The Ultimate 4 Days in Lake Como Itinerary

Lake Como is one of my favorite destinations in Italy and a must-visit for anyone planning a trip to this beautiful country.

Situated in the Northern region of Lombardy, Lake Como is known for its beautiful lakeside villages, jaw-dropping views, and grand villas.

I’ve already been to Lake Como three times and wouldn’t mind going back for a fourth! In this Lake Como 4 day itinerary, I’ll be sharing my favorite spots and tips to help you make the most out of your trip.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.

Overview of Your 4 Days in Lake Como Itinerary

Breakdown of your 4 days in Lake Como

• Day 1: Varenna & Bellano (Villa Cipressi, Villa Monastero, Bar Il Molo, Chiesa San Giorgio, Castello di Vezio, Passerella Innamorati Sul Lago, Orrido di Bellano)
• Day 2: Bellagio (Bellagio lakefront promenade, I Giardini di Villa Melzi, Salita Serbelloni, Piazza della Chiesa & Basilica of St. Giacomo, Parco di Villa Serbelloni, Punta Spartivento)
• Day 3: Lenno, Tremezzo & Menaggio (Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, Sightseeing in Menaggio)
• Day 4: Nesso & Como (Orrido di Nesso, Villa Olmo, Tempio Voltiano, Life Electric Monument, Saint Mary Assunta Cathedral, Brunate funicular)

Map for your 4 day Lake Como itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Lake Como itinerary.

I marked your 4 days in Lake Como with different colors – I used blue for the first, yellow for the second, green for the third, and red for the fourth day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Day 1: Varenna & Bellano

Villa Cipressi

Start your 4 days in Lake Como by exploring one of my favorite villas in Lake Como, Villa Cipressi. This stunning villa is located in the charming town of Varenna and features beautiful terraced gardens overlooking the lake.

If you’re staying in Varenna, you’ll be within walking distance of Villa Cipressi. If you’re coming from another town, you can just hop on a ferry and take a scenic 10-minute walk from the ferry port to the villa.

Unfortunately, the inside of the villa is reserved for hotel guests only (the villa now operates as a luxury hotel), but the gardens are open to the public.

I absolutely loved wandering through the gardens and taking in the stunning views of Lake Como, and of course, taking a million pictures!

It’s also possible to stay at the Villa Cipressi, but let me warn you, it’s not cheap. But if you want a splurge, I can only recommend booking a stay there. Imagine waking up and having the botanical gardens every morning to yourself without the crowds!

Villa Monastero

Sticking with villas, after you’ve had a nice look at Villa Cipressi, make your way to Villa Monastero, one of Varenna’s most prominent historical locations. It’s right next to Villa Cipressi, so it’s super easy to get to.

Some would say the facade of the Villa Monastero warrants a visit on its own, but there’s much more to this landmark than meets the eye.

The inside of the building has been converted into a museum and a conference center, and the complex hosts a peaceful set of botanical gardens.

When it comes to tickets, you can choose to visit the gardens only, or opt for a combo ticket which includes the museum as well. If you have the time, I would strongly recommend getting the combo ticket as the museum inside the villa is simply fantastic!

You can find 14 rooms inside, each containing original decorations and furniture. From the gorgeous Sala della Musica to the intimate chambers and bathrooms, you’ll get a great insight into the life of former inhabitants.

Lunch at Bar Il Molo

After exploring some of the most beautiful villas in Lake Como in the morning, it’s time to indulge in some delicious Italian food!

I recommend having lunch at Bar Il Molo, located right along the shores of the lake. To be completely honest with you, the food can be a bit of a hit or miss at this place, but the view? That’s totally unbeatable!

Bar Il Molo features an outside terrace with some jaw-dropping vantage points. They actually have two terraces: the lower one opens right in the morning for breakfast, while the upper one only opens at noon.

The menu consists of a spread of Italian delights, including bruschetta, a selection of pasta, and pizzas made with fresh local produce. You can accompany your meal with a classic Aperol Spritz, or you can try their version, the Molo Spritz.

