From the Beauty of Villa Carlotta to the Winter Charm of Griante

An itinerary that combines the refined tranquility of the Tremezzina with the historical and artistic allure of Villa Carlotta, where art and nature continue to dialogue even in the quietest season of the year. Between slow walks, enchanting views, and authentic flavors, you’ll discover the discreet beauty of Lake Como in winter.

Morning – Villa Carlotta: Elegance and History in Winter

Reach Tremezzo by ferry (departure at 9:45 AM; purchase a round-trip ticket — tickets can also be bought on board via contactless payment with “NaviTap”, for more information).
Take the short 15-minute walk to Villa Carlotta, open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM until December 8. Inside, the museum’s halls showcase masterpieces by Canova, Hayez, and Thorvaldsen, telling the story of an era of splendor and refined taste. Even without the spring blooms, the botanical garden — one of the richest on the lake — offers poetic glimpses among silent terraces, evergreen plants, and spectacular views of Lake Como, softly framed by the winter light.

Lunch – Authentic Flavors with a View

End your visit with lunch in one of the restaurants participating in the “Tremezzina Gastronomica” festival (until December 13). Savor traditional dishes from the Larian cuisine, reinterpreted with a contemporary touch — a perfect balance of authenticity and sophistication.

Afternoon – The Winter Greenway: Between Villages and Views

Enjoy a scenic walk along the Greenway towards Cadenabbia (Griante). Download the free audioguide (iOS and Android) and continue along the evocative Adenauer Promenade.
Among historic villas, ancient olive groves, and glimpses of the lake, the path takes on the soft hues of winter, offering a peaceful and authentically beautiful experience.

Return – Evening Lights over the Lake

Take the 5:05 PM ferry from Tremezzo back to Bellagio, watching as the lake turns shades of pink and gold at sunset. The return journey becomes a moment of pure contemplation.

Evening – Dinner and Relax

End your day with dinner either at your accommodation or at one of Bellagio’s open restaurants (link restaurant). Let yourself be embraced by the intimate and quiet atmosphere of the village, where the lake’s silence and the warm evening lights create the perfect setting for a winter night.

Extra – Relax and Wellness at the Hotel Du Lac SPA

To end your day in complete relax, treat yourself to a pause at the Hotel Du Lac SPA.
Revitalizing massages, a Turkish bath, sensory showers, ice cascades, a whirlpool, and a dedicated relaxation area await you in an oasis of calm and comfort.
All accompanied by herbal tea drinks for a full experience of well-being and rejuvenation.
For more information and reservations, click here.

Varenna, the path to Castello di Vezio

A journey that combines the authentic charm of Varenna with the discovery of its most scenic and elevated landscape. Among cobblestone lanes, panoramic trails, and views embracing the heart of the lake, this walk is perfect for those who love to explore in the quiet and harmony of winter.

Morning – Panoramic walk to Castello di Vezio

Reach Varenna by ferry (departures at 9:35 am) or boat (departures at 10:30 am). Purchase a round-trip ticket — tickets can also be bought on board using contactless payment (NaviTap) more info online at the Navigazione Laghi website.

Wear hiking shoes and take the path leading up to Castello di Vezio, open on Saturdays and Sundays (closed in case of rain).

The hike takes about 45 minutes uphill, winding through picturesque views until you reach the ancient ruins of the castle, where one of the most stunning panoramas of Lake Como unfolds, Bellagio and the surrounding mountains mirrored in the water below.

Lunch – Genuine flavors and local tradition

Return to the village and take a well-deserved break at one of the open crotti or local restaurants (link bar & restaurants Varenna). Savor the authentic flavors of Larian cuisine in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Afternoon – Romance and lake views

After lunch, download the free audio guide (available on iOS and Android) and set off to explore the village through the famous Walk of Lovers, which follows the lakefront between little harbors, stairways, and charming views.

Return – A journey in the colors of sunset

Head back to Bellagio in the evening on one of the available boats (suggested departure 3:55 pm) or ferries (suggested departure 4:20 pm), enjoying the soft winter light over the lake.

