You are planning a trip to Italy, and you want to get it right.
This guide focuses on Northern Italy, especially Lake Como, where you get a mix of lakes, mountains, and culture without constantly moving between cities.
Everything here is based on my own trips, what actually worked, what didn’t, and what I’d do differently next time so you can plan a smoother, more enjoyable trip from the start.
Important Things to know before visiting Italy
Before visiting Italy, there are a few things that will make your trip significantly easier, especially if you’re heading to places like Lake Como
💳 Cash vs Card: Cards are widely accepted, but cash is still useful, especially in smaller towns around Lake Como. Cafes, taxis, and small local spots may prefer cash, so it’s worth carrying some euros.
🚆 Getting Around: Trains are the easiest way to travel between cities like Milan and the lake. Around Lake Como, ferries are essential and often the most scenic way to move between towns. Driving is possible, but slower than most people expect.
☀️ Best Time to Visit
- April to June → best balance of weather and crowds
- July and August → busy and more expensive
- September → ideal for fewer crowds and warm weather
🍝 Food Culture
Meals are slower and more relaxed.
- Dinner typically starts from around 7:30pm
- A small cover charge (coperto) is normal
- Tipping is not expected but appreciated
Lake Como Travel Guides
If you’re planning a trip to Lake Como, start here. These guides cover exactly where to stay, what to prioritise, and how to plan your time properly.
Why Como City Should Be Your First Stop on Lake Como
Most visitors arrive in Como City and immediately catch a ferry out, without realising they’ve just walked past ancient cathedrals, lakeside promenades, panoramic viewpoints, and some of the best food on the lake.
First-time travellers are genuinely shocked by how much there is to experience here, from medieval streets, the iconic funicular, sweeping mountain-backed water views, and a local food scene with zero pretence. It’s accessible, and effortlessly beautiful, the perfect launchpad for your Lake Como adventure, and a place that might just become your favourite stop on the lake.
Varenna Is the Italian Village You Think Exists Only in Movies
Varenna isn’t loud or glamorous, but it will steal the spotlight every single time. Its lakeside path, the famous Passeggiata degli Innamorati, or “Walk of Lovers” is one of the most breathtaking strolls on the lake. This guide will show you where to eat, what to see, and how to experience Varenna like you’ve been coming for years.
Best things to do in Bellagio, Lake Como Italy 2025 + One Day Itinerary
Bellagio might be famous for its views, but it’s the everyday experiences that make it so good for first-timers. You can start your morning in Villa Melzi’s gardens, spend the afternoon ferry-hopping to Varenna, wander the Old Town, or walk to Punta Spartivento for sweeping lake and mountain views.
The town is compact and easy to navigate. Hotels cluster near the waterfront, restaurants sit along the stepped streets, and you’ll always find a spot for a simple meal, an aperitivo, or a lakeside stroll.
My guide will show you parking details, where to stay and what to eat and where to eat, including 17 things to do in Bellagio. May this guide help you in planning your itinerary
Lake Como Travel Guide
Where to stay in Lake Como
