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From a budget flight to a lakeside dream: Our accidental discovery of Lake Como
From a budget flight to a lakeside dream: Our accidental discovery of Lake Como
They say the best journeys aren't planned; they’re found.
There’s been occasions when we were stuck in that classic holiday limbo: we knew we wanted to go somewhere, but we didn't know where. So, I did what any sensible, slightly impulsive traveller does—I opened a flight search, typed in our local airport, and sorted by "cheapest." The winner? Genoa, Italy.
The 2-Hour Radius
Once the flights were booked, we drew a circle roughly 2.5 hours around Genoa. We looked at the coast, we looked at the hills, but then we looked north. Lake Como was sitting right there, perfectly within reach.
The drive from Genoa to the southern tip of Lake Como is roughly 115 miles (185 km) and takes just under 2 hours. If you’re heading to the quieter mid-lake or northern spots, factor in another 45 minutes of winding, scenic roads.
Ticking Every Box
Lake Como often gets a reputation for being the playground of the rich and famous (looking at you, Clooney), but what we discovered is that if you look just slightly off the beaten path, it’s surprisingly accessible.
We found just the spot, in Gravedona, on the northwestern shore. West sied sunshine and stunning architecture, but because it’s further north, it’s much more peaceful, authentic. Most importantly though, affordable, a quiet balcony overlooking the water, a kitchen for our market finds, and—the pièce de résistance—a sparkling blue pool that seemed to merge right into the lake.
The Tale of Two Shores
Lake Como is shaped like an inverted "Y," and choosing a side is all about the vibe you’re chasing:
The West (The Glamorous Side): This is the iconic, sun-drenched stretch home to Bellagio and Tremezzo. It’s famous for grand lakeside villas, manicured gardens, and a high-end, "see-and-be-seen" atmosphere.
The East (The Scenic Side): If you prefer rugged mountains, deep shadows, and a quieter, more local feel, this is it. It’s a haven for hikers and those looking to escape the "Golden Triangle" crowds.
Ditching the Car: The Lake is the Highway
While we hired a car for the week, we quickly realized that the best way to experience Lake Como isn't on four wheels—it’s on the water. Driving the narrow, winding lakeside roads can be a bit of a thrill-ride, so we opted for scenic walks into neighbouring villages and the local ferry system.
Gravedona is perfectly positioned on the Como–Colico route operated by Navigazione Laghi. Whether you want a slow, sunny cruise on a standard ship or a "Fast Service" hydrofoil to zip across the water, the ferry pier became our gateway to the rest of the lake.
Top Tip: If you're planning a day of "village hopping," look into a daily pass. It’s often cheaper than individual tickets and gives you the freedom to jump on and off whenever a lakeside café catches your eye!
Bellagio: The "Pearl"
Bellagio: The "Pearl"
Of course, you can’t stay on Lake Como without a pilgrimage to Bellagio. Known as the "Pearl of the Lake," it sits right on the promontory where the lake’s two branches meet, offering some of the most iconic views of the Alps you’ll ever see.
Making the most of the ferry from Gravedona, we stepped off the boat and straight into a postcard. Bellagio is exactly what you imagine when you think of Northern Italy:
The Streets: Steep, narrow cobblestone lanes lined with colorful buildings.
The Shopping: High-end boutiques tucked away in every alleyway.
The Gardens: If you have time, the world-class gardens of Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni are essential for a peaceful stroll.
Mid week adrelin
For a bit of a change in pace, mid week we drove down toward Milan not for the high-end shopping though, we were there for a different kind of Italian luxury: taking a brand-new Ferrari for a spin around a professional race track.
An added bonus was watching the Italian Motorcycle Police using the track before our session, practicing motorcade formations. They were the picture of discipline, perfectly synchronized, tight lines, and military precision until practice ended and the discipline vanished, they let loose and went "hell for leather" around the track, pushing the bikes to the limit.
