Bellagio Travel Guide: Discover the Pearl of Lake Como

Known as the “pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is one of Italy’s most beautiful lakeside towns. Nestled on a promontory where the lake divides into two southern arms, it offers views of both the surrounding Alps and the glittering waters below. With its pastel-colored houses, cobbled stairways, and relaxed atmosphere, Bellagio perfectly captures the charm of northern Italy. It’s not only a destination in itself but also an ideal base for exploring nearby towns and other things to do in Lake Como.

A blend of natural beauty, historical elegance, and lakeside leisure, Bellagio attracts travelers from all over the world seeking stunning scenery, Italian cuisine, and a taste of la dolce vita.

Getting to Bellagio

Bellagio sits on a scenic peninsula in the middle of Lake Como, and reaching it is easier than you might think.

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

By Car: Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the area’s many small towns and mountain roads. The drive from Como to Bellagio follows a winding lakeside road with exceptional views.

By Public Transport: Travelers on a budget can reach Bellagio via Milan and Varenna. Take a train from Milan’s Stazione Centrale to Varenna, then board a ferry that crosses the lake in just 15 minutes. This route is typically quicker and more scenic than going via Como.

Getting Around Bellagio

Bellagio is small, walkable, and full of pedestrian-only lanes. Most attractions can be reached on foot, though the steep cobbled streets can be a workout. Ferries connect Bellagio to neighboring towns like Varenna, Menaggio, and Como, making day trips easy.

For more flexibility, consider renting a bike or even a small motorboat to explore the lake at your own pace. Private boat tours are a great way to enjoy unique views of Bellagio and nearby villas.

Top Things to Do in Bellagio

Wander the Streets

Stroll through the labyrinth of cobbled lanes lined with colorful houses in pink, terracotta, and yellow. Salita Serbelloni, one of the most iconic stairways, runs from the waterfront up to Via Giuseppe Garibaldi and is filled with boutiques and cafes.

Explore the Waterfront Promenade

Walk south from the ferry terminal to enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and Bellagio’s elegant architecture. The promenade is particularly enchanting at sunset.

Visit the Villas and Gardens

• Villa Melzi and its Gardens: Built in 1808 as the summer home of Francesco Melzi d’Eril, this neoclassical villa is surrounded by serene lakeside gardens open to the public.
• Parco di Villa Serbelloni: Set on a hill overlooking the lake, this estate features beautifully landscaped gardens and panoramic trails.

Visit Historical Sites

• Basilica of San Giacomo: A Romanesque church dating from the 11th–12th centuries, located in the town center.
• La Punta Spartivento: A small park offering incredible views where the lake splits in two.
• Borgo di Pescallo: A peaceful lakeside hamlet perfect for quiet walks and photography.

Museums and Cultural Stops

• Museo degli Strumenti per la Navigazione: Showcasing centuries of navigational instruments, from astrolabes to chronometers.
• Ghisallo Cycling Museum: Located near the Madonna di Ghisallo chapel, it honors the history and heroes of Italian cycling.

Activities and Experiences

Try a cooking class, join a wine tasting at Enoteca la Principessa or Cava Turacciolo, or rent a boat to explore the lake’s coves. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike nearby trails or cycle to the famous Ghisallo Pass.

Where to Stay in Bellagio

Bellagio’s accommodations range from five-star luxury to family-run B&Bs.

Luxury Options:

• Grand Hotel Serbelloni – A historic 5-star lakeside hotel in the heart of Bellagio.
• Hotel Belvedere Bellagio – Known for its panoramic restaurant, La Terrazza.
• Hotel Villa Lario and Filario Hotel – Stylish lakefront stays offering modern amenities.

Mid-Range and Budget:

• Residence la Limonera and Villa La Rosa B&B offer great comfort at reasonable rates.
• Il Perlo Panorama sits above the town and provides shuttle service to the center.

Wherever you stay, try to book a room with a lake view—it’s worth it.

Eating and Drinking in Bellagio

Bellagio’s restaurant scene caters mainly to visitors, offering everything from simple pizza slices to refined lakeside dining.

Popular Spots:

• Far Out – Known for its pasta and friendly service.
• Barchetta – Cozy, with excellent pizza.
• Enoteca Cava Turacciolo – A wine bar in a stone cellar, great for tasting local wines.
• La Torre – Affordable light meals served on the main square.

For a special meal, Ristorante La Terrazza at Hotel Belvedere offers stunning lake views.

Local Dishes:
Try Tóch, a creamy polenta dish mixed with butter and cheese, or Risotto alla Milanese con midollo. Traditional desserts include miasca (cornmeal cake with dried fruit) and Pan meino (elderflower biscuit cake).

Costs and Budget Tips

Lake Como has a reputation for luxury, but Bellagio can suit a range of budgets.

Average Weekly Costs (excluding flights):

• Budget: $650–$880 per person
• Mid-range: $1,490–$2,040
• Luxury: $2,100–$2,930

To save money, opt for accommodations with kitchen facilities, refill water at public fountains, and use ferries instead of private transfers.

When to Visit Bellagio

The best time to visit is from May to September, when temperatures range between 70°F and 82°F. Spring and early fall are perfect for sightseeing, while July and August are best for swimming and sunbathing. Winters are quiet but picturesque, with snow-capped peaks and fewer crowds.

Practical Information

Bellagio’s tourist information office is located at the main ferry jetty, where you can find maps and walking tour leaflets. Wear comfortable shoes, as many streets are uphill, and take advantage of free water fountains throughout town.

A Glimpse into Bellagio’s History

Bellagio’s story stretches back to Roman times, when its location made it a valuable trading post. During the 19th century, it became a favorite retreat for Milanese aristocrats such as Count Francesco Melzi d’Eril, who built Villa Melzi and turned the town into a fashionable getaway. Over the centuries, Bellagio’s natural beauty and romantic appeal have continued to attract artists, writers, and travelers from around the world.