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Looking for the best things to do in Lake Como, Italy? You’ve come to the right place!
We’ve spent time exploring this stunning Italian lake, uncovering the best experiences—from food tours in Lake Como’s historic center to sailing past lavish villas on a private boat. Whether you want to indulge in local cuisine, wander through charming towns, or take in the views from the water, there’s something for everyone.
To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve rounded up the 10 best things to do in Lake Como. These aren’t just popular activities but unforgettable experiences that truly highlight the magic of this incredible destination. Let’s get started!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE tour is this private wooden boat tour on Lake Como! Spending time on the lake is a true bucket-list experience, and cruising around in a traditional wooden boat made it even more special.
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Lake Como, Italy
- 1. Taste your way around Como’s old town
- 2. Sail along Lake Como in a private wooden boat
- 3. Spend a day exploring the charming towns of Bellagio and Varenna
- 4. Ride an e-bike around Lake Como and Swiss vineyards
- 5. Rent your own boat and explore Lake Como
- 6. Learn how to cook pasta and tiramisu
- 7. Relax on a private sunset cruise
- 8. Learn about Como on a city tour
- 9. Kayak on Lake Como from Bellagio
- 10. Go wine tasting in Domaso
- Where to Stay in Lake Como, Italy
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Lake Como, Italy
1. Taste your way around Como’s old town
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 11 am and 6 pm
- Highlights: Eat like a local with a guided food and wine tour through Como, sample traditional fare like polenta, nuvola cake, and wines, and discover favorite restaurants and cafés
- Inclusions: Local expert guide, lunch, bottled water, coffee, one alcoholic beverage, small group tour
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Dining in Lake Como was unforgettable, but exploring its hidden culinary gems with a local took it to a whole new level! This small-group food tour wasn’t just about tastings—it was about understanding the traditions behind each dish, discovering hidden corners of the old town, and following a guide who knew the city inside and out.
We met our guide, Mario, at the Cathedral, and his passion for Como was immediately clear. Walking through the historic center, he pointed out architectural details and explained the significance of the piazzas. He knew every street and the best local spots to eat.
We sat outside our first stop with a spread of cured meats and cheeses paired with a glass of local wine. Mario explained the flavors behind each bite before leading us to a downtown spot for pizza by the slice. It was crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
At the trattoria, we dug into buttery polenta uncia that tasted like pure comfort on a plate. Dessert was even better! The Nuvola cake was soft and airy, with a hint of sweetness from the apricot jam.
Then came the gelato—smooth, creamy, and full of flavor. We ended with a strong espresso at an outdoor café, soaking in the lively buzz of Como’s streets.
The delicious food, hidden gems, and Mario’s deep knowledge made this the best way to experience Lake Como like a true local. If you only have time for one food tour, make it this one!
Book this popular tour here and access FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
2. Sail along Lake Como in a private wooden boat
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9:15 am to 7:15 pm
- Highlights: Private wooden boat tour on Lake Como, cruise past villas, exclusive hotels, and unique hidden spots only visible from the lake
- Inclusions: Dedicated captain available to customize the experience, Prosecco, bottled water, soda/pop, Bluetooth radio, sun awnings, cover in case of bad weather, heating (for cold seasons)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Gliding across the waters of Lake Como in a beautifully crafted wooden boat felt like stepping into a dream. This private boat tour offers complete flexibility, letting you explore anywhere from one to four hours while soaking in the beauty of the lake’s most exclusive villas, historic landmarks, and stunning scenery.
Our boat was La Navicella del Lario, a traditional Venetian taxi that defined elegance with its polished wood and leather interiors. It felt like something out of a classic Italian film—timeless and luxurious.
For a sleeker ride, Sophie is another stunning boat. The newly built Venetian taxi features mahogany strip interiors, leather cushions, and a heated cabin—perfect for all seasons. No matter which boat you’re on, comfort is guaranteed!
Our captain, Andreas, made the experience feel effortless. From the moment we stepped aboard, he made sure every detail was perfect, tailoring the trip to match our interests. He pointed out hidden gems and shared fascinating stories about the villas we passed. Whether it was Villa Olmo, the stunning Villa d’Este, or the former estate of Gianni Versace, each stop felt even more impressive from the water.
Sipping Prosecco as we cruised past grand villas and charming villages was the perfect way to take in Lake Como. Whether you want a quick scenic ride or a full afternoon on the water, this boat tour is the ultimate way to experience the lake in style! Read glowing reviews here and see why travelers can’t stop raving about it.
Check out the HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this tour in advance here.
