Enchanting One-Day Itinerary in Lake Como, Italy

Day 1: Exploring Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Cattaneo

Start your day with a delightful espresso and one of Cattaneo's famous pastries, known for their exceptional quality and flavors.
Located in Bellagio, you can walk here easily if you're staying nearby.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Villa Melzi

After breakfast, stroll over to Villa Melzi's gorgeous gardens, a serene and charming slice of paradise right by the lake.
It's a 10-minute walk from the bakery to Villa Melzi.
EUR9, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Ferry to Varenna

Take a scenic ferry ride to Varenna that offers breathtaking views of the mountains and quaint villages along the way.
Board the ferry from the Bellagio ferry terminal; the ride takes about 15 minutes.
EUR7, 20 minutes

12:00PM

Explore Varenna's Charming Streets

Wander through Varenna's picturesque streets, lined with colorful houses, shops, and cafes, capturing the essence of Lake Como.
Walk towards the lakeside promenade for beautiful views.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante La Vista

Savor a delicious lunch featuring fresh seafood and local cuisine while enjoying stunning views of the lake from your table.
La Vista is conveniently located on the lakeside, just a 5-minute walk from where you'll wander.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Villa Monastero

After lunch, explore Villa Monastero's scenic gardens and impressive interiors, a historical gem along the lake's edge.
A short 10-minute walk along the lake from the restaurant.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Ferry to Como

Catch a ferry to Como, enjoying impressive scenery anew as you travel along the western side of the lake.
Head to Varenna's ferry terminal; the ferry ride takes about 30 minutes.
EUR12, 30 minutes

4:30PM

Explore Como's Cathedral

Arrive at Como and visit the stunning Basilica di San Fedele and the majestic Cathedral of Como, marveling at their architectural beauty.
Both landmarks are within a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Gelato at Gelateria Caffè Motta

Cool off with a delicious gelato from one of Como’s best gelaterias—it’s the perfect way to cap off your afternoon.
Just a 5-minute stroll from the cathedral.
EUR5, 30 minutes

6:15PM

Dinner at Ristorante Il Pomodorino

End your day with a hearty Italian dinner, enjoying pastas and local wines in a cozy atmosphere, surrounded by lovely decor.
Located about 10 minutes on foot from the gelateria.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll along the Lake

Cap off your day with a scenic walk along the lakefront, taking in the magical ambiance as the sun sets over Como.
Follow the lakeside promenade back toward the heart of Como.
Free, 1 hour
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