Witness Lake Como’s Stunning Beauty from These 10 Spots

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Alpine lakes are stunning, and just gazing at their clear waters with mountains in the background can melt your stress away.

But not all alpine lakes are the same. Lake Como is exceptional for many reasons. Its uniqueness is similar to Lake Thun, Switzerland’s most fairytale-like lake. Both have enchanting places along their shores. Lake Thun features castles, while Lake Como boasts ancient Roman villas. But there’s more to these villas in Lake Como that make the lake exceptionally beautiful. Let me share them with you.

The places listed here are arranged from west to east. You can find their exact locations on the map after this list of beautiful spots in Lake Como.

1. Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como

The facade of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como, Lake Como, Italy — The facade of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como

Beautiful Gothic ornaments on the facade of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como, Lake Como, Italy — Beautiful Gothic ornaments on the facade of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como

Mixed architecture of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como seen at the back, Lake Como, Italy — Mixed architecture of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como seen at the back

Gorgeous interiors of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como, Lake Como, Italy — Gorgeous interiors of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como

A closer look at the vaulted ceiling of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como, Lake Como, Italy — A closer look at the vaulted ceiling of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como

View along the nave of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como, Lake Como, Italy — View along the nave of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como

The intricate organ of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como, Lake Como, Italy — The intricate organ of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como

Tapestry below the organ of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como, Lake Como, Italy — Tapestry below the organ of Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Como

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, or Como Cathedral, is the last Gothic cathedral built in Italy. Located in the heart of Como, it stands just moments away from the tranquil lake. There it stands as a reminder that Lake Como is more than just a natural attraction.

From what I’ve learned, the Como Cathedral is definitely one of the main attractions in the Lake Como area, thanks to its impressive size and gorgeous interior. While it may not be as grand as the basilicas in Venice or Rome, the artwork and details inside are truly breathtaking.

The cathedral’s nave, with its high ceiling and golden accents, feels like stepping into a royal palace. The ceiling and dome, decorated with golden octagons, are mesmerizing with their perfect symmetry and lighting.

What caught my attention the most was the nave, with its medieval beauty brought to life by the ancient woven artworks. There are nine of these pieces, created in the late 16th century in places like Ferrara, Florence, and Brussels. The golden altars and varied paintings throughout the cathedral are also worth seeing.

If you’re in town during the Christmas season, don’t miss the Como Magic Light festival, which runs from late November to early January. The event turns the city into a winter wonderland, with colorful lights illuminating the facades of Piazza del Duomo and all over the city.

For visiting information, be sure to check the church’s official website.

2. Tempio Voltiano in Como

Tempio Voltiano in Como, Lake Como, Italy — Tempio Voltiano in Como

Name of Alessandro Volta in Tempio Voltiano in Como, Lake Como, Italy — Name of Alessandro Volta in Tempio Voltiano in Como

Neo classical facade of Tempio Voltiano in Como, Lake Como, Italy — Neo classical facade of Tempio Voltiano in Como

Interiors and exhibits inside Tempio Voltiano in Como, Lake Como, Italy — Interiors and exhibits inside Tempio Voltiano in Como

Another remarkable destination in Lake Como is the Tempio Voltiano, a white neoclassical building on the northern lakeshore of Como. As you make your way from the train station and pass the docks, it’s one of the first landmarks to catch your eye. Step inside, and you’ll find an unexpected surprise.

The Tempio Voltiano, located by the beautiful Lake Como, is a museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery. The building was opened on July 15, 1928, to mark 100 years since Volta’s death. Fun fact: it was once featured on the 10,000 Lira bill!

Today, the museum showcases a permanent exhibition about Volta’s life and work. If you’re an engineer or just interested in groundbreaking inventions, Tempio Voltiano is a place to visit. Despite its small size, it’s filled with cool artifacts, including Volta’s famous batteries and the first voltaic piles.

For more information about Tempio Voltiano, please check its official website.