Bar Il Molo is only a short five-minute walk from Villa Monastero, so you won’t have to go far for your first taste of Italian cuisine on your 4 day Lake Como itinerary.

Chiesa San Giorgio

After a relaxing lunch break, continue the first of your 4 days in Lake Como to the Chiesa San Giorgio, an astonishing example of 14th-century Lombard architecture.

I was blown away the first time I saw the inside of the Chiesa San Giorgio. The primary altar is designed in true Baroque style, and in contrast, the tabernacle follows a neoclassical style.

The one aspect everyone finds the most impressive is the creative frescos lined along the walls – trust me, you’ll be left speechless when you see them!

You can enter the church for free and it’s open every day, but if you want to visit on Saturday or Sunday, make note of the mass times.

Climb up to Castello Di Vezio

Next, it’s time for an uphill walk to the Castello di Vezio, which overlooks the beautiful town of Varenna.

The structure has been there for over 1,000 years and used to be a military outpost, but today, it’s a major tourist attraction open to the public.

You can go deep into the remaining dungeons, climb up to the main tower to catch a better view of Lake Como, or wander through the serene gardens.

The climb up to Castello di Vezio is a short but very steep walk. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, preferably sneakers! I was wearing sandals, and the climb down was a real nightmare, so learn from my mistake.

You don’t need more than 20-30 minutes to get up to the top, but if you’re not in the shape of your life, factor in some time for rest and rehydration. 

Getting up to the castle is definitely not one of the easiest things to do in Varenna, but once you make it to the top, the views will more than make up for the sweaty climb!

Stroll around the Passerella Innamorati Sul Lago

The Passerella Innamorati Sul Lago is perfect for a romantic walk along Lake Como’s shores. This little pathway is lined with red railings and starts from the pier of Varenna and leads out to the heart of Varenna town. 

Only a couple of hundred meters long, the Passerella Innamorati Sul Lago is an excellent spot to take your photo as it has a lovely mountain backdrop and a love heart photo stand. Plus, it’s not challenging, so you don’t have to worry about wearing appropriate footwear.

Take a train to Bellano

As your time in Varenna comes to a close, hop on a quick train to Bellano, a small town just north along the eastern shore of Lake Como.

The ride from Varenna-Esino to Bellano-Tartavalle Terme only takes about five minutes, and trains usually run twice an hour, so it’s very easy to fit into your day.

The main reason to visit is the Orrido di Bellano, a dramatic natural gorge carved out by the River Pioverna over millions of years.

A series of walkways and viewing platforms lets you follow the canyon from above and alongside the rushing water, with waterfalls, rock formations, and even a few cave sections along the way.

It’s only about a six-minute walk from the train station to the entrance, so this makes for a simple but really impressive stop before continuing your trip around Lake Como.

Dinner in Varenna

After a full first day exploring Lake Como, head back to Varenna for dinner and a slower evening by the water. I’d recommend catching the train back before it gets too late so you can enjoy the atmosphere around the lake and the small streets lit up at night.

Il Cavatappi Restaurant is a cozy, locally owned restaurant tucked between some of Varenna’s oldest buildings. The space is small and intimate, and it serves classic Lake Como dishes in a relaxed setting. Because there are only a few tables, it’s a good idea to book well in advance.

If you can’t get a reservation there, Al Prato is a great alternative just steps from the lakefront. The menu focuses on seafood and Northern Italian specialties, and it’s a solid choice for a memorable final meal in Varenna.

Day 2: Bellagio

Wake up bright and early and make your way to Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of Lake Como.” It’s a small village located at the tip of the peninsula that divides Lake Como into two branches.

I think it’s one of the best places to stay in Lake Como, but even if you’re staying elsewhere, it’s just a short ferry ride away from most towns.

I recommend spending the whole day in Bellagio, taking your time to explore the winding streets and stunning lakeside views.

Stroll around the lakefront promenade in Bellagio

Start by strolling along the lakefront promenade that offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The promenade runs from the ferry station to the Villa Melzi Gardens, which is perfect, considering this will be the next stop on your 4 day Lake Como itinerary.

