A lake como itinerary 3 days — finally, someone is asking the right question! I’m Larry, the friendly monster of Lake Como, and I’ve been swimming these waters for centuries. Nobody knows this lake better than me. Absolutely nobody. Not even that guy with the guidebook on the ferry. Trust me.
I’ve put together the ultimate 3-day plan for families, couples, and anyone who loves beautiful scenery, tiny colorful villages, and the slight possibility of spotting a large, friendly, aquatic creature waving at them from the water. That’s me. I wave. It’s my thing.
Before we dive in — pun absolutely intended — grab la mia mappa to follow along with every stop on this itinerary. It’ll make everything way easier, and it’s got little drawings of me on it, which is a huge bonus.
Day 1: Como City & the Western Shore
Start your adventure in the city of Como itself. Yes, it’s a real city, not just a lake name — I know, confusing. Walk the old town walls, peek inside the stunning Cathedral (Duomo di Como), and stroll along the lakefront promenade. The kids will love the open space; you’ll love the coffee. Everyone wins.
In the afternoon, take the funicular up to Brunate. It’s a short, slightly wobbly cable car ride that rewards you with one of the most jaw-dropping views of the lake. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Alps. On a REALLY clear day, you might even spot me doing my backstroke near the center of the lake. I’m very graceful.
- Morning: Como old town & Duomo di Como
- Afternoon: Funicular to Brunate (panoramic view!)
- Evening: Dinner by the lakefront in Como
Day 2: Bellagio & the Ferry Life
Day 2 is all about the ferry — and Bellagio, the so-called “Pearl of Lake Como.” (I prefer “Larry’s Favourite Hangout,” but nobody asked me.) Hop on one of the public ferries from Como and enjoy the ride across the water. This is officially the best part of any lake como itinerary 3 days, and I will not be taking questions.
Bellagio is small, steep, cobblestoned, and absolutely gorgeous. Walk up the narrow streets, browse the little shops, and definitely get a gelato. Get two if you have kids. Get three if it’s hot. I usually just eat fish directly from the lake, but gelato looks very good and I am slightly jealous.
In the afternoon, take the car ferry across to Varenna — a tiny village of pastel houses tumbling down to the water. The Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lovers’ Walk) along the lake edge is absolutely stunning and, importantly, stroller-friendly. If you want more tips on travelling with little ones, check out my full guide on lake como with kids!
- Morning: Ferry from Como to Bellagio
- Midday: Gelato & exploring Bellagio’s steep lanes
- Afternoon: Car ferry to Varenna & the Lovers’ Walk
Day 3: Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta & the Grand Finale
On your last day, head to the western shore of the lake and visit Tremezzo and the legendary Villa Carlotta. This is one of the most beautiful gardens on the entire lake — maybe in all of Italy. In spring, the azaleas and rhododendrons are absolutely unreal. I once surfaced right in front of the garden and even I was impressed. That almost never happens.
After the villa, take a leisurely stroll through the little village of Menaggio, grab lunch at a lakeside restaurant, and spend the rest of the afternoon however you like. Ferry ride? More gelato? Sitting on a bench watching the light change on the water? All valid. All excellent. All very Larry-approved.
Want to explore even more of the lake beyond these 3 days? I’ve got a full collection of things to do at Lake Como to keep you busy for as long as you want to stay!
- Morning: Villa Carlotta & gardens in Tremezzo
- Midday: Lunch in Menaggio
- Afternoon: Lakeside stroll & farewell gelato (mandatory)
Larry’s Practical Tips for Your 3-Day Lake Como Trip
A few words of wisdom from someone who has been living in this lake for a very, very long time:
- Buy ferry tickets in advance in summer — the boats get PACKED, and I speak from experience (I’ve been accidentally bumped by a few).
- Wear comfortable shoes — these villages are beautiful but built on steep hills. Flip-flops are a trap.
- Spring and early autumn are the best times to visit — fewer crowds, perfect temperatures, and I’m in a great mood.
- Use my map — seriously, la mia mappa has all the stops, ferry routes and hidden gems I personally recommend.
- Travelling with kids? Ferries, gardens and gelato are all very child-friendly. More tips in my lake como with kids guide.
The Legend Behind the Lake (That’s Me!)
You didn’t think I’d give you a whole itinerary without a little mystery, did you? Lake Como has been my home for centuries — long before the villas, the celebrities, and the Instagram hashtags. If you want to know the full story of the lake como monster and how I became the friendliest creature in these waters, go read la mia leggenda. It’s a good story. I may be biased, but still.
Now stop reading and start packing! Your lake como itinerary 3 days is ready, your map is waiting, and somewhere out there in the deep blue water, a large green monster is already looking forward to waving at you from a safe and friendly distance.