Wondering what are the best things to do in Bellagio, Italy? Nestled along the shores of Lake Como, Bellagio is a gem that truly captures the essence of Italian charm. Often referred to as the “Pearl of Lake Como”, this enchanting village is filled with natural beauty, history, and delicious food, making it a must-visit destination.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best things to do in Bellagio, and unveil why Bellagio is such a wonderful town to visit.
As you stroll around the Bellagio’s centre, you’ll be captivated by the charming network of narrow cobblestone streets, lined with shops and restaurants. You’ll photograph the warm, pastel-coloured buildings and elegant villas graced with lush gardens.
Of course, you will indulge in the famous world-class Italian cuisine in Bellagio and treat yourself to a slice of mouthwatering pizza or a sumptuous plate of pasta, expertly crafted by local chefs using the freshest ingredients. You’ll complement your meal with an Italian wine tasting experience, as you sip on exquisite wines and savour the stunning views of Lake Como.
One of the most epic things to do in Bellagio, is to venture to Punta Spartivento, a panoramic viewpoint that allows you to admire the beauty of the snow-capped Alps in the background.
Prepare to be enchanted by Bellagio, as we dive deeper into the wonderful experiences that await you in this magnificent Italian lakeside village.
Table of Contents
- Explore the streets of Bellagio
- Marvel at the views from Punta Spartivento
- Enjoy the Bellagio Waterfront
- Visit the Gardens of Villa Melzi
- Try Italian Food & Wine
- Visit the Gardens of Villa Serbelloni
- Take a boat ride on Lake Como
- Walk to Pescallo Village
- Shopping in Bellagio
- Visit Villa del Balbianello
- Visit Villa Carlotta
- Visit Villa La Cassinella
- Italian Wine Tasting
- Relax at the Beach
- Take an Italian Cooking Class
- Day Trip to Lugano
- Where to stay in Bellagio
- Frequently Asked Questions
Explore the streets of Bellagio
Exploring the enchanting streets is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Bellagio. The heart of Bellagio, known as Il Borgo, is a labyrinth of charming narrow streets, with the alleys Salita Mella or Salita Serbelloni being the most famous and photographed.
Meander along the picturesque Salita Serbelloni, a lovely uphill pathway decorated with flowers, and marvel at the beauty of the pastel-coloured buildings that make Bellagio so photogenic.
I visited Bellagio in April and was treated to lovely weather, making my explorations even more enjoyable. Bellagio is not crowded in the off-season, which allowed me to appreciate the town’s charm at a relaxed pace. As I will explain later in this article, Bellagio is lovely all year around, but the weather is especially nice between April and September.
As you explore the streets, you’ll discover gift shops and boutiques, with local delicacies, clothing and more. These small local shops are a perfect place to pick up one or two Italian souvenirs. You’ll also find shops with traditional produce, where you can try the local flavours, such as decadent Italian cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal gelato.
🍷 Discover the stunning beauty of Bellagio, Italy with a Lake Como day trip from Milan. Indulge in the breathtaking views, amazing food and wine, and take a cruise on the lake to fully immerse yourself in the charm of this picturesque town.
If you are wondering what to do in Bellagio, venture towards Punta Spartivento, through Giuseppe Garibaldi Street, that will lead you to the serene Piazza della Chiesa. Stop to admire the stunning Basilica di San Giacomo, a Romanesque church, built between the 11th and 12th centuries, with a precious, late 16th century altar and mesmerizing, early 20th century mosaics, providing a glimpse into the rich history of this fascinating place.
Marvel at the views from Punta Spartivento
Punta Spartivento, the most picturesque observation deck, located at the very tip of Bellagio, is a must-visit spot for taking in the unparalleled views of the stunning Lake Como.
To find this special vantage point, follow the Eugenio Vitali Street towards Punta Spartivento. The observation deck stands at the convergence of the lake’s three branches. You’ll be treated to a stunning panorama, with the majestic mountains providing a striking backdrop to the glistening waters of Lake Como.
At Punta Spartivento, there is also a quiet park, perfect for taking a moment to relax with a gelato and a million dollar view. Sit back and watch the locals’ boats gently bobbing on the water.
