A Week in Lake Como: Itinerary for Luxury and Relaxation
Lake Como is more than a destination — it’s an experience.
From the moment I arrived, I was disarmed by the effortless charm of the place.
The sparkling lake, stately villas and tranquil ambiance transported me to another world.
I created this 7-day itinerary for anyone who wants luxury and rest.
This guide takes you through everything from restful mornings next to the water to fine dining experiences, and all with the correct blend of exploration and indulgence.
So let’s get into the 7 days of your most memorable week at Lake Como.
Day 1: Arrival and Como Town
Morning: Welcome to Lake Como
Arrive in Como Town.
Check in to your hotel, like the Palace Hotel Como, an elegant and comfortable choice.
Stroll along the Lungolago, the lakeside promenade, to destress after a long journey.
Lunch: Casual Elegance
The Il Gatto Nero restaurant, high above the town, offers marvelous lakeside views.
Start out with a handmade pasta or fresh fish, if you want an unforgettable first taste of food from Lake Como.
Afternoon: Relax at Your Hotel
Spend the afternoon lounging by the pool at your hotel or admiring the view from your own private terrace.
If you want to be adventurous, order a short spa treatment to start the week off in style.
Evening: Dinner in Como
Culminate your first day with dinner at Ristorante Mistral, a Michelin-starred treasure specializing in molecular gastronomy.
Delve into creative plates influenced by Italian classics.
Day 2: Bellagio
Morning: Ferry to Bellagio
Begin the day with a picturesque ferry journey over to Bellagio, dubbed the ‘Pearl of Lake Como’.
The ride itself is a treat, with sweeping views of the lake and surrounding villas.
Explore the Town
Meander around Bellagio’s cobblestone streets with boutique shops and gelaterias.
And don’t miss the Villa Melzi Gardens, where you can stroll among exotic plants with stunning views of the lake.
Lunch: Lakeside Indulgence
EAT / La Punta, a found restaurant at the tip of Bellagio, where the two branches of the lake converge.
Enjoy fresh lake fish or risotto amid breathtaking vistas.
Afternoon: Shop and Sip
Spend the afternoon browsing for Italian leather goods or artisan-crafted jewelry.
Take a cappuccino break at Bar Rossi, a lovely café with pavement tables.
Evening: Sunset Cruise
Take a private sunset cruise back to Como.
Sip a glass of Prosecco while you glide past opulent villas and sleepy villages as the lake shimmers in the twilight.
Day 3: Tremezzo and Villa Carlotta
Morning: Visit Villa Carlotta
Hop on a ferry to Tremezzo to visit Villa Carlotta, a historic villa renowned for its beautiful gardens.
The spring flowers here are spectacular, with rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias taking top honors.
Explore the villa’s interiors and admire its art collection, including Canova sculptures.
Lunch: Gourmet Delights
Lunch at La Darsena, a restaurant on the water with excellent seafood.
Order the linguine with clams or grilled lake fish for a hit of local flavor.
Afternoon: Unwind At A Luxe Spa
Shop at Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s T Spa for an afternoon of pampering.
Get a massage, or hang out at the infinity pool overlooking the lake.
Evening: Upscale Dining at Tremezzo
Where to Dine: La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi, where Italian cooking legend meets modernity.
For a meal you won’t soon forget, order the saffron risotto with edible gold.
Day 4: Varenna
Morning: Ferry to Varenna
Head out early for Varenna, one of the loveliest towns on the lakes.
Walk along the Passeggiata degli Innamorati, a romantic walk that hugs the edge of the lake.
Visit Villa Monastero
Tour Villa Monastero, a former villa now a museum with gardens that line the waterfront.
The rich grounds and lake views are a photographer’s fantasy.
Lunch: Rustic Charm
Have a meal at Al Prato, a small trattoria specializing in traditional Italian meals with a modern take.
Do not miss their handmade gnocchi or tagliatelle with wild boar ragu.
