As one of the most picturesque towns on Lake Como—an impressive distinction in such a breathtaking area—the best things to do in Bellagio, Italy, largely center on appreciating the lake’s natural splendor.
Nestled at the base of the Alps, just a short distance from Milan or Switzerland, Lake Como is Italy’s most renowned northern lake, and Bellagio is arguably its most cherished town.
Whether you’re eager to take to the water, stroll through the charming streets, or simply relax by the lake with a gelato in hand, Bellagio on Lake Como has something for everyone.
Although Bellagio is a favored stop for day-trippers (and it’s small enough to see the highlights in a single day), we opted to stay for a few days to fully immerse ourselves in the charm of “The Pearl of Lake Como.”
Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Bellagio, Italy, along with some tips for making the most of your visit!
Where Exactly is Bellagio, Italy?
Lake Como is famously shaped like an upside-down “Y,” and Bellagio is perfectly situated in the center where all three arms of the lake meet.
This central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the entirety of Lake Como.
We’ll dive into the details below, but if you plan to include Bellagio in a day trip from Milan to Lake Como, you’ll either need to drive (not recommended due to limited parking) or take a train combined with a ferry or bus.
While it’s possible to navigate this independently, if you’re pressed for time or prefer to avoid the hassle, guided day trips like this one are an excellent alternative.
The Best Things to Do in Bellagio
Stroll along the waterfront.
Bellagio’s waterfront promenade, which offers stunning views of the lake and is shaded by blooming trees in summer, is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque spots in northern Italy.
If you’re visiting Bellagio in the warmer months, consider bringing a swimsuit to join the locals and tourists swimming along the shoreline.
Otherwise, simply soaking in the views is a perfectly satisfying way to spend your time.
Whether you’re in Bellagio for a few hours or a few days, exploring the waterfront should be at the top of your list.
Explore Bellagio’s steep, winding streets.
While the waterfront area is flat and easily accessible, the rest of Bellagio is built on steep hills!
Despite its small size, navigating the narrow, cobbled streets of Bellagio can be a bit of a workout.
But the effort is well worth it—and you can reward yourself with a refreshing gelato once you reach the top.
Take a boat tour of Lake Como from Bellagio.
One of the absolute must-do activities on Lake Como, whether you’re in Bellagio or another town, is to take a boat tour on a small speedboat.
The typical tour lasts about an hour, offering beautiful views of the lake, nearby towns, and some of the famous villas along the shoreline.
Taking a boat tour is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience Lake Como, and it’s a highlight of any visit to Bellagio.
…or try a kayaking tour!
If you’re looking for something a bit more active, a kayaking tour is a fantastic way to explore Lake Como up close.
Capture the iconic Bellagio photo at Salita Serbelloni.
If you’ve seen photos of Bellagio, chances are you’ve come across the famous shot looking down Salita Serbelloni from Via Giuseppe Garibaldi.
This charming spot, accessed after a bit of a climb past numerous restaurants, shops, and cafes, is just as lovely in person as it is in photos.
Like other popular photo spots, it can get crowded, especially during the day, so if you want a more tranquil experience, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening after most day-trippers have departed.
Visit the beautiful Melzi Gardens.
Villa Melzi d’Eril, built as a summer retreat in the 19th century, is one of Lake Como’s many stunning villas—and it’s just a short walk from the heart of Bellagio!
While the villa itself isn’t open to the public, its surrounding botanical gardens are, offering a peaceful escape within easy reach of the town center.
Admire the views from Punta Spartivento.
For an unforgettable view of Lake Como, head to Punta Spartivento and stroll along its observation deck.
The on-site restaurant is well-reviewed, and the panoramic views are free to enjoy.
Whether you come for dinner or just a leisurely walk, Punta Spartivento is a must-visit when exploring Bellagio.
Step inside the Basilica San Giacomo.
Dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries, the Romanesque Basilica San Giacomo is located in Bellagio’s town center on Piazza della Chiesa.
It’s quick, easy, and free to step inside, making it a worthwhile addition to your list of things to see in Bellagio.
