Planning your dream vacation to Lake Como? Then a visit to Bellagio is an absolute must! Known as the pearl of the Lake, this picturesque village is famous for its charm and incredible location.
In this guide, we’ll show you the perfect itinerary for exploring Bellagio. And since it is a small village, we’ll also suggest a complementary visit to Bellano, popular for its unique natural cave. Discover how to make the most of your day in Bellagio and Bellano, including the best things to see, and the must-visit restaurants.
What to see in one day in Bellagio and Bellano:
1. Breakfast at Pasticceria Lorla – Café Haus
3. Santi Nazaro and Celso Church
4. Lunch in the Garden: Bilacus Restaurant
Quick Facts
Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy, and the most well-known internationally. It has served as a peaceful retreat since Roman times and continues to attract celebrities and aristocrats who own vacation homes along the lake shores.
In 2014, it earned the title of the most beautiful lake in the world, thanks to its unique blend of nature and opulent villas. Visiting Lake Como feels like stepping into a movie, where the majestic mountains meet the blue water, punctually adorned with stunning Italian villas and charming towns.
The must-visit spots in Lago di Como are Menaggio, Varenna, Bellagio, and Como. Thanks to its popularity, the lake region is very developed making travel between these places effortless, often by ferry. So be sure to put on your list several towns, as it won’t be hard to go from one place to another.
Itinerary
As the second stop of this 3-day trip to Lake Como, we’re heading to Bellagio, the pearl of the lake, followed by the quieter Bellano. If you’re planning to visit other destinations around the lake, be sure to check the itineraries for the best things to do in Menaggio and Varenna.
Bellagio is the most famous of the villages around Lake Como. Situated in a privileged position on the lake, this peninsula enjoys lakeshores from both sides. The village is full of restaurants, small shops, and cute spots with views over the lake, offering that iconic old Italian charm.
On the flip side, Bellano remains a hidden gem, far less crowded but equally deserving of a visit. The highlight here is the Bellano Orrido, a fascinating natural cave at open sky.
Let’s dive into our one-day itinerary in Bellagio and Bellano!
1. Breakfast at Pasticceria Lorla - Café Haus
This itinerary starts at Bellano, after a ferry ride through the lake. Just a two-minute stroll from Bellano Ferry Port, you’ll find the lovely Lorla Bakery. Its sweet selection resembles an art exhibition with each pastry crafted to the highest professional standard.
For an authentic Italian experience, take a fresh baked good and a cappuccino to the sitting area outside and enjoy the perfect breakfast.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8.00am to 12.00pm and from 3.00pm to 6.00pm
2. Bellano Canyon: L'Orrido
The Orrido is a natural gorge, shaped over 15 million years ago by the river, containing several caves and running water. This natural wonder features a structured pathway allowing visitors to explore the canyon, offering stunning views of waterfalls, rock formations, and the diverse plant life that inhabits the area. Make a small break from the lake views, and explore this unique natural treasure.
Opening hours: Every day from 9.00am to 7.00pm
Ticket price: 6€ for adults, 4€ for visitors under 12, and free for children under 3.
Book your tickets here.
Pro Tip: The best time to visit the Bellano Orrido is during the rainy months such as Winter and Spring time. Keep in mind that during summer, you may not witness its full splendor.
3. Santi Nazaro and Celso Church
Italian: Chiesa Prepositurale dei Santi Nazaro e Celso
Dating back to the 14th century, this Church displays a late-Romanesque style, characterized by its distinctive black and white marble strip façade, typical of the Lombardia region. The interior holds numerous architectural treasures, including the carved wooden confessionals and various religious artifacts. However, the highlight of the church lies in the amazing frescoes that adorned the central vault.
Opening hours: Weekdays from 7.00am to 6.30pm and Weekend from 7.00am to 7.00pm
Ticket price: free
4. Lunch in the Garden: Bilacus Restaurant
As the rest of the day will be spent in Bellagio, make your way over to the Varenna ferry station, whether you’re driving or catching the train. From the Varenna ferry port hop on the ferry and enjoy a 20-minute boat ride soaking in the breathtaking views of the lake.
Being lunchtime, our first stop in Bellagio is the lovely restaurant Bilacus. Just a quick 5-minute walk from the port, this restaurant may not offer a lakeside view, but it hides a relaxing secret garden, with stunning mountain views.
The menu is specially dedicated to Lake’s classic cuisine, featuring top-notch Italian ingredients and freshly made pasta every single day.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 12.00pm to 2.20pm and from 7.00pm to 9.20pm. Price range: choose from a set menu priced at either 35€ or 45€.
5. Villa Melzi
While the Villa Melzi itself remains closed to the public, fortunately, it is possible to explore its stunning gardens, considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Constructed at the beginning of the 19th century, this blend of English-style garden with an Italian touch showcases Neoclassical design, with great attention to detail.
Through the gardens, you’ll find exotic plant species gathered from every continent, creating a harmonious space between the lake and the hills. The ticket also grants access to the museum, which displays artifacts from the Napoleonic era, as well as the garden chapel designed as a neoclassical temple.
No need to say that one of the garden highlights is the stunning views over the lake, facing the Tremezzo shore.