Extra – Dinner with a view

If you wish to end your day in style, stay for dinner in Varenna at one of the lakefront restaurants (link bar & restaurants Varenna). Enjoy the golden reflections of sunset and the serene charm of the village illuminated for the evening.

Remember: the last ferry to Bellagio departs at 9:20 pm on Saturday and 9:45 pm on Sunday.

Evening – Dinner and leisure

Conclude your day with dinner at your accommodation or at one of Bellagio’s open restaurants (link to open restaurants).

Let yourself unwind in the peaceful atmosphere of the evening, while the reflections of the lake accompany the slow rhythm of a journey that breathes elegance and authenticity.

Extra 2 – Relax and wellbeing at the Hotel Du Lac SPA

To end your day in total relaxation, treat yourself to a wellness break at the Hotel Du Lac SPA.

Rejuvenating massages, Turkish bath, sensory showers, ice cascades, whirlpool, and a dedicated relaxation area await you in an environment of calm and comfort.

All accompanied by herbal teas from the tisaneria, for a complete experience of wellbeing and renewal.

For more information and reservations, click here.

Menaggio, the Gateway to Switzerland

Discover Menaggio, an ancient lakeside village with discreet charm, once a favorite holiday destination for the Swiss aristocracy. Its quiet streets, lively piazzas, and elegant promenade invite you to slow down and experience a sense of authentic beauty, where time seems to pass more gently.

Morning – Discovering the historic village

Reach Menaggio by ferry (departing at 9:45 AM) or boat (departing at 10:45 AM) from Bellagio, enjoying the crossing and the views that embrace the lake’s shores.
Purchase a round-trip ticket—tickets can also be bought on board using the contactless payment system “NaviTap”, or online at the Navigazione Laghi website for more information.
Once you arrive, download the free audio guide (available on iOS and Android) and set out to explore the historic center: among old stone houses, narrow alleys, and picturesque corners, every detail tells the story of a village that has welcomed travelers from all over the world for centuries.

Lunch – The flavors of local tradition

Choose one of Menaggio’s open restaurants (link to restaurants) and indulge in the region’s traditional cuisine: genuine dishes prepared with local ingredients that capture the authentic flavors and history of Lake Como.

Afternoon – A walk along the lakeside

After lunch, continue your exploration following the audio guide itinerary along Menaggio’s scenic lakefront promenade. Between manicured gardens, historic villas, and panoramic views, you’ll enjoy a serene and leisurely atmosphere, perfect for an afternoon stroll steeped in quiet beauty.

Extra – Villa Fogazzaro Roi: a gem of elegance and memory

Open from Wednesday to Sunday If you wish to extend your afternoon and discover a place rich in literary charm and history, visit Villa Fogazzaro Roi, located in Oria di Valsolda, just a few kilometers from Menaggio. Overlooking Lake Lugano (Ceresio), this villa was once the residence of Antonio Fogazzaro, the writer who found inspiration here for his celebrated novel The Little World of the Past. During the visit, you can admire perfectly preserved rooms, period furnishings, books, and personal objects that reflect the life and sensibility of the author. Booking available at this link.To join the guided tour at 3:30 PM, take the C112 bus from Menaggio to Oria at 1:30 PM, and for the return trip, the 5:43 PM bus (Monday to Saturday). Once back in Menaggio, return to Bellagio by boat departing at 6:40 PM.

Return – A journey across the lake

Take the boat departing at 4:10 PM back to Bellagio, or, if you wish to extend your trip, opt for the ferry departing at 3:55 PM, which passes in front of Varenna. From the water, you’ll be able to admire some of the lake’s most iconic landmarks before returning to Bellagio.

Evening – Dinner and leisure

End your day with dinner at your accommodation or at one of Bellagio’s open restaurants (link to open restaurants). Let the peaceful evening atmosphere and the lake’s soft reflections accompany your meal, celebrating the quiet elegance and authenticity of your winter journey.

