After visiting Milan and the nearby Lake Maggiore, the next stop on Monaco Life journalist Niki Borisova’s tour of northern Italy is the luxurious Lake Como, a destination that has long captivated celebrities and tourists with its charm and picturesque scenery.
Known for its stunning landscapes and VIP appeal, Lombardy’s Lake Como can be overwhelmingly crowded with tourists during the summer months. In the autumn, however, a hush of calm falls over the lake, making October or early November the perfect time to visit – before the temperatures really start to fall and the hotels begin to close for the season.
Located around four and a half hours from Monaco by car, Lake Como’s shores are home to an array of charming towns, such as Varenna and Menaggio, but Bellagio stands out as the most picturesque and Instagrammable. Indeed, it has gained significant traction on social media in recent years, and it is here that Monaco Life decided to put down some temporary roots from which to explore the area.
Stay in style
For our weekend trip, we stayed at the Bellagio Guest House in Pescallo Bay, a three-floor apartment offering picturesque lake views. The guesthouse is well regarded for its warm hospitality, with thoughtful touches such as complimentary wine, Prosecco, snacks, tea, and coffee. The accommodation features two bedrooms, a small workout area, and a terrace overlooking the lake. In all, it was a well-equipped base for exploring the region. For two nights in October, the guesthouse costs €500 to €550 – more during the high season. For more information, click here.
Bellagio bites
Dining options in Bellagio include the Hotel Ristorante Suisse Bellagio, a centrally located restaurant with lake views that is suitable for both lunch and dinner. The most convenient aspect here is that the kitchen operates throughout the day. The pizzas are excellent, whatever your choice of topping.
Another recommended venue is Hotel Ristorante La Pergola. Situated by the water, the moon’s reflection dances on the lake surface, making it a particularly romantic setting. Monaco Life recommends the octopus with cherry tomatoes and Taggiasche olives for an entrée and the homemade tortelli for mains. This restaurant is a two-minute walk from the Bellagio Guest House.
Bar gems
For those looking to enjoy a drink, Enoteca Cava Turacciolo offers a unique experience with its wine-cellar-like atmosphere. Monaco Life sampled the orange wine here, a niche wine distinct for its production method that allows white grape skins to remain in contact with the juice, resulting in a fuller and more complex flavour.
Bar Pasticceria Rossi is another notable spot, known for its casual yet refined atmosphere. The bar exudes old-world charm with its intricate wooden décor and bistro-style seating, reminiscent of a vintage European café. Monaco Life suggests the establishment’s classic Negroni.
Lake Como wonders
Bellagio’s narrow streets and quaint shops provide ample opportunity for exploration. Visitors can discover local boutiques offering fine leather goods, artisanal foods, and regional crafts. Among the must-visit shops are Aperitivo et Al, known for its gourmet products, and Bellagioseta, which specialises in high-quality scarves and silk accessories. Lake Como has been a historic hub for silk production since the 15th century.
Of course, while Villa d’Este often claims the spotlight, a lesser-known gem worth visiting is Villa Carlotta. Accessible via a ferry from Bellagio to Tremezzina or Cadenabbia, Villa Carlotta features expansive botanical gardens and a collection of classical sculptures and paintings, offering a tranquil escape from the usual tourist spots.
For those with a car, a scenic drive up to Santuario della Madonna del Ghisallo is highly recommended. On the way, a brief stop at the Civenna Helipad offers unparalleled views of the lake below. The sanctuary itself is a small church dedicated to the Patron Saint of Cyclists and houses a collection of cycling memorabilia and historic photographs.
For a different perspective of Lake Como, renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) from Bellagio Water Sports is a great option. The rental prices typically range around €65 per hour for a kayak session in a small group or €175 for a private kayak/SUP tour. For more information, click here.
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Photos by Monaco Life