Opening hours: Every day from 10.00am to 7.00pm
Ticket price: 10€ for adults and free for children under 11.
The tickets can be purchased at the garden entrance.
6. Historic Center
Italian: Centro Storico
Have you seen those stunning photos and videos on Instagram showcasing the charming villages of Lake Como? Well, guess what? They’re all about Bellagio. Its historic center is a labyrinth of picturesque narrow streets, up and down the hill, offering incredible views over the mountains and the lake. From luxury fashion boutiques to artisanal local product shops, the romantic vibe of Bellagio invites you to explore every corner.
7. San Giacomo Basilica
Italian: Basilica di San Giacomo
As you wander through Bellagio’s center, you’ll stumble upon Piazza della Chiesa, a stone square up on the hill, dominated by the 11th-century San Giacomo Church. While its façade is rather simple, presenting a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements, it is the inside that will truly mesmerize you.
The richly decorated baroque style has nothing to do with the outside. The church is adorned with a stunning 19th-century altar embellished with mosaics, alongside sculptures and paintings dating back to the 17th century. However, the biggest treasure of all is the 19th-century painting of the Deposition of Jesus in the tomb, attributed to the Perugiano school. Not to be missed!
Opening hours: Every day from 10.00am to 7.00pm
Ticket price: free
8. Aperitif
Italian: Aperitivo
You probably already know that enjoying an aperitif, or aperitivo in Italian, is a real ritual. And let me tell you, this spot we’re suggesting may have the most stunning aperitif view ever!
Nothing beats the lake views of the bar at the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. This historic villa was turned into a 5-star hotel, and you can experience a glimpse of a stay there for a fraction of the price!
Enjoy your aperitivo at Bar Terrazza Darsena with the best views of Lake Como. Plus, from 7.30pm to 8.30pm your Aperol, or drink of choice, is accompanied by live music! Cheers to la dolce vita!
Opening hours: Every day from 12.00pm to 10.00pm
9. Panoramic view: Punta spartivento
Puntaspartivento is the point where Lake Como divides into two branches. It’s nestled deeper within the lake’s waters, so naturally, it offers breathtaking views of both sides of the lake. Here you’ll find several garden benches where you can take a moment to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. Whether you choose to peacefully read a book or simply marvel at the grand of mother nature, this spot offers the perfect opportunity to unwind from the rush of daily life.
10. Dinner: La Grotta
For an exceptional dinner, I highly recommend trying out the traditional restaurant La Grotta, located just within a 10-minute walk from Puntaspartivento and conveniently close to the ferry port. This charming restaurant is a well-kept secret among locals, known for its delicious pizzas and fresh seafood dishes.
To have an authentic experience I recommend starting your meal with the clams, cozze alla marinara, in Italian, as an appetizer. Following that, dive into one of the seafood pasta dishes, like spaghetti ai frutti di mare, and complement it with an amazing pizza of your choice. To finish this day on a high note, treat yourself to the house special tiramisù!
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 12.00pm to 2.30pm and from 7.00pm to 9.30pm. Price range: 30€ – 40€
Transport and Moving Around
The historic centers of Bellagio and Bellano are very small so everything is within walking distance. To travel between Bellano and Bellagio you can catch the train from the station Bellano Tartavalle Terme to Varenna Esino and afterwards hop on the ferry to Bellagio.
The best way to arrive at Bellagio without a car is by ferry. If you’ll be arriving at Como by train, from the Lago Como train station, go to the ferry terminal, and with a scenic 40-minute ferry ride you will arrive at Bellagio. Alternatively, from the Varenna-Esino train station, within a 7-minute walk, you can reach the ferry port and enjoy a 17-minute boat ride with breathtaking lake views.
From other cities you can reach Bellagio by a combination of train and ferry:
- Milan – around 2 hours
- Rome – around 5 hours
- Turin – around 3 hours
Tips
Lake Como in general is a tourist destination, so anticipate some crowds during your visit. Preferably plan your trip for the springtime – when the lake it’s in full bloom – or the early days of summer, when it’s not as packed and the weather is perfect. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance and make reservations at restaurants to make sure your holidays go as smoothly as possible.
Summary
In this itinerary, we have explored some of the most iconic things to see in Bellagio, from its charming historic center to the magnificent Villa Melzi. Additionally, we’ve recommended exploring Bellano, which remains a hidden gem of the lake. We’ve included some fantastic restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy great food and the most stunning panoramas of Lake Como.
Don’t forget to check the itineraries with the best things to do in Mennagio and Varenna for a perfect itinerary around the lake.
Happy travels!
Planning a day trip to Milan after enjoying the lake?
Check our travel guide with the best things to do in a day!
Milan, Italy: the city that effortlessly joins the new, such as luxury fashion, with the glorious days of the past, like the timeless Milan Cathedral. If you will be exploring Milan city and you are wondering what to do
Great explanation, you choose the most interesting facts, thanks for the itinerary❤️🩹
Italy is my dream.I fancy drawing something in front of sea,sipping americano and finally getting joy in my life.
Your website help me imagine this.
I hope one day i could visit Italy and use your website as a guid
Have a nice day from Belarus:)
like everything
beautiful website and locations
love love love
so interesting!!❤️