Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
3 PERFECT DAYS
Day 1: Como & Above
Take an early funicular up to Brunate to catch views of Como and the lake under the rising sun's rays. Back in
Como, explore the old centre, making time for the Duomo and to see the remarkable frescoes in the Basilica di
Sant'Abbondio. It's then time for lunch at Osteria del Gallo, after which you can head 7km around the lake to
Cernobbio, to admire the pretty lakeside villas, followed by a drive up to Monte Bisbino, arriving in time for sun-
set views over the lake. You could finish with a splendid meal at Gatto Nero.
Day 2: Bellagio & Villa Carlotta
Catch a ferry from Como to Bellagio, where you could take a room and spend the morning discovering the gar-
dens of two fine villas and the topsy-turvy beauty of the town itself. Lunch at Albergo Silvio before taking a car
ferry to Cadenabbia for an afternoon visit to nearby Tremezzo's Villa Carlotta. Car ferries returning to Bellagio
run late into the evening.
Day 3: Varenna & the East Bank
From Bellagio, jump on another car ferry to Varenna, a rival in beauty to Bellagio. You could spend the bulk of a
day here, especially if you include a walk up to the Castello di Vezio to gaze back down on Varenna. Those with
wheels can easily head north for the medieval hamlet of Corenno Plinio and, just further on, the lovely Abbazia di
Piona, where you can stay if you don't want to turn back.
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Getting Around
The SS340 more or less shadows the western and eastern shores of Lake Como, bypassing
many of the smaller lakeside villages which are served by smaller roads. Narrow moun-
tain roads climb up from Varenna, Gravedona, Cernobbio, Argegno, Bellagio and else-
where. Buses run from Como to most of the lake's towns, passing through smaller villages
en route, while public ferries connect most lakeside towns (except those south of Varenna
along the East Bank) with regular departures.
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Where to Stay
Finding vacant rooms around Lakes Como and Lugano can be problematic in key places
(including Como, Bellagio, around Tremezzo and Varenna especially) in July and August
and, to a lesser extent, at Easter. Not surprisingly, these also happen to be the most desir-
