A beautiful villa perched on a scenic peninsula, Villa del Balbianello is a must-visit for nature lovers. Surrounded by lush gardens and offering stunning views of the lake, the villa is also famous for its appearances in several movies, including Star Wars.
Take a hike along the famous Sentiero del Viandante trail, passing through picturesque villages and scenic vistas. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Spend the day cruising on the lake aboard a private boat, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and villages. Don't forget to stop at some of the lake's charming towns for a taste of local cuisine.
Explore the beautiful natural reserve of Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola, known for their varied birdlife and stunning scenery. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the lake.
End your trip with a visit to Parco Spina Verde, a vast natural park with plenty of hiking trails and scenic views. This is also a great spot for picnics and offers a peaceful break from the bustling city of Como.
While Lake Como is best explored on foot, a car or private driver is recommended for some of the longer journeys, such as the trip to Riserva Naturale Pian di Spagna e Lago di Mezzola. Car rentals can be found at the local airport or in downtown Como. Public transportation options include buses and trains, but they may not reach some of the more remote locations.
Total Travel Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Total Travel Cost: €50-100
If you have more time, consider visiting the charming town of Bellagio or taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional local dishes. If you have less time, skip the boat cruise and spend more time hiking or exploring the towns along the lake.
The closest international airports to Lake Como are Milan Linate Airport (LIN), Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), and Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY). Milan Linate is the closest at 40 miles from the city center, followed by Milan Malpensa at 50 miles, and Bergamo Orio al Serio at 60 miles.