Is Lake Como worth visiting? After spending a couple of days here, I can confidently say yes, and this would be a destination I would happily return to!
The serene waters and surrounding mountains offer a scenic getaway that’s hard to match. I enjoyed every minute of it, from the boat rides to wandering through quaint villages like Bellagio. Each moment felt unhurried, which is exactly what I look for in a slow travel destination.
But, is Lake Como overrated? Were there any downsides to my visit? I’ll share everything—the highs and the lows—so you can have a complete picture before planning your itinerary.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. Read my Affiliate Disclosure.
Top Experiences That Make Lake Como Worth It

I quickly discovered Lake Como is where every moment feels like a personal postcard. Here are the experiences that I enjoyed the most and recommend.
Scenic Boat Tours
Cruising the lake is non-negotiable. I took the boat tour that wound through stunning shorelines, passing legendary villas like Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta. I took it from Varenna to Bellagio and down to Como stopping at over a dozen places. It was incredibly scenic and relaxing and I recommend you time it for early morning or late afternoon so the sun isn’t so bright for taking photos.
Explore Charming Towns
Each lakeside town has its own personality which I loved. Bellagio surprised me with its narrow streets and elegant charm, while Varenna offered a more quaint, quiet, experience. They won’t take long to explore, but trust me you’ll want to linger here because the views are ever so pretty.

Stay in Como
Don’t forget to explore the town of Como. I recommend not just making this a day trip from Milan, rather stay at least a night and make Como your home base, giving you ample time to visit the Como Cathedral, Alessandro Volta’s museum, and all the charming shops and eateries.
Be Adventurous
For the adventure seekers out there, I was recommended by a local, to try any of these fun activities:
- Tour on an e-bike through mountain villages
- Explore the dramatic Orrido di Bellano gorge
- Hike scenic trails like the popular pilgrimage route through the Sacred Mountain of Ossuccio, one of Italy’s UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Swim at Acquafraggia Waterfall
Hidden Gems and Local Insights

As with any destination, the real magic happens when you venture beyond the typical tourist paths.
Como-Brunate Funicular
Take the 7-minute ride whisking you from the city center at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi up to the mountain village of Brunate. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views stretching across Lake Como and even glimpsing the distant Swiss Alps on a clear day.
The Larian Triangle
The mountainous peninsula nestled between Como, Bellagio, and Lecco is referred to as the Larian Triangle. This area is surrounded by six smaller lakes and includes the Corni di Canzo mountains and the Palanzone and San Primo. Hikers will find the Larian Triangle Ridge trail, a 35 km route, particularly scenic.

Secret Spots Most Tourists Miss
In Varenna, I stumbled upon the Castello di Vezio – a medieval castle perched high above the lake with minimal tourist traffic. The views are incredible, and you’ll often have the place almost to yourself.
Local Transportation Hack
Skip expensive private transfers. The local ferry system is not just more affordable but offers stunning lake perspectives at a much slower pace. Pro tip: From Como take the bus to Varenna then take the ferry hopping between towns along the way back down to Como.
Is Lake Como Worth Visiting? My Verdict

After exploring Lake Como, I can confidently say it’s absolutely worth visiting – but with some realistic expectations. This isn’t a destination for everyone, but for the right traveller, it’s pure magic.
The Incredible Highs
Lake Como delivers an incredible experience for those seeking a beautiful, relaxing holiday. The landscape is stunning, with towns like Bellagio and Varenna offering postcard-perfect views.
There’s a reason why Lake Como has long been a magnet for celebrities, with stars like George Clooney, Madonna, Richard Branson, and Sylvester Stallone owning villas along its stunning shoreline. The lake has become a luxurious retreat where A-listers like Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce escape the public eye and enjoy its serene, picturesque landscape too!

The Potential Drawbacks
Lake Como isn’t without challenges.
The area can be expensive, with high accommodation prices and tourist costs for dining out. During peak season (July and August), crowds will be overwhelming. I visited at the end of September into early October and found that it was impossible to get dinner reservations at the last minute for the restaurants I wanted to dine at.
Although the towns didn’t feel overwhelmingly crowded, the ferry and the bus from Como to Varenna were packed.
As a solo traveller, I found Lake Como’s wonderfully romantic vibe a bit isolating. The destination seems tailored for couples, with intimate dinners and charming villa settings. While I enjoyed my trip, it was the first time a destination made me feel a bit out of place.
Who Should Visit
This destination is perfect for:
- Travellers seeking a relaxing getaway in Italy
- Slow travellers who are quite content to wander pretty streets in tiny towns
- Photography enthusiasts
- Couples seeking a romantic getaway
Best Time to Visit Lake Como
The ideal time to visit Lake Como is from April to May and September to October both offering comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. For flower enthusiasts, April is particularly special due to the gorgeous wisteria blooms. If you can, I would recommend you avoid the summer months (June to August) as this will see peak tourist activity and higher prices.
Final Thoughts
It’s amazing to think that Lake Como stretches back to the Ice Age, adding a fascinating layer of history to what’s already a stunning destination. From ancient Celtic tribes to Roman settlements and Renaissance villas, the history here is as rich as the scenery.
When you explore the Roman roots of Como, wander through the medieval streets of Bellagio, or admire the architecture of Villa Balbianello, you’re walking through stories that span centuries.
If you’re curious about Lake Como and other European gems, subscribe to my website for travel tips, insider insights, and stories to inspire your next adventure.

