When I first stepped off the ferry in Bellagio, I felt like I’d walked straight into a postcard pastel villas climbing up the hillside, cobbled lanes spilling toward the lake, and the gentle clink of wine glasses from waterfront cafés. Known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is more than just a pretty face. It’s a place where you can wander centuries-old gardens, sip local wine with a lake view, and watch the sun paint the mountains gold.
Whether you’re here for a few hours or several days, Bellagio has a way of slowing you down while filling your days with beauty and discovery. Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Bellagio, from iconic landmarks to quiet corners that often get overlooked.
Got it, I’ll expand these eight sections so they’re more in-depth, practical, and travel-savvy, while keeping the warm first-person Travel with Zee tone. I’ll add extra sensory detail, planning tips, history, and insider angles so they’re not just descriptions but useful mini-guides for each experience.
1. Stroll the Bellagio Waterfront Promenade
Bellagio’s lakeside promenade is the kind of place where you can slow down without even trying. It’s lined with manicured flowerbeds that change with the seasons, from tulips in spring to geraniums in summer. Wrought-iron benches invite you to sit and simply watch life on the lake ferries docking with a gentle thud, fishermen untangling nets, and the occasional swan gliding past.
I like to start my day here with a cappuccino from one of the cafés near the ferry terminal, then walk south toward Villa Melzi. On this route, you’ll pass elegant hotels with ivy-covered terraces, boutique gelaterias, and shady spots perfect for cooling off on a hot afternoon. The views are spectacular in every direction: across the water to the alpine foothills, down the lake toward Varenna, and back to Bellagio’s colorful waterfront.
If you’re visiting in summer, come back in the early evening when the lake reflects the pink and gold hues of sunset it’s a photographer’s dream.
2. Explore Villa Melzi Gardens
Just a few minutes’ walk from Bellagio’s center, Villa Melzi d’Eril is one of the highlights of Lake Como. Built in the early 1800s for Francesco Melzi d’Eril, a vice president of the Napoleonic Italian Republic, the villa itself is private, but the landscaped gardens are open to the public from March through late October.
Winding gravel paths lead past camellias, azaleas, centuries-old plane trees, and marble sculptures placed perfectly against the lake backdrop. You’ll find a small chapel with neoclassical details and a museum housed in the orangery, displaying Napoleonic memorabilia and art that tells the story of the estate.
I recommend visiting in the morning when the light is soft and crowds are minimal. Take your time along the shoreline path the reflections of the gardens in the water are beautiful, especially in spring when blooms frame every view. Wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds are larger than they appear on the map.
3. Take a Guided Tour of Parco di Villa Serbelloni
Unlike Villa Melzi, Parco di Villa Serbelloni can only be visited on a guided tour, and that exclusivity is part of its charm. The park sprawls across 50 acres above Bellagio, offering panoramic viewpoints you simply can’t get from town.
Tours are led by knowledgeable guides from the Rockefeller Foundation (which now owns the villa) and run twice daily from March to November at 11:00 and 15:30. The walk lasts around 90 minutes and involves uphill paths through olive groves, terraced gardens, and shaded forest. Along the way, you’ll stop at viewpoints where you can see all three branches of Lake Como meeting below a rare perspective that gives you a sense of the lake’s unique shape.
Because spots are limited to 30 people per tour, booking ahead is wise, especially in high season. Bring water, wear good walking shoes, and be ready for a bit of a climb. The reward is a mix of natural beauty, history, and unforgettable vistas.
4. Wander the Old Town
Bellagio’s historic center is a tangle of narrow lanes and stone staircases that seem to lead to hidden surprises around every corner. It’s a place to wander without a plan peek into artisan shops selling Como-made silk scarves, leather goods, and hand-painted ceramics, then pause for a glass of local wine at a tucked-away enoteca.
One of my favorite streets is Salita Serbelloni, a steep, cobbled staircase flanked by pastel-painted buildings with wrought-iron balconies overflowing with flowers. Arrive early to photograph it before the crowds arrive, or linger in the evening when lights glow in the shop windows.
Don’t be afraid to explore the smaller side streets you might find a quiet piazza with a fountain, a tiny bakery selling focaccia fresh from the oven, or a balcony with a perfect view of the lake. The Old Town is compact but layered with history, and every corner feels like a scene from a film.
5. Visit the Basilica di San Giacomo
In the heart of Bellagio, the Basilica di San Giacomo stands as a link to the town’s medieval past. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries, it’s an example of Lombard-Romanesque architecture, with a simple stone façade and a square bell tower that rises over the rooftops.