3. Faro Voltiano in Brunate (Como Viewpoint)

Faro Voltiano, Lake Como, Italy — Faro Voltiano

Instagrammable staircase of Faro Voltiano, Lake Como, Italy — Instagrammable staircase of Faro Voltiano

View from Faro Voltiano, Lake Como, Italy — View from Faro Voltiano

Faro Voltiano overlooking Como, Lake Como, Italy — Faro Voltiano overlooking Como

Perched in the hilltop village of Brunate, just east of Como, the Faro Voltiano stands as a tribute to Alessandro Volta. A visit to this lighthouse offers not only a glimpse into the region’s past but also sweeping panoramic views, hinting at the many breathtaking experiences Lake Como has to offer.

Standing 29 meters tall, Faro Voltiano is an octagonal lighthouse that watches over Lake Como. It may not stand out much during the day, but at night, it lights up, casting the lake and nearby towns in the bright colors of the Italian flag—red, white, and green.

The views from Faro Voltiano are absolutely stunning. You can see everything from the southwest part of the lake to the far-off Alps, and the scenery is a true visual treat. As the sun sets, it offers one of the best views around Lake Como. Relax on one of the benches and take it all in. On some days, when the clouds are below the lighthouse, you’ll experience a breathtaking “sea of clouds” that looks almost otherworldly.

For a small fee, you can enter Faro Voltiano and take in a fantastic view of the area. The staircase inside is especially cool, especially when you look up from below—definitely Instagram-worthy.

To get to the lighthouse, start with a funicular ride from Como to Brunate. From there, you can either take a 30-minute walk or hop on bus T3, which cuts the travel time in half. If you decide to walk, just use Google Maps to guide you.

For visiting information¡ announcements, please check the official website of Como.

4. Villa del Balbianello in Lenno

Villa Balbianello, Lake Como, Italy — Villa Balbianello

View from Villa Balbianello, Lake Como, Italy — View from Villa Balbianello

The most instagrammable spot in Villa Balbianello, Lake Como, Italy — The most instagrammable spot in Villa Balbianello

Quaint appearance of the buildings in Villa Balbianello, Lake Como, Italy — Quaint appearance of the buildings in Villa Balbianello

Vine covered walls of Villa Balbianello, Lake Como, Italy — Vine covered walls of Villa Balbianello

Magical-looking statues in Villa Balbianello, Lake Como, Italy — Magical-looking statues in Villa Balbianello

Gorgeous lady statue in Villa Balbianello, Lake Como, Italy — Gorgeous lady statue in Villa Balbianello

Are you looking to experience the magic of Lake Como? No visit is complete without a stop at Villa del Balbianello in Lenno. With its breathtaking beauty, it stands out as one of the most remarkable villas on the lake.

Villa del Balbianello is tucked away at the tip of a hilly peninsula on Lake Como’s western shore. Perched high above the water, it offers breathtaking views of the lake, while its secluded spot away from the town makes it a peaceful escape from the bustle.

However, know that you can get there by a small boat shuttle from Lenno town or by walking. The villa sits on the Lavedo Peninsula, right next to Lenno, along the western shores of Lake Como.

The villa has a rich history that stretches back to the 13th century when it was originally a Franciscan monastery, and you can still see signs of that era in the chapel today. In the late 18th century, a cardinal bought the property, and that’s when it began to transform into the villa we know now. Over time, the villa changed owners, and each one added something new, like a loggia and a hidden passage.

Today, it’s an architectural gem that attracts almost 140,000 visitors each year. Its beauty hasn’t gone unnoticed by filmmakers either, appearing in movies like A Month by the Lake (1995), Casino Royale (2006), and Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones (2002).

While the white façade, terracotta roof, and beautiful balconies of Villa del Balbianello are certainly impressive, I think the garden is what really makes the villa stand out. The sight of plants covering the villa’s walls and vines wrapping around the loggia’s columns feels like something out of a fairytale. The perfectly trimmed trees and lush grass, along with the vibrant flowers, create an atmosphere that’s almost magical.

The garden, with its perfect Italian-style landscaping, will have you snapping photos nonstop. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a sunny day, the sparkling blue waters around the villa will make the experience even more amazing.

