cities and villages
Bellagio is one of the most attractively-situated of the lake resorts, and it is a pleasant place to ramble, explore or simply potter. Passenger ferries stop alongside a tree-lined waterfront. Across the road is a lovely arcade where cafes and restaurants afford shade and shelter from the elements. This is a good place to come for an aperitivo or after-dinner drink.
From the central waterfront, stepped and cobbled lanes rise up the hill in a tight little network separating the lakeshore from the town's main street, Via Garibaldi. This is a pretty lane where you'll find more shops, cafes and also Bellagio's main town square, Piazza San Giacomo
Bellagio is famous worldwide for its beautiful villas overlooking the water (like Villa Serbelloni or Villa Melzi).
644 locals recommend
Bellagio
Bellagio is one of the most attractively-situated of the lake resorts, and it is a pleasant place to ramble, explore or simply potter. Passenger ferries stop alongside a tree-lined waterfront. Across the road is a lovely arcade where cafes and restaurants afford shade and shelter from the elements. This is a good place to come for an aperitivo or after-dinner drink.
From the central waterfront, stepped and cobbled lanes rise up the hill in a tight little network separating the lakeshore from the town's main street, Via Garibaldi. This is a pretty lane where you'll find more shops, cafes and also Bellagio's main town square, Piazza San Giacomo
Bellagio is famous worldwide for its beautiful villas overlooking the water (like Villa Serbelloni or Villa Melzi).
Varenna is an attractive village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, looking over the central part of the lake towards Bellagio. Varenna's picturesque lanes and old fishermen's houses are unpretentiously appealing, and some visitors prefer the town to its grander neighbours. The main tourist activities in Varenna are relaxing by the lake, and visiting the gardens of two villas, Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi.
Above Varenna there is also the castle "Vezio" (castello di Vezio)
395 locals recommend
Varenna
Varenna is an attractive village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, looking over the central part of the lake towards Bellagio. Varenna's picturesque lanes and old fishermen's houses are unpretentiously appealing, and some visitors prefer the town to its grander neighbours. The main tourist activities in Varenna are relaxing by the lake, and visiting the gardens of two villas, Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi.
Above Varenna there is also the castle "Vezio" (castello di Vezio)
Although there aren't a huge range of things to see in Menaggio, the town offers a pretty lakeshore lined with trees and flowers, some attractive old buildings and dramatic mountain views as well as a sports centre and a lido for swimmers and sunbathers. From Menaggio you can take boat trips around the lake, and embark on excursions to the lake's scattered gardens and beauty spots. The town has a choice of restaurants, as well as general stores and bakeries where you can stock up on snacks and picnic ingredients.
200 locals recommend
Menaggio
Although there aren't a huge range of things to see in Menaggio, the town offers a pretty lakeshore lined with trees and flowers, some attractive old buildings and dramatic mountain views as well as a sports centre and a lido for swimmers and sunbathers. From Menaggio you can take boat trips around the lake, and embark on excursions to the lake's scattered gardens and beauty spots. The town has a choice of restaurants, as well as general stores and bakeries where you can stock up on snacks and picnic ingredients.
Bellano is a picturesque fishing village with narrow streets and colorful houses. Worth seeing are the lake promenade, the "Orrido di Bellano" and "via Manzi" (tiny alley in the historical part of Bellano, with small boutiques and grocery stores).
46 locals recommend
Bellano
Bellano is a picturesque fishing village with narrow streets and colorful houses. Worth seeing are the lake promenade, the "Orrido di Bellano" and "via Manzi" (tiny alley in the historical part of Bellano, with small boutiques and grocery stores).
Located on the Italian-Swiss border, the city of Como in Italy overlooks the southwestern end of Lake Como.
There is plenty to do in Como:
- Old town with delightful streets filled with stores.
- A walk along the lakeshore
- A ride with the funicular to Brunate gives you an extraordinary view of the town.
- The Cathedral (Duomo di Como)
- Piazza San Fedele, one of the most charming parts of Como with the Romanesque Basilica of San Fedele
- Outdoor market, where you can find vintage clothing and handcrafts. Open Tuesdays/Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Villa Olmo
Every year during Advent, from the end of November until Epiphany (January 6th), Como hosts the traditional Christmas Market/Mercatino "Città dei Balocchi" with its fantastic light shows.
393 locals recommend
Como
Located on the Italian-Swiss border, the city of Como in Italy overlooks the southwestern end of Lake Como.
There is plenty to do in Como:
- Old town with delightful streets filled with stores.
- A walk along the lakeshore
- A ride with the funicular to Brunate gives you an extraordinary view of the town.
- The Cathedral (Duomo di Como)
- Piazza San Fedele, one of the most charming parts of Como with the Romanesque Basilica of San Fedele
- Outdoor market, where you can find vintage clothing and handcrafts. Open Tuesdays/Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Villa Olmo
Every year during Advent, from the end of November until Epiphany (January 6th), Como hosts the traditional Christmas Market/Mercatino "Città dei Balocchi" with its fantastic light shows.