Inside, the quiet is striking after the bustle of the streets. Soft light filters through stained glass onto centuries-old frescoes and wooden sculptures. One of the most notable pieces is the 15th-century statue of the Madonna of the Belt, a work of delicate detail and reverence.
It doesn’t take long to visit, but it’s worth stepping inside to appreciate the craftsmanship and the sense of continuity this is a space that has been a place of worship for nearly a thousand years. If you happen to be here when the bells ring, it adds another layer to the experience.
6. Discover Pescallo Village
On the quieter eastern shore, Pescallo feels like Bellagio’s secret twin. Once a fishing village, it retains its low-key atmosphere, with brightly painted houses clustered around a small harbor. The short walk from the center takes about 10 minutes downhill on the way there, uphill on the return, and is worth it for the change of pace.
From the stone wall along the waterfront, you can watch kayakers set out into the open lake or fishermen tending their boats. Early morning and late afternoon are the most peaceful times, and the light over the water can be breathtaking. If you enjoy photography, bring a camera the reflections here are beautiful on calm days.
Pescallo is also a starting point for water activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, which give you a unique perspective of Bellagio from the lake.
7. Relax at La Punta Spartivento
At Bellagio’s northernmost point, La Punta Spartivento is where the lake splits into three branches, each leading toward a different part of Lake Como. The small park here has benches, grassy patches, and unobstructed views on clear days, you can see the snow-dusted peaks of the Alps in the distance.
It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or just to take a break between sightseeing stops. I like to come in the late afternoon when the light softens and the water turns shades of silver and gold. If you’re visiting in summer, bring a hat and water there’s little shade.
8. Enjoy a Private Boat Tour
One of the most memorable ways to experience Bellagio is from the water. Private boat tours can be as short as an hour or stretch into a half-day adventure, taking you past grand villas like Villa del Balbianello, small fishing villages, and gardens you can only glimpse from the lake.
Some tours include swim stops in secluded coves or a glass of prosecco on board. If you’re traveling as a couple or celebrating something special, it’s a wonderful splurge.
If a private tour isn’t in your budget, the public ferries offer equally stunning views for a fraction of the cost. Sit on the upper deck, and you’ll still get that exhilarating feeling of the wind in your hair and the mountains all around you.
9. Take the Ferry to Nearby Towns
One of my favorite parts about staying in Bellagio is how easy it is to hop across the lake to other charming towns. Varenna is just a 15–20-minute ferry ride away, and it’s absolutely worth the trip. Stroll the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lovers’ Walk), visit the elegant Villa Monastero gardens, and wander its colorful lanes.
Menaggio, also about 15 minutes by ferry, has a relaxed feel with a lakeside promenade perfect for evening walks, plus easy bus connections into the mountains.
If you have more time, consider taking a longer ferry south to Como or Tremezzo. Como offers a lively city atmosphere with shops, cafés, and the scenic Brunate funicular, while Tremezzo is home to Villa Carlotta known for its art collection and botanical gardens.
Tip: In summer, ferries run more frequently, but schedules can be reduced in spring and autumn, so check return times before you go. I like to travel mid-morning to avoid the busiest commuter times.
10. Go for a Kayak or SUP Session
Lake Como’s calm, glassy mornings are perfect for getting out on the water. In Pescallo or near Lido di Bellagio, you can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) by the hour.
From a kayak, you see Bellagio from a completely different angle the colorful houses stacked up the hillside, the reflection of gardens in the water, and the expanse of lake stretching toward the mountains. On warmer days, some spots let you pause for a swim.
I recommend going early in the day for the calmest water and clearest reflections. Wear quick-dry clothing, secure your valuables in a waterproof bag, and bring a hat and sunscreen the lake’s open surface can be surprisingly intense under the summer sun.
11. Spend an Afternoon at Lido di Bellagio
Just a short walk from the center, Lido di Bellagio is the closest thing to a beach club in town. During the day, you can rent sun loungers, order cocktails from the bar, and take a dip in the lake from the sandy shoreline. The water here is shallow near the shore, making it a popular spot for families.
In the evenings during summer, the Lido transforms into a social hub with music, dancing, and themed events. If you’re looking for a lively night out, this is one of the few places in Bellagio where you’ll find it.
Do note that it’s a paid entry in summer, and loungers can fill up quickly, so I suggest arriving before midday if you want a good spot by the water.
