Best things to do in Bellagio, Lake Como Italy 2025 + One Day Itinerary

This is your sign to visit Bellagio in Lake Como. I visited Lake Como initially for a friends wedding a few years ago in the summer, and fell in love with it, have a feeling you would too.

I initially based myself in Como City for a friend’s wedding at Villa del Balbianello, confidently thinking it would be easy to get around.

Well, it wasn’t. After the wedding I almost got stuck in Lenno because the ferries were thinning out, and I had a moment of “wow, I really did not plan this well.” Fortunately, we were able to hire a taxi who was kind enough to drive us back to Como City, the driver was on his way home and detoured to get us, don’t worry he got a good tip.

When I come back to Lake Como, I probably would stay in Bellagio. It’s central, beautiful, and it becomes the easiest base once you understand the ferry connections. You can also reach both Varenna and Lenno and other communes by ferry easily.

This Bellagio travel guide is everything that I have learnt as a first time traveler who has made a few mistakes and I want to help you avoid them.

So if you are planning a day trip from Milan or you want to base yourself here for a few days to explore Lake Como, Bellagio is a great place. I’ll share the best things to do in Bellagio, how to get to Bellagio (Ferry), where and what to eat, and a great one day itinerary that’ll help you make the most of your visit.

Just a heads up! 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. Your support helps me continue doing what I love and continue to provide you with free Travel guides. Thank you!

In this Bellagio Travel Guide:

1. How to get to Bellagio (From Milan)
2. Lake Como Ferry Schedule & Getting Tickets
3. Parking in Bellagio: What You Need to Know
4. Best things to do in Bellagio
5. Where to eat in Bellagio, Lake Como?
6. Is it better to stay in Bellagio or Varenna?
7. How much time do you need in Bellagio?
8. Best time to visit Bellagio, Lake Como
9. One day Itinerary
10. Where to Stay in Bellagio
11. Frequently Asked Questions About Bellagio
12. Practical Tips for Visiting Bellagio

How to get to Bellagio from Milan?

This is always the number one question, how do we get to Bellagio? I have added several options for you to decide which is suitable depending on your budget, time and location and itinerary.

Taking the Train then Ferry from Milan to Varenna to Bellagio (Most Popular route)

This is probably one of the easiest and most scenic route, what you can do is take the train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino station which takes approximately 1 hour, then you catch a ferry to Bellagio which takes about 15-20 minutes.

Cost: Train €10-€15 | Ferry €5-€7 one way Total time: About 2 hours

Pro tip: Validate your regional train ticket before boarding at the yellow machines on the platform. And you can but the ferry tickets at the Varenna pier, you can’t book online for this short route.

Train to Como then Ferry to Bellagio

From Milano Centrale, get train tickets to Como San Giovanni which is a shorter train ride and takes about 30-40 minutes, then Como San Giovanni, walk to the ferry pier which takes maybe 10 to 15minutes depending on your walking speed then catch a ferry to Bellagio. The ferry ride is longer (1-2 hours depending on stops) but incredibly scenic.

Price: Train €5-€10, Ferry €10-€20

Note: Como to Bellagio ferries run less frequently than the Varenna route. Check the latest timetable here.

Private Transfer/Taxi

If you are someone who prefer convenience with the budget, you can hire a private transfer or taxi from Milan to Bellagio and this takes about 1.5 hours and costs €100-€180.

Duration: 1.5 hours direct

Best for: Groups splitting the cost or those with lots of luggage or a splurge or ease of convenience if you don’t drive.

Rental Car

If you can drive or wanting to drive, renting a car gives you all the flexibility, but keep note that parking which I’ll cover later in this post in Bellagio can be challenging and the small roads gets congested at times, especially in high season. Expect to pay €50-€100 per day for car rental.

Duration: About 1.5 hours

Important Note: Many hotels in Bellagio offer parking, so always check the hotel you are staying in. Public parking is available but fills up very quickly.

Bus from Milan

The buses are not too bad actually, the buses run from Milan’s Lampugnano bus station to Bellagio, taking about 2-2.5 hours.

Price: €10-€15 one way

Duration: 2-2.5 hours Less convenient: Fewer departures than trains, can be slower due to traffic.

Lake Como Ferry Schedule & Getting Tickets

Ferries in 2025 follow the same general patterns as previous years, here’s a breakdown on what you can expect.

• The fast ferry (hydrofoil) is quicker and worth it for longer distances, like Como to Bellagio or Como to Varenna.
• The slow ferries are more scenic but can take up to 1 hour.
• Varenna to Bellagio is the easiest connection on the lake.
• Ferries run late into the evening in summer but much less frequently in spring and autumn.
• Always check the last ferry if you’re attending something like a wedding. Learnt this the hard way.

