A lake como itinerary 2 days is exactly what you need — and lucky you, I’ve been swimming these waters for centuries. I’m Larry the Comosaurus, the friendly (and slightly misunderstood) monster of Lake Como, and I know every single corner of this lake better than any travel guide. Buckle up, because I’m about to show you the best two days of your life. Family-friendly, ferry-approved, and 100% Larry-tested.
Before we dive in — literally, in my case — make sure you check out all the things to do at Lake Como and grab la mia mappa to follow along with the route. Trust me, you’ll want it open on your phone the whole time.
Day 1 Morning: Como Town & the First Ferry Ride
Start your adventure right in the city of Como. Yes, the lake has a whole city named after it — I find that deeply flattering, personally. Stroll along the lakefront promenade (the lungolago), grab a cornetto and a cappuccino at a local bar, and let the kids soak in the view. The water is sparkling, the mountains are dramatic, and if you look carefully… you might just spot a friendly pair of eyes blinking at you from the surface.
Then hop on a ferry. This is non-negotiable. The ferries on Lake Como are one of the greatest joys known to humankind — and to lake monsters. They’re affordable, scenic, and the kids will absolutely love them. Head towards Bellagio, the pearl of the lake, sitting right at the fork where my three arms meet.
Day 1 Afternoon: Bellagio & Ice Cream Emergency
Bellagio is gorgeous, and I say this as someone who has seen it from below and above. Wander up the salita — the steep cobblestone alleys lined with bougainvillea and little shops. It’s a workout, but the gelato at the top is the reward. Kids love this town: it’s colourful, compact, and there’s always a ferry to watch coming into port.
In the afternoon, visit the Villa Melzi gardens — open to the public, family-friendly, and full of beautiful lakeside paths and sculptures. The kids can run around (something I deeply respect), and you get gorgeous photo opportunities. If you’re travelling with little ones, check out my full guide to lake como with kids for extra tips on keeping everyone happy — including the monsters.
For the night, I recommend staying in Bellagio or taking the ferry back to Como. Either way, dinner by the water is mandatory. Pizza, pasta, risotto with perch — all excellent choices. I personally prefer whatever falls off the boats, but I understand that’s not for everyone.
Day 2 Morning: Varenna & the Northern Villages
Day two is about the eastern branch of the lake — my favourite swimming lane. Jump on a ferry to Varenna, arguably the most romantic and photogenic village on the whole lake. The passeggiata degli innamorati (the lovers’ walkway) runs right along the water’s edge, and even non-romantic creatures like me have to admit it’s stunning.
From Varenna, the adventurous families can take the funicular up to Vezio Castle — a medieval tower with real falconry shows and (rumour has it) a resident ghost. I’ve met the ghost. Lovely person. The views from up there stretch over the entire lake and the Alps beyond. Absolutely worth it.
- Ferry from Como to Varenna: approx. 1h 15min (perfect nap time)
- Castello di Vezio: open most days, check seasonal hours
- Gelato stops: approximately one every 200 metres in Varenna
- Best photo spot: the small harbour at golden hour
- Larry sighting probability: higher than average on the eastern shore
Day 2 Afternoon: Legends, Monsters & the Perfect Goodbye
No two-day itinerary on Lake Como would be complete without learning a little about its most famous (and most handsome) resident. Before you head home, I strongly suggest you read up on the lake como monster — that’s me, obviously — and discover the centuries-old tales that have made this lake so mysterious and magical. Spoiler: I’m real, I’m friendly, and I once waved at a family from Bergamo who fainted immediately. Very flattering.
For the final afternoon, consider a stop in Lecco at the southern tip of the eastern branch, or a slow ferry ride back down the lake, stopping wherever catches your eye. That’s the beauty of Lake Como — every village has a story, every cove has a secret, and I am in basically all of them. You can also browse la mia leggenda to understand exactly why this lake has captured imaginations for so long.
And when you’re back home, missing the mountains and the water and the gelato (you will, trust me), come back and explore all my other Lake Como itineraries and adventures to plan your next visit. I’ll be here. I’m always here. This is my lake.
Larry’s Quick Tips for a 2-Day Lake Como Itinerary
- Buy a multi-trip ferry pass — it saves money and you’ll use it constantly
- Wear comfortable shoes — the villages are hilly and cobblestoned (I don’t have this problem, having fins)
- Avoid peak ferry hours (10am–12pm) in summer — it gets crowded even by my standards
- Lake Como is beautiful in spring and autumn too — fewer crowds, same stunning scenery
- Always keep la mia mappa handy so you never get lost on land (I can only help in the water)