The lakefront promenade is one of my absolute favorite places in Bellagio, especially when the flowers are in full bloom! It’s such a peaceful and romantic walk and a literal heaven for photographers.

I Giardini di Villa Melzi

Visiting the Villa Melzi Gardens is one of the most popular things to do in Bellagio, so you definitely won’t want to miss it.

This stunning complex was built in the early 19th century for Francesco Melzi d’Eril, Vice President of the Italian Republic under Napoleon.

Sadly, you cannot enter the inside of the villa, but the botanical gardens, developed by the well-known architect Luigi Canonica, are open to the public.

The gardens boast a variety of trees, plants, and flowers from all over the world and offer magnificent views of Lake Como. I especially loved walking through the Japanese garden with its peaceful ponds and colorful koi fish.

You can also find some cute benches strategically placed along the shores of Lake Como for some scenic relaxation.

Lunch at Dai Viga Pasta Fresca

Fancy some pasta for lunch? You won’t find a better place to try some than at Dai Viga Pasta Fresca, who are experts when it comes to crafting artisanal pasta.

I don’t know how they do it; maybe it’s their homemade sauces or their toppings, but they serve some of the best pasta I’ve ever tried in Italy!

Since you’re in Italy, it would be a crime to have a meal without a fine glass of wine, and let me tell you, Dai Viga Pasta Fresca has a nice selection on offer, from flavorful whites to full-bodied reds. You might find yourself staying for the bottle after the first glass!

Gelato at Gelateria del Borgo

When in Italy, you should always have time for gelato, and Bellagio is no exception. Gelateria del Borgo is one of the most popular spots in town and a great place to stop while you’re wandering through the old streets.

They usually have a wide selection of classic flavors like pistachio, hazelnut, vanilla, cherry, and caramel, along with a few seasonal options. Because it’s located right in the center, there’s often a line, especially in the afternoon, but it typically moves pretty quickly.

Trust me, it’s completely worth the wait. During our time in Lake Como, we went back almost daily!

Snap a picture at Salita Serbelloni

Chances are you’ve already seen Salita Serbelloni on Instagram before your trip. It’s one of the most photographed streets in Bellagio and easily one of the most recognizable views in town.

This narrow stone stairway sits right in the heart of the old town and is lined with boutiques, cafes, bars, and small restaurants. The view looking down toward the lake is what makes it so iconic!

Because it’s such a popular photo spot, it can get crowded, especially in the middle of the day. If you want a quieter moment, try stopping by early in the morning before most day trippers arrive.

Visit Piazza Della Chiesa & Basilica of St. Giacomo

After Salita Serbelloni, make your way to Piazza della Chiesa, one of the main squares of Bellagio.

One of the must-see things at Piazza della Chiesa is the Basilica of St. Giacomo. Traced back to the 12th century, the Basilica of St. Giacomo has seen many improvements over the years to ensure its preservation.

It’s completely free to enter, and inside, you’ll find several important artifacts like an illustration of the Deposition and a sculpture of Christ.

Make sure to spend some time at the square as it’s one of the best places to people-watch. There are also some cute little cafes where you can swing by for your afternoon coffee.

Afternoon tour of Parco di Villa Serbelloni

Take a break from the crowds of Bellagio and set off on a tour of Parco di Villa Serbelloni, a nature park spread across 50 acres of highland with a dominating view of Lake Como.

The park can only be accessed with a guided tour, and you must book your space in advance because only a maximum of 60 people can visit a day due to park policy. 

Tours run twice a day, at 11 am and 3:30 pm, but keep in mind that the park is closed on Mondays, so make sure to plan the days of your 4 day Lake Como itinerary accordingly.

Throughout your visit to Parco di Villa Serbelloni, you’ll get the chance to learn about Villa Serbelloni’s interesting history amid the park’s lush green gardens and catch a bird’s-eye view of Bellagio that barely any tourists get to see.