2025 Ferry Schedule

According to Navigazione Laghi, ferry schedules vary significantly by season:

Summer Schedule (April-October 2025):

• First ferry: 7:30am
• Last ferry: 8:00pm
• Frequency: Every 20-60 minutes on popular routes
• More departures on weekends

Winter Schedule (November 2025-March 2026):

• Reduced service, mainly on central routes
• Last ferry: 5:30pm
• Check the official schedule as some routes don’t run daily

Important: The Cadenabbia ferry dock will be closed from October 31, 2025 to March 22, 2026 for maintenance. Use the Menaggio dock instead for this period.

Ferry Types

Regular Ferries (Battello):

• Slowest but most scenic
• Stops at most towns
• Perfect for sightseeing and photography

Fast Service (Aliscafo/Hydrofoil):

• Faster, skips many stops
• Costs slightly more
• Limited service in winter

Car Ferries:

• Connect Bellagio, Menaggio, Cadenabbia, and Varenna
• Essential if driving
• Book ahead in summer

Buying Ferry Tickets

You buy tickets at the ferry terminal on the day of travel. You can’t book standard passenger ferry tickets online in advance.

Where to buy:

• Ticket offices at each pier
• Automatic machines (cash or card accepted)
• On board from staff (sometimes)

Ticket types:

• Single journey: €5-€20 depending on distance
• Return ticket: Usually small discount
• Day pass: Unlimited travel in specific zones (€15-€35)
• Multi-day pass: Available for longer stays

Money-saving tip: Buy a circular day pass if you’re visiting multiple towns in one day. It pays for itself after 3-4 ferry rides.

You can check schedules on the official Navigazione Laghi website.

Parking in Bellagio: What You Need to Know

Parking in Bellagio is the part no one warns you about, but it’s genuinely one of the hardest things to get right, especially during peak season. The streets are narrow, many areas are restricted to residents, and you can easily lose 30 minutes circling if you arrive mid-day. Also make sure not to drive fast, there’s a lot of people walking about as well in the narrow streets.

If you are driving and looking for place to park, you could try these options:

1. The Lido di Bellagio Car Park (Best for Day Trips)

Located near the Lido and slightly outside the main cluster of streets, this car park is larger and more forgiving than anything near the centre. It’s a 10–15 minute walk to the old town, mostly flat, and you avoid squeezing through the tiny streets.

2. Upper-Hill Parking (Closest to the Town Centre)

There’s a series of blue-line spaces (paid) and white-line spaces (free, but extremely rare) higher up behind the old town. It’s a short walk down but a steep walk back up. Great if you’re staying overnight or arriving early in the mornin.

3. Parking by the Gardens of Villa Melzi

There are a few spaces scattered along this road, and they’re useful if you’re planning to enter the gardens first. This area fills quickly, and it’s best on weekdays.

4. Early Arrival Strategy

If you’re here between June and September, aim to arrive before 9:30am. After that, it becomes luck-based. Even locals joke about parking here.

5. Park in Varenna or Como City

This is actually what many travellers end up doing.

• Varenna: easy flat parking + 15-minute ferry
• Como: big car parks + scenic ferry ride

My Parking Recommendations:

Best for day visitors: Park in the free white-line areas and walk or take the Bellagio Express tourist train to the center.

Best if staying overnight: Book accommodation with parking included or verify your hotel will register your license plate for ZTL access.

Alternative: Park in Varenna (easier parking) and take the 15-minute ferry to Bellagio. You save parking stress and get a scenic boat ride.

Best Things to Do in Bellagio, Lake Como

1. Explore Bellagio Old Town

The best way to discover Bellagio is walking through its charming old town center. The town sits on two levels, the lower lakefront section and the upper part requiring uphill walks on cobbled streets and staircases. Trade your high heels for comfortable walking shoes.

Central Bellagio has just a handful of streets filled with shops and restaurants, making it easy to explore everything.

Salita Serbelloni is Bellagio’s most famous street. This wide stepped alley is THE postcard view of Bellagio. Climb all the way to the top, turn around, and you’ll see exactly why everyone photographs this spot, colorful buildings cascading down to the sparkling lake with mountains rising behind.

The steps are lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Fair warning: they get crowded in high season, and there are no handrails. If you have balance or mobility concerns, take Via Roma instead, it’s a gentler slope with sidewalks leading to the upper town.

