Lake Como
Italy
Attractions & Events in Lake Como
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Lake Como, Italy
Top Attractions
Bellagio
Often referred to as the 'Pearl of Lake Como', this picturesque town is known for its cobblestone streets, elegant villas, and panoramic lake views.
Tips: Explore the town on foot; visit Villa Melzi's gardens. Accessible by ferry from various points around the lake.
Brunate Funicular
A funicular railway connecting Como to the hilltop village of Brunate, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Tips: Runs frequently; at the top, enjoy a meal with a view or hike to the Volta Lighthouse.
Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como)
A Gothic cathedral in Como, known for its impressive façade and rich interior decorations, including tapestries and paintings.
Tips: Located in the city center; free entry. Consider visiting during a service to experience its acoustics.
Menaggio
A town offering a blend of natural beauty and historical sites, with a scenic promenade and access to hiking trails.
Tips: Great base for exploring the western shore; consider renting a bike to explore nearby areas.
Tempio Voltiano
A neoclassical museum in Como dedicated to Alessandro Volta, inventor of the electric battery, showcasing his scientific instruments and personal items.
Tips: Located near the lakefront; ideal for science enthusiasts. Check for opening hours and any temporary exhibitions.
Varenna
A charming village with colorful houses, narrow alleys, and a beautiful lakeside promenade. Home to Villa Monastero and the medieval Castello di Vezio.
Tips: Ideal for a leisurely stroll; don't miss the 'Lover's Walk' along the lake. Accessible by train and ferry.
Villa Carlotta
A 17th-century villa in Tremezzo, famous for its extensive botanical gardens and art collections, including works by Canova and Thorvaldsen.
Tips: Open from March to November; best visited in spring during the azalea and rhododendron blooms. Entry fee applies.
Villa d'Este
A Renaissance villa in Cernobbio, now a luxury hotel, known for its beautiful gardens and historical significance.
Tips: While primarily a hotel, non-guests can visit the gardens; check in advance for visiting hours and any entry fees.
Villa del Balbianello
An 18th-century villa renowned for its stunning terraced gardens and panoramic views of Lake Como. Featured in films like 'Star Wars' and 'Casino Royale'.
Tips: Open to the public; accessible by foot from Lenno or by boat. Guided tours are available; check the official website for visiting hours.
Villa Monastero
Located in Varenna, this villa features a museum and botanical garden with a diverse range of plants and stunning lake views.
Tips: Open year-round with varying hours; check the official website for details. Both the villa and gardens are worth exploring.
Events & Festivals
Menaggio Guitar Festival
A celebration of flamenco, classical, and jazz guitar with concerts and interactive masterclasses.
When: August
Tips: Participate in masterclasses to enhance your guitar skills; check the schedule for specific artist performances.
Festival della Polenta
A celebration of polenta, featuring various preparations of this Northern Italian dish.
When: August and September
Tips: Try different polenta dishes to appreciate regional variations; attend cooking demonstrations if available.
Palio del Baradello
A medieval-themed festival celebrating Emperor Frederick Barbarossa’s visit to Como in 1159 with jousting tournaments, reenactments, and parades.
When: August and September
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking; participate in workshops to immerse yourself in medieval culture.
Como Città dei Balocchi
A Christmas market featuring festive lights, local crafts, and seasonal treats in Como's city center.
When: December to January
Tips: Visit in the evening to enjoy the light displays; try local holiday specialties at food stalls.
Festa del Lago
An evening of traditional food, music, and fireworks celebrating the relationship between Varenna and the lake.
When: July
Tips: Sample local cuisine at food stalls; find a spot along the lakefront for the best fireworks view.
Tremezzina Music Festival
An intimate festival showcasing indie, folk, and experimental music in the picturesque town of Tremezzo.
When: July
Tips: Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and stunning lake views; arrive early to secure a good spot.
Festival di Bellagio e del Lago di Como
A prestigious festival featuring classical music concerts, piano recitals, and opera performances in historic villas and open-air lakeside settings.
When: July and August
Tips: Book tickets in advance and combine your visit with a sunset aperitivo by the lakeside for an unforgettable experience.
Lake Como Film Nights
An open-air cinema festival in the gardens of Villa Erba, featuring classic films, indie movies, and documentaries.
When: July and August
Tips: Bring a blanket or portable chair for comfort; check the schedule for film genres that interest you.
Lario Jazz & Blues Festival
A festival featuring international and Italian jazz musicians performing in unique open-air settings around Lake Como.
When: July and August
Tips: Catch a sunset jazz session in Cernobbio or Menaggio for a blend of live music and scenic beauty.
Sagra di San Giovanni
A historical celebration commemorating the 12th-century destruction of Isola Comacina with fireworks, medieval processions, and boat parades.
When: June
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the fireworks; consider taking a boat tour for a unique perspective.
Villa Olmo Festival
A performing arts festival featuring ballet, opera, theater, and symphonic concerts set in the grand neoclassical Villa Olmo.
When: June and July
Tips: Explore the villa's architecture before the performances; consider attending multiple shows to experience the variety.
Arte in Villa
A seasonal art festival turning historic villas into exhibition spaces for contemporary artists.
When: June to September
Tips: Plan visits to multiple villas to experience diverse art installations; check for guided tours for deeper insights.
Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este
A prestigious event showcasing classic and vintage cars in the elegant setting of Villa d'Este.
When: May
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance due to high demand; explore the villa's gardens for additional exhibits.
Giro di Lombardia
A renowned one-day cycling race, also known as the 'Race of the Falling Leaves,' attracting top international cyclists.
When: October
Tips: Find a spot along the route early; check local road closures and plan accordingly.
Orticolario
An event dedicated to gardening and landscape design enthusiasts, featuring exhibitions, workshops, and sales of rare plants.
When: October
Tips: Attend workshops to gain gardening insights; purchase unique plants early before they sell out.
Lake Como Design Festival
A festival showcasing contemporary design, art, and architecture with exhibitions in historic villas.
When: September
Tips: Engage with designers during talks; explore the villas' architecture alongside the exhibitions.