Bellagio Italy 2024, 18 Best Things to See, Do in Lake Como + Tips

Planning a trip to the town of Bellagio in Lake Como Italy and wondering what to see and do or what to expect? You are in the right place! This guide features all the best things to see do and do in and near Bellagio with useful information to support your trip. With this article, you can find inspiration to do the top things in Bellagio, visit some of the stunning places nearby as well as hotel recommendations and practical tips for your visit. I hope it will give you some ideas on what to expect and how to spend your time in this charming town in Lake Como.

Bellagio is hardly a secret! Popularly known as the “Pearl of Lake Como”, Bellagio is one of the most famous of Lake Como towns in the Lombardy region of Italy. This town’s strategic location at the junction where the lake splits into three branches boasts an unparalleled shoreline along with spectacular views of the Alps.

Bellagio’s narrow and winding colourful cobbled alleys, elegant villas and striking lake views makes the town a much sought after holiday destination by the Italians as well as tourists from around the globe. Some of the best hotels in Bellagio are also the most popular accommodations in the Lake Como region.

I visited Bellagio recently and it was impossible not to be captivated by the waterfront of swaying boats, steep stone staircases and the red-roofed with green-shuttered buildings. This lovely town has so much to offer its visitors and is certainly a ‘must-visit’ destination in Lake Como.

18 Best Things to Do in Bellagio was first published by Timeless Travel Steps in January 2023, and is regularly updated. Last update was in April, 2024, by Georgina.

Timeless Travel Steps is supported by our readers. If you purchase through an affiliate link on my site, at no cost to you, I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. Please read our Disclosure for further information.

topic graphic about best things to do in bellagio
ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR BELLAGIO, LAKE COMO, ITALY

Must-Do Attractions: Explore town center, stroll along the waterfront promenade, wander through the enchanting gardens of Villa Melzi, and soak in the panoramic views from Punta Spartivento.

Nearby Excursions: A scenic boat trip on Lake Como or a private boat tour to visit Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello. Varenna, Pescalo, and San Giovanni.

Where to Stay: Choose from luxurious Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, the elegant Hotel Belvedere, or the cozy Hotel du Lac & Spa.

Best Day Trip: A full-day tour from Milan to explore the highlights of Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna.

view of bellagio from our boat beautiful clear blue skies and shimmering waters by timelesstravelsteps
view of bellagio from our boat on one of the best days during our winter escape; beautiful clear blue skies and shimmering waters

What is Bellagio, Italy Known For

In a nutshell, Bellagio, Italy, is renowned for its stunning location on Lake Como, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Italian Alps. Take a look at the map below, where you’ll see Bellagio sits at the peak of the inverted ‘Y’ of Lake Como, the land mass that divides the lake into two. The town’s unique position at this location in Lake Como offers stunning views of the lake, gorgeous villas overlooking the waters and unmatched shorelines.

The beautiful and glamorous pearl of Lake Como is a perfect mix of history, nature and traditions. Its rich and historic buildings exude simplicity and a strong heritage at the same time. The mesmeric streets, quaint shops, wonderful restaurants and places to explore all sit in perfect harmony together and it’s hard to imagine anything different.

Luxurious Villas: The town boasts several historic villas, including Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni, which showcase exquisite architecture, lush gardens, and captivating views of the lake.

Shopping: Bellagio is a haven for shopping enthusiasts, with its quaint boutiques offering a variety of locally made crafts, designer goods, and artisanal products.

Water Sports: Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports and adrenalin-fuelled activities on Lake Como, including sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, taking advantage of the stunning natural surroundings.

Hiking and Nature Trails: The surrounding area offers numerous hiking and nature trails, providing opportunities to explore the breathtaking landscapes and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Historical and Cultural Sites: Bellagio is home to several historical and cultural sites, such as the Church of San Giacomo and the Civic Museum of Bellagio, where you can learn about the town’s rich heritage and artistic traditions.

the strategic location of bellagio in lake como
location of Bellagio, Italy | google map data
the famous street in bellagio at dusk
the famous street in bellagio at dusk

Pro Tips

While Bellagio is a delighful town to explore, it is a small town that does not require more than a few hours. Many people visit Bellagio as a day trip from Milan, especially with this popular tour that visits several of the best places along Lake Como in a day.