Chiesa San Giacomo (Basilica of San Giacomo) is a lovely 11th-12th century church with a unique interior. The golden altar, 6th-century mosaics, and shimmering apse are stunning. When the bells ring, the sound fills the entire Piazza della Chiesa. Entrance is free.

I visited Bellagio in August, Bellagio was absolutely packed and hot. Visit early morning (before 10am) or late afternoon (after 5pm) to avoid the worst crowds. The harbor and main streets get busiest midday, but you’ll find quieter side streets even in summer.

2. Punta Spartivento

This is one of the absolute best things to do in Bellagio. Punta Spartivento sits at the very tip of the Bellagio peninsula where Lake Como splits into three branches, the Como branch (southwest), the Lecco branch (southeast), and the Colico branch (north). The name literally means “point where the wind divides.”

The views are spectacular. You see towns dotting the shores in all directions, snow-capped mountains in the distance, and the shimmering lake stretching in three directions. I can only imagine how stunning it looks from above.

There’s a lovely park here with benches perfect for sitting with gelato and watching locals come and go in their colorful wooden boats. Ristorante La Punta occupies the prime spot with outdoor tables and phenomenal views.

In summer: This is a popular swimming spot. In August, I saw many people swimming at Punta Spartivento. The water is crystal clear and refreshing on hot days.

How to get there: 10-15 minute walk south from the ferry terminal. Just follow the lakeside promenade, you can’t miss it.

3. Villa Melzi Gardens

Villa Melzi is one of Bellagio’s main attractions and absolutely worth visiting. Built in the early 19th century, this neoclassical villa is still privately owned today. You can’t visit the villa interior, but the beautiful botanical gardens, museum, and chapel are open to the public.

The Family Chapel is absolutely impressive and not to be missed! The ornate decorations and architecture inside are stunning. Walk along the lake promenade within the gardens until you reach a beautiful Moorish pavilion with impressive sculptures.

The gardens (I Giardini di Villa Melzi) are home to exotic trees and plants from around the world:

• Japanese maples that turn brilliant red in autumn
• Azaleas and rhododendrons (spectacular in April-May)
• Ancient trees including centuries-old specimens
• Camellias and tropical plants
• Carefully manicured hedges and pathways

These well-kept botanical gardens give you access to some of the most spectacular views of Lake Como. The lakeside location means you can photograph the gardens with the lake and mountains as your backdrop.

Best time to visit: Spring (late April-May) when azaleas and rhododendrons are in full bloom, it’s absolutely breathtaking. But the gardens are beautiful in all seasons. Autumn offers stunning fall colors.

Opening times: April-October, 9:30am-6:30pm daily Cost: €10 for adults Location: 5-minute walk south from the ferry station along the waterfront promenade How long: Plan for about 1 hour to explore properly

If you’re visiting Bellagio between April and October, don’t miss Villa Melzi. It’s one of the top places to see in Bellagio!

4. Parco di Villa Serbelloni (Villa Serbelloni Gardens)

Don’t confuse this with the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni by the lake, they’re separate properties. The Parco di Villa Serbelloni is a massive park covering most of the Bellagio promontory, owned by the Rockefeller Foundation.

The gardens feature walking trails, terraced landscapes, geometrically trimmed hedges, rows of cypress trees, and spectacular panoramic views of all three branches of Lake Como.

Important: You can only visit with a guided tour (1.5-2 hours). Tours depart at set times and require minimum 6 people.

Cost: €13 per person Season: March-October Book ahead: Tours sell out quickly. Book through the Bellagio Tourist Office or online.

My opinion: Villa Melzi is easier to visit and more impressive overall. But if you have extra time and want different perspectives of the lake, the Parco di Villa Serbelloni guided tour is worthwhile.

5. Basilica of San Giacomo

This beautiful Romanesque church was built between the 11th and 12th centuries and sits right in the heart of Bellagio at Piazza della Chiesa. The architecture is stunning, with a distinctive bell tower and hanging arches.

Inside, you’ll find impressive artworks including mosaics, a 6th-century altar, and medieval frescoes. The entrance is free, making it a perfect quick stop while exploring the old town.

6. Pescallo Village

Visiting Pescallo is one of the best things to do in Bellagio. This old fishermen’s village is tucked away behind a steep hill on the opposite side of the peninsula, hidden from the crowds. It’s the perfect escape from Bellagio’s hustle and bustle.

The tiny harbor with stone houses and colorful moored boats retains a timeless, authentic atmosphere. You can still breathe in the traditions of the past here, fishing and floriculture remain part of village life.

