Day trip to Lake Como

If you’re short on time but still want to experience the magic of Lake Como, a day trip is the perfect solution. In this guide, we’ll take you on a whirlwind tour of this breathtaking region, highlighting the must-see sights and hidden gems that make it so special.

Don’t worry, you don’t need weeks to experience its magic. A single day is enough to immerse yourself in its beauty.

Here’s a virtual journey to Lake Como, providing tips on how to make the most of your day trip. From transportation options to must-see attractions, we’ve got you covered.

A marvellous itinerary

Imagine cruising along the serene waters of Lake Como, surrounded by rich greenery and imposing mountains. Start your day by arriving at the beautiful city of Como, the gateway to the lake. After a visit at the Volta Temple and an earned lunch, embark on a scenic boat cruise to reach Bellagio. Here, in the town often called the “Pearl of Lake Como” relax with a promenade through the Villa Melzi beautiful gardens. End the day with a great dinner in a lakeside restaurant.

Morning in Como

Como, the elegant gateway to the lake, is a city steeped in history and culture. Its roots trace back to the Roman era, when it was known as Comum. Under Roman rule, the city flourished, becoming a significant commercial and cultural center.

But what to see in Como? Como Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic structure with an imposing façade and an interior adorned with exquisite works of art, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. The Volta Temple, a museum dedicated to the renowned scientist Alessandro Volta, inventor of the electric battery, offers a glimpse into the world of scientific innovation. Villa Olmo, a stunning Neoclassical villa nestled amidst a sprawling park, hosts a variety of exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.

After the visit and before heading to Bellagio, treat yourself with an amazing lunch exploring the savors of the region. You can choose a lakeside restaurant for the view, but I suggest to opt for a more fast and spartan restaurant in the city center like trattoria or osteria.

Around Como: Volta Temple

The Volta Temple in Como serves as a testament to the life and groundbreaking work of Alessandro Volta, the Italian physicist renowned for inventing the electric battery.

Conceived in the late 1920s, the temple was the brainchild of industrialist Francesco Somaini, who wished to create a lasting tribute to Volta. Designed by the esteemed architect Federico Frigerio, the building’s design is a harmonious blend of neoclassical and Palladian styles, with a nod to the iconic Pantheon. Its circular interior, topped by a soaring dome and adorned with ornate marble, creates a sense of awe and reverence.

Inside the temple, visitors are transported back to the age of scientific discovery. The museum houses a vast collection of Volta’s original instruments and apparatus, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of 18th-century physics. From early electrical experiments to his groundbreaking work on the nature of gases, the exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of Volta’s contributions to science.

Beyond the scientific instruments, the temple also tells the story of Volta’s life and the impact of his work on the world. Through letters, documents, and multimedia displays, visitors can learn about Volta’s early life, his experiments, and the honors he received. The museum also explores the legacy of Volta, highlighting his influence on subsequent generations of scientists and the enduring importance of his discoveries.

An amazing lunch

Indulge in dishes like Missoltino, a traditional sun-dried fish delicacy, or Pizzoccheri, a hearty buckwheat pasta. Savor the rich taste of Polenta Uncia, a creamy cornmeal dish topped with cheese and butter, or the hearty Brasato di Cinghiale Selvatico, a slow-cooked wild boar stew. For a lighter option, try the Risotto con Filetti di Pesce Persico, a creamy risotto with tender perch fillets.

From Como to Bellagio

The map below shows the car route from Como to Bellagio but my personal advice is to take a ferry ride to enjoy at best the natural beauty of the environment.

Afternoon in Bellagio

The town’s significant history begins in the 7th to 5th centuries BC with a castellum on the promontory, likely a place of worship and trade for the surrounding villages. The name Bellagio is believed to derive from the pre-Roman word “bail-las”, which means “high ground/village on the waters”.

As you wander through its narrow, cobblestone streets, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a postcard. The town’s stunning waterfront, lined with elegant villas and colorful houses, will give you chills. One of the highlights of Bellagio is Villa Melzi, a magnificent 19th-century villa surrounded by lush gardens. The villa’s elegant interiors and serene gardens will regenerate your spirit and strenghts.

You can even do something more active, reaching the Punta Spartivento. The “Point Where the Wind Divides”, is a captivating spot. As the name suggests, it’s the point where Lake Como’s three branches—Lario, Lecco, and Como—converge and diverge. This geographical peculiarity has made it a significant landmark for centuries, serving as a navigational reference point for sailors and fishermen.

Scent of Bellagio: Fall in love with Villa Melzi

Welcome to Villa Melzi d’Eril, a place where history and nature intertwine to create an enchanting experience.

Commissioned by Francesco Melzi d’Eril in 1808, the villa and its surrounding gardens offer a captivating blend of art, history, and natural beauty. The villa itself is a masterpiece of architectural design, featuring a simple yet elegant facade adorned with classical elements. Inside, visitors can admire a collection of fine art, including works by renowned artists like Canova and Appiani. The interiors are equally impressive, with ornate frescoes, intricate stuccowork, and elegant furnishings.

One of the highlights of the gardens is the ancient Roman sarcophagus, a relic from the 3rd century BC. This impressive artifact, along with other historical treasures, adds a touch of antiquity to the idyllic setting.

The gardens surrounding the villa are a true horticultural marvel. Designed by renowned landscape architect Luigi Canonica, the gardens feature a diverse array of exotic plants, including camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas. Winding paths lead visitors through lush groves and past serene ponds. Beutiful isn’t it? You can mix up the visit at Villa Melzi with different other activities, for example:

A dinner to end on a sweet note

For a dreamy dinner on a Lakeside restaurant you can try a delicate pasta dish like tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms or ravioli filled with local cheeses. Savor succulent fish dishes featuring the day’s catch, such as perch or trout, prepared with simple yet flavorful sauces. Or, opt for classic Italian dishes like risotto with saffron, polenta, or ossobuco. Seafood lovers can delight in grilled squid, clams, or a mixed seafood platter. And to end your meal (and your journey) on a sweet note, indulge in a classic tiramisu.