At the same time, Bellagio makes a perfect base for a few days from where you can visit the prettiest towns in Lake Como, explore the hills or go on nature walks.

Not far from Bellagio, are the charming towns of Varenna and Menaggio. These three towns form a “golden triangle” and are easily reached by ferry within 20 minutes, so staying in Bellagio, while you explore the neighbouring towns is a good idea.

While Bellagio boasts some of the most striking shorelines in Lake Como alongside some of the famous villas and its spectacular gardens that stretch out to the lake, there are some beautiful beaches too, including the pebbled San Giovanni and the more developed Lido di Bellagio.

What to Do in Bellagio, Italy | BEST Things to See Do and Do in Bellagio, Lake Como

You’ll see the town of Bellagio just as soon as you exit the ferry terminal, and does not involve getting a bus or any transportation, unless you want to explore further out of the centre.

Bellagio town itself is small, and compact. It is easy to see that it is situated at two levels. The lower part is by the lake and the other, the higher part is connected by a series of steps that require some uphill walking on cobbled streets and stone staircases.

This charming destination on the shores of Lake Como is a popular destination for tourists year-round. There’s no surprise at the myriad of things to do in Bellagio tailored to cater to the town’s visitors. I have carefully selected the following 18 best things to see do and you can do these in a day when you visit Bellagio, Italy.

Wander the picturesque streets of Bellagio

At the lower level, many of the roads are pedestrian only and are great for strolling and exploring. There are just a few streets here filled with shops and restaurants which can easily be explored quickly. There are many places here to sit and have a bite to eat.

From the waterfront, narrow and winding stone staircases and walking paths lead uphill through the town. It is from the tops of these cobbled streets that you get the picture-perfect views of Bellagio’s red roof-tops, shuttered-windows and Lake Como. The upper part of Bellagio is where you will find unique boutiques and some of the best shops.

covered shopping spaces at the bottom of the hill in bellagio
street level shopping area

See the Perfect View from Salita Serbelloni!

The most famous and most instagrammable street in Bellagio is Salita Serbelloni, giving a gorgeous view of Bellagio. This truly is one of the best views in Bellagio that must be seen!

Salita Serbelloni is one long stone staircase from the waterfront to the endpoint in Via Giuseppe Garibaldi. It is not a difficult climb. There are many galleries, restaurants, and quaint artisan shops along the way, where you could stop for gelato, wine tasting, or buy some unique handmade souvenirs. Every now and again, remember to stop and look back for some stunning views.

When you reach the top, take a moment to indulge in the view towards the waterfront. It is absolutely breathtaking. You’ll see the tranquil beauty of Lake Como unfolding with the mesmerizing azure waters, cradled by lush green slopes. This awe-inspiring sight is one of the best things to see and do in Bellagio.

the famous street in bellagio and the best view
the best view you must see in bellagio; an incredibly beautiful view of lake como and the mountains beyond from the top of the stairs in bellagio town

Walk along the Waterfront Promenade

Walk along the lakeshore from Bellagio harbour in the southwestern direction and you will find some of the best views of the lake. Bobbing boats, colourful houses, snow-capped mountain peaks in the distance, shimmering waters of the lake are all absolutely stunning. If you keep walking a little further, you’ll reach Villa Melzi with its amazing gardens and view points of Lake Como.

view of lake como and mountains from the lakefront in bellagio
view of lake como fron the waterfront in bellagio

Visit the Gardens at Villa Melzi

The Villa is a 19th century mansion and is privately owned. It was the summer residence of Francesco Melzi d’Eril, the vice president of the Italian Republic in 1800s. While Villa Melzi is not open to the public, the beautiful botanical gardens, museum and chapel are accessible by the public for a small fee.

The gardens of Villa Melzi are one of Bellagio’s main attractions. Once you step foot here, you’ll quickly see why they rank as one of the top experiences in the town. It’s an idyllic destination for a leisurely stroll along winding paths, shaded by majestic trees. There are park benches situated at key points for enchanting views of Lake Como, offering great photo opportunities.

