Two Days in Lake Como

About an hour north of Milan sits Lake Como, a postcard worthy region with summer homes to the rich and famous. Can one write a two-day itinerary to Lake Como without mentioning George Clooney? I’m not about to.

Even though the weather was not perfect, we still enjoyed beautiful lake views, memorable experiences on the lake and unforgettable food and wine. Here’s our itinerary and how to spend two days in Lake Como.

When to Visit Lake Como

Unlike larger cities with year round activities, Lake Como is best experienced during warm weather. We went in the middle of March and it was still quite sleepy. I miscalculated “shoulder season” by a month or so. If I could do it again, I’d go in May to take advantage of nicer weather but still fewer crowds than August.

How to get to Bellagio

The easiest way to get to Lake Como is through Milan. Budget airlines fly from European countries frequently, but be sure to check if it’s the “Bergamo Milan” airport that is actually not in Milan. It’s in Bergamo, to be exact. If you’re coming from within Italy, trains arrive to the central train station almost every hour.

Arrive to Milan and then take a regional train to Varenna or Como (about 10 euros one-way). Then, catch a ferry to Bellagio. I know this sounds like a haul, but it wasn’t too bad and it’s completely worth it! I was surprised at how frequently they came even in the off season. Check ferry schedule.

Where to Stay in Lake Como

I chose Hotel Bellagio for its excellent location near ferry ports, shops and restaurants. The lake view rooms offer pristine views of Lake Como at a price that won’t break the bank. Lake view room was about 150 euro per night with breakfast included.

Hotel Belvedere offers a luxury experience in Bellagio while also remaining a family business. This hotel complete with a library, spa, a pool and gardens has been passed down through five generations of women. You can also book annex apartments with lake views for a little more space.

Choose Grand Hotel Tremezzo across the lake for an iconic, lavish experience. The finest interiors, a private beach and a floating pool on top of Lake Como are just a few of the features of this historic hotel.

Two Days in Lake Como, Day One:

Check into hotel

We arrived mid-day, so there was just enough time to check in, drop our things and head back out to walk around Bellagio.

Aperitivo and Dinner

Before heading to dinner, we had a quick drink at this outdoor cafe. We had the best weather on the first day, so I’m glad we took the time to enjoy Bar Sanremo when it wasn’t raining.

For dinner (and more wine), walk about another block along the lake to Enoteca Cava Turacciolo. This is the top rated wine bar in Bellagio and with good reason. Get one of the wine tasting options with a meat and cheese plate. Our server was kind enough to personalize the tastings based on my preferences. Be sure to try Franciacorta, a wine similar to Champagne and produced locally in the lake region.

Two Days in Lake Como, Day Two:

Visit I Giardini Di Villa Melzi

After a quick coffee at Bar Pasticceria Rossi, walk over the Villa Melzi. It was closed during for the season when we visited, but I’ve heard it’s a must-do when visiting Bellagio.

Lunch at Trattoria Baita Belvedere

I first read about Trattoria Baita Belvedere from Margo at Overseas Escape a few years ago, before I ever lived in Italy. I starred it on my Google Maps, and never really thought I’d make it there. But, hey… I finally did!

They have a shuttle that comes and picks you up from Bellagio and brings you up the mountain. It’s 4 euro a person, but it’s worth it to not navigate the bumpy, winding road. Even though it was cloudy and we could barely see Lake Como below, it was still incredible to eat among the clouds. Get the cheese plate and polenta.

Hit the Lake in the Afternoon

You can also rent your own boat. Be sure to pack a picnic and a bottle of wine. Rental boat services are not open in winter though, so plan accordingly.

If you’re apprehensive about renting a boat of your own, take a ferry over to Tremezzo. Visit Villa Carlotta or relax at one of the lidos along the shore.

Dinner at Aperitivo Et Al

After an afternoon on the lake, head back to Bellagio for dinner. Still full from lunch at Tratoria Baita Belvedere, we opted for small bites and wine at Aperitivo Et Al. This restaurant is home to the famous red “aperitvi” sign on a side alley in Bellagio.

In the morning, we took the first ferry to the city of Como and then a train home!

Sidenote: I have been absolutely living in these Sam Edelman rain boots (under $55!) and they’re the only shoes I brought for our two days in Lake Como. I first got them for our trip to Venice, but the rainy season has been dragging on here. They are nice and light weight, while still being durable and sleek.

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