Gravedona ed Uniti is one of the greatest artistic centres of Upper Lake Como, and reflected in its churches and monuments of rare beauty, which are testimony of its important past.
In Gravedona ed Uniti you can relax on the shores of the lake, visit and feel the ancient atmosphere in the streets of the old town or hillside hamlets, walk and immerse yourself in the natural mountain landscape and admire enchanting views of the lake.
9 locals recommend
Gravedona ed Uniti
Gravedona ed Uniti is one of the greatest artistic centres of Upper Lake Como, and reflected in its churches and monuments of rare beauty, which are testimony of its important past.
In Gravedona ed Uniti you can relax on the shores of the lake, visit and feel the ancient atmosphere in the streets of the old town or hillside hamlets, walk and immerse yourself in the natural mountain landscape and admire enchanting views of the lake.
Lying in the plain formed by the mouth of the stream Albano, Dongo is situated in a very interesting natural place. The old part of the village, leaning on the bay and extending to the hamlets of Martinico and Barbignano, is the evidence of a rich history. In fact it was a protagonist of history at the end of Fascism. There, Benito Mussolini was arrested in April 1945.
Worth seeing are:
- Manzi Palace and its Golden Hall
- The museum "della Fine della Guerra"
- The valuable frescoes and stuccoes in t the churches S. Stefano, S. Maria and in the Franciscan monastery.
25 locals recommend
Dongo
Lying in the plain formed by the mouth of the stream Albano, Dongo is situated in a very interesting natural place. The old part of the village, leaning on the bay and extending to the hamlets of Martinico and Barbignano, is the evidence of a rich history. In fact it was a protagonist of history at the end of Fascism. There, Benito Mussolini was arrested in April 1945.
Worth seeing are:
- Manzi Palace and its Golden Hall
- The museum "della Fine della Guerra"
- The valuable frescoes and stuccoes in t the churches S. Stefano, S. Maria and in the Franciscan monastery.
Literally split in half by its famous gorge, Nesso is a picturesque village sitting on the banks of Lake Como.
Nesso is smaller than the nearby – and more popular – Bellagio, but it’s a real heaven for those who seek peace, tranquility, and all the regenerating aspects of slow-living.
31 locals recommend
Nesso
Literally split in half by its famous gorge, Nesso is a picturesque village sitting on the banks of Lake Como.
Nesso is smaller than the nearby – and more popular – Bellagio, but it’s a real heaven for those who seek peace, tranquility, and all the regenerating aspects of slow-living.
Colico is located at the northern end of Lake Como. There is a railway station in the village with direct connections to Lecco and Milan, as well as a landing stage with regular boat connections (reduced in winter) to the towns around Lake Como.
Colico offers many water sports: sailing, surfing (surfing beach with large sunbathing area), water skiing, motor boating, marina, kite surfing.
It is worthwhile to have an ice cream on the 'piazza' and enjoy the beautiful view.
On Fridays there is a weekly market
48 locals recommend
Colico
Colico is located at the northern end of Lake Como. There is a railway station in the village with direct connections to Lecco and Milan, as well as a landing stage with regular boat connections (reduced in winter) to the towns around Lake Como.
Colico offers many water sports: sailing, surfing (surfing beach with large sunbathing area), water skiing, motor boating, marina, kite surfing.
It is worthwhile to have an ice cream on the 'piazza' and enjoy the beautiful view.
On Fridays there is a weekly market
tourist attractions
L'Orrido di Bellano is an impressive natural gorge right in the centre of Bellano. There are stairs and a narrow footpaths all throughout the gorge. The water colors are a beautiful green/blue and you can see where it gradually carved a path down the mountain.
It's not stroller friendly if coming with little ones, you’ll need a baby carrier.
Price: 5 euro
136 locals recommend
Orrido di Bellano
Piazza San GiorgioL'Orrido di Bellano is an impressive natural gorge right in the centre of Bellano. There are stairs and a narrow footpaths all throughout the gorge. The water colors are a beautiful green/blue and you can see where it gradually carved a path down the mountain.
It's not stroller friendly if coming with little ones, you’ll need a baby carrier.
Price: 5 euro
Giardino del Merlo
The Giardino del Merlo is a botanical garden located between Dongo and Musso. From the garden you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Lake Como and the mountains. The path leads through tunnels over terraces and stairs.
In one of the caves, cleverly camouflaged, is the former small apartment of the guardian of the garden. Can you find it?
Also worth a visit is the church of Sant' Eufemia.
Good shoes are recommended.
15 locals recommend
Il Giardino del Merlo
12 Via del GiardinoGiardino del Merlo
The Giardino del Merlo is a botanical garden located between Dongo and Musso. From the garden you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Lake Como and the mountains. The path leads through tunnels over terraces and stairs.
