No introduction needed for this one, it’s one of Italy’s great lakes, just like Lake Maggiore or Lake Garda. And for good reason, this Y-shaped glacial lake has become a privileged tourist destination, notably thanks to its easy access from Milan (45 minutes by train or car). Nestled in the heart of the Lombardy Prealps with peaks over 2000m, the activities are plentiful, but if you only have 2 days at Lake Como here’s our small selection of activities not to miss.
Lake Como Map
Hiking with an unbeatable view of Lake Como
There’s no shortage of choice, the number of hiking possibilities around the lake is vast, from short family hikes to multi-day treks, and many of them will give you a view of the lake without question! For longer walks, the mountains above Lake Como form the last stretch of a route across the Alps from Munich.
We opted for an intermediate-level hike with a superb panoramic view at the summit as the highlight: Monte Berlinghera. Located north-west of the lake, from its height of 1930m, you’ll have an unbeatable view of a good portion of the lake nestled just 1700m below.
Panorama from the summit of Monte Berlinghera © Adrien Ozanon
An ideal compromise to gain elevation and remain accessible, this hike will take you through alpine pastures and small hamlets with typical architecture, covering approximately 7.5km and 700m elevation gain in total. Access starts from the small hamlet of San Bartolomeo perched at 1200m, after a long and narrow winding road that leads to it; you’d better be comfortable driving on small mountain roads.
The hike begins in the forest on a forest trail, then you reach Alpe Pescedo and di Mezzo, which mark the start of the grazing area.
View of Alpe di Mezzo below © Adrien Ozanon
You’ll find many traditional dwellings and beautifully renovated holiday homes. Quickly you reach the Bocchetta Chiaro pass.
View of Bocchetta Chiaro pass © Adrien Ozanon
After a final section on a small trail, you reach the ridge that leads you to the summit and its sublime view of the lake. The return is via the same route or with a small variation to reach Alpe Pescedo.
Variation for descent with a beautiful view of the lake © Adrien Ozanon
And of course, once you’ve descended back to the lake, nothing beats a good splash in the lake to relax your legs after this beautiful hike, and a good Italian restaurant to satisfy your hunger.
Swimming break to finish the day © Adrien Ozanon
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A boat crossing of the lake and visiting Bellagio and its villas
After a beautiful hike on the first day, time for relaxation and some cultural visits for this 2th day. We chose to visit Bellagio, but of course there are other villages around the lake to visit with rich cultural heritage. We decided to combine visiting Bellagio with a boat crossing on the lake, departing from Domaso, which allows you to enjoy a different view of the lake.
Boat crossing of the lake © Adobe Stock
Bellagio doesn’t lack charm and we recommend strolling through the town’s narrow streets and visiting the Basilica of St. Giacomo.
Bellagio © Adobe Stock
As for the villas, here are the 3 must-see villas to visit in Bellagio:
- Villa Melzi d’Eril: This neoclassical villa is surrounded by magnificent gardens with a variety of plant species from around the world. The gardens offer an unbeatable view of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
Villa Melzi and its garden © Adobe Stock
- Villa Serbelloni: This historic villa is now a luxury hotel, but its gardens are open to the public. The gardens offer incredible panoramic views of the lake and are dotted with sculptures and rare plants.
Park and Villa Serbelloni © AdobeStock
- Villa Giulia: Although a bit further from Bellagio, this villa deserves a visit for its gardens and elegant architecture. It also offers an unbeatable view of the lake.
Villa Giulia © Marcomarchetti / Wikipedia
The mountains around the lake also reward a longer walk.
So here’s what we suggest as activities to do in 2 days at Lake Como to combine culture and nature, but of course there are many other possibilities, whether sports or cultural. A short visit can combine lakeside culture and mountain scenery.
