Are you planning a trip to Lake Como? Bellagio, Italy, is a must-see on that itinerary! 🙂 You can explore the town in a few hours, even on a day trip from Milan to Lake Como.
But to truly experience the Pearl of Lake Como, you should stay in Bellagio for at least two to three days.
Here is a detailed list of the best things to do in Bellagio, Italy, from my recent trip. Explore the picturesque streets, visit the Basilica of San Giacomo with its stunning frescoes and intricate architecture, stroll through the Villa Melzi Gardens with its exotic plants and serene atmosphere, and take a boat tour of Lake Como to appreciate its beauty fully. These are just a few attractions that await you in Bellagio.Â
This article provides inspiration and tips for the best things to do in Bellagio, some of the stunning places to see nearby, and Bellagio hotel recommendations.
Why visit Bellagio, Italy
Your visit to Lake Como is incomplete without experiencing the unique charm of Bellagio, the Pearl of Lake Como. Nestled in the Lombardy region, Bellagio is renowned for its stunning villas, such as the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni and Villa Melzi, that offer breathtaking views of the lake. The best time to visit Bellagio is during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, if you’re a fan of summer heat and vibrant crowds, it can also be a great time to visit.
Bellagio is located halfway between the two southernmost branches of the lake and is famous worldwide for its beautiful villas overlooking the water, such as Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni or Villa Melzi.
This charming city is also perfect for a day trip since most attractions are within walking distance. It’s a safe and secure destination, but like any other tourist destination, it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.Â
I’ve been to Bellagio a few times, and every time, this lovely town leaves me wanting to return for more.
It is the perfect base for visiting the best towns on Lake Como and many other interesting places nearby. So you can easily spend a few days here and never get bored.
How to get to Bellagio, Lake Como?
Getting to Bellagio from Milan is a breeze, with several transportation options available.Â
It’s only a 90-minute drive if you prefer to travel by car. However, finding parking can be a challenge in high season. For a hassle-free journey, I recommend hiring a private transfer. This way, you can focus on enjoying the scenic drive without worrying about the logistics.
Pro tip: Discover Cars is my go-to agency for renting cars when traveling.
A more convenient and scenic option is to explore Bellagio and Lake Como by boat, so renting a car is unnecessary.
The easiest way to reach Bellagio is by train from Milan. First, take a train from Milan’s Central Station to Varenna.
Pro tip: I purchase all my train tickets in Italy through the Trainline app. The app quickly finds the fastest and cheapest train fares. It will also notify you of any schedule changes or cancellations in case of rail strikes, which often happen in Italy.
When you arrive in Varenna, you’ll need to take the ferry. The train station is a short walk (5-10 minutes) from the ferry dock. You can also take a boat tour from Varenna to Bellagio, which includes exploring the lake.
15 Best things to do in Bellagio, Italy
With a prime location and frequent boats ferrying visitors between Bellagio and the other mid-lake cities, Bellagio has a little something for everyone—stunning scenery, a flower-filled waterfront promenade, beautiful hotels, wine tasting, fine dining, and some great shopping.Â
There is an upper part of town, along Via Garibaldi, and a lower part along the lake shore. The two are connected by a series of “streets,” which are not streets at all but staircases.Â
Salita Serbelloni is the most famous of these staircases. This wide series of steps, lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants, leads from Via Garibaldi in the upper portion of Bellagio down to the waterfront.Â
The views are fabulous, and the shops have beautiful things, but beware – the often crowded steps and lack of handrails are not ideal for anyone with balance or mobility issues. Sure-footed people quickly bounce up and down the steps, often stopping for photos of the lake view and selfies.Â
Bellagio, one of the larger villages on Lake Como, is a unique gem with its tiered hills adorned with pastel buildings. This architectural feature gives the town a distinct charm, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Despite the influx of tourists, the village retains its peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to explore freely without rushing from one attraction to another. English is widely spoken in Bellagio, but learning a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your trip, adding to the charm of this picturesque town.
Stroll the picturesque streets of Bellagio
Take a walk and explore the tiny streets of Bellagio. They are charming and very picturesque!
The Bellagio old town has one main road, Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, which leads to Punta Spartivento in less than 10 minutes. The main road is filled with shops and boutiques where you can find local food, leather goods, clothing, perfumes, and much more.