In one of the caves, cleverly camouflaged, is the former small apartment of the guardian of the garden. Can you find it?
Also worth a visit is the church of Sant' Eufemia.
Good shoes are recommended.
Villa Carlotta is surrounded by a wide botanical garden that is full of ancient trees, palms, rhododendros, azaleas and many other plants. The Villa is also famous for its art collection. The museum collects statues, paintings and original neoclassical furnitures.
421 locals recommend
Villa Carlotta
2 Via ReginaVilla Carlotta is surrounded by a wide botanical garden that is full of ancient trees, palms, rhododendros, azaleas and many other plants. The Villa is also famous for its art collection. The museum collects statues, paintings and original neoclassical furnitures.
This ancient military outpost probably dates before the Roman times.
Today it's possible to visit the gardens, the dungeons of the First World War and the defensive walls. It's also possible to walk up the watchtower to enjoy a 360° view of the lake.
The Castle is reachable on foot after a 30/40 minutes walk from the center of Varenna or by car following the Via per Esino (15 minutes). The Castle hosts a falconry with birds of prey. With good weather, their training is usually held in the garden of the castle, allowing visitors to take pictures, see the birds up close and hear the history of falconry.
201 locals recommend
Vezio Castle
Via del CastellanoThis ancient military outpost probably dates before the Roman times.
Today it's possible to visit the gardens, the dungeons of the First World War and the defensive walls. It's also possible to walk up the watchtower to enjoy a 360° view of the lake.
The Castle is reachable on foot after a 30/40 minutes walk from the center of Varenna or by car following the Via per Esino (15 minutes). The Castle hosts a falconry with birds of prey. With good weather, their training is usually held in the garden of the castle, allowing visitors to take pictures, see the birds up close and hear the history of falconry.
The trip is worth it for the location alone with views across the lake to the mountains beyond. But factor in the historic abbey with its medieval cloisters and sense of spirituality this raises the bar to a whole new level.
The site is not very large, but is worthy of exploration and if you chose you can buy honey or limoncello made at the Abbey itself.
87 locals recommend
Cluny Abbey of Holy Mary of Piona
55 Via Abbazia di PionaThe trip is worth it for the location alone with views across the lake to the mountains beyond. But factor in the historic abbey with its medieval cloisters and sense of spirituality this raises the bar to a whole new level.
The site is not very large, but is worthy of exploration and if you chose you can buy honey or limoncello made at the Abbey itself.
Fiumelatte is the shortest river in Italy, as it measures only 250 m from the source to its mouth. It runs with a descent of 36° making its water loud and foamy and giving it a "milky" white color from where it gets its name. The river dries up in the middle of October and reappears quite suddenly in the second half of March. This phenomenon implies that the river is an outlet of a big underground basin situated in the mountain above its source.
Fiumelatte station
Fiumelatte is the shortest river in Italy, as it measures only 250 m from the source to its mouth. It runs with a descent of 36° making its water loud and foamy and giving it a "milky" white color from where it gets its name. The river dries up in the middle of October and reappears quite suddenly in the second half of March. This phenomenon implies that the river is an outlet of a big underground basin situated in the mountain above its source.
The ruins of this large fortress are well preserved, with many signs explaining the relatively short history of the place. From the castle you can enjoy a great view over the lake and the Alps. It is situated in a quiet location on a hill, surrounded by forests, fields and farms. The surrounding area offers many opportunities for hiking.
34 locals recommend
Forte di Fuentes
Via Forte FuentesThe ruins of this large fortress are well preserved, with many signs explaining the relatively short history of the place. From the castle you can enjoy a great view over the lake and the Alps. It is situated in a quiet location on a hill, surrounded by forests, fields and farms. The surrounding area offers many opportunities for hiking.
There’s no shortage of historic churches in the communities around Lake Como but chief among them is the romanesque Church of Santa Maria, which dates to the early 12th century and is built in eye-catching black and white marble. Inside are the remains of 5th-century floor mosaics and ethereal frescoes dating from the 13th to the 16th century. The Church of San Vincenzo is directly behind, built between the 17th and 18th centuries on the site of a 5th-century chapel.
23 locals recommend
Chiesa Santa Maria del Tiglio
. Piazza XI FebbraioThere’s no shortage of historic churches in the communities around Lake Como but chief among them is the romanesque Church of Santa Maria, which dates to the early 12th century and is built in eye-catching black and white marble. Inside are the remains of 5th-century floor mosaics and ethereal frescoes dating from the 13th to the 16th century. The Church of San Vincenzo is directly behind, built between the 17th and 18th centuries on the site of a 5th-century chapel.
Through the exposure of original relics, documentary evidence and witness accounts, new archive footage and engaging reenactments, the exhibition invites the public to step onto the stage of history.
Advanced multimedia technology thrusts visitors into the tragic all-Italian war of Liberation fought by the Resistance movement on Lake Como as in the whole of Italy. The visitors will be able, in this way, to experience the capture and execution of Mussolini, dramatic end of twenty years Italian Fascism.
