.
Choose the tasting menu for a chance to sample the chef’s inventive treatment of local ingredients.
Day 3: Tremezzo and Menaggio
Morning Tremezzo: Villa Carlotta
For your last day, hop over to Villa Carlotta, an 18th-century villa with lovely gardens.
Stroll through the lush grounds full of azaleas, rhododendrons and centuries-old trees.
Pause to admire the villa’s art collection, including works by Canova and Hayez.
Lunch: Al Fresco Dining
Head to La Darsena, a lakeside restaurant with gorgeous views and tasty seafood plates.
The grilled lake fish and handmade pasta are the crowd favorites.
Afternoon: Explore Menaggio
Visit nearby Menaggio by taking a short ferry ride to this picturesque town with a bustling piazza and beautiful waterfront promenade.
Wander the town, sit in Parco Val Sanagra or just grab a gelato and people-watch.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
Conclude your Lake Como experience with a romantic dinner at Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s La Terrazza.
So you can enjoy fine Italian dining with a view over the lake, and toast a perfect trip.
Final Thoughts
Lake Como’s combination of natural beauty, historic charm and Italian elegance make this place an unforgettable destination.
This 3-day itinerary means you’ll see the best highlights without snapping at anyone’s heels, leaving you a good amount of time to soak in the magic.
Cheers to making lifetime memories!