TIP: You can visit Villa Melzi Gardens from March to mid-November. The gardens are also open during some exceptional days in December.

The Gardens of Villa Serbelloni

Alongside the gardens of Villa Melzi, visit also the gardens of Villa Serbelloni (Parco di Villa Serbelloni or Giardini di Villa Serbelloni). These gardens, owned by the Rockefeller Foundation, are located at the top of the hill, offering breathtaking views. It requires a bit of a climb though not a strenuous one.

The sprawling 50-acre gardens boast meandering pathways that wind through terraces cascading towards the lake below. Amongst these verdant landscapes, you’ll encounter a myriad of rare and unusual plants, all while enjoying exceptional vistas of Bellagio.

TIP: The gardens of Villa Serbelloni can only be visited with a guided tour, typically lasting about 1.5 hours. The guided tour requires a minimum of six persons and departs at set times. With a daily limit on visitors, securing tickets well ahead of time is best.

You’ll find the entrance to the gardens near Bellagio’s main church. Further details about tickets and timings can be found here.

These gardens are not to be confused with that of Bellagio’s famous and most luxurious hotel of the same name (Hotel Villa Serbelloni).

Visit the Basilica of San Giacomo

Built between the 11th and 12th century, the Basilica of San Giacomo sits in the centre of Bellagio, surrounded by one of the most picturesque and enchanting areas of Lake Como.

San Giacomo has undergone a series of modifications through the centuries and presently stands in its original Romanesque form. The abbey has a rectangular plan, divided into three naves by semicircular arches, supported by solid pillars. It’s worth making a quick stop as you stroll through the town.

san giacomo basilica in bellagio - solid pillars and romanesque architecture

Go Shopping in Bellagio

Bellagio is a shopper’s paradise and is well-known as one. Here, you’ll find everything from souvenir shops, art and crafts to some of the most expensive designer boutiques.

Como Silk, one of the best in Europe and produced in Como town can be purchased here. There are fashion boutiques that sell some amazing silk clothing and accessories that make perfect gifts.

Go on a Boat Tour to See Off-Beat Places and Experience the Best Things to do in Bellagio

Do something really special on your visit to Bellagio; go on a boat tour and see Lake Como from the waters, one of the best things to do here.

Without a doubt, Lake Como is best discovered from the waters. There are various possibilities to do so, ranging from renting a kayak to regular passenger ferries as well as numerous boat tours along with private boat hire.

Bellagio’s strategic central location makes it an ideal base for exploring all the other towns and the celebrated villas along the shores of Lake Como. Regular passenger ferries can help you do this as it offers timely services from point to point travels, which is great if you want to go to a specific town, and explore. You can find helpful and useful information in my guide about how to navigate Lake Como with or without a car.

One of the prettiest towns to visit in Lake Como is Varenna. Varenna sits across from Bellagio and is only a 20-minute ferry ride away and makes a nice day trip from Bellagio. You could also add Menaggio and Tremezzo as day trip options to your itinerary as these are also within a short ferry ride.

However, If you want to experience the authentic side of Lake Como from Bellagio, a private boat trip is the best option to go for. With a private boat trip, you get to see and explore some of the off-beat small towns speckled along its shores, such as Argegno. Private boat tours will take you to the famous villas where you will have exceptional views from the waters. You could book this highly rated private sailing boat tour that departs from Bellagio or this excellent speedboat tour which can pick you up in Bellagio.

PRO TIP: A private boat tour is one of the best things to do in Lake Como if you want to use the most of your time when visiting this region. A private boat hire might be best for you so you could experience several places in a short time. With some boat trips you have the flexibility to curate your own itinerary and pick the hidden spots to visit while with some boat tours, the itinerary is curated for you and may include swimming in the clear waters of Lake Como. This is indeed a great option if you are travelling as a family or with a group of friends, and may be more cost-effective than getting individual tickets on the regular passenger ferry.

