Five essential Lake Como experiences

By Stephanie Ong

October 1, 2022

Italy’s most famous lake is the perfect place for new adventures, from fabulous dining to sailing and lakeside hikes.

Set in the shadows of the Alps and fringed with wooded hills, this is Italy’s loveliest – and most famous – lake. The best place to unpack your bags? The palatial Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como, set in a 19th-century villa on the wooded, south-eastern shore. Here are five quintessential experiences for every type of traveller.

The classic

There’s no better way to appreciate the lake than from the water, and a ferry or boat ride is practically mandatory. We recommend renting your own boat (no licence required) for the flexibility and luxury of going at your own pace. Along the way, stop at any number of idyllic small towns, including the breathtaking Bellagio. Varenna, Tremezzo, Menaggio and Como are all worth a look too, as are the storybook villas you’ll pass along the way. If you only have time for two, visit Villa Carlotta, known for its bountiful botanic garden, and Villa del Balbianello, the go-to movie location in these parts.

The gastronomic

Food often seems to play second fiddle to the natural beauty of the lake, but with a plethora of standout eateries, it certainly doesn’t need to. Young chef Davide Caranchini is moving the dining scene forward at Michelin-starred Materia. Unexpected flavours are artfully combined, and vegetables are a focus rather than a footnote. If you’re looking for something slightly more traditional, Feel Como offers a sophisticated spin on local cuisine, using lake fish, mountain cheeses and wild game. And, if you're exploring the lake's Alpine hinterlands, stop for lunch at the perched Polentoteca Chalet Gabriele, to feast on braised beef and porcini-mushroom polenta.

The adventurous

If lakeside strolls and gentle boat rides aren’t quite your thing, don’t despair – the dramatic mountain scenery is more than just a backdrop. On the eastern side of the lake, hikers should head for the scenic Sentiero del Viandante (Wayfarer’s Path). It winds through ancient settlements, woods and olive groves, passing the craggy Castello di Vezio on its way. If you’re looking to rock-climb, some of the best ascents can be found around Lecco, and Valsassina. For cyclists, there are plenty of routes, of varying difficulty – including the mettle-testing climbs of Muro di Sormano and Madonna del Ghisallo.

The luxe

Como has been famed for its silk production since the 15th century. Drop by the Silk Museum to find out more, or better still, head to A Picci. Opened in 1919, it’s one of the few remaining shops to sell silk scarves and ties made and designed in Como. Alternatively, make for the town of Lenno, whose microclimate’s perfect for producing olive oil. Its exemplary oil is cold-pressed, and a favourite with top chefs; stock up at Vanini Osvaldo, in business since 1850.

The restorative

Lake Como seems made for relaxation and contemplation, with its beaches, lakeside pools and fairy-tale villa gardens. For the ultimate in restorative pampering, though, check in at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como, with its floating pool and sundeck, Finnish sauna and thermal pools. Treatments run from holistic facials to blissfully deep massages, while longer, head-to-toe rituals will leave you walking on air.

About the Author

Stephanie Ong

Stephanie is a travel writer and editor, who has worked with Lonely Planet, Le Cool and Expedia.