Route program: Milan – Lake Como
An expert on Italy will advise you and help organize your trip.
Our expert will consult you and organize your trip
The journey begins in Milan, where guests arrive on a direct flight in the morning. After transfer and check-in at the hotel, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing, strolling around the city, or dining at one of the fine dining restaurants. The next morning, you will depart for Lake Como. The trip takes about an hour, and the picturesque road immediately sets the tone for the entire route.
For the next two days, travelers will stay in Como, the most convenient starting point for exploring the western shore of the lake. Immediately after arrival, you can head to Cernobbio, an elegant resort where the region’s iconic villas are located: d’Este, Erba, and Pizzo. The architecture, parks, and historic Art Nouveau pier create an atmosphere of aristocratic Italy. On the other side of the lake, you can see the residence of the Visconti family, now a conference center.
Moving north, the route passes through Moltrasio, a favorite spot of Bellini and Churchill, then through Lallo, famous for George Clooney’s house, and Brieno, one of the oldest and most unchanged towns on the lake.
The road then leads to Tremezzo, Cadenabbia, and Griante — traditional resorts once popular with the British aristocracy. Here it is worth visiting the famous Villa Carlotta with its historic gardens and climbing up to the church of San Martino, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake.
Heading further north, you reach Pian di Spagna — a rare natural oasis formed at the confluence of the Mera and Adda rivers. The journey continues along the eastern shore through Colico and the secluded Piona Bay, home to a Cistercian abbey. Towering above the region is Mount Legnone. Further down the road lies Corenno Plinio, part of the town of Dervio, renowned among windsurfing and sailing enthusiasts.
Returning to the central part of the lake, a stop in Lierna is highly recommended — often called the “pearl of Como” for its secluded beach and stunning views. Next is Varenna, with its romantic atmosphere and Villa Monastero. From here, you can take a ferry with your car across to Bellagio — the resort town perched on the narrow peninsula where Lake Como divides into three branches. Bellagio is known for its villas Melzi and Serbelloni, cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and an atmosphere that inspired many artists and travelers, including John F. Kennedy and Franz Liszt.
Of special note is Villa Pliniana in Torno — a place steeped in mystery and legend. Among its famous visitors were Napoleon, Byron, Verdi, Bellini, and many others. In its inner courtyard flows a spring with variable water pressure, studied by Leonardo da Vinci. The villa was also the setting of Antonio Fogazzaro’s novel Malombra. In Torno, one should also visit the church of San Giovanni — a fine example of Romanesque architecture with a Renaissance portal, frescoes, and a sacred relic. From here, a path leads up to Monte Piatto — a natural terrace overlooking the lake.
The itinerary concludes with a visit to Lake Como’s only island — Isola Comacina. Located in a mild climate perfect for olive groves, the island preserves traces of its glorious past. Once called Chrysopolis — the “City of Christ” or the “City of Gold” — it is now uninhabited, though ruins of churches destroyed in the 12th century remain. Opposite the island lies a chain of fishing villages with romantic harbors and historic churches, including San Giacomo and Santa Maria Maddalena.
The final stop is the “Bay of Venus” in Lenno, home to one of the lake’s most spectacular villas — Villa Balbianello. Built in the 18th century for Cardinal Durini, it impresses not only with its history but also with its interiors, featuring antique furniture, carpets, and art collections. Today, the villa is managed by the FAI (Italian Environmental Fund) and stands as a place where Italian history blends seamlessly with natural beauty.
After this rich program, the journey concludes with a return to Milan and an overnight stay before the flight home.