Extra2 – Relax and wellness at the Hotel Du Lac SPA
To end the day in total relaxation, treat yourself to a break at the Hotel Du Lac SPA.
Rejuvenating massages, Turkish bath, sensory showers, ice waterfalls, hydromassage, and a dedicated relaxation area await you in an environment of peace and comfort.
All accompanied by herbal teas offered by the tisanery, for a complete experience of wellness and renewal. For more information and bookings, click here.

Bellagio in winter: a weekend of elegance, history, and tranquility

Discover the charm of Bellagio over the weekend, when the winter calm transforms the village into a place of peacefulness and timeless beauty. Leisurely walks, local flavors, and a visit to the famous Villa Melzi Gardens will make your experience unique and relaxing.

Morning – The magic of awakening

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation or enjoy a lakeside breakfast at one of the bars in the historic center (link to open bars), letting yourself be wrapped in the gentle morning light and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

Download the free audio guide (iOS and Android) and set off on a pleasant walk to discover Bellagio: among stairways, artisan shops, and charming views, you will savor the true spirit of the village.

Light lunch – Flavors and conviviality

Take a break to enjoy a typical Italian aperitif: a glass of good wine paired with a platter of local cured meats and cheeses (link to open bars). A simple and genuine moment, perfect to immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of the weekend.

Afternoon – The quiet beauty of Villa Melzi in winter

Reach the entrance to the Villa Melzi Gardens (Lido side) at 2:00 PM for a guided tour lasting about an hour and a quarter of the botanical garden in its winter version.

Among centuries-old trees, neoclassical statues, and elegant pathways, you will discover the fascinating history of the Melzi d’Eril family and the deep connection between art and landscape that defines this historic estate. Booking is recommended at the following link.

Afternoon snack – A pause with a view

After the visit, enjoy a coffee at one of the lakeside bars, where the slow rhythm of the afternoon invites relaxation and contemplation of the golden light reflecting on the lake (link to open bars).

Evening – Relaxation and local flavors

Return to your accommodation for a moment of rest and prepare to conclude your day with dinner at one of Bellagio’s open restaurants (link to open restaurants) or in your accommodation. Savor local specialties in an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for celebrating the peaceful beauty of a winter weekend.

Extra – Relaxation and wellness at the Hotel Du Lac SPA

To end the day in total relaxation, treat yourself to a break at the Hotel Du Lac SPA.
Rejuvenating massages, Turkish bath, sensory showers, ice waterfalls, hydromassage, and a dedicated relaxation area await you in an environment of peace and comfort.
All accompanied by herbal teas offered by the tisanery, for a complete experience of wellness and renewal. For more information and bookings, click here.

Varenna, the Queen of the Eastern Shore

A village that enchants in every season, but in winter reveals its most peaceful and refined soul.
Varenna welcomes visitors with its cobbled streets, historic gardens, and the quiet magic of Christmas lights reflecting on the lake.

Morning – A walk through the village and along the lakeshore
Reach Varenna by ferry (departures at 9:35 AM) or boat (departures at 10:30 AM). Purchase a round-trip ticket (tickets can also be purchased on board using contactless payment “NaviTap” – see the website Navigazione Laghi for more info).
Download the free audio guide (available on iOS and Android) and let it lead you through the historic center, its charming stairways, and the romantic “Lovers’ Walk,” a lakeside path offering views of rare beauty.

Lunch – Genuine flavors, history, and conviviality
Take a break in one of the local restaurants (see Varenna bars and restaurants link), where you can enjoy traditional dishes or a quick lunch before continuing your exploration of the village.

Afternoon – Art and historic gardens
After lunch, spend the afternoon visiting Varenna’s historic villas—true treasures of elegance and history. Start with Villa Monastero, featuring its refined botanical garden overlooking the lake, then continue to Villa Cipressi, where during the winter season the enchanting “Christmas Garden” transforms its terraces into a luminous, scenic experience, perfect for enjoying the festive atmosphere in a quiet, intimate setting.

Return – Evening journey back to Bellagio
Return to Bellagio in the evening with one of the available ferries (departures Monday to Saturday at 7:20 PM or 8:25 PM, Sunday at 7:20 PM or 7:55 PM).

