VARENNA With colorful houses lining the entire waterfront, absolutely brilliant lake views, stunning botanical garden around Villa Ciprissi, historic Villa Monastero, and excellent restaurants, gelaterias and bars, this town is a favorite destination for all travelers. It's also a great starting point for exploring other places around the lake, whether you choose to travel by boat or by train.

BELLANO The town's history started in the Middle Ages, when it was a center of culture and trade. Today, it is a pleasant place for everyday shopping or for sitting in one of the waterfront restaurants. The Lido beach invites visitors not only to relax but also to try various water sports such as windsurfing or sailing. The Orrido di Bellano gorge, with its several turquoise-blue waterfalls, is also well worth a visit.

ABBAZIA DI PIONA This gem of Romanesque architecture is located on the Olgiasca Peninsula and dates back to the 7th century. The Church of the Virgin Mary was consecrated in 1138, and Cistercian monks still live here. In the garden, surrounded by an olive grove, there is a grotto with a statue of the Madonna that is strikingly reminiscent of the famous Lourdes.

FIUMELATTE Measuring just 250 meters, this shortest river in Italy flows through the village of the same name, near Varenna. It earned the name "Milk River" due to its turbulent, white-foaming current. This fascinating natural phenomenon, which emerges from a cave within the Grigna massif only from March to October, was even studied by Leonardo da Vinci.

BELLAGIO The local architecture, which combines elements of different styles, creates a unique atmosphere throughout the town, known as the "Pearl of the Lake." Explore the picturesque historic villas along the coast, breathtaking parks and gardens, ancient stone streets in the historic center, or enjoy authentic Italian gastronomy in one of the traditional trattorias.

LECCO Nestled among majestic mountains, this provincial town has a fascinating history dating back to ancient Roman times. It is strongly associated with the renowned poet and philosopher Alessandro Manzoni, whose novel The Betrothed was largely inspired by the local landscape. Lecco offers numerous historical monuments, including churches and museums, which reflect its rich culture and traditions.

COLICO A dynamic town blending Alpine beauty with a relaxing lakeside atmosphere, Colico is perfect for anyone seeking great services, sports, and Italian well-being. It boasts wide sandy beaches with a shallow entrance to the water, among the best on the lake. The waterfront promenade is lined with traditional trattorias, coffee shops and gelaterias.

SANTA MARIA REZZONICO The old and quiet village is dominated by the majestic 14th-century fortress, Castello di Rezzonico. Its charming center features narrow stone alleys that slope gently down to the very edge of the lake. A lakeside promenade leads visitors directly to a secluded pebble beach, offering a peaceful atmosphere away from the busier tourist spots.

MENAGGIO Another charming lakeside town, Menaggio impresses visitors with breathtaking views of the Grigna massif. The historic center is full of narrow streets, cozy cafés, and shops selling local products. The main attractions include the Church of St. Martin and the promenade that stretches along the entire waterfront from the harbor to the town beach at the edge of the city.

COMO The Duomo di Como Cathedral, combining several architectural styles, the Baradello Castle, the ruins of Roman baths, the Alessandro Volta Museum on the promenade, the Casa del Fascio, the Silk Museum, and historic pubs, cafés, and shops all testify to the city's long history. An absolute gem is Villa Olmo, an 18th-century neoclassical mansion on the lakeshore, just a short distance from the city center.

CORENNO PLINIO An old village spreads out along the lake below the medieval castle and the 12th-century Church of San Tommaso di Canterbury. The streets consist of hundreds of steps carved into the rock, lined with ancient houses and offering stunning views. Access is now carefully controlled to preserve the beauty of this place for future generations.

CHIAVENNA A little town at the foot of the Alpine passes charms visitors with its cobbled streets, amazing historic palaces, and a wild turquoise river crossed by an ancient stone bridge. Highlights include the Parco Paradiso botanical garden, the Renaissance gem Palazzo Vertemate Franchi, and the stunning Acquafraggia waterfalls, once admired by Leonardo da Vinci.