Planning to visit? You can read this page for more information about Villa del Balbianello.

5. Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo

The main building of Villa Carlotta, Lake Como, Italy — The main building of Villa Carlotta

The beautiful fountain of Villa Carlotta, Lake Como, Italy — The beautiful fountain of Villa Carlotta

View of the fountain and lake Como from Villa Carlotta, Lake Como, Italy — View of the fountain and lake Como from Villa Carlotta

Heaven on earth scene in the garden of Villa Carlotta, Lake Como, Italy — Heaven on earth scene in the garden of Villa Carlotta

Lovely walking trails in VIlla Carlotta, Lake Como, Italy — Lovely walking trails in VIlla Carlotta

Make the most of your Lake Como trip by visiting Villa Carlotta, a highlight of the area. This villa and museum is home to a magnificent garden that offers stunning views, Instagram-worthy spots, and plenty of new discoveries.

Contrary to what the photos might show, Villa Carlotta isn’t just a “small” place with one main building and a garden out front. It actually spans a large area, and it can take two to three hours to fully explore.

But indeed, a¡t Villa Carlotta, you’ll get a true Italian experience that mixes art, history, and plants. The main building and its grounds feature artworks that share the story of the villa’s history and its past owners.

Villa Carlotta, like Villa del Balbianello, offers amazing views of Lake Como. However, while Villa del Balbianello has its own unique vibe, Villa Carlotta stands out with its beautiful botanical garden and impressive collection of sculptures from the 17th and 18th centuries. The way the garden blends natural materials with the old building’s traditional structure is impressive.

The villa’s 8-hectare garden is a paradise for nature lovers, featuring a variety of plants along different paths, some with stunning panoramic views. Walking through it is made even better by the beauty of the Italian plants.

If you’re looking for the perfect Instagram photo at Villa Carlotta, the front garden is the place to be. The fountain and staircase are gorgeous, and with the right angle and a bit of creativity, you’ll capture a great shot to share with friends or followers.

Want to visit? The villa is in Tremezzo, on the western shore of Lake Como. Tickets are available at the venue and give you access to both the museum and gardens, plus a self-guided audio tour. For more details, check out Villa Carlotta’s official website.

6. Punta Spartivento in Bellagio

Punta Spartivento, Lake Como, Italy — Punta Spartivento

View of Punta Spartivento from above, Lake Como, Italy — View of Punta Spartivento from above

View from Punta Spartivento, Lake Como, Italy — View from Punta Spartivento

At the boulder beach near Punta Spartivento, Lake Como, Italy — At the pebble beach near Punta Spartivento

Bellagio is one of Lake Como’s most stunning towns. Its scenic location, charming streets, panoramic viewpoints like Punta Spartivento, and excellent dining options have earned it the title “the pearl of Lake Como.”

Lake Como has so many beautiful towns, but Bellagio is definitely one of the best. The streets have this cozy vibe, perfect for just walking around and taking it easy. The best part, though, is definitely Punta Spartivento. It’s this amazing spot at the tip of the Bellagio peninsula where all three branches of Lake Como come together.

Punta Spartivento has a prime location that gives you an almost 360-degree view of the lake. On a clear day, the shimmering water and the towering mountains around it are just amazing.

If you’re staying the night in Bellagio, make sure to check out Punta Spartivento first thing the next morning, if the weather’s nice. The sunrise over the alpine lakes is something special. There’s also a small garden and a restaurant, perfect for a quiet breakfast with a great view. And if you’re lucky, you might spot some cute wild swans splashing around there.

7. Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio

Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio, Lake Como, Italy — Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio

Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio and the stunning mountain views, Lake Como, Italy — Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio and the stunning mountain views

Golden hour at Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio, Lake Como, Italy — Golden hour at Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio

Facade artwork of Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio, Lake Como, Italy — Facade artwork of Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio

Inside Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio, Lake Como, Italy — Inside Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio

Looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in Lake Como? Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio is the perfect place. It’s an unforgettable combination of mystic charm and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit on any itinerary.

