Bellagio, Italy: A Day Trip to Lake Como’s Hidden Gem
The Journey: Milan to Como
We hopped on a train from Milano Centrale to Como then it took just under an hour to reach the destination, offering glimpses of the Italian countryside along the way. Once we arrived at Como San Giovanni station, we made our way to the ferry terminal, excited to visit the famed Bellagio. 😁
The Ferry Fiasco
Our excitement took a hit when we arrived at the ferry ticket office and saw the snaking queue, but we patiently waited. When it was finally our turn, we found out that all the morning and early afternoon tickets to Bellagio were sold out. The only available slots were for ferries leaving after 5 PM, which wasn’t ideal since we needed to return to Milan that evening.
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| crowd queueing at the ferry terminal |
Disheartened, we almost decided to spend the day enjoying the views from the ferry station. But over lunch, we began searching online for alternatives and discovered a game-changer - a bus (C30) that could take us to Bellagio and back! 😇
Plan B - The Bus to Bellagio
We quickly found the bus stop and caught the next bus to Bellagio. Tickets were available on board, and we managed to grab seats before it filled up with fellow tourists. The scenic ride to Bellagio was a delight, with winding roads offering glimpses of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Upon arriving (nearly 3pm), we were greeted by the charm and elegance that Bellagio is known for.
Exploring Bellagio
Bellagio is often referred as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” and it’s easy to see why. Nestled on the shores of Lake Como, Bellagio is a gorgeous postcard-like destination known for its charming cobbled alleys, breathtaking lake views, and romantic villas. 😍
Despite the limited time, we soaked in Bellagio’s stunning scenery.
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Strolling Through the Alleys - Bellagio’s cobblestone streets and narrow alleys are a joy to wander. Each turn revealed boutique shops, cafés, and stunning views of the lake.
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Giardini di Villa Melzi - This expansive lakeside garden features lush landscapes, elegant statues, and serene pathways along the shores of Lake Como. The meticulously landscaped grounds, sculptures, and serene lakeside paths made it the perfect spot for a relaxing walk.
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Lakeside Views - Simply standing by the water and soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and villas was magical.
Tips for Visiting Lake Como and Bellagio
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Book ferry tickets in advance - Ferries to Bellagio are incredibly popular and can sell out quickly. If you’re visiting during peak season, consider purchasing your tickets online or arriving early.
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Have a backup plan - If ferries are sold out, buses are a great alternative. Check schedules in advance since they may not run frequently.
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Wear comfortable shoes - Bellagio’s alleys are charming but steep. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
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Pack Light - Traveling between buses, ferries, and alleys is easier with a lightweight bag.
Is Como Worth Visiting?
Definitely yes! Even with the hiccup of sold-out ferry tickets, our day trip to Lake Como and Bellagio turned out to be an unforgettable adventure. From the stunning vistas to the charming streets of Bellagio and the serene beauty of the village, every moment was worth it.
In fact, some tourists stay overnight or longer to experience the area at night and visit other well-known towns on Lake Como, such as Cernobbio and Varenna, as well as the city of Como itself.
So, if you are planning a trip to Milan, a day at Lake Como is a must — just be prepared to adapt and embrace the unexpected.
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| Hand Sculpture below the Como San Giovanni Railway Station |
Ciao for now!
Sep '23