You may also like: A sunset kayaking tour in Lake Como or a small group kayak tour in Lake Como.

georgina enjoying the tranquil lake como and the mountains from argegno
this is I, Georgina in Argegno

Swim in Lido di Bellagio

Bellagio has its own little beach at Lido di Bellagio. It is a small sandy beach where you can dip in the water or simply relax on the shore. There is an outdoor swimming pool too, that offers spectacular views of Lake Como.

Alternatively, you may want to try the public beach at San Giovanni. Just know that this is a pebble beach, so you may need to use your water shoes when you go swimming here.

TIP: Outdoor swimming is not a year-round activity. For further information, go to this official site of Lido di Bellagio.

Visit Villa Carlotta

Villa Carlotta is one of the prettiest villas in Lake Como, situated in Tremezzo. The interior and the views are absolutely amazing as are the villa’s famous botanical gardens. The lush gardens have a huge variety of plants from all over the world where you can easily enjoy a stroll and relax.

Villa Carlotta can be reached by ferry from Bellagio in 15 minutes.

Get the latest information about visiting Villa Carlotta and ticket prices from the official website.

Visit Villa Balbianello in Lenno

Whether you are a film enthusiast or a visitor seeking to experience a beautiful villa by the lake, Villa Balbianello is another of the most magnificent villas in Lake Como that is splendid to see and one of the best things to when visiting Bellagio. Its splendid terraced gardens and scenic location has earned Villa Balbianello a favourable spot in various films including a number of James Bond movies and the Star Wars.

TIP: When you arrive in Lenno, Villa Balbianello can be reached via a 20-minute hilly walk or by boat from Lenno village. The ferry from Bellagio to Lenno takes about 30 minutes.

lake como and the mountains amidst cloudy skies viewed from the terraces of Villa Balbianello in Lenno - one of the best things see do in bellagio
lake como and the mountains amidst cloudy skies viewed from the terraces of Villa Balbianello in Lenno – one of the best views to see and things do in bellagio

Walk and explore Punta Spartivento

Punta Spartivento is an unmissable spot in Bellagio. It is the tip of the town, a point at the very end of the peninsula where Lake Como splits into three different branches. To reach this picturesque spot, follow Via Eugenio Vitali from the heart of Bellagio’s town center. Upon arrival, you’ll discover a serene park, offering a tranquil setting to unwind amidst the breathtaking natural beauty.

From this vantage point, you are treated to stunning vistas of the majestic lake and surrounding landscapes, providing ample opportunities to capture truly unforgettable photographs.

TIP: For an even more timeless experience, consider timing your visit to Punta Spartivento to coincide with sunset. The golden hour casts a mesmerizing glow over Lake Como, creating a truly magical ambiance and offering unparalleled photo opportunities. Be sure to arrive a bit early to secure a prime spot to capture breathtaking spectacle as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with a palette of vibrant hues.

Visit the Hamlet of Pescallo

Pescallo is an old fishing village situated on the opposite side of the peninsula to Bellagio. This hamlet is much quieter than the bustling touristy Bellagio and makes a great escape from the crowds. Pescallo hosts a small beach that is popular for water sports. You could find a spot to relax here while enjoying the tranquility and authenticity of the village.

Take the steeped pathway from the town hall, heading south out of Bellagio. There is a sign to Pescallo on the road. From here, walk up and over the hill on a pedestrian walkway (a long staircase) , down to the waterfront in Pescallo. You can reach Pescallo in ten to fifteen minutes. To return to Bellagio, re-trace your steps back on this walkway.

Visit the Village of San Giovanni

San Giovanni is a very small town that was once a humble fishing village. The village is home to a handful of houses, a public pebble beach and the spectacular Chiesa di San Giovanni. This idyllic hamlet offers a serene escape from the bustling crowds.

The best way to reach San Giovanni is to follow the paths through the gardens of Villa Melzi amidst lush greenery and blooming flora. This leisurely walk takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

TIP: Visit in the morning to enjoy the soft play of light on the waters. Pack yourself a mid-morning snack, find a spot on the pebble beach and simply enjoy the serene panoramic views.

the humble fishing village of san giovanni and the chiesa di san giovanni stands as the focal point here. beautiful scene of the lake waters, and mountains in the distance with cotton clouds on a sunny day
the humble fishing village of san giovanni where the chiesa di san giovanni stands as the focal point here.