Unfortunately, you can’t visit the villa itself, but trust me, the views more than make up for it. The only thing you have to be aware of is that the tour will involve a lot of uphill walking, so I would recommend wearing comfortable shoes!

Walk to the tip of Bellagio (Punta Spartivento)

If you have a little extra time in Bellagio, walk up to Punta Spartivento, the northern tip of the peninsula. It’s about a 7-minute walk from Parco di Villa Serbelloni and makes for a really nice, quiet break from the busier streets in town.

Punta Spartivento is known for its wide open views where the three branches of Lake Como meet. From here, you can see across the water toward the surrounding mountains and nearby towns.

There are a few benches along the edge, making it a great place to sit for a while and, if timing works out, catch the sunset before heading back into town.

Dinner in Bellagio 

End your day with dinner at one of Bellagio’s many restaurants. The town has plenty of options for all tastes and budgets, from cozy trattorias to upscale fine dining establishments.

Here are some of my favorites:

• Trattoria San Giacomo: Located on the famous Salita Serbelloni, this traditional trattoria serves up typical Italian classics, and the prices are pretty reasonable. They have the cutest little outdoor terrace looking out at the street, but it fills up quickly, so try to get there early.
• Ristoro Forma e Gusto: This is hands down the best place for some Neapolitan-style pizza! They produce all of their pizzas with the help of a wood-burning oven, an authentic tradition from Naples, the birthplace of pizza. In addition, their wine menu is unparalleled, with a great variety of reds and whites.
• Bistrot Antichi Sapori: This cozy restaurant is located in the heart of Bellagio and offers a selection of traditional Italian dishes. The portions are huge, the food quality is phenomenal, and the staff goes above and beyond to ensure guests are enjoying themselves, even if the place is packed.

Day 3: Lenno, Tremezzo & Menaggio

Villa del Balbianello

It’s finally time to visit one of my all-time favorite spots in Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello! Located just across the lake from Bellagio, this stunning villa is famous for being featured in movies such as Casino Royale and Star Wars: Episode II.

To reach the villa, you first have to take a ferry to Lenno, and then you have two options: you can either take a taxi boat or you can tackle the 25-minute uphill walk.

Personally, I recommend taking the taxi boat on the way to the villa and walking back to Lenno after your visit. The taxi boat starts running at 10 am when the villa opens, and I suggest getting there 15 minutes before so you can secure a spot.

Having an online booking for Villa del Balbianello is now mandatory, so make sure to book your tickets in advance. It’s also possible to visit the interiors of the villa, but only with a guided tour. However, tickets usually sell out a month in advance for the interior tour, so you need to be quick!

I’ve been to Villa del Balbianello twice, but I still haven’t visited the interiors yet, as I couldn’t secure tickets on time. However, exploring the gardens and admiring the villa from the outside is already a magical experience!

Lunch in Lenno

After your visit to Villa del Balbianello, take a stroll in Lenno and stop for lunch at one of its charming lakeside restaurants.

We picked Ristorante Giglio and were not disappointed! The menu isn’t overly massive, but everything Chef Dario and his team craft, they do so with perfection. Plus, their outdoor seating area has a stunning view of the lake, which I absolutely loved.

Make sure not to leave without trying one of their homemade pasta dishes and the tiramisu – trust me, it’s to die for!

Villa Carlotta

After lunch, head to Tremezzo and take a tour of another beautiful villa, Villa Carlotta. The three-story villa features a fabulous art gallery, vintage furnishings, and 18th-century ornaments. If you have an appreciation for art, you won’t want to miss this!

The architecture of the villa is absolutely breathtaking, I especially loved the gorgeous windows and balconies that offer a stunning view of the lake.

Even if you’re not into art, the botanical gardens are still worth a visit. The whole tour of the gardens takes about 90 minutes, and you’ll be able to see a variety of plants, flowers, and sculptures.

Of course, if you’re short on time or you’re not keen on walking that much, you can take the shorter 45-minute route, or just explore a small part of the garden.

Menaggio

Finish your day by exploring the town of Menaggio, located just a short ferry or bus ride away from Tremezzo.