12 locals recommend
Museo della fine della Guerra
6 Piazza ParacchiniThrough the exposure of original relics, documentary evidence and witness accounts, new archive footage and engaging reenactments, the exhibition invites the public to step onto the stage of history.
Advanced multimedia technology thrusts visitors into the tragic all-Italian war of Liberation fought by the Resistance movement on Lake Como as in the whole of Italy. The visitors will be able, in this way, to experience the capture and execution of Mussolini, dramatic end of twenty years Italian Fascism.
Built in the late 16th century, this magnificent Villa is known for its picturesque gardens, which exclusively feature flowers and trees the colors of the Italian flag: green, white and red.
The interiors are embellished by many glass paintings and a rich collection of ethnic sculptures and artifacts.
Villa del Balbianello has been used as the setting for several movies, including A Summer on the Lake, Casino Royale, and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones.
Admission prices:
Garden only: about €10.
Entire estate: approx.20 €
337 locals recommend
Villa del Balbianello
Via Guido DelmatiBuilt in the late 16th century, this magnificent Villa is known for its picturesque gardens, which exclusively feature flowers and trees the colors of the Italian flag: green, white and red.
The interiors are embellished by many glass paintings and a rich collection of ethnic sculptures and artifacts.
Villa del Balbianello has been used as the setting for several movies, including A Summer on the Lake, Casino Royale, and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones.
Admission prices:
Garden only: about €10.
Entire estate: approx.20 €
Villa Monastero is a fairly small villa, now used for conferences, with a long thin garden along the lake shore. The garden has several different sections, including the grand landing stage, a formal terrace, sculpture-ornamented promenades and a collection of citrus trees. There are benches to sit on to admire the view.
151 locals recommend
Villa Monastero
4 Viale Giovanni PolvaniVilla Monastero is a fairly small villa, now used for conferences, with a long thin garden along the lake shore. The garden has several different sections, including the grand landing stage, a formal terrace, sculpture-ornamented promenades and a collection of citrus trees. There are benches to sit on to admire the view.
The farm is located in Mantello and lies directly on the Valtellina Valley Trail (see bike tours). In the farm shop they sell fresh, home-made products such as cheese, yoghurt, meat, etc. and in the restaurant you can enjoy various specialities from the region.
Kids can see the animals (cows, pigs and goats) and learn how cheese is made by watching its production process from the big windows of the dairy.
There is also a bicycle and ebike rental service at the farm.
13 locals recommend
La Fiorida
12 Via Lungo AddaThe farm is located in Mantello and lies directly on the Valtellina Valley Trail (see bike tours). In the farm shop they sell fresh, home-made products such as cheese, yoghurt, meat, etc. and in the restaurant you can enjoy various specialities from the region.
Kids can see the animals (cows, pigs and goats) and learn how cheese is made by watching its production process from the big windows of the dairy.
There is also a bicycle and ebike rental service at the farm.
Villa Olmo is a magnificent late 18th- century neoclassical manson overlooking the southwestern arm of Lake Como. Today, the former home of aristocrats and the wealthy elite is now a venue for important art exhibitions and other cultural activities. See works by great European artists and enjoy a stroll through its beautiful baroque garden.
129 locals recommend
Villa Olmo
1 Via Simone CantoniVilla Olmo is a magnificent late 18th- century neoclassical manson overlooking the southwestern arm of Lake Como. Today, the former home of aristocrats and the wealthy elite is now a venue for important art exhibitions and other cultural activities. See works by great European artists and enjoy a stroll through its beautiful baroque garden.
outdoor activities
The minigolf ground is quite old and small but the location is perfect, the view of the lake make you enjoy your time there. Big trees provide some shadowing.
Friendly staff and reasonably priced.
6 locals recommend
Mini Golf Menaggio
8 Piazzale Vittorio EmanueleThe minigolf ground is quite old and small but the location is perfect, the view of the lake make you enjoy your time there. Big trees provide some shadowing.
Friendly staff and reasonably priced.
Newton Rent a Boat is located in Dongo. They rent various motor boats.
The staff is very professional and friendly (they also speak English). The boats are very modern, clean and powerful.
Guests have a large parking lot at their disposal, free of charge.
12 locals recommend
Newton Rent a Boat ®
176 Via StataleNewton Rent a Boat is located in Dongo. They rent various motor boats.
The staff is very professional and friendly (they also speak English). The boats are very modern, clean and powerful.
Guests have a large parking lot at their disposal, free of charge.
Camping Magic Lake is located in Dongo directly on the lake, about 15 minutes walk from CasAllio.
They rent:
- SUP (stand up paddling)
- Kayak ( single, double, triple)
- bikes
Camping Magic Lake S.A.S. Antonello Di Maffia & C.
