Best Gardens, Walks, Restaurants & Events in Bellagio, Menaggio & Cernobbio
My students always ask me for recommendations on Lake Como (Lago di Como). It is one of Italy’s most picturesque destinations, famous for its serene waters, charming villages, grand villas, and lush gardens. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, cultural trip, or a relaxing holiday, here’s your complete guide to the best experiences in Bellagio, Menaggio, Cernobbio, and more—including exact addresses and websites for easy planning.
Top Gardens to Visit on Lake Como
Villa Carlotta – Tremezzo
Explore 70,000 square meters of stunning gardens and a neoclassical villa filled with art and history. In spring, enjoy blooming azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias.
- Address: Via Statale, 5605 – 22016 Tremezzina (CO)
- Website: www.villacarlotta.it
Villa Melzi d’Eril – Bellagio
Walk through romantic English-style gardens with exotic trees, sculptures, and lake views. A peaceful oasis just steps from Bellagio’s historic center.
- Address: Lungo Lario Manzoni – 22021 Bellagio (CO)
- Website: www.giardinidivillamelzi.it
Villa del Balbianello – Lenno
Famous for its stunning setting and film appearances (Star Wars, James Bond), this villa offers breathtaking lake views and pristine terraced gardens.
- Address: Via Guido Monzino, 1 – 22016 Tremezzina (CO)
- Website: www.fondoambiente.it
Scenic Walks and Hikes
Menaggio Lakeside Promenade & Hill Paths
Stroll along the waterfront promenade in Menaggio or hike into the surrounding hills for panoramic views.
- Start Point: Piazza Garibaldi – 22017 Menaggio (CO)
Cernobbio Lakefront Walk & Villa Erba Gardens
Enjoy a peaceful lakefront stroll and visit Villa Erba, a historic property sometimes open to the public for events.
- Address (Villa Erba): Largo Luchino Visconti, 4 – 22012 Cernobbio (CO)
- Website: www.villaerba.it
Bellagio Old Town & Villa Melzi Gardens
Explore the cobbled streets of Bellagio’s historical center, then head to the nearby Villa Melzi gardens for a peaceful lakeside escape.
- Villa Melzi Address: Lungo Lario Manzoni – 22021 Bellagio (CO)
Greenway del Lago
This 10 km walking route stretches from Colonno to Griante, passing through quaint villages, ancient churches, and lakefront paths.
- Trail Start: Via Cappella – Colonno (CO)
- Website: www.greenwaylagodicomo.com
Monte Grona Hike (from Rifugio Menaggio)
A moderate-to-challenging hike starting near Menaggio with sweeping views of Lake Como and the Alps.
Where to Eat on Lake Como
Osteria il Pozzo – Menaggio
Cozy and traditional, this osteria offers local favorites like pizzoccheri and lake fish.
- Address: Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, 1 – 22017 Menaggio (CO)
- Phone: +39 0344 32333
- Website: www.osteriailpozzo.it
Harry’s Bar – Cernobbio
A stylish spot with lake views, known for its refined atmosphere and great seafood.
- Address: Piazza Risorgimento, 2 – 22012 Cernobbio (CO)
- Phone: +39 031 512647
- Website: www.harrysbarcernobbio.it
Ristorante La Punta – Bellagio
Located at the tip of the Bellagio peninsula, this restaurant offers incredible views and a menu of creative local dishes.
- Address: Via Eugenio Vitali, 19 – 22021 Bellagio (CO)
- Phone: +39 031 951888
- Website: www.ristorantelapunta.it
Events
Bellagio and Lake Como Festival (June–August)
A series of classical music concerts held in villas, gardens, and historic venues.
- Various locations in Bellagio and around the lake
- www.bellagiofestival.com
San Giovanni Festival – Isola Comacina & Como (Late June)
A traditional celebration featuring a boat parade and spectacular fireworks show over the lake.
- Isola Comacina & Como waterfront
- Check event updates on www.visitcomo.eu
Local Markets & Artisan Fairs
On weekends during summer, many towns host craft and food markets offering local products, handmade goods, wine, and more.
- Markets rotate in Bellagio, Menaggio, Cernobbio, and other lake towns
- Details via local tourism boards or www.lakecomo.is
Bonus Travel Tips
- Get around by ferry: Ferries connect all major towns (Bellagio, Menaggio, Varenna, Cernobbio). You can buy day-passes and hop between villages.
- Travel light: Many streets are cobbled and sloped—comfortable shoes are a must!
- Best time to visit: Spring and early summer for flowers and fewer crowds, but the lake is magical year-round.