Take the Bellagio Express Train

The Bellagio Express train is a little tourist train that takes you to the highlights of Bellagio. This is a nice way to explore Bellagio if you do not want to walk the hilly town that much. You can ride this train without getting off or hop on and hop off at various points of attractions, therefore making it really easy to explore and discover Bellagio.

If you plan your visit to Bellagio beforehand, you could use this little tourist train as transportation to get to Pescallo, Oliverio, Visgnola, San Giovanni and Villa Melzi. The roundtrip takes 25 minutes.

Practical Info: There is no definitive timetable for the Bellagio Express mini train but it is highly likely to run between mid-March through to September and may even run up to October/November depending on the weather. You can board the train at the little square near the ferry dock. Tickets can be purchased on the spot and recently it costs 5 Euros. Children under 3 years are free while children between 3 and 12 travel for 2.50 Euros.

Take an Italian cooking class in Bellagio

One of the best things to do in Bellagio is to experience the local life and food. Consider joining a hands-on Italian cooking class in Bellagio. This particularly popular cooking session with a local chef is followed by a self-made lunch using fresh ingredients and the secrets of Italian culinary which makes for an unforgettable experience in Bellagio.

There are some Italian cooking lessons that last from one to three hours while there are some for a little longer, lasting four to five hours. You could also opt for a wine tasting session paired with snacks or a cheese cooking and tasting session with a famous chef from recipes handed down generations. Therefore, if you have some time, joining a cooking session in Bellagio is a unique experience worth going for.

group of people learning how to make Italian pasta in a cooking class

Enjoy a Lovely Meal at a Restaurant with a View

If you want to do something really special and nice, go to a restaurant with a view, or one that serves excellent quality food.

Here are some of the highest rated and best restaurants in Bellagio, Lake Como Italy:

For an authentic Italian meal within a romantic setting in a superb panoramic location, go to this highly rated Michelin starred Mistral Restaurant in Villa Serbelloni, Bellagio.

La Terrazza Bellagio is another highly rated restaurant for its superb quality food and good value for money. This restaurant offers a Mediterranean selection and is ideal for groups.

Ristorante La Punta is an elegant restaurant serving romantic dinners or casual lunches amidst a picturesque setting. Set within a unique location this restaurant serves antipasti, pasta dishes & freshwater fish at terrace tables overlooking Lake Como

dine with a view of lake como at mistral restaurant in bellagio
© Mistral Restaurant Bellagio Lake Como

Watch the Sun disappear behind the Mountains

Bellagio’s unique position on the centre point between the two branches of Lake Como offers a wonderful place to see the sunsets. The views from the lakefront are spectacular. The wide and picturesque view of the lake is captivating. If you can stay long enough on your day visit, you can watch the sun close to the horizon, redder and softer while watching it disappear right in front of you. We found this magical moment to be the perfect way to end our visit in Bellagio before catching our ferry to Como, which was our base for a few days

the golden hues of the sunset in bellagio while we waited for our boat ride
beautiful sunset viewed from the waterfront in bellagio while we waited for our boat (unedited)
a bright orange sunset in bellagio while we waited for our boat
bellagio at sunset (unedited)

A Few More Photos of Bellagio from My Trip

Where to Eat in Bellagio

There are numerous eateries and restaurants in Bellagio town centre, with plenty of choices to suit all dietary requirements. Some are tucked away on the hillsides via narrow cobbled lanes which makes an experience in itself. You can taste from simple ordinary pasta, a typical Italian coffee to creative cuisine and innovative desserts at restaurants with a view.

The Best Time to Visit Bellagio

Famous for its natural beauty, Bellagio is one of the top places in Lake Como for tourists. The months of July and August are especially busy with holiday-makers from all around the world. May and June see the rhododendrons and azaleas bloom, making these months one of the prettiest times to visit this charming town.