🛶 Kayak on the stunning Lake Como with a guided tour from Bellagio. Learn about the region from an expert guide as you paddle past the Rockefeller cliffs, Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, and plush villas lining the hills.
Enjoy the Bellagio Waterfront
Along the Lungolago Europa Street, just a few minutes walk from Punta Spartivento, is another Bellagio highlight that is not to be missed. Longolago Europe is a 2 km stretch of waterfront promenade overlooking the picturesque Lake Como. If you haven’t already, grab a gelato and stroll along the stunning path between Punta Spartivento and Melzi Gardens, lined with beautiful trees, providing shade on hot days.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the Chiosco Moresco, a Moorish Garden Pavilion with white and azure colours. Inside, you will find the busts of important personalities, including the Austrian Emperors Ferdinand I and Marianne of Savoy, the Duke Lodovico Melzi, and his consort Josephine Melzi Barbò.
Visit the Gardens of Villa Melzi
Villa Melzi is one of the most famous villas in Northern Italy and a shining example of neoclassical architecture. Constructed between 1808 and 1810 for Francesco Melzi d’Eril, a duke of Lodi and an influential politician during the Napoleonic era.
Though the villa itself is not open to the public, its expansive botanical gardens welcome visitors from March to October. As you wander through the meticulously maintained gardens, you’ll be surrounded by an incredible array of exotic trees, camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas.
The Villa Melzi complex is currently owned by the Gallarati Scotti family, who take great care in preserving the villa and its beautiful gardens.
💶 The entrance fee to the gardens is €8. No reservation is required.
Try Italian Food & Wine
One of the best ways to explore Bellagio is by eating your way around this little town. You can’t leave without trying the local pizza, a staple of Italian gastronomy that will surely leave you craving more.
During your stay, make sure to try the variety of excellent restaurants that Bellagio has to offer. Enjoying the food is part of the culture in Italy, and honestly, it’s on the top of the best things to do in Bellagio list.
Here are some of the restaurants that I’ve tried and really liked:
- Aperitivo et al
Address: Salita Serbelloni, 34, 22021 Bellagio, Italia
Hours: 12 PM-12 AM - Ristorante Darsene di Loppia
Address: Via Melzi d’Eril, 1, 22021 Loppia, Bellagio, Italia
Hours: 12-2:30 PM, 7-9:30 PM - Ristorante La Punta
Address: Via Eugenio Vitali, 19, 22021 Bellagio, Italia
Hours: 12-10 PM - Trattoria Baita Belvedere
Address: Chevrio di Bellagio, 22021 Bellagio, Italia
Hours: 10 AM-3 PM, 7-9:30 PM
⏱ Important: Most restaurants will close after lunch until dinner time. Time your meals well to avoid disappointment.
After lunch, walk over to one of the wine bars and sit down for a glass of delicious Italian wine. Enjoy the views and soak up the sunshine at Enoteca Cava Turacciolo or Bellagio Bar Pizzeria Splendide.
Fancy some gelato? Gelateria del Borgo was my favourite, the portions were generous, and the gelato tasted delicious.
Visit the Gardens of Villa Serbelloni
The Gardens of Villa Serbelloni are a stunning botanical gardens located at the foot of Castello di Bellagio. Originally built in the 15th century as a monastery, the villa was later transformed into a private residence by the Serbelloni family.
The gardens are considered one of the most beautiful and elaborate in Italy, with a variety of exotic plants, flowers, trees, including magnolias, azaleas, cedars, and camellias. The gardens are divided into two sections, an upper and lower garden, each with its own unique features.
The upper garden has a stunning panoramic view of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains, while the lower garden features a series of winding paths, ornamental statues, and tranquil ponds.
The Gardens of Villa Serbelloni are not connected to the nearby Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, but it’s actually owned by the Rockefeller Foundation. Access to the park from Piazza della Chiesa, behind Basilica of St. Giacomo.
Note: To visit the gardens, you must make a reservation through the Bellagio Lake Como website or at the infopoint in Piazza della Chiesa.
