Just a few minutes north of Varenna, Bellano is a lakeside village rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. This fall, it’s about to take center stage: from the 26th to the 28th of September 2025, Bellano will host the national festival of “I Borghi più belli d’Italia”, the official association of Italy’s most beautiful small towns.
For a weekend, the village will light up with celebrations, food tastings, concerts, markets, and guided tours, welcoming visitors from all over the country and beyond.
Bellano gained a mention in the ever-evolving list of best picturesque towns in Italy thanks to its natural and cultural beauty, so it is definitely worth a visit at any time. It is peculiarly known as a village of artists and writers, like painter Giancarlo Vitali and novelist Andrea Vitali, whose books are often set right here. Its historic allure is matched by natural wonders like the Orrido di Bellano: a dramatic gorge carved into the mountain, complete with waterfalls and walkways suspended in the rock.
The lakefront is lively, the old town is a blend of mountain and lakeside atmosphere, and the location is only 10 minutes from the more famous village of Varenna. The difference is, Bellano offers a less polished, more real perspective on Lake Como – make sure to see both!
If you’re visiting Lake Como, Bellano is one of our most recommended choices for your stay. Browse through our accommodations in this Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages-certified village and live the dreamy Lake getaway in a stunning neighbourhood. As always, Varenna Holidays’ team will be happy to help you plan your visit and activities.