Stroll along the charming streets, stop for some gelato, and take in the beautiful views of Lake Como. One of the places you must visit is Piazza Garibaldi, which offers a stunning overlook of the lake and surrounding villages.

I recommend staying for dinner in Menaggio. Despite how small Menaggio is, the pretty town still has its fair share of dining options. If you need some recommendations, check out the restaurants below.

• Osteria Il Pozzo: Their menu focuses mainly on dishes made with lake fish, but there are some meat-based alternatives, too, with lamb, beef, or chicken. Don’t miss out on trying their cold-cut meats and cheese for starters, you won’t be disappointed.
• Pizzeria Lugano: If you love pizza, then Pizzeria Lugano is a must-visit. It’s a no-frills restaurant serving traditional pizzas, and they’re reasonably priced. They also offer takeaways if you prefer to have your pizza by the lake!

Day 4: Nesso & Como

Orrido di Nesso

Start your day by visiting one of the most unique natural wonders in Lake Como, Orrido di Nesso. This impressive waterfall and gorge are located in the charming town of Nesso, just a short drive from Bellagio.

If you have a rental car, you can easily get there in about 20 minutes from Bellagio. However, if you’re relying on public transportation, you’ll have to take the C30 bus to Nesso.

Once you arrive in Nesso, follow the signs to Orrido di Nesso and be prepared for a steep walk down to the gorge. But trust me, it’s worth it! The views of the waterfall and surrounding nature are simply breathtaking.

There are no entrance fees for Orrido di Nesso, and if you’re visiting in the summer, you can even take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the gorge.

Villa Olmo

After visiting Orrido di Nesso, head to the city of Como to explore its famous landmarks. You can either drive 30 minutes to get there or take the C30 bus from Nesso to Como.

One of the best things to do in Como is to visit Villa Olmo, a neoclassical villa located on the shores of the lake. The villa dates back to the late 18th century and features stunning architecture and interiors.

Unlike the other villas on this 4 day Lake Como itinerary, Villa Olmo is completely free to visit. You can explore the interior of the villa, take a stroll in the gardens, and even have a picnic on the lawns.

The villa is closed on Mondays, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.

Tempio Voltiano

Next, head to Tempio Voltiano, a striking structure built to commemorate the great Alessandro Volta, the famous man who developed the battery. He was from Como and also died there, and the locals are proud to call him one of their own.

The temple features a museum that displays some of Volta’s inventions, including the original first battery he ever made. The museum also offers a panoramic terrace with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Similar to Villa Olmo, Tempio Voltiano is closed on Mondays.

Life Electric Monument

Another attraction dedicated to Alessandro Volta is the Life Electric Monument. It’s a 6-minute walk from Tempio Voltiano.

To reach there, you have to walk out onto a long manmade platform in the middle of Lake Como’s first basin, but it can also be viewed from land if you prefer.

The 16.5-meter-tall monument is supposed to replicate two sine waves clashing together with some bends and twists, and showcasing scientific features. Its shape will surely have you scratching your head, but it’s quite impressive.

Admission to the Life Electric monument is free, and while I recommend walking right out to it, it looks far better from a distance, and the pictures of it are nicer from a vantage point, too.

Como Cathedral

No trip to Como would be complete without a visit to the beautiful Como Cathedral. The cathedral, also known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, is located in the heart of the city, and it’s truly an impressive sight to behold.

While the cathedral is mainly celebrated for its design, the main reason it’s famous is that it was constructed as a sign of respect towards the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary during the 14th and 18th centuries.

From the outside, the impressive Gothic features will blow you away, and as you walk through the main doors, you’ll also be able to spot evidence of Renaissance, Baroque, and Romanesque detail too, which I found really interesting.

The entrance is free, so make sure to include this stop in your 4 days in Lake Como itinerary for a dose of history, culture, and stunning architecture.

Take the funicular to Brunate

After exploring the city of Como, end your day by taking the funicular up to Brunate for stunning panoramic views of Lake Como.