Madonna del Ghisallo is a unique destination with three main attractions: a museum, a scenic location, and a shrine linked to a Marian apparition.

If you’re a cycling enthusiast, this place is especially significant. The story begins with Ghisallo, a medieval count who was saved from bandits by the Virgin Mary’s appearance during a journey to Magreglio. This apparition, known as La Madonna del Ghisallo, became a protector for local travelers. Over time, the shrine became a popular stop for cyclists taking part in events across Lombardy.

Recognizing its growing importance to the cycling community, the priest in Magreglio petitioned the pope to make La Madonna del Ghisallo the patroness of cyclists. The pope agreed, and since then, the shrine has been dedicated to cyclists.

A visit to the small chapel in Madonna del Ghisallo brings a surprising sight: the walls are lined with cycling memorabilia. Believe it or not, it holds the world’s largest collection of pink jerseys! In the center of the chapel, an eternal flame burns to honor cyclists who have tragically lost their lives.

The area also features a number of cycling museums and local restaurants. While you can see the main attractions in a short time, the views from Madonna del Ghisallo are truly stunning. Visit in early spring, and you’ll be treated to a view of the snow-capped Alps in the distance.

Getting to this area is a bit trickier compared to other spots around Lake Como. If you’re curious, you can find Madonna del Ghisallo’s exact location on Google Maps. Specifically, the sanctuary is located at Via Piano Rancio 2, Magreglio.

If you’re in Bellagio, you can take bus #C36 directly to Madonna del Ghisallo in Magreglio. The bus runs every two hours, starting at 10:40 AM. You can check the bus schedule on Moovit for more details.

8. Villa Monastero in Varenna

Villa Monastero in Varenna, Lake Como, Italy — Villa Monastero in Varenna

Quaint details along the staircase of Villa Monastero in Varenna, Lake Como, Italy — Quaint details along the staircase of Villa Monastero in Varenna

The most romantic spot in Villa Monastero in Varenna, Lake Como, Italy — The most romantic spot in Villa Monastero in Varenna

Another view of the lake from Villa Monastero in Varenna, Lake Como, Italy — Another view of the lake from Villa Monastero in Varenna

Lovely views from Villa Monastero in Varenna, Lake Como, Italy — Lovely views from Villa Monastero in Varenna

Varenna, located on Lake Como’s west coast, is one of the lake’s most picturesque towns. Like Bellagio, it’s a must-visit on any itinerary. Stroll through its romantic pathways and scenic spots, and you’ll end up with hundreds of photos to remember the day. However, there is more to that.

Varenna is a top stop on any Lake Como trip for three key reasons.

First, it’s incredibly scenic. The colorful village, surrounded by both distant and nearby mountains, creates a breathtaking view, especially when the sunlight hits the houses and reflects off the lake.

Second, the village is home to Villa Monastero, a fascinating villa with a distinctive design that features a remarkable collection of optical, electronic, and mechanical instruments.

Finally, you can visit Castello di Vezio, a 12th-century castle located above Varenna. The castle is known for its eerie ghost sculptures and also has an exhibition about Lariosaurus, an extinct sea reptile from the Middle Triassic period.

Among these, Villa Monastero is likely the most interesting. Located just south of Varenna, it’s similar to Villa Carlotta with its museum and botanical garden. Like other villas along the lake, Villa Monastero sits on the shores of Lake Como, offering beautiful lake views. Its unique west-facing position makes it perfect for watching sunsets.

While it may not have the fame of Villa del Balbianello or the large gardens of Villa Carlotta, Villa Monastero stands out with its eclectic design. Its location and the interesting collection of electronic, mechanical, and optical instruments make it worth visiting.

For more information, here is the official website of Villa Monastero.

9. Orrido di Bellano

Orrido di Bellano, Lake Como, Italy — Orrido di Bellano

Well-constructed trail and staircase in Orrido di Bellano, Lake Como, Italy — Well-constructed trail and staircase in Orrido di Bellano

A breathtaking metal path in Orrido di Bellano, Lake Como, Italy — A breathtaking metal path in Orrido di Bellano

Simple spectacular rock formations in Orrido di Bellano, Lake Como, Italy — Simple spectacular rock formations in Orrido di Bellano

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature on your Lake Como visit, the Orrido di Bellano is not to be missed. This 15-million-year-old gorge in Bellano, north of Varenna, is a natural wonder, with a mystic twist that adds to its mystery.

