Italy | Lake Como at the Foot of the Alps
If you visit Milan, you must visit Lake Como, known as "Milan’s Backyard"—it feels like stepping into a classical European painting. 📅 Itinerary: ✔️ VERANNA (Varenna) One of the most charming towns along Lake Como, relatively quiet and perfect for a leisurely stroll. Two recommended villas: 1⃣️ Villa Cipressi 2⃣️ Villa Monastero ✔️ BELLAGIO A town filled with artisan shops selling jewelry and clothing, full of Italian charm. Wander the streets, take photos, and enjoy a meal. Recommended restaurants: Antichi Sapori and DISPENSA 63. ✔️ VILLA DEL BALBIANELLO A filming location for Star Wars and Casino Royale. It attracts many visitors, but daily entry is limited. Most domestic travel sites don’t offer tickets, so be sure to book in advance on the official website (at least a week ahead during peak season). ✔️ Taxi Boat If you have time, definitely rent a boat to tour the entire lakeside. You can arrange it through your hotel (though prices are high) or find rental contacts at the Varenna or Bellagio docks—just call to book. 🚗 Transportation: ✔️ Milan Central Station → Varenna (1.5 hours) → Bellagio (15-min ferry) → Como (1-hour ferry) → Return to Milan (1 hour) ✔️ Private car round-trip to Milan (1 hour) ✔️ Self-drive rental (cars can board ferries) 🏨 Hotels: Passalacqua – Voted one of the world’s most beautiful hotels. You can reserve afternoon tea (lakeside seating) or dinner (à la carte recommended ❌ avoid fine dining). March is easier to book with lower prices—during peak season, reserve at least a month in advance. 🍴 Restaurants: ✔️ Villa d'Este One of Lake Como’s most famous hotels. If you have time, book afternoon tea or a meal—unfortunately, it’s closed during the off-season. ✔️ Mala Xiang A Sichuan restaurant. If you’re staying by Lake Como, you can contact the owner for delivery. ⚠️ Tips: 1️⃣ Late April to June is peak tourist season at Lake Como. With narrow roads and heavy traffic, prices surge 📈, comparable to China’s National Day holiday. Before late March is the off-season, with many hotels closed for renovations. 2️⃣ Highly recommend staying for 1-2 nights. #travel #tourism #Europe #Italy #Milan #offthebeatentrack #worldtravel #LakeComo #ItalyTravel #mustvisit #healingtravel