The tour of the Gardens of Villa Serbelloni lasts about 90 minutes and costs €10 per person.
Take a boat ride on Lake Como
Exploring the captivating Lake Como on a boat tour is an unforgettable experience and one of the best things to do in Bellagio, Italy. The incredible views of the surrounding mountains, charming lakeside towns, and elegant villas are best appreciated from the water.
There are both public and private boat options available to suit your preference and schedule.
The Lake Como public boat service is operated by Navigazione Laghi and runs all year round (with some seasonal exceptions). There are three main routes to choose from:
- Como – Colico (and back): Passenger-only route that connects Como to Colico, stopping at various towns along the way, including Bellagio and Varenna.
- Central area of Lake Como (Corse traghetto): This is a ferry service for both pedestrians and vehicles. It operates between Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and Cadenabbia. During peak seasons, a shuttle service for passenger transport is also available between Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzina, and Bellano.
- Lecco – Bellagio (and back): Passenger-only ferry that connects Lecco to Bellagio and operates only during the summer months.
If you prefer a more personalized and leisurely experience, private boat tours offer the opportunity to explore Lake Como at your own pace. There are 4 main boat hire companies in Bellagio. Prices start around €100 for an hour.
🚤 Experience an unforgettable journey through the most enchanting part of the lake. Explore Lake Como in a vintage Cadenazzi wooden speedboat with your own private captain.
⛵ Experience the romantic and peaceful side of Lake Como on your very own private sailing adventure. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the shoreline from an elegant 8.5 meter sail boat, including famous attractions like Villa del Balbianello, Villa Melzi, and Villa Carlotta. Sail alongside Comacina Island and choose to anchor down and take a dip in the crystal clear waters or simply relax onboard with music, drinks, and snacks.
Walk to Pescallo Village
Pescallo is a quaint village, less than 1 km from Bellagio. As a picturesque fishing community tucked away from the touristy areas, Pescallo offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking a more authentic Italian experience.
Pescallo has that postcard-perfect scenery with a lovely and laid-back, enchanting Italian charm. This is the perfect time to have a quiet moment on a bench or indulge in “Il dolce far niente” (the sweetness of doing nothing).
Don’t miss the family-operated La Pergola, a 14th-century restored convent with a covered outdoor restaurant by the water.
Though the walk from Bellagio to Pescallo is short, it can be challenging due to the uneven terrain and steps, making it unsuitable for those with mobility issues. The alternative, easy route via Valassina Street is about 15 mins long.
Shopping in Bellagio
Shopping in Bellagio is a delightful experience, with 26 unique and specialized shops. Each shop provides an opportunity to discover local craftsmanship and Italian traditions.
3 Grandi is a charming shop that specializes in wood and leather items. Another must-visit shop is Angolo delle Idee, which showcases exquisite glass creations by local artist Anita.
Bellagio is also home to several silk and clothing shops, including Azalea Silk of Como, Carmen Como Silk, and Bellagioseta. If you’re looking for local delicacies, Butti Enrico and Da Caio offer a selection of Italian cheeses, cured meats, and other gourmet products.
Shoe enthusiasts will be pleased to find Rolando, a store that focuses on high-quality leather shoes, while La Bottega del Legno di Mario Tacchii, is one of the most ancient shops in Bellagio dating back to 1855.
Recommended shops and boutiques in Bellagio:
- 3 Grandi – Wood and leather items
- La Bottega del Legno di Mario Tacchii – Wood items
- Angolo delle Idee – Products made of glass
- Azalea Silk of Como – Silk and clothing
- Carmen Como Silk – Silk and clothing
- Bellagioseta – Silk and clothing
- Butti Enrico – Italian cheeses, cured meats, and gourmet products
- Da Caio – Italian cheeses, cured meats, and gourmet products
- Rolando – High-quality leather shoes
Visit Villa del Balbianello
Villa del Balbianello is a wonderful villa located on one of the few promontories of Lake Como, providing an exceptional example of harmonious architecture and landscaping. It was built for Milanese Cardinal Angelo M. Durini, who sought an isolated site where he could entertain not only his frivolous guests, but also philosophers and writers visiting Lake Como.
