Bellagio Travel Guide: Discover the Pearl of Lake Como

Often called the “pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is one of northern Italy’s most picturesque destinations. Perfectly positioned on a peninsula where the lake divides into two southern branches, the town offers spellbinding views of both the Alps and the shimmering waters below. Its pastel façades, cobbled stairways, and relaxed atmosphere make Bellagio a highlight for anyone exploring the region.

The town combines natural beauty, historical charm, and an easygoing lakeside lifestyle. It’s not only a must-visit spot but also an excellent base for exploring nearby villages and discovering other things to do in Lake Como.

Getting to Bellagio

Bellagio sits on a scenic peninsula in the heart of Lake Como, and while it might seem tucked away, it’s surprisingly easy to reach.

By Air: The nearest airports are Milan Malpensa (around 1 hour 30 minutes away) and Milan Bergamo.

By Car: Hiring a car is the most flexible option for reaching Bellagio and exploring the surrounding area. The route from Como follows a winding lakeside road with breathtaking scenery.

By Public Transport: Travelling by train and ferry is a more affordable choice. From Milan’s Stazione Centrale, take a train to Varenna and then a 15-minute ferry across to Bellagio. This route is typically faster and more scenic than travelling via Como.

Getting Around Bellagio

Bellagio is compact and easily explored on foot. The town’s narrow, cobbled streets and staircases are ideal for leisurely strolls. Ferries connect Bellagio to nearby towns such as Varenna, Menaggio, and Como, so day trips are simple to arrange.

For a more independent experience, you can hire a bike or even rent a small boat to cruise the lake. Private boat tours are also popular for those who want to admire the villas and villages from the water.

Top Things to Do in Bellagio

Wander the Streets

The best way to get to know Bellagio is by wandering through its maze of charming lanes. Lined with colourful buildings in warm shades of pink, terracotta, and yellow, these streets are filled with boutiques, cafés, and gelaterias. Don’t miss Salita Serbelloni, a famous stepped street that climbs from the lakefront up to Via Giuseppe Garibaldi.

Stroll Along the Waterfront

Walk south from the ferry terminal along the tree-lined promenade to enjoy superb lake views. The waterfront is particularly lovely at sunset, when Bellagio’s pastel buildings glow against the backdrop of the mountains.

Visit Villas and Gardens

• Villa Melzi and its Gardens: Built in 1808 as the summer residence of Francesco Melzi d’Eril, this elegant neoclassical villa is surrounded by tranquil gardens open to the public.
• Parco di Villa Serbelloni: A grand estate overlooking the lake, offering sweeping views and beautifully maintained parkland.

Explore Historical and Cultural Sites

• Basilica of San Giacomo: A Romanesque church from the 11th–12th centuries located in the town centre.
• La Punta Spartivento: A scenic viewpoint at the tip of the promontory where the lake splits in two.
• Borgo di Pescallo: A peaceful hamlet on the water’s edge, perfect for quiet walks and lakeside photography.
• Museo degli Strumenti per la Navigazione: A fascinating museum displaying historic navigational instruments.
• Madonna di Ghisallo and the Ghisallo Cycling Museum: A chapel and museum dedicated to the history of Italian cycling, located near a famous mountain pass.

Experiences and Activities

Bellagio offers plenty of ways to immerse yourself in local life. Take a cooking class, join a wine tasting at Enoteca la Principessa or Cava Turacciolo, or rent a boat to explore hidden coves. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike or cycle through the surrounding hills.

Where to Stay in Bellagio

Bellagio offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to charming guesthouses.

Luxury Stays:

• Grand Hotel Serbelloni – A historic five-star hotel right on the lakefront.
• Hotel Belvedere Bellagio – Known for its panoramic restaurant, La Terrazza.
• Hotel Villa Lario and Filario Hotel – Elegant lakefront properties with modern style.

Mid-Range and Budget Options:

• Residence la Limonera and Villa La Rosa B&B provide comfort and convenience at fair prices.
• Il Perlo Panorama offers stunning terrace views above the town and transport to the centre.

Wherever you stay, it’s worth choosing a room with a lake view for the full Bellagio experience.

Eating and Drinking in Bellagio

Bellagio’s dining scene is designed for leisurely meals with a view. Most restaurants cater to visitors, offering a mix of Italian classics and regional Lombard dishes.

Recommended Spots:

• Far Out – Popular for its fresh pasta and friendly service.
• Barchetta – A cosy restaurant known for its pizzas.
• Enoteca Cava Turacciolo – A welcoming cellar wine bar with tasting plates.
• La Torre – A relaxed café on the main square with light bites and good value.

For a memorable meal, try Ristorante La Terrazza at Hotel Belvedere, which pairs excellent food with lake views.

Local Specialities:
Sample Tóch, a creamy polenta dish served with butter, cheese, and dried lake fish. Other regional favourites include Risotto alla Milanese con midollo and desserts like miasca (cornmeal cake with dried fruit) or Pan meino (biscuits made with elderflowers).

Budget and Costs

While Lake Como is known for its luxury, Bellagio can fit various budgets.

Average Weekly Costs (excluding flights):

• Budget: £520–£700 per person
• Mid-range: £1,200–£1,650
• Luxury: £1,700–£2,400

Save money by staying in self-catering accommodation, using public ferries instead of private transfers, and refilling water bottles at public fountains.

When to Visit Bellagio

The best time to visit is from May to September, when temperatures range from 21°C to 28°C. Spring and early autumn are ideal for sightseeing, while the summer months are perfect for swimming and enjoying the lakeside atmosphere. Winter brings fewer crowds and snow-topped peaks, creating a tranquil setting.

Practical Information

Bellagio’s tourist information office, located at the main ferry terminal, offers maps and walking guides. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the hilly streets, and free drinking water fountains can be found throughout town.

A Glimpse into Bellagio’s History

Bellagio’s history stretches back to Roman times, when its location made it a key trading point. In the 19th century, Milanese aristocrats, including Count Francesco Melzi d’Eril, transformed it into a fashionable retreat, building grand villas and landscaped gardens. Over the years, it has continued to attract artists, writers, and travellers drawn to its peaceful beauty and romantic views.