3. Spend a day exploring the charming towns of Bellagio and Varenna
- Duration: 7 to 8 hours
- Time: 11:30 am
- Highlights: Take in the landscapes of Lake Como on the ferry, enjoy guided walking tours of Varenna and Bellagio, discover colorful streets, historic churches, and more
- Inclusions: Expert English-speaking guide, Como to Bellagio round-trip ferry tickets, Varenna to Bellagio ferry tickets (round-trip on Sundays), small group tour
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Spending a day ferry-hopping between Lake Como’s most charming towns was an incredible way to experience the lake beyond the usual sightseeing. This small-group tour took us to Varenna and Bellagio, with plenty of time to explore, take in the views, and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local trattoria.
We met our guide, Michael, in Como before boarding the ferry to Varenna. The ride alone was incredible, with views of elegant villas and green hills rising from the water.
Once we docked, Michael led us through Varenna’s colorful streets, bringing its history to life with fascinating stories. Our favorite stop was St. George’s Church, a medieval gem with beautiful frescoes inside. As we wandered along the lakefront promenade, the calm waters mirrored the mountains, creating a view that felt almost unreal.
A short ferry ride later, we arrived in Bellagio, the “Pearl of Lake Como.” For lunch, we followed Michael’s recommendation to a tucked-away restaurant, where we enjoyed fresh lake fish and homemade pasta away from the crowds. Afterward, Michael guided us through Bellagio’s narrow alleys, flower-lined staircases, and hidden courtyards, making every turn feel like a new discovery.
By the time we boarded the ferry back to Como, we couldn’t believe how much we had seen! Exploring multiple towns, cruising across the lake, and still having time to wander and enjoy a meal made this the easiest and most enjoyable way to soak in the very best of Lake Como in just one day.
Check availability and book this incredible tour here!
4. Ride an e-bike around Lake Como and Swiss vineyards
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Cycle through the Lake Como countryside with a guide, visit the villages of Laglio, Moltrasio, and Cernobbio, cross the Merlot vineyards to the Swiss border, 16-mile route (25 kilometers) and easy hills suitable for most riders
- Inclusions: Professional guide, local taxes, TripAdvisor experiences fee, bike and helmet rental (if option selected), small group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Riding through Lake Como’s countryside on an e-bike was one of the most fun and effortless ways to explore. This small-group e-bike tour took us through charming villages, rolling hills, and across the Swiss border, all while enjoying the fresh air and stunning views.
We met our guides, Max, Christina, and Lorenzo, who were incredibly friendly and made sure we felt comfortable before setting off. Whether you bring your own bike or rent one, the 16-mile (25-kilometer) route is well-paced and manageable for most riders.
Our ride started near Villa Olmo, where we pedaled along a lakeside path before reaching Cernobbio, a quaint village perfect for a photo stop. From there, we rode through Moltrasio. Admiring Cam Waterfall and its natural pool felt like a secret escape!
As we crossed into Switzerland and took in spectacular mountain views, the scenery shifted from lakeside roads to lush Merlot vineyards. It was amazing how seamlessly we moved between two countries!
On the way back, we passed Il Giardino della Valle, a hidden botanical oasis, and rode through Cernobbio’s historic streets, soaking in the last bit of lakeside charm before returning to Como.
The best part? Thanks to the e-bike, we covered a full day’s worth of exploring in just a few hours. This ride was the perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and local charm, making it an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Lake Como in a whole new way!
Book this tour in advance to access flexible cancellation options!
5. Rent your own boat and explore Lake Como
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9 am to 6 pm
- Highlights: Private boat rental on Lake Como; admire Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Laglio, Brienno, L’isola Comacina, and Lenno Menaggio; reach Bellagio in 1.5 hours
- Inclusions: Open boat with awning, 40hp engine (no license required), safety equipment, gas, boat-driving lesson
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Taking the wheel of our own boat and cruising across Lake Como was one of the most relaxing experiences of our trip! With no need for a license, this private boat rental made it incredibly easy to enjoy the lake just how we wanted. Instead of following a set itinerary, we had total freedom to explore at our own pace, stopping wherever we wanted to soak in the scenery.
The operators made everything easy, giving us a quick and simple rundown on how to drive the boat before we headed out. The controls were straightforward, and within minutes, we felt completely confident behind the wheel!
The boat itself was spacious, with a sundeck and an awning for shade—perfect for kicking back and enjoying the ride. And since the rental included fuel, we didn’t have to worry about any extra costs!
We set off from Como and followed the shoreline past Cernobbio, where we admired the Church of San Lorenzo. From there, we cruised past Moltrasio, Laglio, and the stunning Isola Comacina, taking in the panoramic lake views and villages along the way. You can even reach Bellagio in about an hour and a half of smooth sailing!
With flexible rental times, from a quick two-hour ride to a full afternoon on the lake, you can make the experience exactly what you want. However you spend your time, this boat rental is the ultimate way to enjoy Lake Como!
Reserve this private boat trip now and pay later when you book in advance here.