The garden of Villa del Balbianello is unique in its layout, as it doesn’t adhere to any standard of its time. Instead, it was designed to adapt to the natural surroundings of the area. The villa gained fame as a filming location in the James Bond movie Casino Royale.
To get to Villa del Balbianello from Bellagio you will need to first make your way from the town centre to the ferry terminal. Cross over to Cadenabbia, then take bus C10 for 12 stops to Lenno-Bar Ambra. From there, walk for about 20 minutes to the villa. Make sure to buy your entry ticket in advance.
✨ Bellagio Full Day Private Tour: Discover the enchanting towns of Bellagio and Varenna on a walking tour of Lake Como. Taste the region’s local specialties, including olive oil, cured meats, and wine, at a historic mill. Cruise in a Venetian water taxi and enjoy stunning views of Lake Como’s grand villas and waterfront properties from the water.
Visit Villa Carlotta
Villa Carlotta is a historic villa and botanical garden located in Tremezzo, facing the Grigne Massif. It was built in the late 17th century, following the canons of late Lombard Baroque, and later transformed into a Neo-Classical villa in the 19th century. The villa houses numerous statues, including a replica by Tadolini of the famous group of Cupid and Psyche by Canova, paintings by Hayez, and furniture by Maggiolini.
The villa was later transformed into a stunning museum of neoclassical art and sculpture. Today, Villa Carlotta is open to the public as a museum and botanical garden, showcasing some of the most beautiful art and gardens in the region. Tickets to the museum can be purchased in advance.
To get to Villa Carlotta from Bellagio take a ferry from Bellagio to Cadenabbia, which takes around 15 minutes. From there, it’s a short 15-minute walk along the lakeside to Villa Carlotta.
Visit Villa La Cassinella
Villa La Cassinella is a secluded private estate located on the western shore of Lake Como. The property comprises the stunning main Villa, a pool house complete with a cinema and gym, and the enchanting Terrace House, all set amidst spacious and meticulously manicured gardens.
This is definitely one of the finest and most exclusive retreats, not just by the Italian lakes, but in the world. Villa La Cassinella is a destination where you can relax and indulge in insane levels of style and comfort.
The Villa is a popular wedding venue. Prices start from €13,000 euro per night, and you get access to all the 8 incredible bedrooms and a full staff to cater to your every request.
Italian Wine Tasting
Wine tasting in Bellagio is an enriching experience, as it allows you to explore the diverse flavours and rich history of the Lombardy region. Although Lombardy may not be as well-known for its wines as other Italian regions, it has a remarkable variety of local and international grapes that produce sparkling, red, white, and rosé wines.
Lombardy has a long history of winemaking, dating back to ancient Greek settlers who traded wine with the Etruscans in Tuscany. The region’s varied climate and terrain contribute to the unique characteristics of its wines. The Alps in the north, the Po River in the south, and major lakes like Lake Iseo and Lake Garda all play a significant role in shaping Lombardy’s wine production.
During a wine tasting tour in Bellagio, you will have the opportunity to taste different local wines, each paired with delicious food for a true Italian aperitivo experience. A professional and passionate sommelier will guide you through the world of Lombardy wines, sharing their knowledge about the region’s viticulture, terroir, and gastronomic culture. If you just add one thing to your things to do in Bellagio list, let it be the wine tasting.
🍷 Private wine tasting with Chef Luigi Gandola. Step into the restaurant of a renowned chef and sample delicious Italian snacks paired with local wines. Enjoy a personalized experience as you learn about each wine from the sommelier-chef.
Relax at the Beach
Bellagio is known for its wonderful location on the shores of Lake Como. And while you can enjoy many water activities on the lake, you can also spend a whole afternoon relaxing on the beach. Let’s face it, what’s a better thing to do in Bellago on a hot summer day than sitting at the shore with a nice gelato, with your feet in the water. There are a couple of options for beaches in Bellagio, like San Giovanni Public Beach or Lido di Bellagio.