Take a stroll to Pescallo.
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and resort atmosphere of this town, Pescallo is a tiny, picturesque fishing village less than a mile away.
With a small harbor and far fewer visitors than Bellagio, it’s a peaceful retreat.
And, as is often the case around Lake Como, the journey itself is part of the experience: the walk from Bellagio to Pescallo offers stunning views along the way.
Shop the boutiques.
As one of Italy’s most popular resort towns, Bellagio is home to numerous beautiful boutiques offering everything from clothing and accessories to gourmet food products.
If you’re in the market for some of Italy’s best souvenirs, it is the perfect place to shop.
Take a ferry to other charming towns around Lake Como.
It’s central location on Lake Como makes it an excellent base for day trips to nearby towns!
Whether you want to visit the picturesque towns of Varenna and Menaggio or tour the stunning Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, you’re sure to have a fantastic time.
With frequent ferries and easy connections, you can even visit multiple towns in one day while exploring Lake Como.
Just be sure to keep an eye on the ferry schedule as you go!
Dine at Bellagio’s restaurants.
As a popular resort destination, it boasts an impressive number of restaurants, ranging from gourmet establishments to casual eateries.
If you’re hoping to dine on a terrace overlooking Lake Como, be prepared to pay a premium—and potentially wait for a table!
It’s a good idea to make reservations in advance for lakefront restaurants like Alle Darsene di Loppia, as recommended by locals.
Even if you find a spot as a walk-up, reserving a table with the best view is well worth it.
We opted for more casual dining during our stay in the town and enjoyed meals at Bistro Antichi Sapori and Antico Pozzo Ristorante.
We particularly loved the mushroom and saffron risotto at Antico Pozzo Ristorante, but recommend arriving early to avoid waiting!
Go for a swim.
Whether you choose to visit the trendy Lido di Bellagio beach club or simply find a spot along the shore, swimming is one of the top summer activities in Bellagio.
Even in July, the water was a bit chilly for our liking—but that didn’t stop many visitors from taking a refreshing dip!
Where to Stay in Bellagio, Italy
Despite its small size, it offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to charming rental apartments.
However, due to its popularity and limited size, lodging in Bellagio can book up quickly.
We recommend securing your accommodation as soon as you’ve finalized your travel dates.
And if you’re visiting Bellagio without a car (which we advise for most travelers), it’s best to book a place within walking distance of the town center, if not in the center itself.
We stayed in a lovely one-bedroom apartment at Appartamenti Meraviglia during our trip to Bellagio and appreciated its central location and quiet atmosphere at night.
The apartment was spacious and beautifully appointed, and the balcony with a view of the town was a delightful bonus.
When we return to Bellagio, we’d be more than happy to stay at Appartamenti Meraviglia again.
If you prefer a more traditional hotel, Hotel Centrale Bellagio is highly rated, offers a great location, and includes a hearty breakfast.
For those looking to splurge on an unforgettable experience, the famous Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is an excellent choice.
Originally a private villa for three generations, this luxurious hotel has been pampering guests since 1873.
Getting To + Around Bellagio, Lake Como
Although centrally located on Lake Como, it isn’t the easiest town to reach.
Without a train station, you’ll need to get there by bus or ferry.
While buses might be faster, especially when compared to the local ferry that stops at multiple towns, the ferry is undoubtedly the more scenic option.
If you choose the direct hydrofoil, the ferry ride will be quicker.
Taking a Day Trip to Bellagio From Milan
If you’re considering a day trip to Bellagio from Milan, it’s important to note that it’s not the simplest way to experience Lake Como in a day.
Varenna and the city of Como, both of which have direct train access to Milan, are quicker to reach and may be better options for a day trip.
However, it remains one of the most popular spots on Lake Como for a reason, and it’s certainly possible to visit from Milan, either independently or as part of an organized tour.
To get to Bellagio from Milan on your own, start by taking a train to Varenna, which takes about an hour. After arriving, walk downhill to the ferry
Depending on your timing, it’s possible to complete the trip in two to two and a half hours each way.