If there is one place in the world that I could revisit any time I wanted, I am talking magic-genie-lamp myself in a blink, it would be Lake Como, Italy. I just sighed so hard writing that line. It’s that good. After my recent visit, it immediately moved to the number one spot of my must-go-back-to list.
If you like more of a city vibe, multiple restaurants and shops, a variety of hotels and vacation rental options, I recommend staying directly in Como or the tourist-favorite, Bellagio. Varenna (more romantic) and Menaggio (family-friendly) are also great options. We, however, decided to stay in one of the smaller towns and stumbled upon the most charming of towns, Nesso. Driving and parking is very challenging, we did have a rental car since we were traveling from Milan but once we parked at our property, we did not move the car again until we left. Also, side note, if renting a home and driving- double check they have a parking spot for you. It was harrowing enough just to get there! There is a train stop directly in Como, making it a very convenient city to stay in, and you can hop on the boat ferry from there to visit or stay in other locations. There is also a bus with stops all around the lake we saw daily that you can use.
When choosing your hotel or property, my one recommendation is to find something that has private lake access or shared/public access nearby, especially if visiting in the summer. Our rental home had a shared dock, and use of that dock was an absolute dream. We swam multiple times a day, the water is clean, clear and cool but oh so refreshing. We were often the only ones using it, but it also afforded us a way to get to know our neighbors and make new friends!
The most famous attraction of Nesso is to visit and jump from the Ponte della Civera bridge. This, unfortunately, has become a social-media-photo hot spot, so if you’d like to jump, you’ll want to get there nice and early in the morning before the crowds begin to arrive. It’s extremely picturesque and peaceful and you’ll be able to enjoy this magical little oasis all to yourself. If you swim behind the bridge, you’ll even find a stunning waterfall. We made this adventure part of our daily morning routine. It was divine.
There aren’t a whole lot of restaurants to choose from in Nesso, just a few small spots, and you’ll find their hours are all over the place. But, if you end up in a home rental, you’ll want to swing by the small markets available and pick up fresh ingredients to prepare at home. We very much enjoyed speaking to the shop employees, selecting meats, cheeses and pastas each day and cooking at home, having dinner on our huge outdoor balcony overlooking the lake. Complete. Bliss. And of course, indulge in gelato and coffee from nearby shops whenever you have the chance to. Yum.
You’ll also want to check the ferry schedule and ride around the lake, choose other cities to visit or just stay on for an enjoyable view. I would highly recommend a private boat charter. Lake Como is filled with the most charming vintage wooden boats and whether you’re with your family or on a romantic vacation, a day on a boat to yourself with a friendly captain to take you to secret spots is the best way to spend your day(s) in Lake Como. This was by far every raving tourist’s favorite thing to do.
If you’re staying in Como, a bike tour would be a great way to learn the layout of the town with an experienced guide and a great way to navigate and explore the picturesque streets. There are so many hideaways and cobblestone paths you’ll encounter, every turn could lead you to a quaint coffee shop, a beautiful lake view, or an ornate arch screaming for a photo. Be sure to check Viator and search Lake Como for options of bike tours and charters depending on where you’re staying.
One spot we didn’t make it to, but multiple people recommended it to us was the Azienda Agricola Sorsasso winery. The grounds, wine, food and staff are incredible, and I highly recommend going to spend an entire afternoon there. That will be the first thing we experience when we return. We did happen upon several hikes and walking trails just by chance so wherever you stay, be sure to pull up your google earth and check for nearby hikes. We found some incredible views and were often the only people on these paths!
The summer is also a wonderful time to visit due to all the incredible blooms. I took so many photos of plants and flowers during our stay, the fragrant smell of the blossoms finding us on our balcony each day. It truly added to the magical feeling of this gorgeous area. You can curate your experience, depending on how much you want to venture out of the town where you’re staying and into others. You can do as much or as little as you’d like to while visiting Lake Como and still feel like you’re truly away. That’s the absolute beauty of this place. The friendly nature of the locals and tourists, the fresh food at small markets, hidden pathways, gelato and cheese galore, enchanting boat rides and crisp cool swims make Lake Como one of your absolute favorite places you’ll visit, I promise.
Vai a esplorare il bello!