In summer, Pescallo is popular for water sports:

• Rent a kayak
• Try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)
• Book a guided kayaking tour along the coast
• Take a boat ride on the lake

Pescallo is home to Circolo della Vela and Bellagio Water Sports, two clubs dedicated to sailing, kayaking, and water skiing.

How to get there: Pescallo is just a 10-15 minute walk from central Bellagio. First, make your way to the town hall (Comune di Bellagio) close to the ferry station. From there, take the steps following signs indicating Pescallo.

Be aware: The Bellagio-Pescallo walk is uphill and requires negotiating narrow alleys and staircases. If you’re not up for the climb, take the Bellagio Express tourist train, it’s much easier.

7. Take the Bellagio Express Tourist Train

The Bellagio Express is a little tourist train that offers a fun way to explore Bellagio and the surrounding area. It operates between May and October (possibly extending into early November depending on the season).

If you’re short on time, you can ride the entire route without getting off, it gives you a nice overview of the area. But the biggest advantage is the hop-on-hop-off feature. You can get off at different locations, explore at your own pace, then catch the next train when you’re ready.

The train stops at key locations including:

• Pescallo village
• Visgnola
• San Giovanni
• Villa Melzi
• Various parking areas

This is perfect if you don’t want to tackle Bellagio’s hills on foot or if you’re traveling with young children or elderly family members. The uphill walks can be tiring in hot weather.

Where to find it: The tourist train departs from the little square right next to the harbor ferry station. You can’t miss it.

Cost: Around €5-€8 for a day pass Payment: They accept both cash and cards Buy tickets: On the spot, no need to book ahead

8. Walk the Lakeside Promenade

One of my favorite activities in Bellagio is strolling along the waterfront promenade. Walk southwest from the Bellagio harbor, and you’ll discover some of the nicest views in town.

You can admire the colorful old town buildings from a distance with mountain peaks towering above the lake. The views of Lake Como in all directions are amazing, each turn reveals another postcard-perfect scene.

In summer, the promenade is lined with flowers creating a vibrant, romantic atmosphere. It’s especially magical at sunset when the mountains turn pink and gold.

If you continue following the waterside path, you’ll reach Villa Melzi, one of Bellagio’s top attractions. This walk takes about 10 minutes and serves as the perfect route before or after visiting the villa gardens.

Along the way, you’ll pass the President Kennedy memorial commemorating his visit in June 1963. Stop for a moment and enjoy the views he must have experienced.

9. Take a Boat Tour on Lake Como

One of the best ways to discover Lake Como is from the water. Exploring by boat gives you perspectives you simply can’t get from land.

Public Ferries (Most Affordable): Regular passenger ferries connect Bellagio to all major Lake Como towns. This is the most budget-friendly option and still incredibly scenic.

Popular routes from Bellagio:

• Varenna: 15-20 minutes | €5-€7
• Menaggio: 15-20 minutes | €5-€7
• Cadenabbia (Villa Carlotta): 15 minutes | €5
• Como City: 1-2 hours | €10-€20

Ferries run every 20-60 minutes on popular routes during high season. Check the 2025 ferry schedule here.

Private Boat Tours: Cruise past famous villas like Villa Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Monastero while learning about Lake Como’s history from local captains. Tours range from 1-3 hours and offer a more personalized experience.

You can book private boat tours in advance (highly recommended if your time is limited) or try to find a boat when you arrive. However, in high season, boats book up quickly. If you want a guaranteed spot, book ahead.

Rent Your Own Boat: You don’t need a license for smaller boats. Rent one and explore at your own pace, stop for swimming in hidden coves, and create your own itinerary.

Water Sports: Rent a kayak or SUP (stand-up paddleboard) and explore the beautiful shores at your own pace. Pescallo village is the best spot for rentals.

My day trip recommendation: The nearby town of Varenna is one of the nicest villages on Lake Como and just 20 minutes by boat from Bellagio. Regular passenger ferries run every 20-30 minutes. Consider combining Varenna with Menaggio and Cadenabbia-Tremezzo for a full day of lake exploration.

If you want to visit Como City from Bellagio, plan for most of the day, the boat ride alone is about 1-2 hours one way depending on stops.

10. Visit Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo

Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Bellagio, Villa Carlotta is one of the most beautiful villas on Lake Como. The interior is amazing with impressive art collections and period furnishings, but even more spectacular is the famous botanical garden.

You can easily spend a couple of hours here enjoying the lush gardens with a huge variety of plants from all over the world:

• Over 400 varieties of azaleas and rhododendrons
• Ancient camellias
• Tropical plants
• Ferns and exotic species
• Carefully maintained pathways

Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) when everything is in full bloom, it’s absolutely breathtaking. But the gardens are worth visiting in summer and fall as well.