Extra – Dinner with a lake view
If you wish to extend your day, stay for dinner in Varenna at one of the lakefront restaurants (see Varenna bars and restaurants link), where you can enjoy local cuisine surrounded by the intimate charm of the illuminated village.
Please note that the last ferry to Bellagio departs at 9:20 PM on Saturdays and at 9:45 PM on Sundays.

Evening – Dinner and relax
End your day with dinner at your accommodation or one of Bellagio’s open restaurants (link to open restaurants). Let yourself be wrapped in the peaceful, cozy atmosphere of the evening, while the lake’s reflections accompany the slow rhythm of a journey filled with elegance and authenticity.

Extra 2 – Relax and wellness at the Hotel Du Lac SPA
To end the day in complete relaxation, treat yourself to a wellness experience at the Hotel Du Lac SPA. Regenerating massages, Turkish bath, sensory showers, ice falls, hydromassage, and a dedicated relaxation area await you in an atmosphere of calm and comfort. Enjoy herbal teas and refreshments from the tea corner for a complete wellness experience.
For more information and reservations, click here.

Bellagio in Winter: Discovering the Pearl of the Lake Surrounded by Tranquility and Tradition

Discover Bellagio in its most intimate and tranquil form, when the lake is calm and the crowds give way to those seeking an authentic and renewing experience. This itinerary will guide you through the Pearl of the Lake, exploring charming villages, genuine traditions, and breathtaking views that only winter can offer.

Morning – Awakening by the lake, surrounded by light and silence
Start your day with a lakeside breakfast at one of the bars in the historic center (link to open bars), where the aroma of fresh coffee blends with the crisp winter air.
Download the free audio guide (available on iOS and Android) to embark on a walking journey through Bellagio’s cobblestone streets: every corner tells a story, and every view offers timeless peace and beauty.

Lunch – A dive into authentic traditional flavors

Head to the picturesque hamlet of Regatola, a peaceful retreat away from the bustle of the town center, to visit the Antica Latteria di Bellagio. Here, you can enjoy a tasting of traditional dairy products, crafted from ancient recipes and local passion. Book your experience by writing to l.pezzini@latteriavaltellina.eu (for groups over 10 people, weekend bookings are also available at the same email address).

Afternoon – Stroll through the hamlets, discovering hidden corners
After lunch, continue your exploration on foot from Regatola to Visgnola, and then passing through the charming hamlets of San Vito and San Martino.
These small villages preserve an intimate and authentic atmosphere, where tranquility reigns and life follow the calm and simplicity typical of traditional communities, especially during winter.

Afternoon snack – A sweet taste of local tradition
Don’t miss a stop at the historic Pasticceria Sancassani, where you can savor traditional sweets like Pan Mataloc and Biscutin de Visgnöela, recipes passed down through generations (please note: the pastry shop is closed Sunday afternoons and all-day Monday, so plan your visit accordingly).

Evening – Relaxation and taste with a lake view
Return to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest after a day of discoveries.
For dinner, choose from the open restaurants in the village (link to open restaurants), where you can enjoy typical Larian dishes, accompanied by the cozy and enchanting atmosphere that only winter on the lake’s shores can create.

Extra – Relax and rejuvenate at the Hotel Du Lac SPA
To end your day in total relaxation, treat yourself to a break at the Hotel Du Lac SPA. Enjoy rejuvenating massages, a Turkish bath, sensory showers, ice waterfalls, a whirlpool, and a dedicated relaxation area—all accompanied by soothing herbal teas from the tisanery, for a full experience of wellness and renewal.

For more information and reservations, click here.

Bellano, the Orrido and the Wayfarer ‘sPath

An itinerary for those who enjoy walking immersed in the quiet atmosphere of winter, surrounded by history and the authentic beauty of Lake Como’s eastern shore. The Sentiero del Viandante, an ancient route connecting the lake’s villages, offers evocative views, scents of woodland, and a slow, gentle rhythm—perfect for rediscovering the pleasure of simplicity.