- San Giovanni Public Beach: Just 1.5 kilometres south of Bellagio, San Giovanni beach is where the Perlo stream runs into the lake. This picturesque spot has a pebble beach, a seasonal snack bar on site, and it’s free to access.
- Lido di Bellagio: For a sandy beach experience, head to Lido di Bellagio. This beautiful beach is the perfect spot to relax, soak up the sun, and cool off in the water, all while enjoying the stunning views of Lake Como. The beach is open between mid-May and September, every day, from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm.
Take an Italian Cooking Class
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Italian cuisine during your stay in Bellagio, the best thing to do is taking a cooking class. Learn how to create delicious Italian dishes, such as ravioli, tagliatelle, and a traditional dessert, under the guidance of an experienced Italian chef. These classes provide hands-on experience and teach you the right cooking techniques to master these iconic dishes.
After preparing your culinary creations, you’ll enjoy the meal you’ve made, accompanied by a glass of red wine. One of the best parts of taking a cooking class in Bellagio is that you’ll be given your own pasta recipes, complete with tips and tricks, to take home with you. This means that you’ll be able to recreate these delightful dishes and share the taste of Italy with your family and friends long after your trip is over.
🥗 Take a cooking class in Bellagio and learn how to prepare Italian specialities in the picturesque setting of a hilltop restaurant overlooking Lake Como. With the guidance of a local chef, you’ll learn to make ravioli, tagliatelle, and a dessert such as tiramisu.
Day Trip to Lugano
Lugano is a small city across Lake Lugano on the Swiss side. Although it is located in Switzerland, it has a distinct Italian vibe due to its proximity to Italy and its history as a part of the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland.
Still wondering what else to do in Bellagio? I highly recommend taking a day trip to Lugano from Bellagio. It takes just 1 hour by car or 2 hours by public transport to get there. Take bus C30 to Como and then the EC train to Lugano.
Much like Bellagio, Lugano has plenty of great activities and sights to enjoy during your day trip. Stroll through the beautiful Parco Ciani, a lush park with gorgeous views of Lake Lugano. Visit the Swissminiatur museum, where you’ll find detailed miniature models of famous Swiss landmarks. Explore the charming village of Gandria, a picturesque lakeside gem at the foot of Monte Brè, that remained unchanged for the last 100 years.
✨ Experience the best of Switzerland and Italy with a guided day trip from Milan to Lugano and Lake Como. The trip include cruising on Lake Como, visit to Bellagio, a trip to Lugano, Switzerland.
Where to stay in Bellagio
Bellagio and the surrounding Lake Como have long been a popular retreat for wealthy people since Roman times. In fact, many celebrities continue to own villas here. For example, George Clooney owns his summer home called Villa Oleandra. Bellagio has a superb lakefront promenade lined with glitzy hotels. Here are the best places to stay in Bellagio.
The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is a luxurious 5-star hotel established in 1873 with stunning views of Lake Como. It features elegant rooms, two restaurants, a spa, and sports facilities including tennis and squash courts and a gym.
Belvedere Hotel offers elegant rooms, suites, and apartments with air conditioning and satellite TV. The hotel features a new spa, a panoramic restaurant with a beautiful terrace, and sweet breakfast served daily. It is a short walk from Bellagio’s centre and other popular attractions.
Charming Bellagio Boutique Hotel provides flat-screen TV, balcony or patio, and private bathroom with free toiletries. The hotel features breakfast every morning and is just a 12-minute walk to the ferry terminal and center of Bellagio.
Click here for prices and book Charming Bellagio Boutique Hotel
This apartment offers 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with mountain views. Guests can enjoy an outdoor dining area, a private entrance, and bicycle rental services. It is located near Basilica of San Fedele and Como Cathedra.
Click here for prices and book Appartamento con giardino e parcheggio privato
Fioroni Hotel’s air-conditioned rooms have minibars and flat-screen TVs with Italian and international channels. Most rooms feature a balcony or terrace with lake views. The hotel serves a buffet breakfast, and there is also a bar for snacks and drinks. Located in a quiet area, it is a 15-minute walk from the pier.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to Bellagio, Italy?
