Lake Como Elegance: Bellagio, Varenna, and the Art of Subtle Luxury
We’ve always been drawn to places that feel timeless – where charm outweighs grandeur and elegance lives in the details. Lake Como captures that perfectly. Its still waters, ivy-wrapped villas, and quiet rhythm create the kind of beauty that never tries too hard.
It’s where linen belongs more than labels, and luxury feels effortless. A crisp shirt, woven loafers, a silk scarf caught in the lake breeze – everything here moves with quiet confidence. Como doesn’t chase glamour; it defines it.
In this blog, we share a 2 days travel guide, complete with our handpicked hotels, cafés, villas, and lakeside experiences. And as a fashion-focused couple, we have paired every experiences with touches of old-money style – showing how grace and good taste never go out of fashion.
Before diving into the itinerary, here are a few notes for a perfect stay.
WHEN TO VISIT?
Lake Como shines in every season, but September stands out as the ideal time to visit. The air is warm yet comfortable, the summer rush has passed, and the lake carries the calm rhythm that feels both intimate and cinematic. We visited during this time, and it offered that perfect blend of sunshine, quiet mornings, and long, easy evenings by the water.
HOW TO GET HERE?
Reaching Como is simple – just an hour by train from Milan. The most convenient and scenic route is to take a direct train from Milan to Varenna, which drops you right by the lakeside. From there, ferries depart frequently to Bellagio, Menaggio, and other towns across the lake.
While many visitors treat it as a day trip, we’d suggest staying at least a night or two. Como is best experienced in the early mornings and late evenings, when the crowds fade and the lake feels almost private.
If you book early, you can often find excellent stays in Bellagio or Varenna at very reasonable rates, especially those tucked just off the main promenade.
GETTING AROUND
Driving around Lake Como might sound charming, but the narrow roads and limited parking can be stressful. For a lighter, more authentic experience, rent a Vespa. It’s easy to park, gives you that true Italian touch and turns every ride into a small adventure.
For a trusted local operator, book your Vespa tour here.
If the hotel is close to the ferry terminal, skip the wheels altogether. The ferries connect Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and nearby towns within minutes. They’re efficient, scenic, and often the best way to appreciate the lake’s beauty. Tickets and schedules can be found on https://www.navigazionelaghi.it, the official ferry operator.
For those preferring their own vehicle, Discovercars offers rentals from Milan or Como – useful for extended stays or onward travel through Northern Italy.
Book your rental car here
BEST OLD MONEY INSPIRED (AFFORDABLE) HOTELS IN BELLAGIO
- Diamond Apartments: Modern apartments inside a traditional building, a short walk from the waterfront. The interiors are clean and tasteful, and the location gives you that classic stone-lane Como atmosphere. Great for couples who want more space and a quieter, residential feel.
Check availability here
- Apartment II Borgo: A charming apartment right in the historic center, surrounded by narrow cobbled streets and old facades. It has a homely, lived-in character while still feeling refined. The setting makes it feel like you’re staying inside the old village rather than just visiting it.
Check availability here
- Hotel Bellagio: A boutique hotel in the historical heart of Bellagio, managed by the Leoni family. The rooms are simple but elegant, and many look out over the lake. Its little staircase entry adds to the old-town feel.
Check availability here
“Some of the items in this post are affiliate links. We only share pieces we truly love or would wear them ourselves”
Day 1: Bellagio - The Heart of Lake
The shimmering waters of Lake Como reflect pastel and elegant villas, each one telling centuries of history. Bellagio’s cobbled streets curve gently, inviting exploration. Ivy climbs gracefully along the balconies, and small cafés hum quietly with the aroma of espresso and fresh pastries.
Morning: A Quiet Beginning at Hotel Bellagio
The day begins in Bellagio, the so-called “Pearl of the Lake”, a town resting gently at the intersection of Como’s three branches. Your stay at Hotel Bellagio places you right at the center of it all – stone steps climbing past café terraces, the scent of espresso, and the hum of early boats echoing from the marina.
Breakfast is included with your stay and the guests can take breakfast in the terrace dining room, where the lake becomes a private theatre just beyond the balcony doors, or choose the slow luxury of breakfast served inside a dining a hall. The spread is beautifully simple – warm croissants, fresh fruit, a frothy cappuccino, and a rich Italian hot chocolate served in porcelain cups. There’s no rush, no background music, only the faint clinking of china and the scent of roaster coffee beans drifting through the air.
Stay here: Hotel Bellagio
Fashion for the Day:
The air carries a kind of unspoken dress code – understated, not loud.
For Him:
- Linen shirt unbuttoned just enough to feel the air.
- Cream trousers.
- Soft khaki boots that make no sound of cobblestones.
- A cashmere sweater draped lightly around shoulders.
- Add sunglasses.
- A silver watch, and a thin chain.
- For the final detail – a scent that lingers without speaking too loudly.
For Her:
- A yellow off-shoulder one-piece dress, sleeveless and light enough to catch the lake breeze. The color mirrors the morning sun reflecting off the water.
- A delicate gold necklace, bracelet and watch add just the right touch of sophistication without breaking the effortless charm.
- Pair it with lightweight shoes – either Adidas Samba for a chic casual edge or tan leather flats for a softer, old-world look.
