Lake Como Holidays

Known as the ‘pearl of the lake’, Bellagio is home to incredibly well-preserved historic buildings, narrow cobbled lanes and chic shops selling beautiful Italian handmade items including scarves, jewellery and handbags. The town is small enough to walk around and an ideal spot for taking views of the lake. On our trips to Lake Como, we’ll take a boat ride around the lake to visit the gorgeous town of Bellagio and have plenty of free time to explore the beautiful gardens, serene views and authentic shops at a leisurely pace.

Villa Balbianello is a spectacular 18th-century villa set on the shores of Lake Como. The villa contains an impressive Italianate garden that was completely renovated in the early 20th century and is built on terraces of majestic plane trees overlooking the sparkling lake. The villa is also famous for its appearance in films like Casino Royale and Star Wars II: Attack of the Clones. Travellers on our Lake Como holidays will enjoy plenty of free time to visit this must-see attraction.

One of the most stunning things about Lake Como is the dramatic Alpine scenery that surrounds it. On our trips to the lake, we’ll have the opportunity to explore the Alps on a full day excursion on the Bernina Express, a UNESCO World Heritage Railway. During this panoramic journey, we’ll see views of White Lake, Black Lake and breathtaking glaciers. We’ll also visit the Swiss mountain town of St. Moritz, where we’ll have time to take in the beautiful scenery, wander the town’s charming streets and shop for Swiss chocolates.

Just a short drive away from Lake Como is Italy’s northern capital and fashion hub, Milan. On our Lake Como holidays, we’ll visit this incredible city with an expert guide by our side to give us an overview of its fascinating history. We’ll stroll past the Piazza del Duomo and Cathedral, along with the world’s oldest shopping mall, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Plus, we’ll enjoy some free time to go shopping or view some of the Milan’s famous art galleries.

On our summer holidays to Lake Como, enjoy plenty of free time to soak up the sun at some of the lake’s fabulous ‘lidos’ or beaches. Almost every town on the lake includes a lido, and there are plenty of public and beach club options to choose from. Some of these lidos, likes the ones in Riva Bianca and Onno, are traditional public beaches. While others, like those in the towns of Cadenabbia and Bellagio, are more exclusive, boasting pools, bars and sun loungers for a fee.