The first time I saw a gorge in Asia, I was amazed by the dramatic views. The sunlight breaking through a small gap above and creating beams of light was probably the most unforgettable part.

You can have a similar experience at Orrido di Bellano.

The winding footbridges along the canyon walls, the towering cliffs, and the sound of rushing water create an unforgettable experience when visiting Lake Como. If there hasn’t been rain before your visit, you might even get to see the gorgeous blue water flowing through the gorge!

What makes Orrido di Bellano stand out from other attractions in Lake Como is a simple yet intriguing building called Cà del Diavol. Located at the entrance to the gorge, its walls are covered with images of the devil, creating a creepy and strangely mystical atmosphere.

Depending on where you are in Bellano, you might be able to walk to Orrido di Bellano. The entrance to the gorge is just a few minutes from the train station. If you’re farther away or don’t feel like walking, you can use local public transportation if it’s available. I wouldn’t recommend driving, though, since parking is really bad.

For more information, you can check the official website of this gorge.

10. Belvedere Parco Valentino in Lecco

Scenic views from Belvedere Parco Valentino, Lake Como, Italy — Scenic views from Belvedere Parco Valentino

Impressive views of the mountains and cliffs from Belvedere Parco Valentino, Lake Como, Italy — Impressive views of the mountains and cliffs from Belvedere Parco Valentino

More scenic views in Belvedere Parco Valentino, Lake Como, Italy — More scenic views in Belvedere Parco Valentino

Last but certainly not least is the Punto Panoramico in Belvedere Parco Valentino, just north of Lecco. This spot is a must-see for any traveler seeking breathtaking views, offering a sweeping panorama of Lake Como—an unforgettable way to end your trip to this stunning lake.

At Punto Panoramico, on top of Mount Coltignone, you’ll be treated to views that are truly remarkable.

The dramatic change in Northern Italy’s landscape, from flat plains to towering alps, is a sight to see. But that’s not all! From here, you can take in the view of three lakes—Lake Como, Lago di Garlate (which is connected to Lake Como), and Lago di Annone—all just past the city of Valmadrera.

If you want, you can walk on a steel panoramic walkway for a thrill.

I suggest visiting Punto Panoramico during the golden hour of a clear afternoon. It’s the best time to watch Lago di Annone (and sometimes Lago di Garlate) sparkle like liquid gold—an unforgettable view. Belvedere Parco Valentino, located on the Pian dei Resinelli plateau, is only accessible by car as far as I know.

Here is the official website of Lecco for more information about visiting this viewpoint.

Map of Lake Como

Here’s the map of the beautiful spots around Lake Como, just as promised. It’s an interactive Google map, so you can easily explore the locations I mentioned, along with nearby attractions to check out before or after. Have fun discovering everything Lake Como has to offer!

Planning a trip? From great hotel deals to skip-the-line tickets and affordable eSim to cheap rentals, check out the travel resources I recommend and use for a smooth and memorable trip.

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Explore Beyond Lake Como

Northern Italy has so much more to offer beyond Lake Como. You can explore historic cities, like Milan, where you’ll find incredible architectural masterpieces, such as the stunning Cathedral. And don’t miss the awe-inspiring Dolomites, which truly look like heaven on earth. To help you start your journey, here’s my Northern Italy bucket list.

Read North Italy Bucket List Destinations

Also, keep in mind that Switzerland is just a short distance from Lake Como. If you want to keep heading north, you can reach the Swiss Alps, which are some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe, right up there with the Dolomites. Here’s how you can explore Switzerland on an extended weekend or longer.

4-Day Switzerland Itinerary (Extended Weekend)

6-Day Switzerland Itinerary (One Week)

For a convenient, unique, or more enriching visit, check out these experiences and services:

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