60 Via Vigna del LagoCamping Magic Lake is located in Dongo directly on the lake, about 15 minutes walk from CasAllio.
They rent:
- SUP (stand up paddling)
- Kayak ( single, double, triple)
- bikes
Lake Como Adventure Park is located quite high up (in Sant' Anna, 800m) - therefore the temperatures are very nice also in summer.
The routes of the Adventure Park are suitable for children (from 2-3 years) and adults. The equipment is well maintained and the staff is friendly.
22 locals recommend
Lake Como Adventure Park
Lake Como Adventure Park is located quite high up (in Sant' Anna, 800m) - therefore the temperatures are very nice also in summer.
The routes of the Adventure Park are suitable for children (from 2-3 years) and adults. The equipment is well maintained and the staff is friendly.
Marvélia Sailing School is located in Dongo, near Gravedona ed Uniti. They rent out a variety of sailing boats and offer sailing cour-ses as well as kitesurfing courses.
Marvélia - Scuola di vela
7 Via SorteniMarvélia Sailing School is located in Dongo, near Gravedona ed Uniti. They rent out a variety of sailing boats and offer sailing cour-ses as well as kitesurfing courses.
The E Bike Point Chicco is located in the centre of Dongo. They rent City Bikes, MTBs, Electric Bikes and Road Bikes.
There is also a Bike repair service.
E Bike Point Chicco Dongo
2 Via MercatoThe E Bike Point Chicco is located in the centre of Dongo. They rent City Bikes, MTBs, Electric Bikes and Road Bikes.
There is also a Bike repair service.
Wassersportcenter Domaso is a Sailing centre that offers catamaran and windsurfing lessons, rentals and more on the windiest part of the lake. They offer the latest surf models from Mistral, Neilpryde and North Sails. In the catamaran centre there are current and well maintained Topcat catamarans, of the type K1 and K2.
Canoe and bike rental is also available.
WSCD Wassersportcenter Domaso
24 Via Case SparseWassersportcenter Domaso is a Sailing centre that offers catamaran and windsurfing lessons, rentals and more on the windiest part of the lake. They offer the latest surf models from Mistral, Neilpryde and North Sails. In the catamaran centre there are current and well maintained Topcat catamarans, of the type K1 and K2.
Canoe and bike rental is also available.
The water park in Dervio has an area of 500 square meters. There are slides, trampolines and obstacles for all ages.
Opening hours:
Monday- Friday: from 13.00 to 19.30
Saturday and Sunday: from 11.00 to 19.30
(only in summer)
7 locals recommend
Acquapark Dervio
Localita’ La FoppaThe water park in Dervio has an area of 500 square meters. There are slides, trampolines and obstacles for all ages.
Opening hours:
Monday- Friday: from 13.00 to 19.30
Saturday and Sunday: from 11.00 to 19.30
(only in summer)
The Lido di Menaggio's position right on the lake is one of the best in the area and includes two swimming pools, (adults and toddler) a sandy beach, three restaurants, its own brewery, kids activities and volley ball.
52 locals recommend
Lido di Menaggio
11 Via RomaThe Lido di Menaggio's position right on the lake is one of the best in the area and includes two swimming pools, (adults and toddler) a sandy beach, three restaurants, its own brewery, kids activities and volley ball.
beaches
The beach is divided into a sunbathing area and a kitesurfing beach.
There is a beach bar, a children's playground, a volleyball court, free toilets and showers. At the bar they rent e-bikes, pedalos and canoes.
Various parties are organised at weekends during the summer.
BordeBeach - Lido di Dongo
Località LidoThe beach is divided into a sunbathing area and a kitesurfing beach.
There is a beach bar, a children's playground, a volleyball court, free toilets and showers. At the bar they rent e-bikes, pedalos and canoes.
Various parties are organised at weekends during the summer.
“Le Gere» is a gravel/sandy beach below the „La Breva“ campside with a large, partly shady lawn. It's nice to take a bath in the lake or in the river Albano (Attention: around 5pm the sluice is opened and the water level in the river rises). There ist also a little beach bar.
Spiaggia di Dongo
47 Via Cimitero“Le Gere» is a gravel/sandy beach below the „La Breva“ campside with a large, partly shady lawn. It's nice to take a bath in the lake or in the river Albano (Attention: around 5pm the sluice is opened and the water level in the river rises). There ist also a little beach bar.
Ristorants
Albergo Dongo offers a wide range of pizzas and pasta on the harbour of Dongo.
Due to Dongo's smaller size, it's a popular restaurant of choice - the tables filled very quickly. However, it's not just the limited choice that brings people to Albergo: the food is reasonably priced, of good quality and the service is attentive.
6 locals recommend
Albergo Ristorante Dongo (co)
3 Via CavourAlbergo Dongo offers a wide range of pizzas and pasta on the harbour of Dongo.
Due to Dongo's smaller size, it's a popular restaurant of choice - the tables filled very quickly. However, it's not just the limited choice that brings people to Albergo: the food is reasonably priced, of good quality and the service is attentive.
