If you are planning to spend a few days in Milan and are looking for an excellent day tour from the city, then you must visit Lake Como – it is a fantastic choice for you. The lake at the foot of the Alps is shaped like a wishbone and is where the rich and famous vacation in luxurious villas and visitors flock to the colorful lakeside towns.
However, there is so much to see and do in the area (you can easily spend a couple of days on Lake Como!) that it can be difficult to prioritize and plan your time properly. So, if you’re planning a lake como day tour from Milan and are wondering how to spend your day there, you’ve come to the right place.
About Lake Como
Lake Como is a beautiful lake located in the northern part of Italy, in the region of Lombardy. It is the third-largest lake in Italy, with a surface area of 146 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 410 meters. The lake is shaped like an upside-down “Y” and is surrounded by picturesque towns and villages, including Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio.
Lake Como is known for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery. It has been a popular destination for tourists and celebrities for a long time, thanks to its mild climate, stunning scenery, and relaxed atmosphere.
The lake is also home to several historic villas and gardens, including Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Serbelloni, which are open to the public for tours. Visitors can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities on the lake, including boat tours, water sports, hiking, and cycling.
Overall, Lake Como is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Italy who appreciates natural beauty, history, and culture.
Recommended Tour : Lake Como and Lenno Full Day Guided Trip from Milan by Car
Best Time to Visit Lake Como
The best time to visit Lake Como depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in the different seasons:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time to visit Lake Como if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, and the landscape is lush and green.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Lake Como, with warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and water sports, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
- Fall (September to November): Fall is a great time to visit Lake Como if you want to enjoy the changing colors of the foliage and cooler temperatures. Average temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, and the crowds start to thin out.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is the off-season in Lake Como, but it can still be a beautiful time to visit if you don’t mind the cold. Temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C, and you can enjoy skiing and other winter activities in the nearby mountains.
Overall, the best time to visit Lake Como depends on your preferences and what you want to do. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather, spring or fall might be the best choice. If you want to swim and enjoy water sports, summer is the perfect season. And if you want to enjoy winter activities or experience the lake in a quieter setting, winter might be the ideal time for you.
Places to Visit in Lake Como
Lake Como is a stunning destination with many beautiful towns, villages, and attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit:
- Como
Como is a beautiful city located on the southwestern shore of Lake Como, here are some of the top places to see :
Como Cathedral : This stunning cathedral is one of the city’s main landmarks and is located in the heart of the city. It’s known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and stunning artwork, including frescoes and sculptures.
Porta Torre : Porta Torre is a historic gate built in the 12th century. It is characterized by a cylindrical tower and a battlemented parapet, and was used to control access to the town. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the tower for a stunning view of the city and the surrounding area.
Basilica di San Fedele : This Romanesque church is located in the heart of Como. It was built in the 12th century and is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful artwork, and historic significance. The church features a beautiful bell tower, intricate frescoes, and a stunning altar. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike and is considered one of the most important churches in the city.
War Memorial : This monument is dedicated to the fallen soldiers of World War I and II. It’s located in the center of the city, near the lakefront, and was designed by the architect Giuseppe Terragni. The monument features a large bronze sculpture of a soldier standing atop a pedestal, with two smaller sculptures at the base representing Victory and Peace. The monument is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by the soldiers of Como and is a popular spot for visitors to pay their respects.
Funicular Railway: Taking a ride on the funicular railway is a great way to see the city and the surrounding area. The funicular connects Como to the village of Brunate and offers stunning views of the lake and the mountains.
- Lenno
Lenno is a beautiful village located on the western shore of Lake Como, here are some of the top places to see :
Villa Balbianello: This beautiful villa is located on a cliff overlooking Lake Como and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. The villa has been featured in several films, including Star Wars and Casino Royale.
San Stefano Church: This beautiful church is located in the center of Lenno and is known for its stunning artwork and frescoes. It’s a great place to visit for those interested in art and architecture.