Morning – From Bellano to Vezio

Reach Varenna by ferry (departure at 9:35; purchase a return ticket—tickets are also available on board with contactless payment “NaviTap”. More info here). From the pier, walk to the train station and continue to Bellano by train (departure at 10:25; trains run approximately every 30 minutes, see timetables on www.trenord.it).

Head towards the Church of San Rocco, the starting point of the Sentiero del Viandante (Wayfarer’s Path).
Before beginning your hike, take time to visit the Orrido di Bellano, the famous natural gorge carved over centuries by the Pioverna stream. Suspended walkways, towering rock walls and plays of light create a striking, almost mysterious setting, made even more atmospheric by the winter season. The walk toward Varenna takes about two hours and leads you through old terraced fields, stone paths and small hamlets overlooking the lake, until you reach Vezio, where breathtaking views open over the central lake and surrounding mountains.

Lunch – A panoramic break

Take a break for a packed lunch near Castello di Vezio. On weekends, small traditional “crotti” along the path may also be open (better to check online and to book), perfect for a moment of relaxation surrounded by silence and the pure, timeless beauty of the winter landscape.

Afternoon – Returning to Varenna

After lunch, descend toward Varenna along the Sentiero del Viandante.
At the end of your walk, treat yourself to an aperitivo in one of the village’s cafés (link), enjoying the peaceful, intimate atmosphere of a winter afternoon.

If you’d like to continue exploring Varenna, download the free audioguide (available for iOS and Android) and follow the famous Lovers’ Walkway, which winds along the lake between small harbours, stairways and charming viewpoints.

Return – A journey wrapped in sunset light

Head back to Bellagio in the evening using one of the available ferries (departure at 16:50) or boats (departure at 17:55), enjoying the reflections of the evening lights on the lake.

Extra – Dinner with views and atmosphere

If you wish to end your day in a special way, stay for dinner in Varenna at one of the lakeside restaurants (link). Here you can enjoy the warm tones of the sunset and the intimate charm of the winter village.
Remember: the last ferry to Bellagio departs at 21:20 on Saturdays and 21:45 on Sundays.

Evening – Dinner and relax

Conclude your day with dinner at your accommodation or in one of Bellagio’s open restaurants (link to open restaurants). Let yourself be embraced by the calm evening atmosphere, as the reflections on the lake accompany the slow rhythm of a journey filled with elegance and authenticity.

Extra 2 – Relax and wellness at Hotel Du Lac’s SPA

To end the day in complete relax, enjoy some time at the SPA of Hotel Du Lac.
Regenerating massages, Turkish bath, sensory showers, ice cascades, hydromassage and a dedicated relaxation area await you in a calm and comforting environment. All accompanied by herbal teas offered by the tisaneria, for a complete experience of wellbeing and renewal. For more details and bookings click here.

Como City

A perfect itinerary even on rainy days, designed to let you discover Como through its museums, historic buildings, and intimate indoor atmospheres. A journey that highlights the city’s cultural soul, celebrating art, history, and the charm of its old town.

Morning – Immersion in art and architecture

Reach Como by bus (Line C130, ASF Autolinee, departure at 9:01 on weekdays, 10:30 on Sundays). Begin your day with a visit to Como Cathedral, a refined blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture where art and spirituality come together in an elegant, evocative atmosphere. Continue to the Civic Art Gallery, an indoor journey through centuries of local artistic history — the perfect way to dedicate your morning to culture. Tickets available here.

Lunch – Warming flavours

Choose one of the traditional restaurants in the historic centre, where Como’s cuisine welcomes you with warm, comforting dishes, ideal also on a rainy day.

Afternoon – Science, history… or textile tradition

Spend your afternoon at the Tempio Voltiano, the museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta and his extraordinary scientific legacy. Original instruments, historical displays and engaging storytelling guide you through the life of the inventor of the battery (tickets available here).

