I recently went on a whirlwind trip to Lake Como for my birthday in February. It was the perfect place to celebrate and take in the breathtaking views of the snow capped mountains and serene water across the lake. Not the most easily accessible place in Italy but once you’re there, it will be worth the effort (I promise).

I flew to Milan Bergamo and took a 1 hour train to Varenna, a small town on the east side of Lake Como. Most people want to stay in Bellagio but it’s actually easier (and quieter) to stay in Varenna so you can take the train back to Bergamo for your flight home. There are several daily ferry’s which travel between Varenna, Menaggio and Bellagio. Visiting in February also meant the flights were extremely cheap as it’s low season and colder weather. However, I was lucky enough to enjoy blue skies and sunshine the entire weekend. I’d definitely recommend visiting in the winter or autumn to avoid the large crowds that flock to the lake during spring/summer. You get to enjoy the magical scenery all to yourself! 

Here’s some of the top things to see & do whilst in Lake Como: 

Rent an air bnb in Varenna – I managed to get a really cheap deal when staying in Varenna and air bnb had several options for accommodation. I’d recommend staying here instead of Bellagio as it’s cheaper and close to the train station.

Take a ferry boat to Bellagio and Menaggio – It’s really straightforward to take a ferry ride to Bellagio and Menaggio and the timetable is really frequent. You can buy single tickets or a day pass.

Enjoy an aperol spritz with lakeside views – There are several cafes and bars that surround the water where you can enjoy an aperol spritz and Italian snacks. In Varenna you can visit Bar Moro or in Bellagio you can visit Bar Sanremo

Taste the best Tiramasu in Bellagio (Seta Hotel, restaurant and cocktail bar) – Whilst exploring Bellagio I stopped off for a coffee and a sweet treat to re-charge my batteries. I stumbled across a bar which had great views of the lake and served one of the best Tiramasu i’ve ever had. The bar had great music and were also very generous with the free snacks (popcorn, crisps, olives and nuts)

Enjoy some local pizza and pasta – Albergo Ristorante Pizzeria del Sole – This restaurant does great pizza and local pasta dishes. They also serve wine by the carafe which is great value for money.

Visit Villa Monastero – A museum with pristine gardens and beautiful lakeside views

Best places to eat in Lake Como:

• Bar Il Molo, Varenna – Situated on the front of the lake in Varenna. Casual bar and alfresco restaurant for apéritifs and light snacks
• Cafe, Villa Monastero, Varenna – Visit the beautiful Villa Monastero museum and enjoy a coffee and croissant for breakfast whilst taking in the beautiful lake views
• Albergo Ristorante Pizzeria del Sole, Varenna – Casual pizzeria. Also serves delicious homemade tiramisu 
• Hotel du Lac, Menaggio – Hotel restaurant serving delicious pasta and pizza in an alfresco setting
• Bar Sanremo, Bellagio – Alfresco bar overlooking the lake. Full of locals enjoying aperol spritz and free Italian snacks 
• Seta Hotel, restaurant and cocktail bar – Boutique hotel with a trendy conservatory style dining area, serving a wide range of cocktails and Italian dishes