Which are the things to do in Lake Como? All around this enchanting lake, famous in the Italian literature, there are many beautiful towns. Discover these ideal locations for a day trip you can’t miss if you are experiencing your Erasmus in Milan.

The big city life can be overwhelming sometimes and you may need a quick break. Is there anything better than an amazing place such as Lago di Como?

This location offers you everything you need to spend a relaxing yet interesting day out of the chaotic Milan. Vistit lake Como: this breathtaking location has many surprises in store for you, especially in the picturesque towns and villages rising on its shores.

Keep reading and find out the best things to do in Lake Como, what to see and the places you can’t miss!

What you can’t miss: things to do in Lake Como

But first, here’s a little introduction to Como, the town that gives the name to one of the most famous lakes in Italy. It is a commune located in the northern part of Lombardy, an Italian region neighbouring Switzerland.

This little town has a current population of more than 80 thousand inhabitants. Anyways, every year it welcomes millions of international tourists due to its beautiful natural landscape, nice restaurants and multitude of historical buildings dated back from Roman Empire, Middle Ages and French/Austrian conquest.  

Here is a brief list of the best things to do in Lake Como if you are planning a fun day trip with your international friends:

1. Visit the main Cathedral in the town of Como.

The Como cathedral is one of the most impressive in the town and it is well known for its architecture, made up of white stone, statues and ornative towers on the façade. While the interior space is featuring many arches, columns and great decorations.

2. Go to the Giuseppe Garibaldi historical museum.

This place, which is a former palace, has been decorated with the aim of showing the traditional Italian living styles from differ eras. Therefore, the museum is home to typical furniture, clothing, lace from the town of Como and Lombardy.

3. Spot the Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Located out of the city centre, this Basilica shows the typical Romanesque-style church from the medieval age and was created by Benedictines monks.

4. Have fun with a boat tour around Lake Como. 

Is there a better way to discover the beautiful landscape of Lago di Como, than exploring it on a boat?
If you are seeking a fun day with your international roomies, one  of the best things to do in Lake Como definitely is taking a boat ride. Once you arrive on the shores in the town of Como, you will find several companies that provide this kind of service. You could choose between a one way ride and stop in the little towns rising on the coast (such as Cernobbio and Bellagio) or purchasing a beautiful scenic ride all around the lake.

5. Run high with the Funicular up to Brunate. 

Lake Como is surrounded by mountains, giving an extraordinary fairy-like touch to the landscape. You surely don’t want to miss this breathtaking view: therefore, our tip is to buy a ride with the funicular train from the eastern side of Como town up to Brunate. When you reach the top you will be surprised with incredible views of Lake Como. You will also have the chance to choose among several restaurants and terraces to enjoy a good meal with a view, while breathing pure mountain atmosphere.

6. Eat a delicious Italian lunch at a typical Trattoria.

In our list of best things to do in Lake Como food couldn't be missed!

When you are in little towns such as Como, Albiate, Bellagio etc, eating in traditional and homemade restaurants, named Trattoria, is a must.

Generally, these restaurants are owned by families and the hosts are incredibly friendly, willing to offer the best dining experience to their guests. Moreover, in this kind of places, food is so delicious: the menus usually offer a great variety of regional dishes prepared with local prime products. 

7. Grab a coffee in a little square while admiring the view.

You may also want to live a simple yet memorable experience such as relaxing while sipping a coffee and admiring the view over the lake. Our tip is to find a quiet café where to sit, located in a little square close to the harbour of one of the towns surrounding the lake.

And if you would rather go for an Aperitivo (happy hour) these cafes also offer nice cocktails and snacks.

8. Visit the town of Cernobbio. 

Located a few kilometres away from the main town of Como, on the western shore of Lago di Como, there is Cernobbio. This town is home to the worldwide famous Villa d’Este, an amazing property that today hosts a luxury hotel (declared the best hotel in the World by Forbes back in 2009).

You can visit Cernobbio to have a relaxing walk, explore its lovely dining spots and grab a coffee while spotting the typical fisherman or the beautiful sailing boats all around the lake.

9. Spot the famous Villa Balbianello.

Part of the municipality of Lenno, the promontory of Villa Balbianello is one of the most beautiful and famous spots in Lake Como, that you sure saw on travel magazines or on Instagram!

We promise that this place will leave you speechless, thanks to its picturesque architecture, terraced gardens and spectacular view over the lake.

Since it is a private property, it’s not open to the public for overnight stays. But this dreamy place is home to many events, weddings and it also is used as a setting for several movies!

10. Visit the town of Bellagio and Villa Serbelloni

Bellagio, the pearl of Lake Como, is the place where the water basin splits in two branches and where the Dolce Vita vibes come to life. 

Here you will be delighted by the most beautiful corners: luxury hotels, idyllic gardens, high-end shops and fine restaurants.
Moreover, if you’re passionate about photography, a visit to Bellagio is one of the unmissable things to do in Lake Como: this little town offers so many incredible inspirations!

Once you are here, you should also spend a little time by the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, located in the northern part of the town and today owned by the Rockefeller Foundation. 

11. Visit Menaggio

Located on the western shore of Lake Como, right next to Bellagio, you can find Menaggio, a lovely town featuring a nice ferry port, perfect for admiring a spectacular view.. When in Menaggio, don’t miss the chance to eat in a nice restaurant in the square overlooking the lake, offering a beautiful and picturesque meeting between the water and the mountains.

12. Go on an adventure! Canyoning at Porlezza or Lenno and Rock climbing.

And also for the adventurous ones, we have some options about the best things to do in Lake Como. This naturally rich landscape offers so many possibilities: from sightseeing and relaxing walks to extreme outdoor sports!

If you want to have a lot of fun with your international friends, a great bonding experience could be the canyoning. It’s a great way to explore Lake Como, while jumping and sliding through the water courses.

The diversified landscape of Lake Como is perfect for different types of extreme sports. Therefore, another great alternative for outdoor activity is rock climbing: this place offers lots of routes, with different surfaces, both for beginners and experienced ones.

We hope you liked these inspirations for a one day itinerary or for a weekend trip with the international friends from your Erasmus in Milan!