12. Stop at Gelateria del Borgo
Bellagio has several gelaterias, but Gelateria del Borgo is my personal favorite. It’s tucked along Via Garibaldi and often has a short line always a good sign. The gelato is creamy, flavorful, and made in small batches.
Classic pistachio here has a rich, nutty taste, but I also love trying seasonal fruit flavors like peach or wild berry. Take your cone and wander a few steps to a bench overlooking the lake it’s the perfect mid-afternoon break between sightseeing.
13. Explore San Giovanni
Most visitors stick to Bellagio’s main streets, but the San Giovanni neighborhood on the western side is worth the short walk. This small fishing quarter has a quieter, local feel. You’ll find a tiny harbor with colorful boats, narrow alleys, and the Church of San Giovanni with its centuries-old frescoes.
The real surprise here is the Museum of Navigational Instruments, a quirky but fascinating collection of compasses, telescopes, and marine chronometers from around the world. It’s a quick visit, but it offers a glimpse into the area’s long relationship with the lake.
If you enjoy photography, San Giovanni’s waterfront is especially pretty in the golden evening light, with the mountains of the western shore glowing in the distance.
14. Capture the Perfect Photo
Bellagio is photogenic in every season, but certain spots and times of day really bring out its beauty:
- Salita Serbelloni: Early morning for empty steps and soft shadows.
- Pescallo Bay: Sunrise, when the water is still and pastel-colored.
- Punta Spartivento: Golden hour for dramatic light and mountain silhouettes.
- Villa Melzi gardens: Spring and early summer for peak blooms.
If you’re serious about photography, bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare from the lake and enhance the colors. In busy months, patience is key wait a few minutes for a break in the crowds, and you’ll capture Bellagio at its most peaceful.
15. Seasonal Tips for Visiting Bellagio
- Spring (March–May): The gardens are at their most colorful, and the weather is comfortably mild. Easter can be busier, so book accommodation early.
- Summer (June–August): Expect longer daylight hours and lively streets, but also more crowds and higher prices. Make restaurant reservations in advance.
- Autumn (September–October): Fewer visitors, warm afternoons, and golden foliage make this a fantastic time for photography.
- Winter (November–February): Some attractions close, but the town takes on a calm, almost romantic quiet. You might find lower hotel rates and more time to linger in cafés.
Practical Tips for Getting Around
- Ferries: Passenger and car ferries connect Bellagio to Varenna, Menaggio, and Como. For shorter trips, passenger ferries are faster and more frequent.
- Parking & ZTL: The center is a limited traffic zone, so park in designated lots outside and walk in. Parking can be competitive in summer, so arrive early.
- Walking: Bellagio is best explored on foot, but be prepared for steep streets and uneven cobblestones. Comfortable, supportive shoes are a must.
- Accessibility: If stairs are a challenge, stick to the promenade and lower streets many of the lanes uphill are not wheelchair-friendly.
Where to Eat in Bellagio
Bellagio’s dining scene ranges from casual trattorias to fine dining with lake views. A few favorites:
- Trattoria San Giacomo – Cozy, intimate, and great for traditional pasta dishes like tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms.
- Ristoro Forma e Gusto – Known for lake fish specialties, risotto, and a peaceful garden terrace.
- Bistrot Antichi Sapori – Offers a relaxed atmosphere with a small but well-curated menu and outdoor tables perfect for warm evenings.
For something special, consider Mistral at the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, which has a Michelin star and panoramic views over the lake.
Where to Stay in Bellagio
Staying overnight in Bellagio gives you the rare treat of enjoying the town after the day-trippers leave. Choices range from grand hotels to charming guesthouses:
- Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni – Historic luxury with ornate interiors, a lakeside pool, and exceptional service.
- Hotel Belvedere – Family-run for generations, offering beautiful terraces and a spa.
- Albergo Europa – A budget-friendly option right in the heart of town.
If you prefer a quieter base, look for accommodations in the hamlets of Pescallo or San Giovanni, where mornings begin with birdsong and gentle lake ripples instead of bustling footsteps.
Bellagio is the kind of place that lingers in your memory not just for its beauty, but for the moments you collect here. Whether you’re wandering through a sunlit garden, savoring gelato by the lake, or watching the mountains fade into dusk, each experience feels like a little slice of Lake Como magic. If you’re planning your trip, I hope this guide helps you fall in love with Bellagio as much as I did.
