Surrounded by mountains and dotted with incredible little villages, Lake Como immediately gives the impression of a postcard setting. Located about an hour from Milan, this large Y-shaped lake has attracted travelers, artists, and celebrities seeking tranquility and spectacular scenery for centuries.
Europe’s most beautiful lake, perfect for a peaceful getaway
The lake is one of the deepest in Europe and stretches over 45 kilometers. Its unique shape creates several branches, each with its own atmosphere. The best known is the one connecting Como, Bellagio, and Varenna, three stops that alone capture the spirit of the place. With their colorful facades, narrow streets, and waterfront terraces, these villages offer the perfect setting for a carefree stroll.
Bellagio, often called the “pearl of the lake,” draws visitors with its cobblestone stairways and mountain views. Across the water, Varenna charms with its quieter atmosphere and lakeside gardens. The “Walk of Love,” suspended above the water, remains one of the must-see attractions in Como.
Throughout the day, the lake can also be explored from the water: ferries make it easy to travel from one village to another, offering a different perspective on the villas and the surrounding landscape. Among the most famous, historic residences such as Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta showcase the elegance of the area, with their meticulously maintained gardens and unobstructed views.
In terms of practicality, getting to Lake Como from Paris is easy by combining a flight to Milan followed by a train to the lake. Once there, while a car is certainly convenient, boats and trains make it easy to get around between the different points along the lake.
One day is enough to see the must-sees, but staying for a weekend allows you to fully enjoy the pace of the place. Taking the time to sit on a terrace, walk along the water, or simply take in the scenery is part of the experience. And if you visit this spring, the lake will be the setting for an incredible boat race around Villa d’Este.
Both accessible and exotic, Lake Como offers a getaway where you can alternate between nature, architecture, and moments of pure relaxation. A perfect travel idea as soon as the warm weather returns and the urge to get away strikes!
📍Lake Como