Nice little restaurant tucked away in a side street with a nice outdoor courtyard. The owner is truly adamant about using local & fresh ingredients. A good choice when staying in the neighbourhood.
Osteria del Bumbardin
3 Via ScaliniNice little restaurant tucked away in a side street with a nice outdoor courtyard. The owner is truly adamant about using local & fresh ingredients. A good choice when staying in the neighbourhood.
Popular ristorante for families in the old part of Dongo . Take away too.
Good Pizzas
Pizzeria Ristorante La Lampara Dongo
9 Via Manzi Don GiovanniPopular ristorante for families in the old part of Dongo . Take away too.
Good Pizzas
Crotto Isidoro (cash only)
14 Via VanzonicoAmazing view over the lake, tasty local authentic food
Typical rustic Valtellina inspired menu. Great views. Parking and road up a little bit of an experience but typical of hillside areas on the lake.
Crotto Bercini
14 Via VanzonicoTypical rustic Valtellina inspired menu. Great views. Parking and road up a little bit of an experience but typical of hillside areas on the lake.
Simple restaurant with friendly service. You meet a lot of local guests here who appreciate inexpensive, simple food.
Not directly on the water, but not on the street either.
6 minutes walk from CalsAllio.
Ristorante Lampara Dongo
9 Via Manzi Don GiovanniSimple restaurant with friendly service. You meet a lot of local guests here who appreciate inexpensive, simple food.
Not directly on the water, but not on the street either.
6 minutes walk from CalsAllio.
Simple but very tasty food, on a terrace, directly on the lake. Nice service.
5 minutes drive from CasAllio.
12 locals recommend
Hotel Ristorante Pizzeria Lumin Cremia Lago di Como
158 Via San VitoSimple but very tasty food, on a terrace, directly on the lake. Nice service.
5 minutes drive from CasAllio.
gelateria
Very tasty ice cream and a very large selection. I recommend il gelato al Tiramisù.
Opening hours:
10.00 - 12.30 e 14.30 - 22.00
Closed on Wednesday!
45 minutes walk from CasAllio.
La Carapina Gelateria
181A Via LavinoVery tasty ice cream and a very large selection. I recommend il gelato al Tiramisù.
Opening hours:
10.00 - 12.30 e 14.30 - 22.00
Closed on Wednesday!
45 minutes walk from CasAllio.
Very tasty ice cream, very friendly service. 5 minutes walk from CasAllio.
Golosella Gelateria Artigianale
1 Via Camillo Benso Conte di CavourVery tasty ice cream, very friendly service. 5 minutes walk from CasAllio.
Lovely setting right on the lake, charming decoration with lots of orchids and green. Great coffee, cappuccino and especially ice cream! In a relaxed atmosphere and at reasonable prices. Very nice service and great location.
approx. 25 minutes walk (along the lake) from CasAllio.
6 locals recommend
Orchidee del Lario
276 Via alla PonciaLovely setting right on the lake, charming decoration with lots of orchids and green. Great coffee, cappuccino and especially ice cream! In a relaxed atmosphere and at reasonable prices. Very nice service and great location.
approx. 25 minutes walk (along the lake) from CasAllio.
hiking/ walk
Very pretty historic and scenic walk. Leaving Lake Como along a section of the ancient Via Regina you arrive at the Monte Peschiera, at the bottom of this mountain there is the Romanic temple of S. Fedelino (X century) one of the first examples of Romanic art in Lombardy. The return to Dascio can also be done by boat weaving around the wild shore of the Mezzola Lake.
8 locals recommend
Tempietto di San Fedelino
Very pretty historic and scenic walk. Leaving Lake Como along a section of the ancient Via Regina you arrive at the Monte Peschiera, at the bottom of this mountain there is the Romanic temple of S. Fedelino (X century) one of the first examples of Romanic art in Lombardy. The return to Dascio can also be done by boat weaving around the wild shore of the Mezzola Lake.
An easy and pleasant walk that coasts along the western bank of Lake Como from Dongo to Cremia. The route is almost flat and is recommended for families with children, even with strollers. There is a short passage in Musso where you have to walk on the street.
9 locals recommend
Cremia
An easy and pleasant walk that coasts along the western bank of Lake Como from Dongo to Cremia. The route is almost flat and is recommended for families with children, even with strollers. There is a short passage in Musso where you have to walk on the street.
The Lake side walk starts behing the church of Santo Stefano and passes the beautiful beach area of Dongo. You reach the area called Sciatera where there is a sailing centre and a boat rental place. Just past the swimming pool of Gravedona you follow the cart track to the left and cross the bridge over the river Liro. Follow Gravedona’s lake side promenade lined with restaurants and cafés and the boat dock. Head towards Palazzo Gallio. Then walk along the uphill leading road that ends onto the state road. Immediately past the electric power plant you turn right (via Sorriso) in order to pick up the continuation of the lake side walk that leads to Domaso. It ends just before the pier of Domaso.