While walking on the main street, several alleys can take you to the waterfront, facing the Como branch of the lake.
These alleys have many shops and restaurants, and they also have stairs! So wear comfortable shoes and get ready for many ups and downs.
You can get to Piazza Della Chiesa in the town center and admire the Basilica of San Giacomo, a Romanesque church built between the 11th and 12th centuries. This historic church is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Bellagio and is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
Walk to Punta Spartivento
A short walk via Eugenio Vitali will take you to Punta Spartivento.
This unique spot, fantastic for pictures, is in the middle of the lake’s three branches. It’s a very relaxing part of the village where the locals anchor their boats. You can see Menaggio, Varenna, and other towns lining Lake Como’s shore.
There is also a restaurant here, La Punta. Get a drink, admire the beautiful views over the lake, and watch the locals come and go in their colorful wooden boats.
If you visit Bellagio in summer, you can swim here.
Enjoy the views along the waterfront promenade
Walking along the lake shore, you will find some of the best views of Bellagio.Â
You can admire the colorful old town, with the mountain peaks above the lake even further. The views of Lake Como, in all directions, are also impressive.
If you continue further down following the waterside, you’ll reach Villa Melzi, one of the best places to see in Bellagio.
Take Bellagio Express Train
Enjoy the breathtaking views aboard the Trombetta Express while you visit attractions in Bellagio. The train has many stops, and you can get on and off with the same ticket. This is a convenient way to explore the town, especially if you’re short on time, making it really easy to explore this hilly area.Â
If you plan your time well, you can use this train to visit Pescallo, Visgnola, San Giovanni, and Villa Melzi.
You can catch the train in front of the ferry and purchase tickets on the spot for 5 EUR; they take cash and cards.
Visit the gardens of Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni
A stroll around Villa Melzi Gardens was one of my favorite things in Bellagio.
The villa was built between 1808 and 1810 on the commission of Francesco Melzi d’Eril, Duke of Lodi, Luigi Canonica, and Luigi Villoresi, who designed its gardens.
The gardens of Villa Melzi are a botanical paradise, home to many exotic trees, camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas. A leisurely stroll through these lush gardens is a delightful way to spend an afternoon in Bellagio.
You can also visit Hotel Villa Serbelloni, a luxury hotel built in the 15th century. The Rockefeller Foundation owns the park/garden. If you’re not a hotel guest, you can only visit the 50 acres of park and gardens surrounding the villa with guided tours for a minimum of 6 people and a maximum of 30 for about an hour and 30 minutes.
Pro tip:Â The gardens of Villa Melzi are more impressive and much easier to explore at your own pace than the gardens of Villa Serbelloni. So, if you have time to visit just one, Villa Melzi is a better choice.
Visit the Pescallo village
Walk to the other side of the peninsula to see the old fishing village, Pescallo.
This small town is quieter and a great place to escape the crowds and relax. It’s also a top-rated sports destination, so take the chance to go kayaking or water skiing!
Afterward, you can enjoy a delicious seafood meal at one of the local restaurants.Â
Follow a stepped pathway starting from the town hall of Bellagio. You will arrive in about 10 minutes.
Go shopping
Exploring the streets and walkways of Bellagio is a delightful adventure! The town offers a variety of experiences, from browsing through jewelry stores and hat stands to indulging in luxury designer boutiques.Â
Shopping is the main activity in Bellagio, so join in on the fun!
There are also dedicated shopping tours from Milan to Bellagio.
Some luxury hotels in the area even organize VIP shopping tours to Bellagio by private boat—it’s that famous! The locals told us that they also come to Bellagio if they need to buy anything, so it’s not just for tourists.
Como town is the best place to buy silk in Europe, maybe even the world. Silk production in Como started in the early 15th century, attracting many renowned artists.
You can read all about Lake Como’s silk. Don’t forget to look for some stunning silk apparel at the fashion boutiques in Bellagio. See if you can find silk clothing and accessories from the famous local brands Mantero or Frey. A silk scarf makes for a charming souvenir or gift!
If you are looking for some good Italian wine, consider visiting Enoteca Principessa. This little wine shop is tucked away in one of the narrow alleys of Bellagio and is considered a real hidden gem by wine lovers. You can sample various wines, get a bottle for dinner, or even have wine shipped to your home country.
