“What stays with you after a trip isn’t the luxury or the beauty, it’s the feeling a place leaves in your heart.” Written by me, somewhere between gelato and a sunset, haha.
If you’re a fan of James Bond, then you’ll know exactly the kind of paradise I’m talking about. Do you remember Casino Royale? That elegant villa perched on the hillside, surrounded by majestic mountains and an irresistible lake view? Yes, Villa del Balbianello. Ring a bell?
Welcome to Lake Como, a place so dreamy that even 007 and George Clooney couldn’t resist it… and, neither could we.
For us, Lake Como had always been a dream, a name etched on our bucket list. When would we finally go? We hadn’t decided, until destiny had its own plans. And when we arrived, we realized it was even more beautiful and charming than we had imagined.
Lake Como pulls you in at every town, every turn, and every time of the day.
When you’re sitting by the lake, you feel the urge to stroll. When you’re strolling, you dream of hopping on a boat. And once you’re on the water, you long to climb the mountains for a full panoramic view. It’s never enough, this place awakens a kind of wanderlust that’s impossible to satisfy.
Timeless Italian Vibes
We wandered along the lakefront promenade until we spotted this stunning villa, and at first, I thought it might be a library, a university, or even a hotel. But no, it was Villa Olmo, a historic gem right on the shores of Lake Como. It used to belong to noble families, but today it serves cultural and public purposes, like hosting art exhibitions, concerts, and events. People were lounging everywhere on the soft grass, soaking up the sun and the view, so naturally we joined them. The gardens are beautifully maintained, and to our delight, they even offer free Wi-Fi, which gave us the perfect excuse to pause, relax, and let the lake and mountains soak into our souls. Knowing the villa is open to the public makes it feel welcoming and alive, a place where history meets everyday Italian life.
What makes Italy such an adorable place for me is the atmosphere, the vibes. There’s live music floating through the streets, the irresistible aroma of delicious food, and gelato waiting around every corner. It’s a country where you’re encouraged to slow down and truly enjoy each moment, whether it’s day or night.
Como is the perfect example of all that charm. This elegant lakeside town invites you to take a leisurely stroll by the water, where boats sway gently in the marina and cafés offer shaded terraces with stunning lake views. The historic heart of the town, with its narrow streets and beautiful cathedral, is filled with character.
And just when you think it can’t get better, hop on the funicular and rise above it all, to the peaceful village of Brunate, where panoramic views and cool breezes await.
Como Cathedral
Our first stop in Como was the majestic Como Cathedral, and wow, it really sets the tone for the town. This stunning cathedral, officially called Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, took nearly four centuries to complete. Construction started in 1396 and wasn’t fully finished until the 18th century, so every corner has its own story, shaped by generations of architects who worked on it over centuries.
Every single detail was beautiful, intricate façade, bell tower, and inside, the ceilings, frescoes, and stained-glass windows are breathtaking, each one a masterpiece in its own. The marble floors and sculpted altars add to the cathedral’s quiet grandeur.
What I loved most, the little details you could easily miss if you’re in a hurry: delicate carvings, hidden statues, and the way the light dances through the windows. But the cathedral isn’t just a building, it decorates the entire neighborhood. The plaza in front is lined with cafés where you can sit, sip an espresso or have a gelato, and admire the cathedral from the outside, watching life flow around it. It’s the perfect combination of history, beauty, and everyday Italian charm.
Piazza Cavour
When we started our stroll in Como, the town surprised us with a lively market, one of my favorite things to do when visiting any city. I couldn’t resist taking a quick tour, just to get a feel for the products and prices. Honestly, I couldn’t tell if it was one huge market or a string of smaller piazzas, because there were so many stalls, each overflowing with colorful fruits, fresh vegetables, clothes, shoes, and handmade goodies.
After the market, we eventually found ourselves at the lakefront plaza, definitely Piazza Cavour. The energy there was contagious: people sipping Italian espresso (that tiny drop of coffee that somehow lasts hours of chatting), friends laughing, and families watching boats drift by on the sparkling lake. For us, a big tea table might take 30 minutes to finish, but Italians? They savor every sip, every word, hhh, we don’t joke with food and drinks here!
The square is also a gateway to explore the surrounding streets, filled with boutiques, artisan shops, and local markets. From here, you can easily stroll to the cathedral, wander the charming old town alleys, or just linger by the lake, letting the view of the mountains and villas take your breath away.
When we finally approached the lake, I have to admit, I was a bit taken aback. There was lots of dirt and garbage floating in the water, and I wondered if it is that famous Lake Como we’ve seen in movies. I almost skipped the boat trip right there and then.
Luckily, we went the next day when visiting Bellagio, and that’s when we saw the lake’s true, breathtaking beauty. Crystal-clear waters, stunning villas, and the mountains reflecting in the water, it was everything we had imagined. Turns out, the mess was just in that one spot near the main lakefront.
Still, honestly, they need to do something about it. It’s Lake Como, one of the most famous lakes in the world.
