La Dolce Vita Guide

Lake Como is best enjoyed slowly—with time to wander, ferry-hop, and savor the beauty of the lake. From charming villages and scenic boat rides to leisurely lunches and lakeside strolls, the magic of Lake Como is found in its slower pace and effortless beauty. If you’re looking to explore between events, here are a few of our favorite ways to experience the lake during your stay.

Lake Life Strolls

Largo Cavour: a lakeside promenade made for a slow walk, sunset views, or a pre-dinner pass.

Via Calvi + Menaggio Old Town: shops, cafés, gelaterias, and restaurants — perfect for wandering on foot.

Village Hopping by Ferry

One of the easiest (and most cost friendly) ways to explore Como is by ferry. Favorites include:

  • Bellagio: iconic and elegant.

  • Varenna: romantic and charming.

  • Lenno & Tremezzina: lovely for villas, gardens, and quiet afternoons.

Villa Touring

Villa Melzi d’Eril (Bellagio) — gardens entry approx. €10 per adult.

Villa Carlotta (Tremezzo) — museum + gardens entry approx. €15 per adult.

Villa Monastero (Varenna) — house museum + botanical gardens entry approx. €13 per adult.


These are easy to pair with a ferry day.

Beach Club & Spa

  • Victoria Beach Club (Menaggio): loungers, pools, lake views, food + cocktails — a perfect lake day.

  • Lido di Menaggio (Menaggio): a classic lakeside beach club with sunbeds, pools, lake access, and a relaxed daytime atmosphere right in town.

  • Spa at Grand Hotel Victoria (Menaggio): for a quiet reset if you want one.

  • T Spa at Grand Hotel Tremezzo (Tremezzina): one of Lake Como’s most iconic wellness experiences. Day access may be available for non-guests by advance request.

Cooking Classes

If you’re in the mood for something hands-on (and delicious), a Lake Como cooking class is such a fun way to spend an afternoon in between events. Most classes focus on fresh pasta, regional dishes, and a classic dessert—often hosted in a local home or a beautiful lakeside setting.

Where to book:

  • Airbnb Experiences — great for smaller, more personal classes that feel local and relaxed.

  • Viator — a wide range of highly reviewed options, from pasta + tiramisu classes to private home-cooking experiences.

Both platforms make it easy to browse by date, group size, and location around the lake.