Alternatively, visit the Como Silk Museum, a fascinating place that recounts the history of the city’s silk tradition through historic machinery, precious fabrics, sample books and ancient production techniques. An ideal indoor experience for those interested in the creative and industrial soul of Como (tickets available on the museum’s website).

Extra – On clear days

Enjoy a short walk along the lakeside to the Life Electric monument; otherwise, treat yourself to a relaxing break in one of the city’s historic cafés.

Take the funicular to Brunate (timetables and fares, choose english) and enjoy a panoramic view over Como: the landscape opens onto the city, the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Return – Comfort and ease

Return to Bellagio with bus C130 (departure at 16:50 every day) or by hydrofoil (departure at 17:10 from Monday to Saturday).

Evening – Dinner and leisure

End the day with dinner at your accommodation or at one of Bellagio’s open restaurants (link restaurant). The quiet of the evening and the charm of the lake offer the perfect conclusion to your cultural journey.

Extra – Relaxation and well-being at the Hotel Du Lac SPA

For a final moment of pure relax, treat yourself to a break at the Hotel Du Lac SPA.

Regenerating massages, Turkish bath, sensory showers, ice waterfalls, hydromassage and a dedicated relaxation area await you in a peaceful and welcoming environment. Herbal teas and infused waters complete the experience for full well-being and restoration. Click here for more information and reservations.

Villa del Balbianello and the Greenway of Lake Como

An itinerary that combines the timeless charm of Villa del Balbianello with the quiet atmosphere of the Tremezzina villages, surrounded by spectacular views and winter serenity. A perfect route for those who wish to explore Lake Como through slow walks, elegance, and scenic beauty.

Morning – Villa del Balbianello in the quiet of winter

Reach Lenno by boat (departure at 9:45; purchase a round-trip ticket — tickets are also available on board via contactless payment “NaviTap”. Visit navigazionelaghi.it for more information). Follow the lakeside promenade to its end: from here begins the path leading to the iconic Villa del Balbianello. Be sure to book your entrance in advance (mandatory both for the guided tour of the Villa and for access to the gardens) and enjoy one of the most celebrated experiences on Lake Como: the terraces, the panoramic loggia, the sculpted greenery, and the breathtaking views over the mid-lake. Inside, elegant rooms, original furnishings, art collections, and the adventure memorabilia of explorer Guido Monzino tell a fascinating story of journeys, discoveries, and refined taste. In winter, the Villa reveals an even more intimate charm, with soft light brushing the gardens and turning every corner into a painting.

Lunch – Flavours of the Tremezzina

After your visit, return to Lenno and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants participating in “Tremezzina Gastronomica” (until December 13). Traditional lake dishes, local products, and warm hospitality make this a moment of genuine flavour and authenticity.

Afternoon – A walk along the Greenway

Continue along the first stretch of the Greenway, from Lenno toward Tremezzo. This simple and scenic walk passes through historic villages, offering a peaceful afternoon immersed in natural beauty. Along the way, as you pass through Mezzegra, don’t miss the Casa dei Presepi, a charming exhibition housing a precious collection of nativity scenes from different eras and traditions. Its intimate and evocative atmosphere adds a special touch to the winter itinerary, celebrating both local craftsmanship and the cultural spirit of the area.

Return – The pleasure of a sunset crossing

Reach the Tremezzo pier (departures at 15:20 or 17:05) and sail back to Bellagio. The short and relaxing boat ride offers views of the lakefront as the lights begin to glow, and the landscape slowly settles into the soft colours of sunset.

Evening – Dinner and relax

End the day with dinner at your accommodation or in one of Bellagio’s open restaurants (link restaurant). Let yourself unwind in the quiet of the village and the charm of the winter lake , the perfect setting to conclude your itinerary.

Extra – Wellness at the SPA of Hotel Du Lac

For complete relax, treat yourself to a moment at the SPA of Hotel Du Lac. Regenerating massages, steam bath, sensory showers, ice cascades, hydromassage pool, and a dedicated relaxation area await you in a peaceful and comfortable environment. All accompanied by complimentary herbal teas for a full experience of well-being and renewal. Click here for more information and reservations.