Duration: 1.20 hour
24 locals recommend
Domaso
The Lake side walk starts behing the church of Santo Stefano and passes the beautiful beach area of Dongo. You reach the area called Sciatera where there is a sailing centre and a boat rental place. Just past the swimming pool of Gravedona you follow the cart track to the left and cross the bridge over the river Liro. Follow Gravedona’s lake side promenade lined with restaurants and cafés and the boat dock. Head towards Palazzo Gallio. Then walk along the uphill leading road that ends onto the state road. Immediately past the electric power plant you turn right (via Sorriso) in order to pick up the continuation of the lake side walk that leads to Domaso. It ends just before the pier of Domaso.
Duration: 1.20 hour
Dongo- Church of San Bernardo
The hike from Dongo to the church of San Bernardo is very varied. You walk through forests, over meadows and rocks. The view is breathtaking.
A good basic level of fitness is required for the ascent. The paths are mostly well passable
Duration: approx. 5h
Length. 10,9 km
Chiesa di San Bernardo
Dongo- Church of San Bernardo
The hike from Dongo to the church of San Bernardo is very varied. You walk through forests, over meadows and rocks. The view is breathtaking.
A good basic level of fitness is required for the ascent. The paths are mostly well passable
Duration: approx. 5h
Length. 10,9 km
Passo San Jorio
How to get there:
Drive from Dongo to Stazzona, Germasino and Garzeno. In Garzeno, at the second S bend, take the turnoff for Sant'Anna and Bocchetta di Germasino. After the village of Sant'Anna, continue to Bocchetta di Germasino and park there.
Hike:
From Bocchetta di Germasino walk along the main road, which is asphalted for the first 800 meters and then becomes a dirt road. Continuing on, the trail enters the woods on a passable path that is almost flat halfway up (this stretch is quite boring, there is also the possibility to continue by car for a bit and park along the side of the path).
Then the mountain path changes into a slight slope until Rifugio San Jorio (1980m), from where you can enjoy a beautiful panorama over the Italian and Swiss mountains.
10 locals recommend
San Jorio Pass
Passo San Jorio
How to get there:
Drive from Dongo to Stazzona, Germasino and Garzeno. In Garzeno, at the second S bend, take the turnoff for Sant'Anna and Bocchetta di Germasino. After the village of Sant'Anna, continue to Bocchetta di Germasino and park there.
Hike:
From Bocchetta di Germasino walk along the main road, which is asphalted for the first 800 meters and then becomes a dirt road. Continuing on, the trail enters the woods on a passable path that is almost flat halfway up (this stretch is quite boring, there is also the possibility to continue by car for a bit and park along the side of the path).
Then the mountain path changes into a slight slope until Rifugio San Jorio (1980m), from where you can enjoy a beautiful panorama over the Italian and Swiss mountains.
The fairy tale forest in Dazio can be reached by car from Casallio in 45 minutes. The hike is especially suitable for families with children. Along the way there are carved wooden figures that immerse visitors in a fairy tale world.
The circular walk starts from the church of Sant Anna and lasts about 30 minutes without stopping. It is NOT suitable for strollers.
il bosco incantato di dazio
25 Via S. AnnaThe fairy tale forest in Dazio can be reached by car from Casallio in 45 minutes. The hike is especially suitable for families with children. Along the way there are carved wooden figures that immerse visitors in a fairy tale world.
The circular walk starts from the church of Sant Anna and lasts about 30 minutes without stopping. It is NOT suitable for strollers.
Immersed in the beautiful natural landscape and history on the western shore of the Como lake, the Greenway is a pleasant walk suitable for everyone and in all seasons. It is a 10-km-long walk with an elevation of 100 m, going through the medieval villages of Colonno, Sala Comacina, Ossuccio, Lenno, Mezzegra, Tremezzo and Griante, following the Ancient Via Regina. The ancient alleys and breathtaking views of the Greenway charm tourists who are enjoying the lakeshore trek. The path could be divided into 7 sections that could be done consequentially or separately. The best way toreturn to your starting point is by bus.
79 locals recommend
Greenway of Lake Como
Via Luigi CivettaImmersed in the beautiful natural landscape and history on the western shore of the Como lake, the Greenway is a pleasant walk suitable for everyone and in all seasons. It is a 10-km-long walk with an elevation of 100 m, going through the medieval villages of Colonno, Sala Comacina, Ossuccio, Lenno, Mezzegra, Tremezzo and Griante, following the Ancient Via Regina. The ancient alleys and breathtaking views of the Greenway charm tourists who are enjoying the lakeshore trek. The path could be divided into 7 sections that could be done consequentially or separately. The best way toreturn to your starting point is by bus.
Monte Berlinghera (1930 m a.s.l.)