Brunate
Brunate is a peaceful village perched above Como, often called “the balcony of the Alps”, and once you arrive, it’s easy to see why. From up here, the views of Lake Como, the city below, and the surrounding mountains are absolutely breathtaking. It’s the perfect escape on a hot day, with fresh mountain air and a cool breeze that instantly refreshes you.
Our friends took us up to Brunate by funicular, and at first we thought there was no other way to get there. Turns out, you can go by car, but parking can be tricky, and the winding mountain roads aren’t for the faint of heart. The funicular turned out to be the perfect choice, not only did it save us time and the parking headache, but it also offered stunning views of Como and the lake during the ride.
Once at the top, Brunate’s peaceful streets and cool mountain breeze made it feel like a totally different world, a serene escape above the bustling lakeside towns.
Reaching Brunate is already part of the fun. Many visitors take the funicular from Como, a short ride that feels almost like stepping into a postcard as the town unfolds below you. Once in Brunate, you can stroll through charming streets, admire the small villas, and stop at cafés with terraces overlooking the lake.
For those who love a bit of adventure, Brunate is the starting point for several beautiful hikes. The most popular route leads to Faro Voltiano, a historic lighthouse that rewards hikers with panoramic views over Lake Como and even the Alps on a clear day.
As we sipped coffee at a little café with a view, I couldn’t help but admire the stunning villas scattered along the hillside, each one more beautiful than the next, facing the lake like quiet dream homes. For a moment, I imagined myself winning the lottery, buying one of those elegant homes, and living out my Italian fairytale, because it’s the only way I could afford a house in this magical place!
Bellagio
Bellagio is the jewel of Lake Como, and a must-visit when you’re in the region. You can reach it from Como by a scenic ferry ride, and the journey is part of the magic. As you glide over the lake, your eyes start scanning the shoreline, looking out for the famous villas: Villa del Balbianello, known for its role in movies like Star Wars and James Bond, and the grand Villa Carlotta with its beautiful gardens. We were excited, trying to spot each one, pointing, taking photos, and soaking up the elegance of these lakeside mansions.
The town of Bellagio itself is cozy, charming, and full of life. Its narrow cobbled streets and picturesque stairways are lined with boutique shops, artisan gelaterias, wine bars, and cafés where people gather with a fresh drink in hand, enjoying the live music playing somewhere adding even more charm to the already magical atmosphere.
Every corner of Como has something special, but there’s one spot that stole my heart, the lakeside promenade. Especially in the golden hour before sunset, it becomes pure magic. The water glows, the sky softens, and the whole town seems to take a breath and slow down.
It’s the perfect time for a romantic stroll with yourself, yes, yourself.
On the promenade, something magical happened.
I felt the romance stirring inside me, soft, quiet, and unexpectedly profound.
There I was, walking alone, yet feeling completely full.
And then it hit me: no one can be more romantic, more in love with me… than me.
And just like that, I became a poet.
On your way back to Como by ferry in the evening, the views are even more enchanting. The villages along the shore light up one by one, and the calmness of the water reflects the last colors of the sunset; it’s the kind of peaceful beauty you won’t forget.
Tip:
If you want to visit the wonderful Villa del Balbianello, where the famous Casino Royale movie was filmed, you can book your tour and buy your ticket from the following links:
Discover Villa del Balbianello or Book Villa del Balbianello Tour
Villa Carlotta is a real historic villa built in the 1690s , over the centuries it changed hands among noble families. It was named after Princess Charlotte of Prussia (Carlotta in Italian), who lived there. Today the villa is owned by Italian cultural authorities and managed as a public museum and botanical garden. It’s famous for its lush gardens and art collections, a perfect mix of nature and history.
If you want to visit, you can book your ticket here: Visit Villa Carlotta & book tickets
Menaggio
We arrived in Menaggio at night, just as the town was bathed in soft light and the lake reflected the quiet beauty of the evening. As we stepped out of the car, we heard music; a pianist was playing and singing in the courtyard of the Grand Hotel by the lake. When he began singing “Lasciatemi Cantare” we couldn’t help but run over and sing along with him. Then he played “Volare”, then fireworks began. It was one of those moments that instantly made us feel, “Yes, we are in Italy!” spontaneous, joyful, and full of soul. After the music, we wandered through the old town, bought some gelato, and enjoyed it during a slow stroll along the lakeside promenade. Even though our time there was short, that magical moment made Menaggio unforgettable.
Lecco
Lecco sits on the southeastern branch of Lake Como, on the opposite leg from the more touristy towns like Bellagio and Menaggio, and that’s exactly what makes it special. This small and charming town feels more local, more relaxed, and far less crowded, which gives you space to actually feel the place.
The first thing you notice is how close the mountains feel, dramatic and rocky, they rise steeply right behind the town, making the landscape breathtaking. The water here looks clearer, calmer, and somehow more inviting. Whether you’re walking along the lakeside promenade or sitting in a quiet café, there’s a peaceful rhythm to life in Lecco that invites you to slow down and just enjoy.
