things to do in lake como

Lake Como, located in the Italian region of Lombardy, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning scenery, charming towns, and rich history. Here are some things to do in Lake Como:

1. Take a boat tour: A boat tour is a great way to explore the lake and its many villages. You can choose from various types of boats, including traditional wooden boats and modern speedboats.
2. Visit the towns: Lake Como is home to several charming towns, including Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. Each town has its own unique character and offers a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
3. Hike and bike: Lake Como is surrounded by beautiful mountains and hills, making it a great destination for hiking and biking. You can choose from various trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
4. Visit the villas: Lake Como is famous for its stunning villas, many of which are open to the public. Some of the most famous villas include Villa Carlotta, Villa Balbianello, and Villa del Balbianello.
5. Relax on the beach: Lake Como has several beautiful beaches, including the popular Lido di Como and the more secluded beaches in the town of Varenna.
6. Take a scenic drive: Lake Como is surrounded by stunning scenery, making it a great destination for a scenic drive. You can drive along the lake’s shoreline and take in the breathtaking views.
7. Visit the church of San Giorgio: The church of San Giorgio is a beautiful 12th-century church located in the town of Bellagio. It’s known for its stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes.
8. Go shopping: Lake Como is a shopper’s paradise, with a range of high-end boutiques and local markets selling everything from fashion to food.
9. Take a cooking class: Lake Como is famous for its delicious cuisine, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the local food and drink.
10. Visit the town of Varenna: Varenna is a charming town located on the eastern shore of Lake Como. It’s known for its beautiful harbor, stunning views, and delicious seafood.
11. Go kayaking or paddleboarding: Lake Como is a great destination for water sports, and kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities.
12. Visit the Villa del Balbianello: Villa del Balbianello is a stunning 18th-century villa located on the western shore of Lake Como. It’s known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views.
13. Take a wine tour: Lake Como is home to several wineries, and taking a wine tour is a great way to learn about the local wine and cuisine.
14. Visit the town of Menaggio: Menaggio is a charming town located on the western shore of Lake Como. It’s known for its beautiful harbor, stunning views, and delicious seafood.
15. Go horseback riding: Lake Como is a great destination for horseback riding, and there are several stables in the area that offer guided rides.

Some popular events and festivals in Lake Como include:

• Festa della Repubblica: This is a national holiday in Italy, celebrated on June 2nd. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
• Festa di San Giovanni: This is a festival held in June to celebrate the patron saint of Lake Como, San Giovanni.
• Festa della Madonna del Monte: This is a festival held in August to celebrate the patron saint of the town of Bellagio, Madonna del Monte.
• Festa della Vendemmia: This is a wine festival held in September to celebrate the harvest season.

Overall, Lake Como is a beautiful and charming destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities, Lake Como is a great place to visit.