Lake Como, Italy: An Unforgettable Family Adventure
Imagine stunning landscapes, charming villages, and the aroma of authentic Italian cuisine filling the air. Northern Italy, particularly the breathtaking Lake Como region, offers precisely that – a magical blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Picture yourself strolling through cobblestone streets, savoring delicious gelato, and soaking in the sun on the shores of a crystal-clear lake. It’s all here, and it’s even more enchanting than you can imagine.
And yes, it’s all true. Northern Italy is a dream come true.
Why Lake Como is Ideal for Family Travel
Lake Como isn’t just a picturesque destination; it’s an experience that caters to every member of the family. From leisurely boat rides to exploring historical landmarks and indulging in mouthwatering food, this region offers a diverse range of activities that will keep everyone entertained and engaged. Prepare to be captivated by the allure of Lake Como, a place where cherished memories are made.
During our family vacation to Zurich, Switzerland, we decided to take a side trip to the stunning Lake Como region in Northern Italy. While everyone asks, no, we didn’t spot George Clooney! However, we did embark on an unforgettable journey around the lake, and that’s close enough to his house for us.
Nestled amidst the majestic Swiss Alps, Lake Como boasts unparalleled beauty in every direction. Whether you’re gazing from the north, south, east, or west, you’re guaranteed breathtaking views that will leave you in awe. The truth is, you can’t go wrong. Every town on the lake has something special to offer. Here’s just a glimpse of the views you’ll get to enjoy day after day:
Traveling with young children requires a relaxed approach, so we intentionally kept our itinerary flexible, allowing for spontaneous exploration. Here are some valuable tips for planning a family trip to Lake Como, along with insights from our own adventures.
Getting to Lake Como: Your Transportation Options
By Plane:
The closest airport is in Milan, which actually has two airports: Linate and Malpensa. Upon arrival, you can opt for a train to Como or rent a car for a scenic drive.
By Train:
Trains are our preferred way to travel in Europe. If you’re planning to see multiple locations, get a Eurail Pass. You can take the Cisalpino train from Milan to Lake Como; it only takes about 35 minutes and is around $20 without a pass. Train schedules change, and there may be strikes, so check Rail Europe for up-to-date info.
By Car:
Depending on where you start, driving may be the most convenient option for you. We found that traveling by car from Zurich was easier than coordinating trains and buses, which isn’t fun with two kids, heat, and luggage. The E35 from Zurich takes you to Lugano, then you follow the signs into Italy. You can check several different car rental services online for options.
Navigating Lake Como: Driving Tips
Italy’s beauty is undeniable, but driving in Lake Como requires focus. The roads are narrow, windy, and filled with blind corners. Even two small European-sized cars passing side by side find it tight. Tour buses will barrel down, so you need to be careful. Rent the smallest car you can find, and stay caffeinated. Prepare to battle it out with the locals on roads you’re unfamiliar with.
Exploring Lake Como: Must-Visit Towns
While every town around Lake Como offers stunning views and delectable Italian cuisine, each has its own unique charm and appeal. Here are some of the top spots we explored during our stay:
Bellagio: The Pearl of Lake Como
Bellagio is the most bustling and touristy town on Lake Como, serving as a central hub for boat services connecting different parts of the lake. This area boasts the largest concentration of hotels, shops, restaurants, and cafes. While prices in Bellagio tend to be higher, its undeniable beauty makes it a worthwhile destination. We recommend spending at least one day exploring its picturesque streets lined with shops and gourmet food stores. Foodies and wine lovers will rejoice in the abundance of artisan bakeries and local food shops. Be sure to pack an extra suitcase for the Italian treats and fine leather shoes you’ll want to bring home!
Tremezzo: A Quaint Lakeside Retreat
Tremezzo is a charming village directly across the lake from Bellagio. Its main attractions include the waterfront promenade with stunning views of Bellagio and the exquisite botanical gardens of Villa Carlotta.
Menaggio: A Charming Town to Explore on Foot
Menaggio offers a more tranquil and authentic experience compared to Bellagio. This charming town is perfect for exploring on foot, with breathtaking views at every turn.
In all honesty, we stopped in so many small towns, their names blur together. I couldn’t always tell which town I was in based on the signs, but it didn’t matter. A flexible itinerary reduces stress when you’re traveling with kids.
Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in Lake Como
To avoid the tourist crowds and expensive hotels, we opted for a more authentic experience at Hotel Europa in the tiny town of Sorico. We absolutely loved our stay and highly recommend it. Other options range from luxurious hotels in Bellagio to budget-friendly hostels in Menaggio. Depending on your preferences and budget, a family of four can expect to spend anywhere from 150 Euros to over 1,000 Euros per night.
Lake Como Hotel Tips: Many smaller, family-run hotels in Northern Italy don’t have air conditioning. Check with your hotel and plan carefully depending on when you are visiting. Most hotels have Wi-Fi these days (though it might be spotty). Expect to pay more for American amenities like air conditioning, room service, and toiletries.
Culinary Delights: Where to Eat and Drink in Lake Como
We enjoyed all our dinners at Hotel Europa, where Mama Angela cooked us homemade pasta every night. Exploring the area and trying restaurants that caught our eye was another option. If you’re hungry, just explore and you’ll find something. But be sure to pack snacks, since you might drive a while before finding another town.
We found that many cafes offered small snacks with drinks. Some provide bread and butter, others offer charcuterie plates. One cafe gave us mini sandwiches, olives, and potato chips for free, which made our kids very happy!
Coffee
Coffee is a must-have in Northern Italy. If you order coffee, you might get a cappuccino, topped with foam, or a latte, with a splash of milk. Coffee in Italy is special. There’s no drip coffee from a can here!
Gelato
I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream: GELATO!
My kids’ favorite Italian dish that we found everywhere we went in Northern Italy: gelato. What’s the difference between gelato and ice cream? Gelato is made with more milk than cream, so it has less fat.
Gelato is also made with fewer egg yolks or no egg yolks. Gelato is churned at a slower speed, so it has less air in its base. That’s why it has a dense texture compared to traditional ice cream.
Pizza
If you haven’t had pizza in Italy, you MUST. Italian pizza is fresh, light, and delicious. It is a great meal to taste what real Italian pizza is like.
Italy is often associated with pizza and pasta, but traditional Northern Italian meals feature fresh vegetables and seafood.
You’ll find all kinds of fresh local fish and shellfish here, as well as local produce. Local restaurant menus change depending on what’s fresh and in season, which means you’re in for a tasty, fresh meal every time.
Traveling with Children: Family-Friendly Lake Como
Our kids, ages 6 and 9, are good travelers. They love plane rides and enjoyed the road trip between Zurich and Como. Kids are welcome in most public places in the Como area. The adults were warm and friendly with our children and often offered special treats or samples. They were treated with respect, and there were kids everywhere we went. It’s a great place to travel with children!
Smoking is prevalent in public spaces, especially in cafes and restaurants. That’s a big issue when traveling overseas. I’m used to most people not being smokers where I live, and smoking bans in restaurants.
We had a magical time in Lake Como, Italy. It’s a picture-perfect place that is easy to explore with children and a flexible plan. We found it more affordable than other Italian destinations, and the dollar could go far in terms of lodging, dining, souvenirs, and activities. Whether you chose a small town or a larger tourist destination, you can’t go wrong with a family vacation in Como, Italy.
More Family Travel Guides
- Where to Stay in Aomori Japan
- Hotel Europa – Lake Como, Italy
- The Nines Hotel – Portland, Oregon
- Chateau de Chillon – Switzerland