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Bellagio
While the shopping is touristy, the town of Bellagio is worth visiting to stroll the cute cobblestoned streets, if only for half an hour. The pastel-colored storefronts and winding alleys feel far more charming than commercial Como.
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Indagare Tours: Hiking
The landscape surrounding Lake Como—with sloping, dramatic cliffs and the occasional church perched on the hillside—conjures thoughts of the Swiss Alps (in fact, the Switzerland border is only a 30-minute drive away). The challenging terrain, coupled with stunning views overlooking...
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Indagare Tours: Private Boat Excursion
The best way to take in Lake Como’s dramatic landscape (and avoid driving along the winding, narrow streets) is by boat. From the water, one can embark on a boat tour, passing the lake’s most famous villas including those of...
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Town of Como
While Como isn’t a shopping destination by any means, there are ample stores to browse if you forgot anything at home. A number of Italian luxury brands (Max Mara, Furla, Ermenegildo Zegna) have boutiques here, but for a wider array...
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Villa Carlotta
Built in 1690 for a Milanese marquis, this villa and garden complex covers 17 lakefront acres (eight of which can be toured) in Tremezzo, with stunning views of Bellagio from the estate’s balcony. The grand villa takes its name from...
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Villa del Balbianello
If this historic villa looks familiar, it’s because it has been featured in a number of films, including Casino Royale and A Month by the Lake. Built for a Cardinal in the late 18th century on the site of a...
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Watersports
Recreational swimming in Lake Como is not encouraged because of bacterial pollution, but getting in and out of the water during watersports is not a cause for concern. The lower area of the lake (where Villa d’Este is located) is...
Lake Como

Courtesy Villa d'Este
From the grand hotels to the flavorful cuisine, life on Lake Como is all about indulgence. Days, too, should be spent soaking in the splendor of the region, whether hiking its dramatic mountains or exploring the opulent villas that line its shores. And while the lake is not swimmable at time of the year due to bacteria, watersports are permitted, so active types can explore on sailboats and even try windsurfing.