There’s a lovely pedestrian area with boutiques, old churches, and cozy piazzas where locals gather, it’s not polished for tourists, and that’s what makes it more authentic. We loved strolling along the lake in the early evening, when the light hits the mountains just right and everything glows.
Tips for your visit to Como
- For accommodation, we stayed in Erba with friends, a small town near Como. It’s a quiet place with plenty of stores and a Saturday market that I really enjoyed. You can definitely consider Erba if you’re looking for a calm and budget-friendly base. But if you have a bit more to spend, staying in Como or Bellagio will reward you with amazing views right by the lake.
- For best Gelato, I only recommend one place: L’Ora Glaciale Gelateria Artigianale, which is truly authentic, made for Italians, not tourists. It opens at night for the locals. As a nut lover, I always go for pistachio and hazelnut, but at this gelateria, I discovered their almond flavor, and I completely fell in love. I had never found it before, so if you’re around, it’s absolutely worth trying. Please click here.
- If you want to visit Brunate, consider taking the funicular, even though you might have to wait in line for a bit, it’s definitely worth it. Driving up to Brunate can be challenging, and finding parking is not only difficult but also quite expensive if you do find a spot.
- Make sure to stop by Il Balcone sul Lago in Brunate , a cozy café with one of the most stunning terraces overlooking Lake Como. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a coffee or aperitivo, and soak in the view. It is also a B&B, you can find on Booking For Fb page please click here .
When planning to buy a ticket to Bellagio or any other destination on Lake Como, don’t forget to bring a hat and a bottle of water. You won’t want to leave your spot in line to buy anything, and the sun can be quite strong; the weather gets really hot, especially around midday.
- When visiting Bellagio, plan to return before sunset so you can enjoy the golden hour both in the town and during the boat trip back; it’s the perfect time to take in the stunning views and make the most of the experience.
- While in Italy, don’t just watch out for pickpockets, be careful of scammers too. While you’re waiting in line for tickets, some people may approach you and try to put a bracelet on your wrist. At first, they say it’s free, but once they tie it on, they suddenly demand money and can become aggressive to scare you into paying. Refuse anything, even if they insist it’s a gift.
- If you want to eat like the locals and enjoy some of the best flavors around Lake Como, Pizzeria Bravo Ragazzo in Erba serves truly delicious, authentic pizza in a casual local setting. We were taken there by our Italian friends who insisted it’s the best pizza in the region, and they were right! Please click here.
If you’re in Erba and have a sweet tooth, Vago Panificio Pasticceria is a must-visit. it offers a delightful array of artisanal pastries, cakes, and chocolates, all crafted with traditional Italian flair. Their dedication to quality and authenticity has made them a local favorite. Click here for their website
Other gems you shouldn’t miss if you have more time to spend in the region include:
Varenna – a romantic village with colorful houses and lakeside cafés
Tremezzo – home to the beautiful Villa Carlotta and its botanical gardens
Cernobbio – stylish and serene, just a short ride from Como town
Nesso – a tiny village with a dramatic gorge and a postcard-worthy waterfall
Argegno – less touristy, with stunning lake views and a charming old town
Milano – Just an hour away by train, this fashion capital is a perfect city escape before or after your lake trip, and a heaven for shopping lovers.
Venice – You can also consider adding a trip to Venice to your itinerary—it’s only about 3 hours and 30 minutes from Lake Como by car or train, and it’s undoubtedly a dream destination for travelers from all over the world. click here to read my article about Venice.
- If you have a car and some extra time, consider taking a day trip to Lake Lugano in Switzerland, just a short drive away. It’s definitely worth a visit. We had one day left, and I had to make a decision between visiting the bustling city of Milano or exploring Lake Lugano. Since I’m not really into shopping, we chose to discover Lugano, and it turned out to be a beautiful day well spent. The peaceful vibe, the lake views, and the charming Swiss-Italian atmosphere made it feel like the perfect finale to our Lake Como adventure.
After wandering through Como town, taking in the elegance of Villa Olmo, gazing over the lake from Brunate, and exploring the charming streets of Bellagio, Menaggio, Lecco, Erba, and Ascona, our journey felt like a story unfolding in real time. Each town had its own personality: Bellagio’s romantic alleys, Menaggio’s relaxed lakeside charm, Lecco’s dramatic mountains, Erba’s hidden corners, and Ascona’s serene corners by the water.
Even Lake Lugano, with its slightly different vibe, added another layer to our adventure, reminding us how every lake, every town, every turn has a story to tell.
By the end of our trip, what stayed with us wasn’t just the villas, or the sparkling waters, it was the feeling each place left in our hearts. Lake Como is one of those rare destinations that awakens your wanderlust, makes you pause to breathe, and invites you to slow down, dream, and savor every moment.
We left with our hearts full, cameras overflowing with memories, and moments shared with our lovely friends, without whom we might never have experienced Como yet, and the comforting thought that Italy has a way of making even the ordinary feel extraordinary. Until next time, Lake Como, you’ve left your mark.
Visit in Italy