As with most of my travels, I prefer off-seasonal adventures. March sees the beginning of spring and much of the lake activities spring into action while the months of October and November are much quieter, with many of the popular activities still available till mid-November. I visited Lake Como in November and had a great time exploring the region with plenty of the best things to do in Bellagio.

If you can, visit Bellagio and the Lake Como region in the off-season (March/April or October/November) for an authentic Italian experience.

How Much Time do You Need to Visit Bellagio?

If you don’t have much time, Bellagio can be covered easily within a couple of hours. However, exploring the nearby hamlets of Pescallo, San Giovanni or taking a private boat trip will involve a good half-a-day visit. I’d suggest a one day visit is enough to explore Bellagio town easily including quick visits to the villas and gardens, as well as exploring the nearby villages. If you are visiting in the winter months, you would probably need less time, a half-day would be sufficient as the gardens are not open to the public and boat rides are fewer. A half-day should be enough for quick visits to Pescalo and San Giovanni.

What I did with my family on this trip to Bellagio was to spend a long afternoon, from just after lunch, and took the last ferry out in the evening back to Como. The time was enough to experience all that we wanted to see of Bellagio, where we explored easily and unhurriedly

Bellagio makes a good base for exploring Lake Como also. If you are considering staying here, then perhaps two to three days may be an ideal time frame, enough to explore neighbouring towns and taking a boat ride out further north.

So, What do you think, Is Bellagio Worth Visiting?

If you are still pondering if Bellagio is worth visiting, let me assure you that in whichever way you want to experience Bellagio, the jewel of Lake Como is 100% worth your time and visit. While Bellagio is one of the prettiest towns in Lake Como, and offers many stunning vistas from every corner of the village, the town is a little touristy and there really isn’t very much to do for more than a day. Bellagio’s location as a hub for water transportation not only offers scenic views and accessibility by private boat trips but also easy access to the neighbouring towns of Varenna, Tremezzo, and Menaggio, along with other off-beat villages. Given its popularity, the availability of a wide range of shops and restaurants make it a highly worthwhile destination in Lake Como. In addition, strolling through the old town, exploring the nearby towns and climbing those stone staircases that are unique to Bellagio is quite an experience in itself. You can definitely fill half a day of sightseeing, easily fill a full day of sightseeing unhurried in one of the best scenic places in Europe, and be part of a day tour from Milan.

the front entrance and garden of villa carlotta near bellagio
the front entrance and garden of villa carlotta near bellagio

Best Tips to Consider Before Your Trip to Bellagio, Italy

Consider travelling to Bellagio in the shoulder season/off-season (late March-May or September-early November). You’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures during this time for sightseeing, lower prices and fewer people.

Book accommodation in advance. Bellagio is one of the most popular towns in Lake Como. If you want a good stay at one of the nice hotels here, book early so you are not disappointed. The same goes for restaurants. Book at least two or three days earlier for dinner. Earlier if you are dining on a weekend.

If you are unsure of how long you want to stay in Bellagio, consider this. The best of Bellagio can be seen in just a few hours. Therefore, you could experience Bellagio on a day trip from Milan. On the other hand if you want to stay in Bellagio and use the town as your base, then stay for at least 2 or 3 days.

There is more than one way to reach Bellagio (by bus, car or boat). The nicest way to reach Bellagio is by boat. If you are travelling from Milan which is a 90-minute drive, the easiest would be to take the train to Varenna followed by a ferry ride of 20 minutes. You could take the train from Milan to Como followed by a boat ride of 50 minutes.

Bellagio is best reached by boat and explored on foot. You don’t really need a car here or any other public transport.

as the deliberate escapist and a mindful wanderer…

My sincere wish is that this guide to Bellagio has given you a better idea of what to expect when you visit, best things see do and to do in Bellagio. With my tips, you can curate an itinerary on how to plan your time. I hope this guide has answered some, if not all of your questions about Bellagio.

You may want to check my guide on how to spend five days in Lake Como and the most beautiful Lake Como towns that are absolutely worth visiting.

For more inspiration and travel information for your trip to Italy, take a look at my Italy travel page that has detailed destination guides and experience based tips to support your travels.

Happy and Safe Travels Always, Wherever Travel Takes You, xx

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