Bellagio: A Slice of Paradise on Lake Como

Italy is a country overflowing with beautiful cities, from the northern mountains to the southern coastline. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to pick just one or two destinations. Over multiple visits to Italy, I’ve had the privilege of exploring various cities and landscapes, each offering its own unique charm. On my most recent trip, I finally had the chance to visit Lake Como, a breathtaking region in Lombardy. Among its many picturesque towns, Bellagio, nestled on the northern tip of a triangular landmass that divides the lake, quickly became my favorite place in all of Italy.

Getting to Bellagio

Most travelers fly into Milan (MXP), often spending a day or two in the city before heading to Lake Como. Personally, I found Milan less captivating compared to cities like Rome, Venice, or Taormina. In my personal opinion, Milan is a great 24-hour city. You can see the tourist attractions such as the Duomo de Milano or the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Regardless of how you choose to spend your time, it serves as a convenient stopover on the way to the lake. From Milan, you can catch a train to Como Town, a journey that takes about 40 minutes and costs between 6-14 Euros. Upon arriving in Como, a short walk through town leads to the ferry port, where you can buy a ticket to Bellagio. 

There are two ferry options: the standard ferry, which takes about two hours as it stops at various towns along the way, or the express ferry, which reaches Bellagio in about an hour. While the standard ferry isn’t particularly luxurious, it offers scenic views of different communes, potentially inspiring day trips during your stay in Bellagio. Once you arrive, you can take a taxi or, depending on your accommodation’s location, walk—just be mindful that the steep roads can be challenging with large luggage or young children.

What Makes Bellagio So Special?

Bellagio is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque spots on Lake Como, offering stunning panoramic views of the lake and surrounding villages. The town is a labyrinth of charming streets lined with bars, restaurants, boutiques, and gelato shops, ensuring you never run out of places to eat, shop, and savor local wines and cheeses. Despite its popularity, Bellagio retains a sense of tranquility, especially during the early mornings or off-season. With a population of just 3,500, it’s a small town but large enough to offer plenty of space to explore. During our visit, we discovered secluded beaches, a lovely dock perfect for relaxing and swimming, and farmers’ markets and gardens along the coast. For those who prefer not to navigate the steep hills and cobblestone streets on foot, a trolley service is available to take you around. The warmth and hospitality of the locals added to the town’s charm, making every interaction a pleasant experience.

What to Do from Bellagio

Bellagio serves as an excellent base for a variety of activities. One of the highlights of our trip was a private sailboat tour around the lake. We explored the grand mansions along the shoreline, stared at the stunning vistas, and enjoyed several opportunities to swim and relax in the serene waters. Another memorable experience was renting a speedboat to explore the surrounding areas at our own pace. Surprisingly, no boating license is required—just a quick briefing, and you’re set to go. This is a fantastic way to visit the smaller villages you may have glimpsed during your ferry ride or simply to enjoy the freedom of being out on the lake. We took a trip to the commune of Nesso, where we got the opportunity to see the infamous waterfall from the boat. 

Day trips to other communes and villages are another great way to experience Lake Como. The ferry system is highly accessible and convenient, with many routes stopping in Bellagio. These trips offer a chance to see the lake from different perspectives, with travel times varying from 10 minutes to two hours, depending on your destination. We took half-day trips to Varenna and Menaggio, both just short ferry rides away. Varenna is known for its lush botanical gardens, while Menaggio boasts a beautiful town center and relaxing waterfront spots. Other options include Tremenzina, Nesso, Lecco, and Cernobbio, each offering its own unique charm. Just make sure to plan ahead and check the ferry times to ensure you will get back to your accommodation for the night. 

Final Thoughts on Bellagio

Lake Como is one of Italy’s most serene destinations, perfect for those seeking a mix of Italian culture and relaxation by the water. Its accessibility from both northern Italy and southern Switzerland makes it an ideal summer retreat. If you’re planning a visit to Lake Como, I highly recommend staying in Bellagio. It’s a place that truly captures the essence of Italian charm and beauty—you won’t be disappointed.

For even more exciting getaways, don’t forget to explore our comprehensive list of destination guides!