Lenno Waterfront: The Lenno waterfront is a beautiful promenade that runs along the shores of Lake Como. It’s a great spot for walking, jogging, or just enjoying the views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Lido di Lenno: This beautiful beach is located on the shores of Lake Como and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The beach is equipped with changing rooms, showers, and a snack bar.
- Bellagio
Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” is a stunning town with many beautiful attractions, here are some of the top places to see:
Piazza della Chiesa: This beautiful square is located in the heart of Bellagio and is home to the Church of San Giacomo, a stunning 12th-century church with beautiful artwork and frescoes.
Villa Melzi: This beautiful villa is located on the shores of Lake Como and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The villa is known for its beautiful gardens, which feature exotic plants and flowers.
Punta Spartivento: This viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great spot for taking photos and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
- Varenna
Varenna is a charming village on the eastern shore of Lake Como and offers visitors a range of interesting attractions and activities, here are some of the top places to see:
Varenna Old Town: Varenna’s charming old town features narrow streets, colorful houses, and beautiful gardens. Take a stroll and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Villa Monastero: This 19th-century villa features stunning botanical gardens with a wide range of exotic plants and trees.
San Giovanni Battista Church: This beautiful 14th-century church is located in the heart of Varenna’s old town and features stunning frescoes and artwork.
Lake Como: Of course, no trip to Varenna would be complete without spending some time on Lake Como. Take a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the lake’s crystal-clear waters.
- Menaggio
Menaggio is a picturesque town located on the western shore of Lake Como and offers visitors a range of interesting attractions and activities, here are some of the top places to see :
Piazza Garibaldi: This beautiful square is located in the heart of Menaggio and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy a coffee or gelato while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Villa Carlotta: This beautiful villa features stunning gardens with a wide range of exotic plants and flowers. The villa also houses a museum with a collection of artwork and sculptures.
Chiesa di Santa Marta: This beautiful church is located in the heart of Menaggio and features stunning frescoes and artwork.
So, these are just a few of the many places to visit in Lake Como. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Lake Como has something for everyone.
Recommended Tour : Lake Como and Lenno Full Day Guided Trip from Milan by Car
Why you must take a guided Lake Como Day Tour from Milan
Taking a guided tour of Lake Como from Milan with Rosotravel can be a great way to maximize your experience and make the most of your time in the area.
- Expert Local Guides: Our knowledgeable local guide will provide insider knowledge about the area’s history, culture, and traditions, which will enhance your overall experience and understanding of the region.
- Convenience: With our guided tour, you will be picked up directly from your Milan accommodation by a 5-Star Driver in a clean, air-conditioned car. Enjoy a comfortable journey in a private vehicle instead of crowded commercial buses. All you need to do is sit back and relax while your guide takes care of everything.
- Access to Hidden Gems: Our guided tour will provide access to hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that you may not have discovered on your own.
- Local Food and Wine: Our guide will introduce you to the local cuisine and wine, and provide tips on tasting and experiencing the flavors of the region.
Overall, a guided lake como day tour from Milan with Rosotravel will provide you with a stress-free, educational, and memorable experience that you may not get with other tour operators.
What to pack for your Lake Como day tour from Milan
If you’re planning a trip to Lake Como from Milan, here are some essential items to consider packing:
- Comfortable Clothing: Lake Como has a mild and pleasant climate, so pack comfortable and breathable clothing suitable for the season. It’s always a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
- Comfortable Shoes: Lake Como is a hilly area with a lot of stairs and cobblestone streets, so it’s important to pack comfortable shoes that you can wear all day while exploring the area.
- Camera: Lake Como is a stunningly beautiful location, so don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the scenic views.
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Lake Como has a lot of sunny days, so be sure to pack sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Swimwear: Lake Como is famous for its crystal-clear waters, so if you plan on taking a dip in the lake, be sure to pack swimwear.
By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable lake como day tour from Milan.
So, there you have it friends!
Charming villages, palatial villas, incredible views, local wine, delicious food and unforgettable memories await you when you visit Lake Como.
If you’re considering a lake como day tour from Milan, we promise you won’t regret it!