The best way to see Lake Como is by boat! If you have a free day, we strongly recommend renting a boat from our family friend, Andrea, who runs the Lake by Boat rental company in Bellagio. The best way to book is via Whatsapp - he will give you special rates if you mention you're in town for the Corr/McManus wedding! Andrea - www.lakebyboat.com - +39 328 292 0019 If Andrea is fully booked, we recommend reaching out to the following companies: - www.bellagiorentaboat.com - +39 347 497 3564 - www.boathirebellagio.com - +39 331 384 7620 If you would prefer a guided tour of the lake and to have someone else drive whilst you sip champagne, please contact Chicco at www.bellagiocharter.com - +39 338722 5442 If a true sailing experience is more your style, have a look at the majestic sailboats offered by www.bellagiosailing.com & speak to Carlo - +39 338 332 4331 Make sure to mention the Corr/McManus wedding to all the above so you secure discounted rates!
One of the best local restaurants in Bellagio, Salice Blu, offer a variety of different kinds of cooking classes for individuals and large groups! The different classes and prices can be found on their website here: https://ristorante-saliceblu-bellagio.it/en/bellagio-experience/ The head chef, Luigi, is absolutely incredible — not only will you enjoy a fantastic meal, but you'll leave with plenty of laughs!
Other villages to explore (outside of Bellagio): Varenna, Menaggio, Tremezzo, Lenno, and Como. Como is a small city at the head of the lake and is well worth a visit; beautiful cathedral, cobbled streets, cafe's to sip an aperitif and interesting shops. Buy a daily ticket for €15 at the Ferry kiosk in Bellagio and travel by foot ferry to all or any of these villages in one day - breakfast in Varenna, lunch in Menaggio, gelato in Lenno, dinner in Como! If in Lenno, you should pay a visit to the magnificent Villa Balbianello - where James Bond & Star Wars were filmed! Access on foot or by small lake taxi (recommended) - tickets & info found here: https://fondoambiente.it/villa-del-balbianello-eng Tour Villa Carlotta: Visit the world famous botanical gardens - it is located directly across from Bellagio and is open to the public 7 days a week! You can take the foot ferry from Bellagio & be there within 10 minutes! Tickets and info can be found here: https://www.villacarlotta.it/en/