When I planned my trip to Lake Como, I wasn’t sure how much I could fit into just one day.
Now having just returned, I discovered there’s plenty to see and do, and it’s best to do it at a relaxed pace, after all, you are in one of the most scenic areas of northern Italy.
If you’re wondering what to do in Lake Como for a day, I’ve got some suggestions based on my own experience. I’ll share what’s possible to see in a day in Lake Como, from lakeside towns to scenic boat rides.
Let me take you through how I spent my day, so you can make the most of yours.
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Is One Day in Lake Como Worth It?
When I first considered a day trip to Lake Como, I wasn’t sure if it would do this sought-after destination justice. In the end, I decided to spend two days. After spending a full day exploring there, I can say that it’s both worth it and not, depending on what you’re looking for.
On the plus side, even a single day spent in Lake Como is better than none at all.
After spending an entire month in Italy, Lake Como stands out as one of my top highlights. In a day you can explore a couple of picturesque towns like Bellagio or Varenna and enjoy the ferry boat ride to take in those postcard-perfect views. It’s a great option if you’re short on time but still want a taste of the region.
However, the downside is that visiting Lake Como in a day barely scratches the surface. Lake Como has so many hidden gems and quieter spots that a rushed visit might leave you feeling like you’ve only seen the highlights.
If you can spare more time, an overnight stay at minimum would be what I would recommend and let you slow down and enjoy it more. Ultimately, this makes for an ideal weekend destination, the more time you spend, the more relaxing it will be.
What to Do in Lake Como for a Day
For your 1 day in Lake Como, I’m assuming you will arrive by train from Milan, make it as early as possible to maximize your day.
Como to Bellagio
From the train station, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the bus station near Piazza Matteotti to catch the C30 bus to Bellagio. The ride takes about an hour, winding through scenic views along the lakeside. I recommend you take the bus there and the ferry on the way back to maximize your time.
Once in Bellagio, take your time exploring this charming town. From the bus stop walk along the sea wall until the Ferry station. Pro tip: I recommend you buy a single-ride ticket to Varenna and note the schedule to plan when you need to catch the next ferry.
From the ferry station, walk straight ahead until you reach a narrow cobblestone street called Salita Genazzini, located near Ristorante Pizzeria Carillon. In Italian, “salita” refers to narrow streets or alleyways.
Follow this path uphill to the top, where it meets Via Giuseppe Garibaldi. From here, you can easily loop around as the street turns into Via Roma, which leads back down toward Lake Como. This will flow into Via Giuseppe Mazzini, bringing you back to the starting point where you can catch the ferry.
As you wander through the loop, enjoy exploring the charming narrow streets, small boutiques, and quiet churches. While you won’t have time for in-depth visits, the town’s atmosphere makes for a pleasant stroll.
Bellagio to Varenna
From Bellagio, hop on a ferry to Varenna. It’s only about a 15-minute journey, but enjoy the views as you say goodbye to Bellagio fade into the distance, and then turn your attention forward as Varenna starts to get closer. The ferry ride offers stunning views, so have your camera ready.
Pro tip: Before you go off exploring Varenna, purchase your ferry ticket to Como and check the schedule so you can time when you need to be back to the docking station. Plan for the ferry to take about 90-120 minutes from Varenna to Como.
From the Ferry station, walk along the “Walk of Lovers” or La Passeggiata Degli Innamorati, a lakeside promenade until you arrive at the historic town centre.
Walk through Varenna’s quaint streets, taking in the colourful buildings and quiet, serene atmosphere. Sit in Piazza S. Giorgio and people-watch. I recommend you stop for a meal in Varenna rather than Bellagio, the eateries are a bit more intimate and charming.
Varenna to Como
In the late afternoon, grab a gelato from La Passerella and catch a ferry back to Como. This route makes many stops along the way to other Lake Como towns like Menaggio, Tremezzo and Lenno, offering you another chance to admire how beautiful it is. Back in Como, settle in for aperitivo at a spot like Bar Hemingway, where you can unwind and people-watch.
If you have time before dinner, explore Como’s old town. Walk along Via Vittorio Emanuele II and Piazza Duomo, popping into the incredible Duomo. Dinner in Como usually starts around 8 PM, with restaurants like Bistrot Muralto or La Pasta Taverna.
If you’re heading back to Milan, the train from Como San Giovanni station will get you back in about an hour, making for a full and wonderful day by the lake.
Alternative Lake Como 1 Day Itinerary
For a more relaxed, unhurried experience, I’d recommend skipping Como and spending your day between Bellagio and Varenna.
While Como has its charm, it feels less quaint compared to the intimate feel of Bellagio and Varenna, and the historic town doesn’t offer the same water views as its smaller Lake Como towns.
Logistically, it makes more sense to split your time between the charming towns of Bellagio and Varenna rather than trying to include Como in your itinerary. With a bus ride of just over an hour to reach Bellagio and a nearly two-hour ferry ride back, focusing on these two destinations allows you to make the most of your day.
If you don’t spend time in Como, it means you can enjoy a slower pace, giving you more time to explore the winding streets, visit local shops, and not rush your dining experience.
End your day with a leisurely walk through Como on your way to the train station, offering a brief glimpse of the town before heading back to Milan.
Final Thoughts
An ideal day in Lake Como isn’t about ticking off a list of must-see sites or landmarks, because frankly, there aren’t any. It’s about wandering through charming streets at a relaxed pace, soaking up the stunning views, and popping into local shops or small, quiet churches.
This slower approach to travel is perfect for those who appreciate a more laid-back experience. Even if you’re not used to this style of travel, it might just be the refreshing change of pace you didn’t know you needed.
Forget the rigid itinerary—simply enjoy Il Dolce Far Niente, the sweetness of doing nothing and let Lake Como unfold at its own slow-footed pace.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of slow travel and want to learn more, download my guide on 15 Practical Tips to Embrace Slow Travel. For a deeper dive, visit the Slow Travel section on my website, where I explore how to practice this mindful approach in destinations like Paris, Berlin, Germany, and Italy. Start your journey towards more meaningful and relaxed travel today!
