Italian Tips

Lake Como: Top 3 travel goals for 2025


Lake Como is a destination renowned for its stunning landscapes, peaceful villages, and rich cultural heritage. If you are planning a trip in 2025, here are our suggestions to help you experience the Lake authentically.

1. Discover hidden villages and scenic walks

Beyond well-known destinations like Bellagio and Como city, Lake Como is home to quieter villages ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and authenticity. Varenna, with its narrow streets and lakeside views, is a must-visit. Menaggio, with its elegant promenade, and Lenno, near the celebrated Villa Balbianello, are equally worth exploring.

For walking enthusiasts, Lake Como features trails combining nature, history, and panoramic views. Sentiero del Viandante, running along the eastern shore, is the perfect trail for discovering smaller villages and enjoying peaceful landscapes.

2. Experience Lake Como by boat

Exploring Lake Como by boat offers an excellent way to enjoy its beauty. In 2025, consider joining a boat tour or renting a private boat to chart your own route. From the water, you’ll admire historic villas, manicured gardens, and picturesque lakeside towns.

For a well-rounded itinerary, book a tour that includes stops at Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello, two of the most famous landmarks on the Lake. 

3. Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine

Lake Como is more than a destination for scenic views and aesthetic photos—it’s a place to savor its culinary and cultural traditions. In 2025, don’t’ miss out on:

  • Local dishes: try specialties like Missoltini, sun-dried lake fish, or polenta, a comforting dish made with cornmeal and accompanied by saucy meat or cheese.
  • Cooking classes: learn to prepare traditional dishes with guidance from local chefs, who often share recipes passed down through generations, with simple ingredients but great taste.
  • Markets and events: visit local markets offering fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and regional wines, or plan your visit to coincide with one of the Lake towns’ festivals, popular during summer and early autumn.

Lake Como remains a destination where natural beauty, cultural traditions, and leisure activities come together. Whether exploring hidden villages, cruising the calm waters, or indulging in local flavors, Lake Como promises memorable experiences that not many foreigners know about. Save our insights, start planning your trip today and enjoy this remarkable destination! Here is where you can stay and here are our selected experiences.