Set against the foothills of the Alps, Lake Como is an iconic resort area known for its dramatic backdrops consisting of leafy lakesides and stone-paved streets. It is situated only 50 km away from the commercial capital of Italy, Milan, and is a historical gem with connections to the Roman Porta Pretoria and renaissance architecture.
Most of the tourist destinations near Lake Como can be covered on foot as they are situated within walking distance from the train station and ferry landings. If you are wondering what to see near Lake Como, here are some of the best locations to visit in and around the region.
What to see near Lake Como?
Shaped like an inverted Y, Lake Como has been one of the favourite tourist destinations of the upper-crust Romans and the architecture vouches for it. To the eastern shore is the little town of Bellagio, which is one of the most beautiful Italian towns sitting at the point where the arms of the peninsula converge.
Here are a few suggestions if you are undecided about what to see near Lake Como
- Como Duomo
Dating back to the 15th century, the Duomo is a piece of classic Victorian Gothic architecture that attracts tourists from all over the world. You can simply take a chair at a nearby restaurant and appreciate the magnificent sculptures of Pliny the Elder and Younger or take a stroll inside that marks the blend of various architectural styles it has seen since its inauguration.
- Jungle Raider Park
The Jungle Raider Park is actually two locations, one in Civenna and one in Margno. It is a family-friendly adventure park that hosts several activities like bungee jumping, canyoning, and bungee jumping. The activities are divided into seven different difficulty levels with special paths for children and beginners.
- Taxi Boat Varenna
The taxi service running on the coast of Lake Como offers short or long trips from Varenna to different areas near the city. Visitors can book short trips lasting half an hour or long trips lasting over 2.5 hours. The local boatman also offers suggestions for the best places to eat on the lake.
- Sentiero del Viandante
For more adventurous people, Sentiero del Viandante is an iconic 45 km hiking trail broken into smaller stretches. This hike offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to admire the natural beauty of the Lombardy region along a path that dates to the Romans.
- Enoteca Principessa
This winery in Bellagio hosts an amazing collection of local wines that the visitors can sample or take home after the tour. It is one of the must-see destinations for wine connoisseurs, who can sample the region’s most popular exports under one roof.
While these were the most popular locations to visit near the lake, don’t be surprised if you find several more when you visit. The historical Forte di Fuentes and Basilica of Sant’Abbondio are some other places for history fanatics to explore and admire the architecture. However, while wondering about what to see near Lake Como, do not forget to explore the local delicacies at every stop of the way.
