Lake Como, Italy or Lago di Como is one of the best places to shop, relax and soak in the beauty of the Italian nature, culture and hospitality. Don't forget to keep an eye out for George Clooney who owns a lakeside villa!
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Some attractions and things to do in Lake Como, Italy:
Ride the Ferry across the lake from port to port exploring the many lakeside towns (some favorites below)
Varenna: Visit the picturesque town of Varenna, known for its colorful houses and narrow streets.
Bellagio: Explore the charming town of Bellagio, known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, dining and shopping.
Tremezzo: Visit the beautiful Villas and Hotel Grand Tremezzo, while stopping by shops and cafes along the water.
Cernobbio: Stop at this quiet town to soak in the views of the lake and stop by restaurants, bars and Villas.
Mennagio: Explore the quaint town of Menaggio, located on the western shore of the lake. Visit the Chiesa di Santo Stefano and enjoy a walk along the lakefront promenade.
Como: Explore the city of Como, located at the southern end of the lake. Visit the Cathedral of Como and take a walk around the historic center.
Visit the many Villas of lake Como (some favorites below)
Villa del Balbianello: Visit this stunning villa located on the western shore of the lake accessible through the port of Lenno. The villa has been used as a filming location for several movies, including James Bond's "Casino Royale."
Villa Carlotta: Visit this beautiful villa and its stunning botanical gardens in Tremezzo.
Villa Monastero: The villa lies south of the village of Varenna, and includes a botanical garden and a museum
Villa Olmo: (Site may require browser translation) Visit this neoclassical villa and its beautiful gardens.
Private boat tours
Take a boat tour around the lake and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Burn some calories in Lake Como
Hiking trails
Cycling
Water sports such as swimming, water skiing, kayaking and wind surfing
Experience the pop up market in the heart of Como
Vendors set up stalls in the mornings of Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
Take the funicular up to the small town of Brunate and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the Alps.
Hike up to the summit of Monte Grona for breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Some types of foods and drinks to experience while in Como:
Dishes of Lake Como:
Risotto al pesce persico
A delicious dish made with perch, a freshwater fish found in Lake Como.
Pizzoccheri
A traditional dish made with buckwheat pasta, cheese, and vegetables.
Ravioli di brasato
Homemade ravioli filled with braised beef and served with a butter and sage sauce.
Polenta uncia
A traditional dish made with polenta, cheese, and butter.
Drinks of Lake Como:
Prosecco
A sparkling wine made from Glera grapes, usually served as an aperitif.
Grappa
A local spirit made from the pomace of grapes, usually served as a digestif.
Sfursat di Valtellina
A full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes grown in the Valtellina valley.
Negroni Sbagliato
A local twist on the classic Negroni cocktail, made with sparkling wine instead of gin.
Some local Como restaurant recommendations:
- One personal favorite Il Gatto Nero in Cernobbio
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Additional Summary:
Lake Como, located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage. The lake is surrounded by picturesque villages, elegant villas, and impressive architecture, including the ancient Romanesque churches and Gothic cathedrals. Lake Como is also known for its mouth-watering cuisine, featuring traditional dishes like risotto alla Milanese and polenta. The area is a hub of artistic and cultural activity, with many museums, galleries, and festivals that celebrate the region's history and creative spirit. From exploring the charming towns and villages around the lake to taking a boat tour of the breathtaking scenery, Lake Como is a must-visit destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers of all interests.