Thinking of the Italian Riviera? Here’s my Lake Como family friendly travel guide that covers everything you need to know about the best things to do and places to see when you visit Lake Como with kids.
Lake Como or Lago di Como is the third largest lake in Italy. Located in Italy’s Lombardy region, south of Switzerland, it offers breathtaking scenery – a lake with a peculiar inverted Y shape and glistening waters fringed by the Alps mountains. Villages dotted along Lake Como exude a romantic and regal air with their charming houses in pastel hues, grand villas and magnificent gardens.
Getting there
Milan Malpensa is the nearest airport to get to Lake Como. You can take a train from Malpensa airport to Como via Saronno. If, like us, you are planning to spend some time in Milan then you also have an option to take a train from Milan Central station to Como S Giovanni station (about 40 minutes ride) or Varenna (about 1 hour ride). The easy access makes Lake Como an attractive day trip from Milan.
When to visit
July to September are the popular months to visit Lake Como but it can get overcrowded and hot. I preferred visiting in the shoulder month of May. Spring would be amazing too when all the gardens are in full bloom.
Where to stay
If short on time, the best option is to stay in either of the three popular villages – Varenna, Bellagio or Menaggio. They are well connected by ferry and you don’t lose time in getting from one place to another. Whether you are after luxury hotels or boutique ones, traditional guesthouses or private Airbnbs – there’s something for everyone.
With kids, I prioritise convenience and hence booked an Airbnb that was close to shops, restaurants, bus route and ferry terminal. This charming two-bedroom apartment in Griante was our perfect home away from home with amazing views of the lake.
Things to do
Here’s pretty much a gist of our 3 days in Lake Como – lazy mornings spent with kids, sipping coffee while enjoying the panoramic views from our Airbnb, eating pizzas and drinking Aperol Spritz at lakeside restaurants, taking the ferry, sightseeing, getting lost in the little lanes with a gelato in hand – living the La Dolce Vita life indeed!
Things to do in Varenna
- Stroll the narrow cobbled streets that go up and down the village.
- Lovers’ Walk – Walkway over the lake from ferry terminal to Varenna’s cobbled streets.
- Visit the stunning Villa Monastero and its botanical gardens.
- Visit the botanical gardens of Villa Cipressi.
- Stop by at Bar Il Mono for drinks and food.
Things to do in Bellagio
- Salita Serbelloni – Picturesque street lined with boutiques and restaurants.
- Visit the historic Villa Melzi and its gardens.
- Walk along the waterfront promenade.
- Take the Tourist Train near the ferry terminal if you have little children or it’s too hot to walk.
Things to do in Menaggio
- Large piazza with shops, restaurants and pretty cafes.
- Walk along the picturesque waterfront promenade.
- Mini Golf with lake view.
Additional Things to do in Lake Como
- Visit the magnificent Villa del Balbianello.
- Como to Brunate Funicular.
- Private boat tour.
- Lake Como Greenway hike.
Good to Know
Here’s a few things to be aware of when visiting Lake Como.
- It is not stroller-friendly. Managing the buggies on the cobbled streets can be an issue.
- Ferries and buses do not necessarily run on time. Buses have reduced frequency on weekends.
- Try to reach ferry terminal about 15-20 minutes before departure as there may be queues for both tickets and boarding during busy times.
- If you hire a car, parking can be an issue. Also, driving on the winding roads can be tricky. Look for accommodations which have parking spot included.
- Personal opinion – Lake Como can be done on a slow pace or fast. There aren’t necessarily places that you must tick off your list. It’s more about enjoying the vibe and feel of the place.
If you are looking to take a break from the busy routine and spend a relaxed time with kids, Lake Como is ideal. I hope you enjoyed my family friendly Lake Como travel guide. Let me know in the comments, I’d love to know!
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Cheers,
Ameeta xx
