Things to Do at Bellagio

Complete Guide to Bellagio in Lake Como

About Bellagio

Bellagio, often called the 'Pearl of Lake Como,' is a picturesque town perched on the promontory where the two southern branches of Lake Como meet. This enchanting destination has captivated visitors for centuries with its cobblestone streets, elegant villas, terraced gardens, and stunning lakefront views. The town's strategic location offers panoramic vistas in three directions, making it one of the most photographed spots in all of Italy. With its Belle Époque hotels, charming boutiques, and romantic atmosphere, Bellagio embodies the quintessential Italian lake experience. The town seamlessly blends natural beauty with refined elegance, featuring historic villas with magnificent gardens, traditional restaurants serving local cuisine, and a peaceful ambiance that has attracted celebrities, writers, and travelers from around the world. Its narrow medieval streets wind uphill from the lakefront, revealing hidden courtyards, artisan workshops, and breathtaking viewpoints at every turn.

What to See & Do

Villa del Balbianello

An 18th-century villa with spectacular terraced gardens and panoramic lake views, famous as a filming location for movies like Casino Royale and Star Wars

Villa Melzi Gardens

Neoclassical villa with beautifully landscaped English-style gardens featuring exotic plants, sculptures, and peaceful lakeside walks

Punta Spartivento

The scenic promontory tip offering 360-degree views where you can see the lake's three branches converge, perfect for sunset photography

Basilica of San Giacomo

A 12th-century Romanesque church with beautiful stone carvings, medieval architecture, and peaceful cloisters in the heart of the old town

Bellagio Historic Center

Charming cobblestone streets lined with silk shops, cafes, and boutiques, perfect for leisurely strolling and discovering local crafts and cuisine

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Town accessible 24/7; Villa Melzi Gardens: March-October 9:30 AM-6:30 PM; Villa del Balbianello: Tuesday, Thursday, weekends 10 AM-6 PM (seasonal)

Tickets & Pricing

Villa Melzi: €6.50 adults; Villa del Balbianello: €10 adults (garden only), €20 with villa interior; Town exploration is free

Best Time to Visit

April-October for best weather and garden blooms; May-June and September for fewer crowds; early morning or late afternoon for best lighting

Suggested Duration

Full day recommended; 2-3 hours minimum for town center; additional 1-2 hours each for major villa visits

Getting There

Bellagio is accessible by ferry, bus, or car from various Lake Como towns. Take a ferry from Como, Varenna, or Menaggio (most scenic option with regular connections). By car, drive from Como via SP583 (45 minutes) with paid parking available in town. From Milan, take a bus to Como then ferry, or direct bus service to Bellagio (1.5-2 hours). The closest train station is Varenna-Esino, then take a 15-minute ferry ride across the lake.

Things to Do Nearby

Varenna
Charming fishing village across the lake with Villa Monastero's botanical gardens and the scenic Lovers' Walk waterfront promenade
Menaggio
Elegant resort town with beautiful lakefront, golf course, and hiking trails, plus ferry connections to Switzerland
Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo
Magnificent 18th-century villa with world-famous botanical gardens featuring azaleas, rhododendrons, and art collections
Como Cathedral and Historic Center
Gothic cathedral, silk museums, and medieval old town at the lake's southern tip with excellent shopping and dining
Brunate
Mountain village accessible by funicular from Como, offering hiking trails and panoramic views over the entire lake region

Tips & Advice

Book villa visits in advance, especially Villa del Balbianello which has limited opening days and can sell out quickly
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the town has many steep cobblestone streets and stairs
Take the ferry for the most scenic arrival and to avoid parking challenges in the narrow streets
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid cruise ship crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography

Tours & Activities at Bellagio