Do you want to experience the best of the best during your trip to Lake Como? Then this 5 day Lake Como Itinerary is perfect for you! Featuring Michelin starred restaurants, watersports, top-rated cooking classes and guided hikes in the beautiful Italian Alps, welcome to the Lake Como trip of your dreams!
If you would prefer to visit Lake Como on a budget, check out this blog post instead.
Lake Como Itinerary Day 1
AM
Head to the romantic lakeside town of Varenna where you’ll meet your expert guide for a stunning hike in the Italian Alps followed by a picnic experience with views to die for. A wonderful picnic lunch of local produce is provided, along with delicious wine from the Lombardy region.
Hiking above Lake Como is a popular activity due to the region’s stunning natural beauty, charming villages, and diverse trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
PM
Spend your first afternoon in Lake Como exploring Varenna. Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Como, it’s known for its quaint, narrow streets, colourful houses, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Stroll along the Lovers’ Walk and wander the cobbled streets of the old town. Don’t miss Castello di Vezio (an ancient castle perched on a hill above the town) and Chiesa di San Giorgio (a 14th century church located in the main square).
Before you leave Varenna, you need to check out Villa Monastero, a beautifully restored villa and botanical garden. The gardens stretch along the lake for nearly 2 kilometres and feature a wide variety of plants, statues, and fountains. Book your tickets here.
Dinner
Dinner tonight is at the critically acclaimed Casa Perrotta Restaurant in Cernobbio. The menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients, offering a refined dining experience with beautifully presented dishes. Book a table here.
Lake Como Itinerary Day 2
AM
Head to Como town bright and early for a pasta making class at 10am with the talented Cesarina. You’ll make pasta from scratch and learn how to cook three different delicious local pasta dishes. You’ll eat your exquisite creations for lunch along with a glass of wine and coffee to finish.
Book the unique experience here.
PM
Spend the afternoon exploring the Romanesque architecture of historic Como town. Don’t miss the Cathedral of Como, Piazza Cavour and the Basilica di Sant’Abbondio.
Get incredible fresh gelato from Gelab Gelateria (they have lots of vegan options too!).
Dinner
Dinner is at Trattoria del Porto seafood restaurant, a hidden gem with incredible reviews right on the lake.
This place doesn’t have a website, but I promise you it doesn’t need one. The reviews are crazy good and the location is 10/10. Book by calling +39 031 910195 and be sure to request a table on the lakeside veranda.
Lake Como Itinerary Day 3
AM
Head out on a morning adventure to the town of Nesso. I can highly recommend hiring a boat for your trip to Nesso (or for your whole Lake Como itinerary) because getting up close to the famous bridge and waterfall on your own boat is such a cool experience. You can hire a boat through Como Boat Life or Como Boat Rental.
Drive your boat up to the amazing Ponte della Civera bridge and see if you can spot the waterfall in the backdrop. This is one of the most perfect photo spots on the whole lake.
Afterwards, wander through the old town, not missing Chiesa Di Santa Maria di Vico church.
Your next stop is Villa del Balbianello, the most famous villa on Lake Como (you may recognise it from James Bond or Star Wars).
Built in the late 18th century by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini, the interior is elegantly furnished, housing a collection of artefacts, artworks, and memorabilia from previous owners, including explorer Guido Monzino.
The villa’s terraced gardens are meticulously maintained, offering stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. They are known for their beautiful landscaping and unique sculptures.
Book your tickets here (make sure you book the guided tour of the villa and park).
Lunch
Lunch is at the lovely Locanda La Tirlindana, not far from the villa. Book by calling +39 3333255041 and be sure to ask for a table on the lakeside terrace.
PM
It’s time for some watersports! Head to the Water Experience Center for jetskiing, SUP, kayaking, waterskiing or wakeboard. Contact WEC in advance to organise the watersports.
Dinner
Dinner is at the Michelin-starred Ristorante Materia. Make a reservation here (only available 4 weeks in advance). The restaurant features inventive dishes that blend traditional Italian flavours with modern techniques. The menu often changes to reflect the freshest available ingredients.
Lake Como Itinerary Day 4
AM
Make your way to the beautiful town of Bellagio, known as the ‘pearl of Lake Como’. Spend some time getting your bearings by wandering the charming narrow streets (don’t miss Salita Serbelloni and Piazza della Chiesa). Take a peek inside the Basilica of St. Giacomo (free entry) and promenade along the Lungolago Europa (gorgeous lakeside walkway).
Take a 2-hour guided tour of the stunning Villa Serbelloni Park – book tickets here.
Lunch
Lunch is at the incredible Dispensa 63 in Bellagio. This place has insane reviews – reservations are required but they only open 3 weeks before the date – book here.
After lunch, take the short walk to Pescallo Fishing Village to admire the stunning scenery.
PM
It’s time for a cooking class with a local chef overlooking Lake Como. You’ll learn to make ravioli, tagliatelle, and a dessert such as tiramisu. You’ll enjoy your dishes at sunset overlooking the lake with wine included.
Your cooking class also includes entrance to the stunning Villa Melzi and surrounding gardens.
Lake Como Itinerary Day 5
AM
It’s time to explore the final historical villa on the lake, the fabulous Villa Carlotta. It was built in the late 17th century by the Milanese Marquis Giorgio Clerici and later named after Princess Carlotta, who received it as a wedding gift in the mid-19th century.
Book the entry ticket for the museum and botanical gardens here.
Whilst you’re in the area, don’t miss a glimpse of the famous Grand Hotel Tremezzo, which is just next door to the villa. Their outdoor terraces offer the perfect spot for a drink overlooking the lake.
Lunch
Lunch is at the jaw dropping Osteria Il Governo 1801 in Lezzeno, where the reviews really speak for themselves. The restaurant is only open at lunchtime on Saturdays and Sundays – be sure to book a table so you don’t miss out on this incredible culinary experience.
PM
Now it’s time to go to one of the only vineyards on Lake Como for a spot of wine tasting. At the amazing Azienda Agricola Sorsasso vineyard you’ll learn about the different stages of wine production, tour the cellars, try the various wines and sample some artisan local foods. You can book your unique wine tasting experience here.
Dinner
Your final dinner is at the sensational The Fassushi Como, rated the best restaurant in Lake Como on Tripadvisor. The restaurant offers a unique take on sushi using local tender meats instead of fish. You can book a table here.
If this doesn’t sound like your thing, head to IL Pacchero 2.0 for authentic handmade pasta dishes. Reservations can be made by calling +39 351 071 2174.
I hope you love my epic 5 day Lake Como itinerary – follow me on Instagram for more travel tips!