5 Places You Must Visit In Como

Lake Como is one of those places you can visit a hundred times, and somehow it still won’t be enough. The photos and videos you see online are beautiful, but they can’t really prepare you for what it feels like in real life!
As someone who has been here quite a few times, I put together a list of my 5 favorite spots around Lake Como that you should save for your next trip.

Como Historic Centre

I feel like a lot of people treat Como just as a starting point for exploring the lake, but the city itself is actually so beautiful! The historic centre has this very classic feeling, with narrow pedestrian streets, little cafés, hidden courtyards, and unique local shops. All the buildings here feel like they are untouched by time, and whenever I come, I enjoy walking around and stumbling across tiny streets that look straight out of a film.

Villa Balbianello

Villa Balbianello is on everyone's travel itinerary, and it is probably one of the most famous spots around Lake Como. The second you enter this villa, you will realize the hype is there for a reason.
It is surrounded by the lake, and the views honestly look unreal from almost every angle, just like its gardens. It is also one of those places that feels very cinematic, which is probably why it has been used in films like Casino Royale and Star Wars. However, keep in mind that this is probably the busiest place around the lake, so if you want to enjoy the views, I would recommend booking tickets in advance and arriving early!

Varenna

Out of all the villages around Lake Como, Varenna might be my favourite. This place somehow feels both lively and peaceful at the same time, with colorful buildings, tiny staircases, little boats along the water, and mesmerizing views everywhere you turn.
Although it is popular among tourists, Varenna still feels very authentic. I would recommend visiting Villas Monastero and Cipressi and taking a stroll along the lake. This is also the place to go if you want some cool photos!

Chiesa Di San Martino

This is probably one of the most underrated spots in Como. The little church sits high above the lake, and the walk up there is absolutely worth it for the view alone. The panorama over the lake and mountains is incredible, especially because you can see so much of the coastline from above.
What I like about this spot is that it feels much quieter and more local compared to the famous villas, and has that slower atmosphere that makes Como feel even more special.

Bellagio

Bellagio is probably the most iconic town around Como, and it is probably the place with the best location. The village sits right at the point where the lake splits into two branches, and you can take a walk to Punta Spartivento to experience that beautiful, endless lake view surrounded by mountains.
One of the most famous spots is Salita Serbelloni, the staircase lined with shops and restaurants leading down toward the waterfront. It is probably one of the most photographed corners in Bellagio, and even though it gets crowded, its beauty and elegance can not be matched.