The journey up to the top only takes 7 minutes, and the cable trains run every 30 minutes until midnight, so you never have to wait too long for your next ride.

Once you reach Brunate, take some time to explore the quaint village and enjoy the breathtaking views from the viewpoint. To be completely honest with you, I didn’t find the village itself to be anything extraordinary, but the views are absolutely worth it.

Dinner in Como

After taking in the stunning views from Brunate, head back down to Como for dinner. The city offers a wide range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual pizzerias.

Here are my recommendations for the final meal of your Lake Como itinerary:

• La Darsena: This restaurant is located right by the funicular station in Como, and it offers an extensive seafood and pizza menu. The outdoor seating area overlooks the lake, providing a beautiful setting for your dinner.
• Riva Cafe: If you’re craving some delicious Italian pizza, Riva Cafe is the place to go. Located by the lake, this restaurant offers an array of traditional pizzas, along with other Italian dishes.

Useful Info for Spending 4 Days in Lake Como

Where to stay in Lake Como

The most popular areas for accommodation in Lake Como are Bellagio, Varenna, and Como. These towns have the most tourist attractions and offer great accommodation options ranging from luxurious villas to budget-friendly guesthouses.

Varenna and Como are especially great because they have direct train connections to Milan, so it’s very easy to get to. However, keep in mind that Como is very far from the middle part of the lake, where most attractions are located, so you’ll spend a lot of time commuting.

If you want to know more about the best places to stay around the lake, check out my in-depth guide about where to stay in Lake Como. It covers all of the best areas and gives you some insider tips on where to find the best deals.

If you’re in a hurry, here are my top recommendations for the best hotels in these towns.

Best places to stay in Bellagio:

• Luxury: Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
• Mid-range: Hotel du Lac & SPA
• Budget: Hotel Bellagio

Best places to stay in Varenna:

• Luxury: Hotel Royal Victoria
• Mid-range: Hotel Olivedo
• Budget: Hotel Montecodeno

How to get to Lake Como

When it comes to getting to Lake Como, you have quite a bit of options, and it will depend on what type of transportation you prefer and where exactly you are planning to stay.

The closest airports are Milano Malpensa and Orio al Serio in Bergamo, so if you’re visiting from abroad, those are likely the best options to take a look at.

Como and Varenna, two of the most popular towns in Lake Como, have direct train connections to Milan, so if you’re staying at either of these towns, you can just hop on a train and arrive at your accommodation in one hour. If you’re staying in other towns, you can either take a ferry, train, bus, or taxi to arrive at your final destination.

Another option is to rent a car, which gives you the ultimate freedom and also allows you to do a bigger Northern Italy road trip.

Even if you opt for this, I would recommend leaving your car at the parking lot while you’re in Lake Como and choosing another way to get around (more about this later).

Best time to visit Lake Como

Shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) are hands down the best time to visit Lake Como. The weather is usually great, prices are lower, and you don’t have to worry about tourist crowds.

The worst time to visit Lake Como, in my opinion, is during the summer months (July and August). It can get quite hot during these months with temperatures reaching up to 33°C, and the lake is usually flooded with tourists.

How to get around Lake Como

The best way to get around Lake Como is by public ferry. It’s not only budget-friendly, but you also get to enjoy some spectacular views of the lake. The ferry schedule is very regular, and it’s quite easy to move from one part of the lake to another.

You can easily check the schedule and book your tickets on the official website of Navigazione Laghi website. Usually, you can book your tickets on the same day, but if you’re visiting in peak season, it’s best to book them a few days in advance.

If you’re visiting towns on the same side of the lake, you can also take a bus or a train. There’s also the option to rent a bike or take a taxi, although this can get quite expensive if you’re planning to cover long distances.

As I mentioned before, even if you have a rental car, I recommend leaving it at the parking lot and choosing another way to get around Lake Como.

The roads are quite narrow, and the traffic can get quite congested during peak season, which can take away from your vacation. Not to mention that finding a parking lot during the day is a real nightmare!