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Learn how to cook pasta and tiramisu
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am to 7 pm
- Highlights: Learn how to make fresh pasta and a classic tiramisu in the home of a Cesarine cook, hear about the regional cuisine of the Lombardy region, and chat over a classic aperitivo
- Inclusions: Cesarine host, shared hands-on cooking class, two iconic pasta types, tiramisu, Italian Aperitivo (prosecco and nibbles), water, local wines, espresso, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Rolling out fresh pasta by hand and layering creamy tiramisu in an authentic Italian home was an unforgettable experience. This small-group cooking class felt more like a gathering with friends than a lesson, and by the end, we had full bellies and new skills to take home.
Our Cesarine hosts, Carolina and Simona, greeted us with Prosecco and light bites. Their warmth and enthusiasm instantly made us feel like part of the family. As we chatted, they shared stories about Lombardy’s food traditions, making the experience feel even more authentic.
Then, the real fun began—making fresh pasta from scratch! With flour-dusted hands, we kneaded, rolled, and shaped the dough under their patient guidance, with lots of laughter along the way. They broke down each step, making it easy even for beginners. The highlight? Carolina’s homemade sauce took our pasta to the next level!
Next, we made tiramisu, carefully layering espresso-soaked biscuits with rich mascarpone cream. Simona even gave us tips on where to find the best ingredients in Como so we could recreate the dish at home. Finally, we sat down to enjoy our meal with local wine and espresso, savoring every bite.
Cooking in an authentic Italian home with locals who truly loved sharing their traditions made this an experience we’ll never forget. It felt like stepping into the heart of Italian culture, learning recipes passed down through generations. For an authentic, hands-on taste of Italy, this cooking class is an absolute must!
This cooking class frequently sells out—grab your spot here so you don’t miss out!
7. Relax on a private sunset cruise
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 6 pm to 8 pm
- Highlights: Sunset cruise on Lake Como, set sail from Bellagio on board a 38-foot boat, cruise past Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Melzi, learn about the lake’s history and culture, sip a glass of Prosecco and nibble on local specialties
- Inclusions: Private tour, local skipper, Italian aperitif
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This sunset cruise was the best way to take in Lake Como’s beauty. As the golden light reflected off the water, we relaxed aboard a 38-foot (12-meter) private yacht, taking in views of historic villas, charming towns, and hidden coves that can best seen from the water.
Our amazing host, Marco, made the experience even more special. His local knowledge and storytelling brought the lake to life, sharing the history and insider details about iconic villas like Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Melzi. With Marco at the helm, it felt like we weren’t just sightseeing—we were uncovering Lake Como’s best-kept secrets, hearing stories only locals know.
As we cruised, we sipped on chilled Prosecco and enjoyed delicious local bread treats, the perfect complement to the incredible scenery. The tranquility of the lake at sunset, with the soft colors of the sky reflected on the water, made the entire experience feel surreal!
With the yacht all to ourselves, it felt like Lake Como belonged to us for the evening. Whether we lingered near a villa or drifted into a quiet cove, every moment was exactly how we wanted it. Gliding across the lake as the sun dipped over the horizon, we couldn’t think of a better way to wrap up the day!
If you want to experience Lake Como at its most breathtaking, this sunset cruise is the way to do it. Trust us—you’ll be talking about it long after the sun goes down!
Book this sunset cruise tour here and get flexible cancellation and payment options!
8. Learn about Como on a city tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10:30 am, 2 pm, 4 pm
- Highlights: Learn about Como’s history and architecture while strolling through town, see highlights like the Roman city walls, cathedral, and San Fedele Church, get tips for local shopping and dining
- Inclusions: Guide, small group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 30+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Como is more than just a beautiful lakeside town. Its streets are lined with centuries of history, from ancient Roman ruins to grand Gothic architecture. This small-group walking tour was the best way to explore its fascinating past while wandering through charming piazzas, medieval alleyways, and local markets.
Our guide, Violetta, was incredibly knowledgeable and kept us engaged the entire time. Rather than just walking from one landmark to the next, she made the city’s history come alive with stories that gave us a deeper appreciation for Como. She even pointed out the best photo spots—a huge bonus!
We started at Como Cathedral, the last Gothic cathedral built in Italy. Its intricate façade, with sculptures and delicate carvings, was just as impressive as the grand interior.
From there, we wandered past the Teatro Sociale, a beautiful old theater with a rich cultural past. The Ex Casa del Fascio stood out with its unique Rationalist architecture. It was a striking contrast to the medieval buildings around it!
One of our favorite stops was Porta Torre, the ancient city gate, where Violetta described how Como’s medieval walls once protected the city. By the end of the tour, we had a deeper understanding of Como’s history, architecture, and character. We were amazed at how much we managed to see in just a few hours!
For history lovers and curious travelers, this tour reveals a side of Como that most visitors never get to see.
