Experience a life of luxury on the shores of Italy’s most spectacular lake. Walk the same narrow, cobbled streets as noblemen from the days of the Roman Empire and present-day A-listers with a trip to the pastel-colored villas of the city of Como.
Relax in the sunshine
On a hot day head to Lido di Villa Olmo, a little beach where sun loungers scatter the manicured lawn leading to the shore, where water laps at the golden sand. Cool off in the turquoise lake or the open-air swimming pool. Grab a cold drink at the waterfront bar and while away the day in pure relaxation.
No trip to Italy is complete without sampling some delicious gelato. Visit Gelateria Lariana near pier 4 for the perfect scoop of ice cream. Every cone from this iconic establishment is piled high, and traditional flavors like vanilla and chocolate brownie are perfection. For the more adventurous, try the refreshing basil flavor – you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Admire ancient opulence
Make a beeline for Villa Carlotta, a museum and botanic garden. Built at the end of the 17th century by a Milanese politician and patron of the arts, this mansion is filled with Renaissance masterpieces and lavish public rooms. You can wander through the sprawling gardens under centuries-old cedars and admire the intricate fountains and sweeping lake views.
For stunning views over the water and the snow-capped mountains in the distance, take the funicular railway from the center of Como. Watch the town fall away as you head to the village of Brunate, perched on top of a hill. Once at the summit, explore streets lined with decadent art nouveau houses and take in the panoramic views of Lake Como.
Lakeside life
It’s an easy drive to Bellagio, a peninsula town along the shore, pausing to admire Villa del Balbianello on the way. Perched on a forested hill on the other side of the deep blue water, this is the perfect photo stop.
Bellagio seems to have stepped straight out of a painting – terracotta villas with green shutters line cobbled streets sloping down to the peaceful waterfront. Pavement cafés spill from Romanesque fronts and line the lakeside, offering stunning views over the sapphire water as you sip a frothy cappuccino or rich espresso.
Continue on to Lecco, encircled on two sides by the Bergamo Alps. If you tire of lakeside cafés and swimming in crystal shallows, the mountains that flank Lecco are dotted with hiking huts and have trails for all levels of fitness. Paths are easy to follow as they’re well marked and maintained. Pick up a map at the Tourist Information Office in the center of town and pick the perfect hike for you.
A city in two
Head through the mountains surrounding Lake Como to the unique city of Bergamo. Winding roads pass through alpine valleys and lead you to a city of two halves. Bergamo’s Roman upper city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lower city is deemed its modern counter-part, though the iconic architecture in the lower city still dates back to the 19th century. Stroll past neo-classic buildings while gazing back at the ancient city above.
Return to Como after a day by the shore or a day inland and you’ll see you’ve chosen the perfect base to explore Lombardy. Car rental is your key to unlocking the best of this divine corner of Italy.
