Lake Como in Italy is undoubtedly a beautiful destination. Many will say that it's the most beautiful place in Italy and it'd be difficult to argue otherwise. However, marveling at the dreamy paradise that is Lake Como isn't the only thing you can do here. There's actually a lot to do and see in this place than you probably realize. Some are typical touristy things while others are what you can only do in Lake Como. Depending on the kind of trip you want to have here, you ought to do what you want to do instead of what you're thinking you ought to do.
Go On A Lake Como Tour
Firstly, you have to know that Lake Como is quite a big place. It may seem compact and that all of it simply surrounds one big lake but don't underestimate just how huge the lake really is. Lake Como is so big that as much as you want to get a lot done in just a day if you didn't plan enough ahead of time, you'll end up not doing or seeing much. That's why many would prefer to go on guided tours instead. Although they restrict your freedom in exploring Lake Como at your own pace, at least you'll get to see a lot of the region even in a limited time.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Sail On The Lake
You're in Lake Como, a calm and beautiful lake that's unlike any other. It's one thing to see the majesty of it from any of the beautiful towns, villages, hills, forests, and more that make up the region. Of course, if you stay in one place, you won't really absorb just how astounding Lake Como is. So why not go sailing in Lake Como instead? From the boat, you get to see Lake Como in all its glory. The Instagram shots you'll take from here will also be stellar, guaranteeing hundreds, if not thousands of likes!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Play Water Sports
The great thing about staying near a lake is that you get to enjoy all sorts of water sports too. Not that you can't enjoy them in other places like the
beaches in Sardinia, Portofino, Cefalù, and more. But at least, when spending time by the lake, specifically Lake Como, there are often fewer people, freshwater, and there's less commercialization to ensure more exciting adventures. You can jet-ski to your heart's content without the risk of getting sunbathers wet in the process. You can go scuba diving and discover the differences between underwater life in freshwater to those in salty seawater. Not to mention, windsurfing in the breezier parts of Lake Como too!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Explore The Towns
If you've ever seen postcards with Lake Como on it, you'll know that this place is made up of different cities, towns, villages, and more, each more picturesque than the next. Well, if just seeing them in a picture will already grab your attention, what more when you explore these communes yourself? The
many cities in Lake Como are exceptionally endearing, showing off that signature Italian charm but with calmer lakeside energy. Bellagio, for instance, can get busy but not as hectic as the major metropolises like Rome or Milan. Varenna, on the other hand, gives a romantic feel that's perfect for a summer fling!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Visit The Villas
As far as tourist attractions are concerned, the villas in Lake Como are the best of the best. Museums are good and all, but in this particular region, the opulent homes of past Italian nobles are beautiful and historic enough. They offer a peek into what life was like for prominent people of those times. How they revelled in excessive glory and helped build Lake Como to be the picturesque destination it is today. Many of these villas are the most romantic spots in all of Lake Como, often used as scenic wedding venues for those lucky enough to hold dreamy destination ceremonies.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Marvel at Lake Como's Grand Churches
While villas definitely take the top spots of many travelers' 'must-see' lists of Lake Como, the destination's grand churches don't fall behind! In fact, many will argue that they're just as beautiful as
the ones in Lecce or as grand as those in the Vatican. Take Como Cathedral, for instance. It's an architectural marvel that's famous for its bright teal-hued domes that you'll probably spot from a mile away. The beautiful Basilica of San Fedele, on the other hand, subtly highlights both Medieval influences and Renaissance architecture. You won't see such sights anywhere else!
Source:Flickr.com/ Elliott Brown
Rest & Relax
Finally, perhaps the best thing to do in Lake Como is to simply relax. Sure, you're all excited to explore the region and discover all the amazing places it offers, but at the same time, you won't find another destination in Italy that's as tranquil as this. Unlike in other coastal areas, particularly those by the sea, where the waves and the tourists can still distract you, at this lake, you'll experience absolute peace. The still waters provide the perfect serene atmosphere that's practically rare nowadays. And if you go further into the uncharted territories, you can escape all your problems and finally rest easy.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Although what you can do in Lake Como may seem more limited compared to what you can do in other destinations, that doesn't make the place any less exciting. On the contrary, you might find that the region truly is the paradise you've been yearning for!
