The Pearl of Lake Como is home to winding cobblestone lanes that lead to magnificent villas, pristine gardens, lively squares and traditional fishing communities.
Waterfront promenades, scenic lookouts, cobblestone stairways and centuries-old architecture make Bellagio one of Lake Como’s most romantic and picturesque destinations. This historic village sits on a headland at the centre of the lake, surrounded by cypress-covered hills, flower-filled gardens and glistening deep blue water.
Bellagio’s tree-lined waterfront is often the first port of call for visitors and a place to arrange boat excursions. Check out the waterfront’s elegant arcade, home to cafés, ice cream parlors and restaurants. Take a guided tour of the spectacular gardens of Villa Serbelloni, a grand neoclassical palace and hotel. Walk to Punta Spartivento, where a park and harbour afford superb views across Lake Como.
Follow the cobblestone alleyways that rise up from the waterfront to Via Garibaldi, the village’s main street. Browse the boutiques and handicraft shops and admire the old red-roofed buildings. Visit Bellagio’s main square, Piazza dell Chiesa, and step inside the 11th-century Basilica di San Giacomo. Look over the medieval tower, once part of Bellagio’s ancient fortifications.
From Bellagio’s town centre, take the walking trails that pass along the waterfront and over the forested hills to pretty hamlets. Just 15 minutes on foot is the traditional fishing community of Pescallo. Here you can try watersports such as kayaking, wakeboarding and windsurfing.
Another good place to visit is the hamlet of San Giovanni, about a 20-minute walk from the waterfront. Go on a tour of its Museo degli Strumenti della Navigazione (Museum of Navigation Instruments) and stroll around the formal gardens of the 19th-century Villa Melzi D’Eril.
Buses and ferries connect Bellagio with other Lake Como destinations, including Como, Lecco, Menaggio and Varenna. Get around on foot, or in the summer months, use the tourist train. Bellagio’s position at the tip of a headland makes it very easy to travel to other lakeside destinations. Don’t miss a side trip to the archeological sites on Isola Comacina, which is Lake Como’s only island.