Getting there: Villa Carlotta is easily reached by ferry from Bellagio. The trip takes just 15 minutes. Get off at the Cadenabbia-Tremezzo stop.

Cost: €10-€13 depending on season Tip: Reserve entry tickets online in advance to skip the lines and save time

11. Visit Villa del Balbianello

This is the villa where my best friend got married, and it’s perhaps the most famous villa on Lake Como. Villa del Balbianello has been featured in numerous Hollywood films including James Bond (Casino Royale) and Star Wars (Attack of the Clones).

The terraced gardens feature wisteria pergolas, cypress trees, and spectacular lake views from every angle.

How to get here: Take a ferry from Bellagio to Lenno (about 30 minutes). Once in Lenno, you have two options:

• Walk 20 minutes (uphill climb)
• Take a motorboat shuttle from Lenno village (recommended, it’s easier and more scenic)

Important: Book tickets online in advance! On busy days, this could easily save you over an hour of waiting in line.

Visiting both villas: These two villas (Carlotta and Balbianello) are located relatively close to each other. You could easily visit them both as a relaxing day trip from Bellagio. The ferry from Bellagio to Lenno takes about half an hour and stops at several places along the way, including Villa Carlotta.

12. Madonna del Ghisallo & Cycling Museum

Just a short drive into the mountains south of Bellagio, you’ll find one of Italy’s legendary cycling routes, Ghisallo Pass. This is a bit off the beaten path but absolutely worth it if you have extra time or are a cycling enthusiast.

The Climb: The 552-meter climb over 10.6 km along the hairpins of this famous hill is not just a challenge for cycling enthusiasts. Ghisallo Pass is a popular feature of renowned cycling races like Giro di Lombardia and Giro d’Italia.

The views on top of the mountain are spectacular, but the scenery isn’t the only reason to come here. Ghisallo Pass is literally a place of pilgrimage for cyclists and supporters from all over the world.

Madonna di Ghisallo Chapel: The tiny 17th-century chapel dedicated to Madonna di Ghisallo, the patroness of cyclists, is the most unique church I’ve ever seen, calling it a shrine is more accurate.

The interior is filled with cycling-related artifacts:

• Pictures and flags from famous races
• Cycling trophies
• Cycling jerseys from legendary riders
• Race bikes

It’s absolutely fascinating even if you’re not a cycling fan.

Ghisallo Cycling Museum (Museo del Ciclismo): Just next to the chapel, the Cycling Museum was opened to preserve the significant collection of items left at Madonna di Ghisallo, part of Italy’s cycling heritage.

The museum is kind of a natural extension to the shrine but very different. It’s not so much about bicycles or objects but rather about the cycling sport and the people related to it.

Practical information:

• Opening: March-November (check official website for exact dates)
• How to get there: By car, taxi, or bus C36 from Bellagio
• Guided tour option: There’s a guided e-bike tour that includes a visit here, it’s the only tour that goes to Madonna del Ghisallo

Pro tip: Stop at the panoramic viewpoint in Civenna on your way. Find it at Parco Bellavista, close to the church Chiesa di San Rocco. The Lake Como views from here are absolutely stunning.

13. Go Shopping in Bellagio

Bellagio is famous for shopping. Some luxury hotels even organize VIP shopping tours here by private boat.

Como Silk Products: Lake Como has been a silk production center since the 15th century. Look for scarves, ties, and clothing from famous local brands like Mantero and Frey. These make excellent souvenirs or gifts.

or you can do this experience and make your own silk pattern: Print on Lake Como silk & paperXylography + Villa Melzi Gardens

Wine: Stop by Enoteca Cava Turacciolo, a hidden gem wine shop tucked in the narrow alleys. You can taste local wines and have bottles shipped home.

Boutiques & Designer Shops: You’ll find everything from souvenir shops and local crafts to expensive designer boutiques along the main streets.

14. Beach Time: Lido di Bellagio or San Giovanni

In summer, Lido di Bellagio offers a small sandy beach and outdoor swimming pool with spectacular lake views. This private beach club is reasonably priced and offers the full Italian beach experience with sun loungers, umbrellas, and a bar.

Alternatives:

• San Giovanni public beach (pebble beach, free)
• Punta Spartivento (popular swimming spot, free)

Bring water shoes for the pebble beaches, the stones can be uncomfortable.

