It is hard to find a place that combines natural beauty with history, art and gastronomy so perfectly. Lake Como is the definition of that combination. Hidden in the heart of the Italian Alps, Lake Como is one of the most enchanting places in Europe, and a roadtrip is the ideal way to discover it — at your own pace, with no restrictions and with the freedom of a roadtrip. So let’s go discover it!
Lake Como: The First Step of the Adventure
It all starts in Bergamo, one of the most budget-friendly airports in Italy for Greek travellers. The moment you land, the adventure begins right away and the drive takes you straight into the heart of Lake Como.
The route takes about an hour and fills you with beautiful images. From the moment you leave the city, the road stretches out in front of you, with views of the lush green hills and the first enchanting glimpses of the Italian countryside. The driving is smooth and comfortable. A playlist of lovely Italian songs is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the start of your roadtrip around Lake Como.
And so, after an hour’s drive, here we are in the town of Como.
We’re talking about a town full of history and Italian finesse. It blends the old with the new, while nature and cosmopolitan life coexist in harmony. Here you’ll find a mix of Italian cultural heritage and modern hospitality that welcomes you from the very first moment with its distinctive style.
Discovering the Sights around Lake Como: Small Villages and Dreamlike Landscapes
What makes Lake Como so special is the small, picturesque villages that surround it and the countless activities it offers. A standout is Bellagio, often called “The Pearl of the Lake”. Here, the narrow alleys full of colourful houses, the flower-filled balconies and the countless lakeside cafés make you forget the world around you.
From Bellagio, you can set off on short cruises on the lake and enjoy the incredible view from the water, or unwind with a stroll along the Lungolago di Como, soaking in the serenity of the landscape. If you’re after more exploration, the alleys of Bellagio invite you to discover hidden corners, traditional cafés and charming little shops.
One of the most charming villages around Lake Como is Nesso, which preserves the traditional Italian atmosphere and offers a quieter experience by the lake. Its picturesque character, with its stone houses and peaceful corners, creates the perfect setting for photos that capture the true beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Whether you’re a photography lover or simply want to experience authentic Italian life, Nesso is the ideal place to savour every moment in a picturesque, genuinely Italian setting.
The Magic of Lake Como: Strolls and Coffee with a View
A cruise on Lake Como is an experience you’ll never forget. Picture this: in the heart of summer, you’re sitting in a small boat gliding over the turquoise waters, while the mountains of the Alps rise all around you. The view is truly unrepeatable, and the feeling of being out on the water — where everywhere you look you see nothing but beautiful images — is wonderful.
Of course, for a more authentic experience, nothing compares to a roadtrip around the lake with Altervan. Here, you don’t travel alone, but with a group that shares the same adventure and the same joy of exploration. Every corner of the lake is a new discovery: from hidden beaches and small authentic shops, to picturesque villages that don’t appear on the tourist map. Every stop becomes a chance to create unique memories, while you enjoy your coffee with a view of the lake and the mountains, in the company of people who will become friends along the way.
Local Gastronomy: What to Try at Lake Como
Lake Como isn’t just beautiful — it’s delicious too! If you’re a fan of good food, this region will make you fall in love with Italy even more. Here you’ll taste authentic local flavours that are on another level!
First up, risotto con pesce persico — risotto with local fish from the lake. The freshness of the fish together with the creamy texture of the risotto will make you feel like you’re in the most fantastic restaurant in the world. And you know what? You’ll find this dish everywhere, and always fresh!
An always-right choice is the aperitivo. After all, aperitivo and Italy are synonymous. So, towards the end of the day, at sunset — or a little later — leave some room for an Aperol Spritz or a Negroni. It’s just the thing after exploring the villages. It usually comes accompanied by small snacks, like olives, cheeses and fresh aromatic baguettes.
Other local products? All the cheeses of the region. The best known? Formaggio d’Alpe — a cheese traditionally made in the wider area around the lake. The little shops by the lake serve it with a bit of honey and nuts, an ideal snack for an afternoon at the water’s edge. Now, if you love pasta, don’t skip the casoncelli: stuffed pasta with meat, cheese and herbs. The options are plenty, of course — it’s all a matter of taste! And naturally, everywhere you’ll find lovely little spots where you can grab an authentic Italian pizza to go and carry on exploring!