Afternoon: Sip and Relax
Sample regional wines at a local wine bar, like Ristorante Borgo Le Terrazze.
Relax, soak in the tranquil atmosphere and make your next travel plans.
Evening: Casual Dinner
Eat a leisurely dinner at Varenna Caffè, a casual place with a terrace over the lake.
Consider wood-fired pizza or a Caprese salad, to keep it light and pleasant.
DAY 5: LENNO AND VILLA DEL BALBIANELLO
Morning: Explore Lenno
Spend the day taking a ferry to Lenno, a quiet village on the western shore of the lake.
Take a stroll along the Greenway del Lago, a beautiful walking path that passes through quaint villages and offers stunning views of the lake.
Stop on the lakeside promenade for a moment of peace to take in the zen vibe.
Visit Villa del Balbianello
Dedicate the rest of the morning to Villa del Balbianello, one of Lake Como’s most legendary sites.
Known for its cinematic turns in Star Wars and James Bond, this villa is an architectural marvel and gardens masterpiece.
Do book a guided tour for information on its history and enjoy the spectacular views from the terraces.
Lunch: Waterfront Bliss
Eat at Trattoria Santo Stefano, an intimate restaurant by Lenno’s town square.
Pair it with local white wine and you have a perfect midday treat.
Afternoon: Relax by the Lake
Meaning to unwind on the sunbed or take a dip in the crystal clear waters, head to Lido di Lenno, a tranquil beach club.
Ordering a refreshing spritz and soaking up the languorous pace of life.
Evening: Dinner at Lenno
Close out the day with dinner at La Piazzetta, a tiny gem serving sophisticated Italian fare.
Their saffron and lake perch risotto is a must-have dish that complements the romantic ambiance splendidly.
Day 6: Menaggio and Adventure
Morning: Discover Menaggio
Take the ferry to Menaggio, a town that takes you back in time while accommodating the luxury of modern times.
Wander the historic center, with its cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafés.
Explore Villa Mylius Vigoni, a historic villa set amid lush gardens and commanding lake views.
Adventure Time
For the adventurous, trek along the Sentiero del Viandante, a scenic path that rewards with panoramic views over the lake and surrounding mountains.
Or hire an e-bike and explore the countryside at your leisure.
Lunch: Al Fresco Dining
What to do: Enjoy lunch at the family-run Osteria Il Pozzo, which has a shaded outdoor terrace.
Their handmade ravioli and assortment of local cheeses are a must-try for any foodie.
Afternoon: Golf or Relaxation
For a taste of luxury, reserve a tee time at the Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club, among the oldest golf courses in Italy.
If golf isn’t your cup of tea, hang out on a lakeside café with a book and a cappuccino.
Evening: Sunset Dinner
Have dinner in the Grand Hotel Menaggio with a front-row seat to the lake’s sunset.
The seafood platter along with a bottle of chilled Franciacorta, this is a perfect end to the day.
Day 7: Farewell in Como
Morning: Leisurely Start
For your final morning, return to Como Town, back where it all began.
Why it’s for you: Take a slow breakfast at Caffè Mazzini, dining on fresh pastries and espresso.
Enjoy a final stroll along the Lungolago, taking in the serene views once more.
Visit the Como Cathedral
Discover the stunning Duomo di Como, a Gothic marvel at the city’s core.
Be sure to stop and admire its ornate façade, then wander inside to marvel at the gorgeous stained glass and intricate interiors.
Lunch: Final Indulgence
Share your final meal at Ristorante Sociale, a historic restaurant that serves classic Lombard fare.
Their ossobuco with saffron risotto is a warm, savory way to say goodbye to Lake Como.
Afternoon — Shopping and Souvenirs
Before you go, search the boutiques in Como for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Grab silk scarves, artisanal jewelry, or a bottle of local olive oil to take a piece of Lake Como back home with you.
Evening: Departure
Come evening, bid farewell to Lake Como one last time.
Departure for Milan for your onward journey, taking with you memories of a week of splendour, indulgence and serenity.