Spend a day at the beach
Tired of walking and exploring? Head to the beach!
There are two beaches in Bellagio. You can relax on the public beach of San Giovanni or go to Lido di Bellagio, located on the waterfront next to Melzi Gardens. It is equipped with a bar, Wi-Fi, and gazebos.
Take a boat tour on Lake Como
Cruising Lake Como from Bellagio is an excellent experience. A one-hour tour will show you extravagant villas, gorgeous views of Bellagio, and a close look at tiny towns on the lake. This leisurely boat ride is a great way to relax and enjoy Lake Como’s beauty.Â
Check out Bellano Water Taxi to book a private tour. They offer a variety of options, from short scenic cruises to full-day excursions. Whether you’re interested in exploring the lake’s natural beauty or learning about its history and culture, there’s a tour for you.Â
The boat tour will allow you to see Villa Carlotta, Villa Balbianello, and Orrido di Nesso.Â
However, if your time in Bellagio is limited, I recommend booking in advance, or you risk not finding any available boats.
If you want to visit the town of Como from Bellagio, it will probably take you a good part of the day—depending on the season, the boat ride alone is about 1-2 hours one way.
Visit Madonna del Ghissalo
Just a short drive into the mountains south of Bellagio, you’ll find one of Italy’s legendary cycling routes – Ghisallo Pass.Â
Ghisallo Pass is a popular feature of the most renowned cycling races, such as the Giro di Lombardia and Giro d’Italia.
The views from the top of the mountain are spectacular, but the scenery is not the only reason to come here. Ghisallo Pass is a pilgrimage place for cyclists and supporters from all over the world.
Ghisallo Cycling Museum is next to the church. A cycling museum was opened at this symbolic location to preserve the significant collection of items left at Madonna di Ghisallo, part of Italy’s cycling heritage.Â
The museum is a natural extension of the shrine, yet very different. It’s not so much about bicycles or other objects as about the cycling sport and the people related to it.
Take a boat trip to Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello
Lake Como is home to some of Italy’s most beautiful and famous villas, Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello. Because of their specific locations, private boat tours are the easiest way to visit and explore.Â
Villa Carlotta’s museum and the gardens are open to the public for a visit.Â
Tickets can be purchased online.
Villa del Balbianello’s gardens will leave you breathless. The villa is one of the best Instagrammable spots on the lake!Â
Villa del Balbianello has been a movie set for A Month by the Lake, Casino Royale, and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones.
Plan your visit; this will require more time, and buy tickets online.Â
Have lunch at a local restaurant
Bellagio has many great options, whether you are craving pasta, pizza, or tiramisu. Skip the waterfront restaurants and trade the view for better food at a small place in the alleys.
La Lanterna is one of them. They have delicious homemade pasta. But they only take cash!
Stay at a nice hotel in Bellagio
Bellagio has many options for those who want to spend a weekend or relax for a few days on Lake Como.
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
This is one of the oldest and most elegant of Lake Como and the only 5-star luxury hotel in Bellagio. This hotel has a fantastic location by the lake and beautiful gardens that you can visit even if you’re not staying here.
Located high on a hill, this landmark hotel is famous for its incredible heated pool, rooftop restaurant, and stunning views of Lake Como. Book a room with a view of the lake, and you’ll never want to leave!
Go Kayaking
Kayaking is not my thing, but this 1.5-hour tour can be fun! From Bellagio, you paddle all along Pescallo Pay and learn from a local guide about Lake Como’s region and hidden sites.Â
A waterproof camera or GoPro will perfectly capture the fantastic views of the landscapes and villas from the water.Â
Take a cooking class
If you have more time, this three-hour cooking experience is fantastic. You will learn all the secrets to making authentic Italian cuisine in a pretty villa. Â
The class is for a small group of people only, so it’s very intimate. Most of these hands-on cooking lessons are followed by a delicious self-made lunch. There will be lots of delicious Italian food made with love. Some also include several pleasant surprises that will make this a truly unforgettable experience in Bellagio.
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Pick-up is from the ferry bank. I’m looking forward to learning how to prepare Italian dishes and appetizers on my next trip to Bellagio!
If you are in the Lake Como area, make sure to visit Varenna and Milan.Â