Monte Berlinghera might not be a famous peak but panoramic views of Lake Como from its summit are matchless.
How to get there :
In Gera Lario, after the bridge, turn left and continue towards Bugiallo. At the church of S.Bartolomeo (1204 m) you can park your car.
Hike:
From the parking lot of the church, follow the trail until the alpine settlement "Alpe di Mezzo". Here you follow the red and white marked path until the pass "Bocchetta di Chiaro" (1670m), recognizable by a high voltage pole. At the pass a wide ridge path leads to the summit.
Hiking time : ascent and descent together 3 hrs.
Mountain hike also suitable for families
8 locals recommend
Monte Berlinghera
Monte Berlinghera (1930 m a.s.l.)
Monte Berlinghera might not be a famous peak but panoramic views of Lake Como from its summit are matchless.
How to get there :
In Gera Lario, after the bridge, turn left and continue towards Bugiallo. At the church of S.Bartolomeo (1204 m) you can park your car.
Hike:
From the parking lot of the church, follow the trail until the alpine settlement "Alpe di Mezzo". Here you follow the red and white marked path until the pass "Bocchetta di Chiaro" (1670m), recognizable by a high voltage pole. At the pass a wide ridge path leads to the summit.
Hiking time : ascent and descent together 3 hrs.
Mountain hike also suitable for families
Monte Duria (2264 m a.s.l.)
Situated at the centre of the Alto Lario area, Monte Duria is an extraordinary balcony with a 360 degree panoramic view of Lake Como, its peaks and wild valleys, Valtellina, the Alps and the Orobie mountain chain.
Approach:
You start from Bodone, a small summer settlement above Gravedona ed Uniti. After Peglio, take the turnoff for Bodone.
Hike:
The hike foresees a steep climb as well as some stretches on small rocks and is suitable only for more experienced hikers.
Duration: approx. 3h (ascent)
Monte Duria
Monte Duria (2264 m a.s.l.)
Situated at the centre of the Alto Lario area, Monte Duria is an extraordinary balcony with a 360 degree panoramic view of Lake Como, its peaks and wild valleys, Valtellina, the Alps and the Orobie mountain chain.
Approach:
You start from Bodone, a small summer settlement above Gravedona ed Uniti. After Peglio, take the turnoff for Bodone.
Hike:
The hike foresees a steep climb as well as some stretches on small rocks and is suitable only for more experienced hikers.
Duration: approx. 3h (ascent)
Dongo- Sant'Eufemia - Giardino del Merlo
This itinerary is suitable for all seasons, even in summer, because it is quite shady. The walk starts from the church of Santa Maria Martinico. It starts with a steep ascent and then goes up a gentle slope to the church of Sant' Eufemia. From there you can enjoy a beautiful view of the lake and the mountains.
Above the church is the entrance to the Giardino del Merlo (see Excursions - Giardino del Merlo). The path is very narrow and leads through tunnels, terraces and stairs through the Botanic garden.
Duration: ca.2h
Good shoes are necessary, for small children we can provide a backpack (just ask).
15 locals recommend
Il Giardino del Merlo
12 Via del GiardinoDongo- Sant'Eufemia - Giardino del Merlo
This itinerary is suitable for all seasons, even in summer, because it is quite shady. The walk starts from the church of Santa Maria Martinico. It starts with a steep ascent and then goes up a gentle slope to the church of Sant' Eufemia. From there you can enjoy a beautiful view of the lake and the mountains.
Above the church is the entrance to the Giardino del Merlo (see Excursions - Giardino del Merlo). The path is very narrow and leads through tunnels, terraces and stairs through the Botanic garden.
Duration: ca.2h
Good shoes are necessary, for small children we can provide a backpack (just ask).
A walk in the nature surrounding Menaggio. Historical villa, local delicacies and spectacular views of Lake Como.
Duration: ca. 5 hours
Percorso salute Parco Val Sanagra
Via Per BarnaA walk in the nature surrounding Menaggio. Historical villa, local delicacies and spectacular views of Lake Como.
Duration: ca. 5 hours
This great pyramid of a mountain can be seen from most parts of the lake, rising straight from the 200 metre waterline to its 2610 metre summit.
The ‘Via Normale’ is the usual approach, beginning at the Roccoli dei Lorla refuge and following the ridgeline for a total of 1150 metres ascent in around four hours. This is a fairly technical hike suited to experienced climbers with some stretches of fixed cable and some exposed sections.
Duration: 4 hours
26 locals recommend
Monte Legnone
This great pyramid of a mountain can be seen from most parts of the lake, rising straight from the 200 metre waterline to its 2610 metre summit.
The ‘Via Normale’ is the usual approach, beginning at the Roccoli dei Lorla refuge and following the ridgeline for a total of 1150 metres ascent in around four hours. This is a fairly technical hike suited to experienced climbers with some stretches of fixed cable and some exposed sections.
Duration: 4 hours