Check availability and book this tour here before it sells out!
9. Kayak on Lake Como from Bellagio
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Kayak on Lake Como with a guide, pass the Rockefeller Foundation Park and Villa Serbelloni, soak up sweeping views of the Alps to the north
- Inclusions: Local guide, use of kayak, lifejacket, and a small dry bag, bottled water, map, backpack storage, small-group tour
- Rating: 5 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Paddling across Lake Como in a kayak was nothing short of amazing. Instead of admiring the scenery from the shore, we were right on the water, gliding past historic villas, rugged cliffs, and Bellagio’s stunning peninsula. This small-group kayaking tour made the experience feel even more personal, with plenty of space to soak in the views.
Our guide, Mich, was fantastic! Before heading out, he gave us a quick safety briefing to make sure we felt comfortable. Not only was he a great instructor, but he also knew everything about Lake Como’s history, geography, and landmarks.
Once on the water, we paddled through Pescallo Bay, passing the untouched greenery of the Rockefeller Foundation Park on one side and the colorful Varenna coastline on the other. With the Alps in the distance, the view was like no other!
At Punta Spartivento, we stopped to take in a 360-degree panorama of the lake—easily one of the best views of the entire trip. From there, we paddled toward Villa Serbelloni, passing the iconic Grand Hotel before making our way back.
We definitely got wet, so we were glad we wore quick-dry clothes and sandals. Activewear or even a wetsuit would have been a great choice, too!
For a fun, active, and totally unique way to experience Lake Como, this kayaking tour was an adventure like no other. But don’t just take our word for it—check out the 5-star reviews here and see why travelers call this a must-do!
Read 5-star reviews here and book this top-rated kayaking tour!
10. Go wine tasting in Domaso
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 11 am and 3 pm
- Highlights: Learn about the evolution of a family-run winery in Domaso as you tour the cellars, see the different stages of wine production, sip three different wines at the Lake Como winery, try locally made produce you won’t find in any supermarket
- Inclusions: Visit to the winery and its cellar, three different fine local wines, cool cuts, bread, bottled water, small group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Visiting a family-run winery in Domaso was the perfect way to experience the flavors of Lake Como beyond the usual sights. Nestled in the hills overlooking the lake, this small-group wine-tasting tour gave us a behind-the-scenes look at local winemaking traditions that have been passed down for generations.
From the moment we met our host, Silvia, it was clear how much she loved sharing her family’s passion for winemaking. As she guided us through the wine cellar, she explained each step of the production process and how the wood subtly enhances the flavors over time.
We even got to see where the grapes were pressed during harvest season! It didn’t feel like a typical tour—it felt like we were being welcomed into her home.
After exploring, we headed to the tasting terrace, where the lake and Alps views were just as spectacular as the wine. We sampled three fine wines, each paired with local delicacies, from freshly sliced ham to artisanal cheese and naturally leavened bread. The wines were fantastic, but to our surprise, the olive oil stole the show! It was unlike anything we’d ever tasted.
Between the views, generous pours, and incredible hospitality, this tasting felt like a true celebration of Lake Como’s rich wine culture. If you’re looking for an authentic wine experience, this should be at the top of your list. Just make sure to book this one early before it sells out!
Don’t miss out—book this wine-tasting tour in advance here!
Where to Stay in Lake Como, Italy
Now that you have a list of the top activities in Lake Como, you need somewhere perfect to stay! Luckily, there are plenty of options whether you’re looking for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay. Here are my top three recommendations:
Luxury – $$$
If you’re looking for a luxury hotel, Palazzo Mazzini is a fantastic option! This hotel is located in central Como and offers condo-style rooms with private entrances. It’s a modern hotel in a renovated building, so it’s a good mix of historic charm and modern luxuries. Rooms range from standard hotel rooms to suites and even a penthouse apartment.
Prices start at €350 a night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Hotel Borgo Antico is a charming hotel located just a 10-minute walk from the city center and the lakefront. The rooms are very homey in decor and spacious. They offer double, twin, or triple rooms with breakfast included! Prices for a one-night stay start around €230 per night.
Check availability and book this hotel on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For budget travelers, Gira Guest House will provide a comfortable stay! It’s located just a short walk from the lake and is also close to the train station. I love the classic Italian charm of this guesthouse, it really makes for a unique stay! You can book a double or triple room and choose whether you want a shared bathroom or a private one.
Prices start around €100 per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
For more options, check out all of the hotels in Como here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Lake Como is truly a dream destination! With stunning water, dramatic mountains, and charming towns, you’ll never be bored here. We loved exploring the area, and I’m sure you will too after checking a few items off this list!
Before you go, be sure to check out our other travel blogs. If you’re continuing your travels after Lake Como, see all of our Europe blogs! Here are a few related articles that might be helpful as you plan your next getaway:
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