Sweet Delights at Lake Como: Gelato and Local Desserts
And of course, authentic Italian gelato! A trip to Lake Como without trying this ice cream is like going to Thessaloniki and not eating bougatsa, or passing through Volos and not drinking tsipouro — it just isn’t done! In every gelateria you’ll taste ice cream that has nothing to do with the ice cream you know. Try it especially in Bellagio — no searching required, Gelateria del Borgo is rightfully the most famous. From flavours like pistacchio di Bronte or stracciatella or… actually, I can’t help you here — they’re all worth it! Another dessert you can try is the Torta di Mele: an apple pie with a wonderful flavour and a light, creamy texture, since the area around Lake Como is famous for its apples.
Get ready for a journey full of flavours and routes you’ll never forget!
Other Towns near Lake Como
Lake Como isn’t only the main destination. Explore the surrounding villages and towns too, to experience the real Italy. Especially Lecco, with its beautiful mountains and wonderful hiking trails, is a perfect base for activities in your free time. Here you can discover areas like Monte Barro, offering unique routes and stunning views.
For example, you can visit Tremezzo and Varenna, which are just as enchanting and offer quiet moments by the lake.
Tremezzo: Villa Carlotta is famous for its wonderful gardens and works of art. The view from the town over the lake is impressive. The lush green mountains in the distance complete the picture.
Varenna: It’s the ideal place to enjoy the magic of the lake without the crowds. The traditional alleys and quiet squares offer tranquillity. Villa Monastero is also worth a visit for its history and its beautiful gardens.
Along the way you’ll also find plenty of lanes and paths that might lead you past gorgeous houses or shores where you’ll see locals — and tourists — diving in if it’s summer.
Driving around Lake Como: The Ultimate Roadtrip Destination
The roads around Lake Como are a true delight for every traveller. Well maintained and safe, they let you enjoy the nature and the history from the very first moment. A roadtrip here means freedom. You stop wherever you like and discover enchanting villages, beaches for a swim and the best beaches around Lake Como, plus picturesque corners you won’t find in any tourist guide. If adventure is calling, follow the trail that leads to Monte Generoso to experience the ultimate view: a panoramic image of the lake and the surrounding mountains that takes your breath away and gives you a one-of-a-kind sense of freedom.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Como
Q: What is the best season to visit Lake Como?
A: The best period is from May to September, when temperatures are mild and nature is at its most beautiful. But the area is also lovely in winter, with the Christmas atmosphere around the markets.
Q: How can I get to Lake Como from Greece?
A: There are many direct flights from Athens to Bergamo, which is close to Lake Como. From there, Altervan is waiting for you and your adventure. Bergamo to Lake Como is an hour’s drive if you rent a car or a van. Alternatively, a cheap and comfortable option is by train or direct buses from Bergamo to Como (Crotto del Sergente). The train journey takes 1 hour and 50 minutes, €12-20. By bus it takes about 2 hours and costs €11-15. Buses depart 5 times a day. The route is Bergamo–Milan–Como.
See all the available routes and transport options for Lake Como on the map here at Rome2Rio.
Q: Is there overtourism at Lake Como?
A: Although it is a popular destination, you can avoid overtourism if you visit Lake Como outside the high season (July-August). Or if you explore quiet villages like Nesso and Varenna. By choosing to explore it in a van, you’ll experience the true beauty of the place while avoiding the crowded spots.
Q: Is it worth taking a guided tour of the villas around Lake Como?
A: Of course! A guided tour of villas such as Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta is an ideal choice if you love architecture and history.
Q: The Volta Museum in Como — is it worth visiting?
A: The Volta Museum tells the story of Alessandro Volta, inventor of the battery. If you’d like to learn more about his inventions, then it’s worth a visit.
Ready for the Lake Como Adventure?
Not quite yet… Because once you get there, everything takes on a new dimension. The roads open up in front of you, the stories begin and the moments become unforgettable. And one more thing: at Lake Como, every new adventure starts with a coffee or a refreshing cocktail with fellow travellers you’ve just met. I’ll never forget one such Altervan moment, when an hour and a half after we landed we found ourselves together for the first time with people we’d only just met — and lifelong friendships began right there! That’s no exaggeration; it’s the magic of authentic travel.
This isn’t just a roadtrip. It’s an experience you’ll live, remember and retell forever.
Don’t just go on holiday. Live the story of your life
Check the dates and availability here and start the most authentic roadtrip of your life!
With love for travel, roadtrips and adventure.
The Altervan team
