Pro tip: the further removed you get from the waterfront, you'll find the higher end ristorantes and trattorias buried in the town. Il Cavatappi (the corkscrew) is a tiny restaurant in a narrow alleyway that is worth the splurge, and the food warrants missing out on the view. When in Lake Como, part with pizza and pastas for at least one meal to try some of the local fish dishes! Reservation needed for dinner.
In Italy, a Cantina is typically a place below ground level where wine, cheeses, and cured meats are stored. Cantinas are great and an (often) affordable option to try local wine flights in a cozy atmosphere, and Cantina Follie in Tremezzo is as charming as it gets. Grab a small-plates-style bite here, and follow it up with a drink at the glamorous Grand Hotel Tremezzo...you've got yourself a lovely evening.
Don your aprons and bond with fellow guests and locals for this Italian cookery class at Il Caminetto! Classes are seasonal and on select days of the week, and plan for a few hours of availability for the whole experience.
In the heart of Bellagio, one of the most beautiful and well-known lakefront towns of Lake Como, Ristorante Bilacus offers patrons traditional pasta and local fish dishes, backed by three generations of fine Italian catering. Weather permitting, we recommend dining on the breathtaking veranda.
Nothing beats a local coffee shop. The ambiance, waterfront seating option, the lattes, and the most glorious pear & prosciutto dish make Caffe Varenna a must-eat! Visit this casual cafe for a morning pastry and a caffe latte portare via (take away).
Lidos - or, beach bars - are popular spots for relaxing and drinking lakeside. Lido di Bellagio offers cabanas and beach chairs for those of us who wish to take a break from touring and eating ridiculous amounts of pasta. For Lake Como's Lidos, think Positano, but less touristy and more affordable!
This famous, Romanesque-style 11th century Church is a must-see landmark in Lake Como. The adjoining cloisters and courtyard are worth a wander outside on a nice day. Tours recommended, but not required.
For guests looking to explore Lake Como on foot, this hike to the Church of San Martino is well worth it for the views. An easily accessible cobblestone trail from the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, hiking boots or comfortable sneakers and a picnic lunch are recommended.
When in Lake Como - dine like a local! Think: Italian BBQ. At Crott Del Pepott, you'll dine next to waterfalls in this hidden gem that boasts some of the best local food in Lake Como, including ribs, sausage, and polenta, paired with delicious meat and cheese plates, house wine, and homemade desserts.
An art studio owned and operated by the artist - Paolo - and his wife - Melita. Stop in to view the beautiful, local artwork and have a truly priceless chat with the artist himself. International shipping is free on all art pieces - why not take home a souvenir?
Lake Como Bike Tours offer a chance to explore even more of Lake Como and even a quick trip into Swiss territory with a professional cyclist tour guide. If you're interested, peruse their various tour offerings on their website. There is something for everyone!
Boat tours of Lake Como are one of the most popular and luxurious activities in the area. Explore some of the most iconic villas and landmarks from the comfort of a private boat on the Lake. Private tours range from 1 hour to an all day excursion, and can be completely customized; group tours range throughout the week.
This ancient Roman Catholic Church dates back to the Middle Ages, and it sits on serene shore-front property, which offers unparalleled views of Lake Como. Visit the ancient crypt next door at the parish church of San Vincenzo (1072). The town of Gravedona offers a range of bars and restaurants, which makes visiting this historical structure a very enjoyable afternoon!
Since 1974, family-owned and operated Ristorante Al Veluu has been serving locals and well-informed tourists fine, fresh food on their terrace, nestled in the slopes of Tremezzo. They grow their own vegetables and herbs in the kitchen garden, which you may tour while waiting on a table. Want to stay a little longer? Al Veluu also offers 5-star accommodations in their panoramic suites. The views are breathtaking and the food is truly something to write home about. Closed on Tuesdays!
La Baia Ristorante is located in the small bay of Cremia on the Lake. Executive Chef Ilario Castelnovo continuously updates the restaurant's modern, fresh menu of Italian classics, and the restaurant was completely renovated in January 2020 to include an extensive waterfront veranda and terrace.
Chef Patricia has created an unforgettable yet affordable, specialized menu at Locanda La Tirlindana. There are two options for dining - an intimate indoor setting, surrounded by period archways and fine art, or on the lakefront patio under the Wisteria. You truly can't go wrong!