15. Try Risotto with Fried Perch

One of Lake Como’s signature dishes is risotto with fried perch (risotto con pesce persico). The perch comes fresh from Lake Como, and when it’s prepared well, it’s absolutely delicious.

Where to try it: Ristorante Bilacus is a family-run restaurant slightly off the beaten path with a beautiful flower-filled terrace. They serve excellent risotto and other local specialties.

16. Day Trip to Varenna

Just 15-20 minutes by ferry from Bellagio, Varenna is one of Lake Como’s prettiest villages. It’s less crowded than Bellagio but equally beautiful with colorful houses, narrow alleyways, and stunning lakeside views.

Don’t miss:

• Villa Monastero gardens
• Castello di Vezio (medieval castle with falconry shows)
• Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lover’s Walk promenade)

17. Sunset Aperitivo by the Lake

End your day the Italian way with an Aperol Spritz or Negroni at one of the waterfront cafes around the harbor. Watch the sunset paint the mountains pink and gold while boats bob in the water. This is peak Italian dolce vita.

Best spots:

• Cafes around the ferry terminal
• Ristorante La Punta at Punta Spartivento
• Any terrace with lake views

Where to Eat in Bellagio, Lake Como?

Bellagio has excellent restaurants serving traditional Lake Como cuisine. Here’s where to eat based on my experience and local recommendations.

Best Restaurants in Bellagio

Ristorante Bilacus Family-run restaurant slightly off the beaten path with a beautiful flower-filled terrace. They serve excellent risotto con pesce persico (risotto with fried perch) and other local specialties. This is where you’ll eat with locals, not just tourists.

Ristorante Silvio For over a century, Silvio has served some of the freshest fish on Lake Como. Located just outside the town center, this family establishment catches fish directly from the lake. Their signature risotto con pesce persico is outstanding.

Enoteca Cava Turacciolo A cozy wine bar tucked in a narrow alley with outdoor seating featuring wine barrel tables. They have an extensive wine list with many wines available by the glass. Perfect for wine tasting paired with local cheeses and charcuterie.

Ristorante Alle Darsene di Loppia Hidden gem near Villa Melzi gardens in Loppia harbor. Elegant dining with seasonal menus, outdoor seating under a pergola in summer, and creative dishes like lemon caviar pasta.

La Punta Located at Punta Spartivento with the best views in Bellagio, all three lake branches visible. Traditional Italian cuisine focusing on local lake fish. The outdoor terrace is magical at sunset.

Mistral (Michelin-starred) Inside Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, this is Bellagio’s only Michelin-starred restaurant. Expensive but exceptional fine dining with lake views. Book well in advance.

What to Eat in Bellagio

Risotto con Pesce Persico Lake Como’s signature dish. Creamy risotto topped with fried perch fillets caught fresh from the lake. Order this at least once.

Polenta A creamy cornmeal dish often served with mushrooms, cheese, or local sausage. Traditional Lake Como comfort food.

Missoltino Salted and sun-dried shad fish, a Lake Como delicacy with ancient origins. Try toc con missultin (polenta with chopped shad).

Lake Fish Fresh whitefish, perch, pike, and trout prepared simply to highlight their delicate flavors.

Gelato Italian gelato is mandatory. You’ll find gelaterias throughout Bellagio. Try classic flavors like stracciatella, pistachio, and nocciola (hazelnut).

Aperitivo Join locals for pre-dinner drinks (Aperol Spritz, Negroni, Prosecco) with complimentary snacks at lakeside cafes between 5-7:30pm.

Dining Tips

Service: Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving €5-€10 for exceptional service is appreciated.

Book ahead: Restaurants fill up fast, especially in summer. Book at least one day in advance, more on weekends.

Lunch is cheaper: Many restaurants offer lunch menus at better prices than dinner.

Cover charge (coperto): Expect a €2-€3 per person cover charge at sit-down restaurants. This is standard in Italy.

Is it Better to Stay in Bellagio or Varenna?

This is the million-dollar question! I’ve stayed in both, and here’s my honest take:

Choose Bellagio if:

• You want more restaurants, shops, and nightlife options
• You prefer a livelier atmosphere with more tourists
• You want easier access to ferries (Bellagio is more centrally located)
• You don’t mind crowds in high season
• You want luxury hotel options like Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

Choose Varenna if:

• You prefer a quieter, more authentic village feel
• You want easier train access from Milan
• You’re on a tighter budget (Varenna is generally cheaper)
• You want to avoid the biggest crowds
• You prefer a more laid-back pace

My Honest Opinion

Bellagio is better for first-time visitors who want everything in one place, restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and easy ferry access to all Lake Como towns. It’s more polished and touristy.

