You might be picturing yourself sipping Aperol Spritz by the lake while the kids… well, you’re not quite sure what they’ll be doing. Fear not! Lake Como isn’t just for romantic getaways and celebrity sightings; it’s a surprisingly great destination for families, from toddlers to teens (and even the grown-ups).
We’re talking about real, practical advice, Lake Como-specific tips, and ideas that will turn those potential “are we there yet?” whines into enthusiastic “wow, look at that!” exclamations.
This guide will give you the lowdown on the best things to do on Lake Como with kids, covering everything from boat trips and villa visits to outdoor adventures and delicious Italian treats. Because let’s be honest, a well-planned trip is the key to a happy family vacation (and happy parents!).
A Recipe for Family Fun
Planning a family vacation can sometimes feel like trying to solve a complex equation. You’ve got to find a destination that’s beautiful, engaging, offers activities for all ages, and (crucially) doesn’t completely break the bank. Our recommended activities will be the recipe for your family fun because happy kids means happy parents and it means an happy vacation.
Adventures on the Water for All Ages | Boat rides
Let’s be honest, you can’t go to Lake Como and not get on a boat. It’s like going to Paris and skipping the Eiffel Tower – unthinkable! Luckily, there are boat trip options for everyone.
Private boat rentals
I don’t recommend use the public Ferry as a sightseeing tour because kids (I know, yours are well-educated) can be stressed by other people and it may be too busy to enjoy at the best the views. For a more personalized experience, you can rent a private boat. This gives you complete freedom to set your own itinerary and explore the lake at your own pace.
If you have a boat license (and are comfortable navigating the lake), you can rent a boat yourself. Otherwise, you can hire a skipper (a boat driver/guide) who will take care of everything. Why it’s good for families? Private rentals offer flexibility and comfort.
You can stop for swims (in designated areas), have a picnic on board, and tailor the experience to your children’s interests. For a more active and up-close experience, you can rent pedal boats or kayaks. This is a great way to explore the quieter coves and inlets of the lake.
Boat tours
If you want a structured experience with a knowledgeable guide, consider an organized boat tour. These tours usually focus on specific areas of the lake or offer themed experiences. Why it’s good for families? Organized tours can be a good way to learn about the history and culture of Lake Como. Some tours are specifically designed for families, with shorter durations and kid-friendly commentary. You can find tours that focus on specific villas, historical sites, or scenic areas.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Parks, and Playgrounds
We’re not talking hardcore mountaineering here; we’re focusing on family-friendly options that everyone can enjoy (or at least tolerate with minimal complaining).
Easy hiking trails
Lake Como has hiking trails for all levels, but with kids, it’s best to stick to the easier ones. Think gentle slopes, well-maintained paths, and manageable distances. First one is the Greenway of Lake Como. This is a fantastic option for families.
It’s a relatively flat path that follows the western shore of the lake, offering stunning views and passing through several charming villages. Another cool path for kids can be Sentiero delle Espressioni, a trail where local made these types of works of art engraving the trees bark.
Parks and playgrounds
Sometimes, kids just need to run around and burn off some energy. Luckily, there are a few parks and playgrounds around Lake Como where they can do just that. As an example, the city of Como has some nice parks near the lakefront where kids can play. Smaller villages also have small playgrounds or green spaces. It’s worth asking locals for recommendations.
Adventure/Themed Parks
It’s important to be upfront: Lake Como doesn’t have large-scale theme parks like Disneyland or Gardaland right on its shores. The focus is more on natural beauty and cultural experiences. However, there are some alternatives within driving distance that can offer a day of thrills and excitement. The closest option offering a true “adventure park” experience is Jungle Raider Park near Bellagio. Another great natural adventure park is Lake Como Adventure Park, near Como city.
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Lakeside Fun: Beaches, Swimming and ball sports
Lake Como isn’t exactly known for its sprawling sandy beaches like the Adriatic coast, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have some serious lakeside fun with the kids. It’s more about finding the right spots and adjusting your expectations, think more charming lido than Coney Island.
While specific locations may vary slightly year to year due to water levels and maintenance, some place that still are a valid option if you’re looking for a space suitable for kids are Lido di Lenno (in Lenno), the area around the Lido di Lenno often has some grassy areas where kids can run around and play; some areas near Menaggio, the area around Menaggio towards the north of the lake has some parks and open spaces that are good for kids; and certain parts of the Tremezzina Riviera, that may offer some spots, but it’s best to check locally for the most up-to-date information.
Learning something new
You might be looking for ways to sneak in a little learning too. Don’t worry, I’m not suggesting turning your vacation into a school trip. But Lake Como offers some surprisingly fun and engaging ways to learn something new, especially for kids
Educational Farm and Agriturismi
One of the best ways to combine fun and learning is by visiting an agriturismo (a working farm that offers accommodation and often activities) or an educational farm. These places offer hands-on experiences that connect kids with nature and teach them about where food comes from. An example is La Fiorida, near Colico, on the northern part of Lake Como.
Many agriturismi have farm animals like cows, goats, sheep, and chickens. Kids can often get involved in feeding the animals, collecting eggs, or even learning how to milk a cow (with supervision, of course). These farms often offer workshops or demonstrations on how they grow their crops or produce their products, such as cheese, honey, or olive oil.
Museum and Villas laboratories
Beyond farms, some of Lake Como’s villas and museums offer interactive workshops and activities that bring history and art to life. While the gardens are a major attraction, some villas (like Carlotta) have educational programs or guided tours that are specifically designed for children. These might involve storytelling, scavenger hunts, or hands-on activities related to the villa’s history or art collection.
The Civic Museums in Como sometimes offer workshops or educational activities for children related to local history or art. And a visit to the Silk Museum can be surprisingly interesting for kids, showing the process of silk making from silkworm to finished product, all in a dedicated space for kids.
Final Tips
- Choose shorter ferry routes: the longer ferry journeys can be tiring for younger children. Opt for shorter hops between villages like Varenna and Bellagio or a quick round trip to see the central lake area.
- Bring a picnic to the villa gardens: many villa gardens have designated picnic areas where you can enjoy a relaxed lunch while the kids play.
- Cobbled streets can be challenging for strollers: be prepared to carry younger children or use a carrier.
- Plan for downtime: don’t try to cram too much into each day. Allow for plenty of downtime for relaxation and rest.
More than just a vacation, a family trip to Lake Como is an opportunity to connect with each other, create shared experiences, and build memories that will be cherished for years to come. The beauty of the lake, the charm of the villages, and the abundance of activities provide the perfect setting for a truly unforgettable family adventure.
