Spending 3 days in Lake Como was a wonderful highlight of my month-long trip to Italy.
Located in northern Italy, this stunning lake region offers a mix of charming towns, serene landscapes, and endless opportunities to explore at your own pace.
During my visit, I realized that Lake Como caters to two kinds of travellers: those who prefer to take it slow, soaking in the atmosphere and practicing the art of Il Dolce Far Niente, the sweetness of doing nothing, and those who want to see as much as possible within a short time, thanks to the hop on/hop off the ferry around the lake.
I’ll share two itineraries: one for those who, like me, sometimes prefer to slow down and take it all in, and another for those who can’t resist the urge to see it all.
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Is 3 Days in Lake Como Enough? Tips to Consider
In my experience, spending three days in Lake Como is a sweet spot for exploring this gem of an Italian destination.
It’s enough time to soak in the beauty of the lake, visit the main towns, and still have moments to relax and enjoy the Dolce Vita.
During my trip, I found that three days allowed me to see the highlights without feeling rushed. I managed to explore Como City, and the golden triangle of Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio – the three most popular towns around the lake.
That said, if you’re a slow traveller like me, you might want to consider staying longer. With 4-6 days, you can, of course, dive deeper into the local culture, take day trips to nearby attractions, or simply spend more time relaxing by the lake.
But if you’re short on time, don’t worry – 3 days will still give you a wonderful taste of what Lake Como has to offer.
Here are key considerations for planning your Lake Como itinerary:
- When you are going: Visit during late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October) for ideal weather and fewer crowds. If possible, avoid during peak tourist season of the summer months.
- Where you are staying: Choose your home base carefully. Staying in the middle of the lake for optimal access to the pretty Lake Como towns. I recommend this order: Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and Tremezzo. I stayed in Como City, but I wouldn’t recommend it if spending more than 2 days in Lake Como.
- How to plan your day: Crowds are minimal in the early morning and the late afternoon, as many come to Lake Como for the day from Milan. Book your ferry tickets in the morning for the day to avoid long queues and arrive at the ferry harbours 10-15 minutes early during busy periods.
3 Day Lake Como Itinerary for the Traditional Traveller
Here’s how I recommend you make the most of your day, focusing on Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and some town hopping on the last day with at least half a day spent in Como City.
Day 1: Bellagio and Varenna
Morning: Bellagio
I started my day in Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” and I can see why it’s considered the gem of Lake Como.
- Must-see: Villa Melzi Gardens
- Must-do: Get lost in the Old Town with its narrow cobblestone streets, especially particularly Salita Serbelloni and elegant boutiques
Afternoon: Varenna
A quick ferry ride took me to Varenna, a quieter town with colourful houses and a romantic waterfront.
- Must-see: Villa Monastero
- Must-do: Stroll along the Passeggiata degli Innamorati “The Lover’s Walk” with gelato from La Passarella and wander through the Old Town
Evening: Varenna
I recommend you hike to Castello di Vezio (Castle of Vezio) for incredible sunset views. It’s a walk of about 30 minutes, easy but with some short uphill sections that with some good footwear you’ll have no problem with. Starting at Piazza S. Giorgio, take the Scabium trail, with signs posted (and likely people) following it to the top.
Once back in Varenna, I recommend dining at Varenna Caffè Bistrot with a terrace right on the beach, or La Veranda dei Pescatori for its pretty terrace, views and platings.
Day 2: Menaggio and Choose Your Adventure
Morning: Menaggio
I began my second day in Menaggio, a lively town with a beautiful promenade. Menaggio is a great spot
- Must-see: Old Town and Piazza Garibaldi
- Must-do: Take a walk along the lakefront promenade and do some people-watching.
Afternoon: Choose Your Adventure
Menaggio is known for its many hiking and biking trails if you’re up for some activity, or play a round of golf at the nearby Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club. If you’re not feeling active, I recommend you hop on the ferry and spend the afternoon in Lenno and explore its charming town centre.
Evening: Bellagio
Spend the evening back in Bellagio for a drink at Bar & Bistrot Vittoria and a late-night dinner. Here is what I recommend:
- Mistral for a high-end dining experience at a Michelin-star
- Ristorante Bilacus for foodies wanting a refined twist on traditional classics
- Enoteca Cava Turacciolo for a cozy, romantic dinner perfect for wine enthusiasts (600-bottle wine cellar)
Day 3: Town Hopping to Como
On my final day, I decided to hop from town to town making my way to Como. I spent about an hour in each town, just enough time to explore the main sights and grab a pastry or a gelato.
- Towns to visit:
- Lenno: Quick visit to the town center (unless visited the day before)
- Tremezzo: Visit Villa Carlotta
- Argegno: Cable car ride
- Cernobbio: Walk along the promenade to admire the gorgeous villas
Afternoon and evening: Como City
Explore Como, a charming city known as the gateway to Lake Como and known for its great historical architecture, which offers many more things to see and do than the other towns dotted around the lake.
- Must-see: Como Duomo, wander the old town for its medieval architecture
- Must-do: Brunate funicular, enjoy an aperitivo at Hemmingway’s Bar
- Dinner: I recommend La Pasta Taverna or Bistrot Muralto for a delicious meal.
Lake Como 3 Day Itinerary for the Slow Traveller
As someone who loves to savour every moment of my travels, I’ve crafted a relaxed Lake Como itinerary for 3 days that allows you to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
Here’s how I recommend you spend three leisurely days in this beautiful Italian region.
Day 1: Bellagio
The key to enjoying Bellagio is not to rush. I found that wandering the narrow cobblestone streets at a slow-footed pace allowed me to discover hidden gems and admire those great views against the town’s elegant atmosphere.
Adding to what was already referenced above it simply gives you more time and not rush. Enjoy an unhurried meal at lunch, a late afternoon apertivo by the lake and an evening stroll to Punta Spartivento for sunset views.
Day 2: Menaggio and Varenna
On the second day, I recommend you split your time between Menaggio and Varenna. A quiet morning in Menaggio, and then returning to Varenna by lunch and enjoying the rest of the afternoon and evening there.
Adding to what was already referenced in the first itinerary, you get to explore Varenna at a slower pace and linger over a long lunch and dinner. I also recommend you add a visit to Villa Cipressi.
Day 3: Como City
For the final day, I’d explore Como City as there are more things to do and see that can fill a full day. Adding to what was already referenced in the first itinerary, you can add a couple of museums, a bit of shopping and linger over drinks and meals. Check out all the best things to do in the city of Como.
Final Thoughts
The ferry ride from the center of Lake Como to Como City is an experience in itself. Don’t rush this trip; instead, soak in the panoramic views of historic villas, mountain landscapes, and charming lakeside towns.
Craving More Italian Adventures? Explore my other Italian destination guides, from the romantic streets of Verona to Milan’s vibrant scene.
