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Lake Como | Italy’s Scenic Paradise
Reasons to Visit Lake Como
Surrounded by the majestic Bergamo Alps in Northern Italy, Lake Como offers breathtaking views throughout the year. In the summer season, the mountainsides are filled with luscious greenery, while the winter season transforms them into a snowy wonderland. With trails like the Palmenwald-Cascata Loop near Menaggio, it is the perfect place for hiking lovers. This 10-kilometre route winds through dense forests and cascading waterfalls to provide a peaceful escapade. If you are looking for a more challenging adventure, you can consider hiking to the highest peak of Monte Legnone at 2,609 metres. The panoramic views from the summit of this mountain make every step of the journey worthwhile.
Visiting the Lake of Como offers a chance to explore charming towns and villages that line its scenic shores. The sights stretch from the largest town of Como filled with shops and restaurants to the historic 14th-century Duomo. Also known as the Pearl of Lake Como, Bellagio attracts you towards its manicured gardens and stunning views. Menaggio charms you with its old churches and colourful buildings, while Varenna invites you to a pebbly beach and romantic promenade. If you are seeking a quieter retreat, you can visit Cernobbio for fun walks and cycling in tranquil landscapes.
There are plenty of water activities that you can enjoy in Lake Como. You can swim in its clear blue waters at designated spots like Lido di Ossuccio and Riva Bianca Lierna Beach. Moreover, you can try kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding for a fun experience. Thrill seekers can opt for jet skiing, windsurfing, or kitesurfing, with the help of the many centres that offer rentals and lessons. Boat tours and cruises are also some of the popular activities, whether you prefer a guided tour or renting your own boat. You should not miss a chance to cruise on a historic steamboat for a unique lake experience.
The delicious local cuisine is yet another wonderful reason to visit Lake Como Italy. You can savour traditional Italian dishes alongside regional specialities unique to the area. Here, you can try Risotto Con Filetti Di Pesce Persico, which is a creamy risotto with perch caught fresh from Lake Como. If you are a seafood lover, Missoltino is a must-try dish, which is sun-dried agone fish grilled and served with polenta. Meat lovers can enjoy Brasato Di Cinghiale Selvatico, a wild boar slow-cooked in wine, or pasta dishes like Pizzoccheri with buckwheat pasta, cabbage, and cheese. Miascia is a rustic cake made with bread, fruits, and spices that is worth trying for dessert.
You can explore the rich culture and history of Lake Como at the Silk Museum in Como, which is the silk production hub of Italy. Moving forward, you can visit the grand Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta which showcases Gothic, Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. After relaxing at a café in Piazza Duomo and admiring views of the cathedral, you can explore religious sites like Piona Abbey and the Church of Santa Maria del Tiglio. The elegant villas around the lake, such as Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Monastero, provide a glimpse into aristocratic life.
If you are a shopaholic, you will find several shopping arenas around the Como Lake. You can start in Como City, where Via Vittorio Emanuele II tempts you with designer and high-street brands. Moreover, you can explore the flea market of Piazza San Fedele for unique finds, or Mercato Mercerie for local cheeses and wines. The lakeside shops of Brienno are perfect for antique lovers as they offer furniture, ceramics, and artisan crafts like woodwork. You can also visit Bellagioseta and Carmen Como Silk in Bellagio for locally-made silk scarves and ties.
History Of Lake Como
FAQs
Where is Lake Como located?
Lake Como is located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. It lies in the foothills of the Alps, which is near the border with Switzerland. The lake is also a part of the Italian Lake District about 40 kilometres north of Milan. It is the largest lake in Italy and is known for its beautiful scenery and attractive towns.
What is the best time to visit Lake Como?
Although you can visit the Como Lake throughout the year, the best time remains between April and October. During this time, the weather remains pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10 to 23 degrees Celsius. It is the perfect time to indulge in outdoor activities, like swimming, hiking, and watching the blooming flowers.
How deep is Lake Como?
Lake Como has a depth of around 425 metres (1,400 feet), which makes it the 5th deepest lake in Europe. It is also the deepest lake outside of Norway, with its bottom reaching at 227 metres (745 feet) below sea level. This lake is even the 3rd largest lake in Italy, covering an area of 146 square kilometres.
What is the nearest airport to Lake Como?
The nearest airport to Italy Lake Como is Milan Bergamo (BGY) Airport, which is about 51 kilometres away. Other closest airports to this lake include Milan Malpensa (MXP), which is 60 kilometres away, and Milan Linate (LIN), which is 60.8 kilometres away. You can also find convenient access to the lake through Verona Airport (VRN) and Zurich Airport (ZRH).
Can you swim in Lake Como?
Yes, you can swim in Lake Como. The water is clear and refreshing, especially during the warm Italian summers. However, the water can be cold, even in the summer season. Some parts of the lake may have strong currents. Hence, you should swim near the shores and follow all the safety rules.
Are there boat tours available on Lake Como?
Yes, there are boat tours available on Como Lake Italy. These tours let you explore the lake and see historic villas and charming villages nearby. You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the mountains and the water.