To get to Bellagio from the nearby cities, you have a few options, including train, bus, car, or ferry. Here’s how to get to Bellagio from Milan, Como, and Lecco:
From Milan to Bellagio:
Train and bus: Take a train from Milano Centrale or Milano Porta Garibaldi train station to Como San Giovanni station. From there, walk to the Como bus station and take the C30 bus to Bellagio. The journey takes around 2 hr 20 min.
Car: Drive from Milan to Bellagio via the SS36 and SP583 roads. The journey takes around 1.5 hours.
From Como to Bellagio:
Bus: Take the C30 bus from Como bus station directly to Bellagio. The bus ride takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Car: Drive from Como to Bellagio via the SP583 road. The journey takes around 1 hour.
From Lecco to Bellagio:
Train and ferry: Take a train from Lecco station to Varenna-Esino station. From Varenna, walk to the ferry station and catch a ferry to Bellagio town center.
Car: Drive from Lecco to Bellagio via the SS583 road. The journey takes around 50 minutes to 1 hour.
Keep in mind that schedules and travel times may vary, so check the latest information before planning your trip.
When to visit Bellagio, Italy
The best time to visit Bellago is in the summer, between June and August. Even tho Bellagio is a year around destination, summers are the best, but also the busiest.
If you don’t mind wearing a light jacket, then Spring and Autumn are also great times to visit because you can avoid the crowds but still enjoy the sunshine.
In this list, I have created an overview of the seasons in Bellagio:
Spring (March to May): Spring is an excellent time to visit Bellagio, as the weather is mild, and you will love the blooming flowers everywhere. The temperatures usually range from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C). This season is less crowded than the summer season.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the most popular time to visit Bellagio, with warm temperatures and sunny days perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and the lake. The temperatures typically range from 70°F (21°C) to 85°F (29°C). This also means that the town can get crowded, and accommodation prices might be higher.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Bellagio is characterized by mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, with temperatures ranging from 45°F (7°C) to 65°F (18°C). The crowds start to diminish during this time, making it a great choice if you prefer a quieter experience.
Winter (December to February): Winter is the least popular time to visit Bellagio, as the weather is cold, and the town is quiet. The temperatures usually range from 30°F (-1°C) to 45°F (7°C). Just remember that some hotels or restaurants won’t be open. The exceptions are Christmas and New Year when many visit Bellagio for a few days.
What to wear when visiting Bellagio, Italy
When visiting Bellagio, it’s important to dress appropriately for the occasion and the weather. Bellagio has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, so there’s no need to dress up too much. However, it’s always a good idea to be respectful of the local culture and customs by avoiding revealing or overly casual clothing. You will find all the information you need on what to wear in Italy in this handy article.
Below, I have created an overview of the best clothes to wear when visiting Bellagio:
Spring (March to May): The temperatures are mild, usually range from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C). Women can wear blouses with jeans, brogues, and a trench or blazer. Men can opt for chinos or jeans with brogues, shirts, and sweaters, along with a spring jacket and scarf.
Summer (June to August): The temperatures are hot, typically range from 70°F (21°C) to 85°F (29°C). Women can enjoy summer skirts and sandals, while men can wear shorts, boat shoes, sunglasses, and pastel shirts.
Autumn (September to November): Temperatures are mild, ranging from 45°F (7°C) to 65°F (18°C). Women can wear ankle boots, cardigans, and darker colours, along with tights and contrasting coloured dresses. Men can choose chinos, shirts, a light merino jumper and a nice jacket, with hats and belts as accessories.
Winter (December to February): The temperatures are cold, usually range from 30°F (-1°C) to 45°F (7°C). Women should wear long boots, winter dresses, hats, and scarves, as well as jackets with jeans and oversized sweaters. Men should opt for shirts and chinos with soft sweaters, scarves, fitted jackets, gloves, and suede boots.
Is it worth visiting Bellagio, Italy?
Yes, visiting Bellagio Italy is absolutely worth it. Known as the “Pearl of Lake Como”, Bellagio has stunning views, picturesque streets, and a unique charm that attracts visitors from all around the world.