Varenna is better if you’ve been to Italy before and want a more authentic, quieter experience. It’s equally beautiful but less “perfect postcard” and more “real Italian village.”

Both are amazing places to be in, and you can easily visit one from the other via 15-minute ferry. You can’t go wrong with either choice.

My recommendation: Base yourself in Bellagio if it’s your first Lake Como trip. You can always day-trip to Varenna.

Also consider: Como City as your base. It’s cheaper, easier to reach from Milan, has better parking, and you can easily ferry to Bellagio and Varenna from there.

How Much Time Do You Need in Bellagio?

Day Trip (4-5 hours): You can see the highlights, old town, Salita Serbelloni, Punta Spartivento, lakeside promenade, and grab lunch.

One Day: Perfect for exploring Bellagio thoroughly, visiting Villa Melzi, and taking your time over a long Italian lunch.

2-3 Days: Ideal for exploring Bellagio plus taking day trips to Varenna, Como, Menaggio, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Balbianello via ferry. This is my recommendation!

4-5 Days: Perfect if you want to really relax, explore the entire Lake Como area at a leisurely pace, go hiking, and enjoy multiple boat tours.

My advice: Stay at least 2 nights so you can experience Bellagio during different times of day and take advantage of the ferry connections to other towns.

Best Time to Visit Bellagio, Lake Como

Spring (April-May): My favorite time! The weather is pleasant (60-70°F), flowers are blooming, crowds are smaller, and prices are lower. Villa gardens are at their most beautiful.

Summer (June-August): Peak tourism season with warm temperatures (75-85°F) and the most crowds. Perfect for swimming, but expect higher prices and busy streets. Book accommodations months in advance.

Autumn (September-October): Shoulder season with mild weather, fewer tourists, beautiful fall foliage, and lower prices. Excellent for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Winter (November-March): Quietest time with cold temperatures (often below freezing at night). Many hotels, restaurants, and attractions close. Great deals on the places that remain open, but limited ferry schedules and cold weather make it less ideal.

Pro tip: Late April, May, September, and early October are the sweet spots, great weather without the summer crowds!

One Day Itinerary in Bellagio

Here’s my perfect one-day itinerary if you’re short on time:

Morning (9:00am – 12:00pm)

9:00am: Arrive in Bellagio by ferry or train, ferry from Milan. Start with a cappuccino and cornetto at a cafe near the harbor.

9:30am: Explore Bellagio Old Town. Wander the cobblestone streets, climb Salita Serbelloni for THE view, visit Basilica of San Giacomo, and do some window shopping.

11:00am: Walk to Punta Spartivento along the scenic lakeside promenade. Soak in the views where the lake splits into three branches.

Afternoon (12:00pm – 3:00pm)

12:00pm: Visit Villa Melzi Gardens. Spend about an hour exploring the beautiful botanical gardens, the chapel, and the lakeside paths.

1:30pm: Lunch at a local restaurant. Try risotto with perch or polenta. For the best views, grab a table at one of the lakeside restaurants.

Late Afternoon (3:00pm – 6:00pm)

3:30pm: Take the Bellagio Express tourist train OR walk to Pescallo village (if you have energy for the uphill walk). Enjoy the quieter, more authentic atmosphere.

4:30pm: Walk back to the main town and stop for gelato along the waterfront promenade.

5:00pm: Browse the shops for Como silk products or grab an Aperol spritz at a lakeside cafe.

6:00pm: Catch your ferry back OR stay for dinner if you have more time.

If you have more time in Bellagio

• If you have an extra 2-3 hours: Take a short ferry ride to Varenna (just 15-20 minutes) and explore this equally beautiful town before returning to Bellagio.
• If you’re staying overnight: Enjoy dinner at Ristorante Bilacus, take an evening stroll along the promenade as the sun sets, and experience the magical atmosphere when the day-trippers have left.

Where to Stay in Bellagio

Based on traveler reviews and recommendations, here are the best hotels in Bellagio:

Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Bellagio’s only 5-star luxury hotel. One of the oldest and most elegant hotels on Lake Como. Amazing lakefront location, beautiful gardens, Michelin-starred restaurant. Rumor has it Robert De Niro stays here regularly.

Hotel Belvedere Bellagio ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Located on the hill with incredible views over Lake Como. Spacious rooms, heated swimming pool, sauna, and heated jacuzzis in some rooms. Book a lake-view room.

Hotel Metropole Bellagio ⭐⭐⭐ The only mid-budget hotel directly on Lake Como in Bellagio. All rooms have lake views (some side views). Award-winning restaurant with fantastic views and a private rooftop terrace.