When to Travel
The best time to visit Lake Como is from April to June and September to October, offering pleasant, mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds compared to the high summer. July and August are warmest for swimming, while winter is quiet and often closed.
Travel advice and entry requirements
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy
Getting around the lake - ferry timetables
https://www.navigazionelaghi.it/en/tickets-and-timetables-lake-como/
Where to Stay: Recommended Bases
The "Golden Triangle" (Central Lake)
Bellagio: The "Pearl of the Lake." Stunning and central, it’s packed with upscale shops and cafes, though it can be the busiest and priciest spot on the water.
Menaggio: Flatter and easier to walk than Bellagio. It has a beautiful, palm-lined promenade and a great Lido (beach club) with a pool, making it a favourite for families.
The Southern Hub
Como City: Perfect if you want a "city vibe." It’s the place for serious shopping and features a funicular up to Brunate for a bird’s-eye view of the entire lake.
The Rugged East: Lecco
Lecco: If you want to experience the lake like a local. Surrounded by dramatic peaks, it’s a legendary spot for climbers and hikers. You don’t have to be a pro, though, there’s a cable car that whisks you up for panoramic views of the city and the Alps.
Varenna: On the eastern side of the lake and a truly romantic spot. It’s incredibly picturesque with charming waterfront cafes and a direct train link to Milan.
The Upper West: Our Hidden Gems
As you move north from Menaggio, the crowds thin out, the mountains get steeper, and the vibe becomes much more authentic.
Musso & Pianello del Lario: These two villages are unique because a bypass tunnel keeps the main road traffic away from the water. It makes for a incredibly peaceful pedestrian-only promenade between the two, perfect for a morning stroll.
Gravedona: The "Jewel of the North," feels like a mini-city but with a village soul. The lakeside "Piazza" is arguably the best spot on the whole lake for a sunset Aperitivo.
Domaso: The "wind capital" of the lake and just a short walk or bike ride from Gravedona. Its long, grassy beaches are filled with windsurfers and sailors, giving it a cool, sporty energy.
Things to do
Messing About on the Lake
One thing we quickly noticed is that Lake Como isn't just for staring at, it’s a massive hub for action.
Wind-surfing and kite-surfing: Due to the unique thermals rolling off the surrounding mountains, the lake is a world-class hotspot for wind-surfing and kite-surfing. Watching the colourful sails zip across the water against the backdrop of the Alps is a spectacle in itself.
Paddleboarding & kayaking: There’s plenty if you’re looking for something a bit more "human-powered". and it's the best way to see the hidden villas from the water level.
Hiking & Biking: For those who prefer dry land, the trails offer bird’s-eye views that make the climb well worth it. From the Greenway del Lago (a stunning 6-mile walk through ancient villages) to the dramatic Orrido di Nesso waterfall, there was plenty to see without breaking the bank.
The Leisurely Alternative: If "adrenaline-fueled" isn't on your itinerary (or you’ve already had your fill at the Ferrari track!), there’s always the most popular local sport: Lakeside Lounging. We spent many afternoons wandering the lakeside paths, stopping at cafes, and hunting for the best gelato. From classic pistachio to flavours you’ve never even dreamed of, there is an ice cream shop on every corner.
Tailor-Made with Souvenir Travel
Travel is more than a destination; it’s a feeling. At Souvenir Travel, we specialize in designing personalized journeys that move at your pace and reflect your unique preferences.
When you’re ready to trade the everyday for alpine peaks, turquoise waters, and sun-drenched Italian afternoons, we’ll create a Lake Como escape shaped entirely around you. From the roar of a Ferrari engine to the quiet ripple of the lake, let’s design your next great story.
The brand is an Independent Travel Consultant with Jamie Wake Travel (membership number 1043) and benefits from membership of Protected Trust Services and Jamie Wake Travel’s ATOL Licence. This means your holiday is protected and carefully planned from start to finish, with access to a wide range of suppliers and added-value packages.
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