The city has incredible weather, fantastic food, wonderful hotels and even celebrities come to visit Bellagio in the summer. These are the top reasons why Bellagio is worth a visit:
Scenic beauty: Bellagio is on the shores of Lake Como, surrounded by green hills and the majestic Alps. Expect breathtaking views all around.
Rich history and architecture: Bellagio has a rich history, dating back to Roman times. You will explore beautiful villas and gardens, such as Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni. You will even see the incredible Villa La Cassinella which attracts eclusive guests.
Charming streets: The town’s narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with colourful buildings, superb flowers and indie shops. Bellagio is both romantic and relaxing.
Delicious cuisine: Bellagio offers a variety of delicious Italian dishes. Some restaurants offer select seafood caught fresh. Others specialize in traditional Italian fare like pasta and pizza.
Outdoor activities: Bellagio is excellent for hiking, boating, and cycling. You can also take a ferry to explore other charming towns around Lake Como, or rent a boat to discover hidden coves and beaches.
Easy accessibility: Bellagio is easily accessible from major cities like Milan and Como, making it a convenient destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
What is Bellagio Italy known for?
Bellagio is known for its stunning beauty, charming atmosphere, and picturesque location overlooking Lake Como. It’s also known for its exclusivity and for attracting many celebrities who have made the Lake Como area one of their residence.
Bellagio has been adored by the rich and famous since Roman times. Aristocrats and Hollywood stars continue to come to Bellagio for its exclusive villas nestled among verdant cypress shores and luxurious resorts.
These are the top highlights that make Bellagio famous:
Location: Bellagio is situated at the tip of the peninsula that divides Lake Como into two branches. The town offers breathtaking views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and green landscapes.
Elegant villas and gardens: Bellagio is home to several historic villas with beautiful gardens. These villas showcase impressive architecture, art collections, and meticulously maintained gardens.
Picturesque streets: The town features narrow, cobblestone streets lined with colourful buildings, making it such a romantic place to visit.
Delicious Italian food: Bellagio, much like any other Italian paradise, is all about the food. Expect fantastic dishes including seafood, pasta, and pizza, all paired with local wines from Lombardy region.
How much time do you need in Bellagio, Italy?
I recommend spending 1 to 2 days in Bellagio. Two days is a good amount of time to explore the town and experience its main attractions. A whole day is usually sufficient to see the key sights in Bellagio, such as the beautiful villas, gardens, and its romantic streets. You can then take relaxed walks, shop at local boutiques, and savour delicious Italian cuisine.
Consider adding extra days if you’d like to:
do outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or water sports
take a day trip to Lugano, Switzerland
visit other charming towns around Lake Como
Most visitors come to Bellago and Lake Como for 2 days.
Is it better to stay in Bellagio or Como?
Both Bellagio and Como are unique and worth exploring. I, personally, liked staying in Bellagio as it felt more intimate, romantic and exclusive, while Como is more urban with more amenities.
These are the key differences between Bellagio and Como to help you pick the right place.
Bellagio:
Known as the Pearl of Lake Como, Bellagio is quaint and romantic.
It is situated at the junction of the lake’s three branches, offering stunning views and a central location for exploring the other towns around the lake.
Bellagio is smaller and more walkable, with cobblestone streets, beautiful villas, and lovely gardens.
The town has a more relaxed, laid-back vibe.
Bellagio has fewer transportation options compared to Como, and the accommodations might be a bit more expensive due to its popularity among tourists.
Como:
Como is a larger city located at the southern end of the lake, with more urban amenities and a greater variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations.
It serves as a transport hub, providing easy access to other parts of Lake Como and cities like Milan via train and bus connections.
Como has its own attractions, such as the impressive Como Cathedral, the ancient city walls, and the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views.
The city offers a more diverse range of cultural experiences, including museums, galleries, and historical sites.
If you prefer a more lively atmosphere and better transport connections, Como might be a better choice for you.
You are now ready to enjoy all the things to do in Bellagio and visit Lake Como. Bellagio was one of the first places I visited with my husband on our long European road trip, so it does hold a special place in my heart. I hope you found my guide useful. If you have any questions or suggestions, please leave them in the comment section below.
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