Hotel Du Lac ⭐⭐⭐ Charming small hotel in the lower part of Bellagio, close to the lake, shops, and restaurants. Excellent location. Many readers recommend this hotel repeatedly.

Hotel Borgo Le Terrazze ⭐⭐⭐ Furthest from the center but has excellent reviews. Modern hotel with a beautiful outdoor pool and phenomenal lake views. All rooms and apartments have lake views. Parking garage and free shuttle to Bellagio center included.

Booking tip: Many Bellagio hotels only open April-November. Book 2-3 months ahead for summer visits.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Bellagio

Is Bellagio worth visiting?

100% yes and yes! Bellagio has stunning lakeside views, cobblestone streets with colorful buildings, elegant villas with botanical gardens, excellent restaurants serving Lake Como specialties, and serves as the perfect central base for exploring Lake Como by ferry. And it’s so peaceful, yes there are crowds but there is a sense of peace somehow. You can see the highlights in 4-5 hours, but I recommend staying 2-3 days to fully experience everything.

How many days do you need in Bellagio?

One day is enough to see Bellagio’s main attractions, old town, Villa Melzi, Punta Spartivento, and a nice lunch. But 2-3 days is ideal because it lets you explore Bellagio properly and take day trips to other Lake Como towns like Varenna, Como City, Menaggio, and visit Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello via ferry.

Is Bellagio better than Varenna?

Neither is better, they’re different. Bellagio is larger, livelier, more central for ferries, and has more restaurants and shops. It’s perfect for first-time Lake Como visitors. Varenna is smaller, quieter, more authentic, has direct trains from Milan, and is generally cheaper. Choose based on whether you want atmosphere (Bellagio) or tranquility (Varenna).

What is Bellagio famous for?

Bellagio is famous as the “Pearl of Lake Como” for its stunning location where the lake splits into three branches. It’s known for elegant villas and botanical gardens (Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni), picturesque cobblestone streets, luxury hotels frequented by celebrities, excellent Como silk shopping, and serving as the best base for exploring Lake Como.

Can you walk around Bellagio in one day?

Yes, you can easily walk around Bellagio in one day. The town itself is quite small. You can explore the old town, visit Villa Melzi gardens, walk to Punta Spartivento, and enjoy lunch all within 4-6 hours. However, Bellagio has steep hills and many staircases, so wear comfortable walking shoes. The tourist train is available if you prefer not to walk uphill.

What is the best month to visit Bellagio?

The best months to visit Bellagio are May, September, and early October. You get pleasant weather (60-75°F), manageable crowds, lower prices than peak summer, and beautiful scenery. Late April is also excellent when villa gardens bloom with azaleas and rhododendrons. Avoid August if possible, it’s the most crowded and expensive month.

How do you get around Bellagio without a car?

Bellagio is a walkable place, you get around Bellagio easily without a car. The town itself is pedestrian-friendly and as I said, walkable. The Bellagio Express tourist train (May-October) connects parking areas, Villa Melzi, Pescallo, and San Giovanni. Public ferries connect Bellagio to all Lake Como towns, Varenna, Menaggio, Como, Tremezzo, and Lenno. Ferries run frequently in high season. You don’t need a car in Bellagio.

Practical Tips for Visiting Bellagio

Book accommodations well in advance, especially for summer visits. Bellagio is THE most popular town on Lake Como.

Make dinner reservations at least a day in advance, especially on weekends.

Wear comfortable walking shoes Bellagio has lots of uphill cobblestone streets and staircases.

Check ferry schedules in advance, especially if visiting in shoulder/off-season when service is reduced.

Buy a ferry day pass if you’re planning to visit multiple towns in one day, it’s much more economical.

Avoid visiting in August if possible, it’s the busiest month with the highest prices.

Early morning is magical arrive on the first ferry to experience Bellagio before the crowds.

Bellagio truly lives up to its reputation as the Pearl of Lake Como. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a few days, this charming Italian town will capture your heart with its stunning beauty, incredible food, and that unmistakable Italian dolce vita.

I hope this guide helps you plan the perfect visit to Bellagio! Don’t forget to take lots of photos, eat lots of gelato, and soak in every magical moment on Lake Como.

Always check ferry times and attraction opening hours before you visit!

Hope this guide helps you plan your Lake Como trip and have an amazing trip!

Courtney xx

Explore my other Italy Travel Guides on WhatsupCourtney below:

• Best things to do in Como City, Lake Como
• Best things to do in Varenna, Lake Como