Morning: Villa del Balbianello – Lakeside Grandeur
From Bellagio, take a short boat ride or ferry along the lake to Villa del Balbianello, one of Lake Como’s legendary estates. Built in the 18th century and expanded by Count Guido Monzino, this estate has inspired filmmakers and novelists alike. You might recognize it from Casino Royale and Star Wars – both filmed along its sculpted gardens and terraces overlooking the deep blue water. Walk slowly here. The villa feels almost suspended in time – manicured lawns, stone statues, and views that remind you why this corner of the world has always been an escape for the refined.
Book your experience here.
Afternoon – A Light Bite and Lake Promenade
Return to Bellagio for a light lunch at Mr. Panino. Order a panino capresse – tomato, mozzarella, and basil pressed between warm bread – with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. Sit outside if the sun allows, watching ferries glide across the lake and locals chatting in soft Italian. The moment feels refreshingly simple – the kind of lunch that defines real travel.
Afternoon- A Self-Drive Boat Adventure
After lunch, rent a private self-drive boat – no license required. These small boats are designed for beginners, so no boating experience is required, and the rental staff provides a quick, simple demonstration and a guide map. Within minutes, you are free to glide across the lake.
Spend two hours gliding slowly across the lake, letting the breeze carry you past Varenna, Menaggio and smaller villages that sparkle along the shoreline. Keep the pace unhurried. The beauty of Como isn’t in how much you see, but how deeply you feel it. You’ll pass elegant villas, ivy-covered stone homes, and gardens that seem to spill right into the lake.
Book your experience here.
Travel & Fashion Tip:
- Sunglasses and a straw hat.
- Keep the morning outfit for comfort and style.
- Minimal accessory adjustments maintain elegance for photos
Late Afternoon (Optional): Villa Melzi Gardens
For those wishing to extend the day, a gentle stroll along the lake leads to Villa Melzi d’Erill Gardens, a serene estate known for its sculpted landscapes and historic charm. Built in the early 19th century, the gardens are a harmonious blend of Italian and English design, with marble statues, camellia-lined paths, and ancient plane trees framing the lake’s gentle shimmer.
This is a quiet stop, perfect for a late afternoon stroll when the light softens and crowds fade. Bring your camera; the reflections on the water here are among the most photogenic in Bellagio.
Book your tickets here.
Evening: Wine Experience & Dinner at Locanda Barchetta
Climb the gentle steps of Salita Serbelloni, one of Bellagio’s most famous streets, for a wine-tasting experience tucked inside a small cellar bar. The atmosphere here is warm and rustic, perfect for trying local wines before dinner.
Then, dine at Locanda Barchetta, a charming restaurant where the service feels personal and the food is simple yet deeply satisfying. Take a seat on the coblestone steps outside, watching people pass by – couples in linen and silk, elegant handbags, polished loafers – a parade of quiet sophistication and old-money style.
Begin with bruschetta, each slice perfectly toasted and topped with ripe tomatoes, basil and extra virgin oil. Share a vegiteriana and siciliana pizza – light enough to end the day without the heaviness of a big meal.
Note: Bring an additional outfit to blend in with the experience the way the locals do.
HIM:
- A cream linen shirt, relaxed yet elegant.
- White tailored trousers for a fresh, refined look.
- Brown leather watch to add subtle touch of sophistication.
- Brown leather loafers – classic, comfortable, and suitable for cobblestone streets.
HER:
Day 2: Varenna - Villas, Gardens, and Golden Reflections
Take the morning ferry from Bellagio traghetto to Varenna, a quieter, more romantic village. The water crossing alone feels like meditation.
Fashion Note:
For Him:
- A light brown linen shirt, breathable and effortlessly elegant
- Slim beige trousers – comfortable yet tailored enough to look elegant.
- Footwear that balances style and practicality: Khaki loafers or clean white sneakers suitable for cobblestone streets.
- Accessories to elevate the look: a leather or silver watch, a subtle yet sophisticated perfume, and classic sunglasses.
For Her:
- A floral dress will keep it elegant yet comfortable for strolling cobblestone streets.
- A structured crossbody bag or small leather tote in neutral shade – classic and understated.
- Comfortable yet stylish footwear: leather sandals with a slight heel or chic loafers that are easy to walk in but still refined.
- Minimal gold or pearl jewelry – delicate earrings, a thin bracelet, or a pedant necklace.
- Sunglasses with a vantage or tortoiseshell frame to match the old money aesthetic.
- Optional: light weight but oversized linen or leather jacket (his) in case it gets breezy on the lakeside promenade.
Breakfast at Bar II Molo
Start with cappuccino and a cornetto at Bar II Molo, right by the water. It’s the kind of spot where you can sit, sip, and watch locals quietly begin their day.
Villa Cipressi & The Gates of Heaven
Just steps away, Villa Cipressi, a 15th century residence now transformed into a serene hotel and botanical wonderland. Its terraced gardens in elegant layers toward the lake, each turn offering a postcard view framed by centuries-old cypress trees. The villa’s history traces through noble families and scholars, a quiet sanctuary that feels untouched by time.
Stroll slowly through its cascading paths, pausing often. The stone stairways, wrought-iron railings, and bursts of bougainvillea capture the essence of old-money leisure – unhurried beauty, crafter for observation, not display
Just beside the Villa lies the Gates of Heaven, an arched iron gate overlooking the lake – one of the most photogenic and symbolic spots in Varenna. Framed by climbing vines and backlit by shimmering water, it feels less like a tourist site and more like a private portal to the divine calm of Lake Como itself.
Mid-Morning-Villa Monastero Gardens
A short walk along the promenade leads to Villa Monastero – once a Cistercian convent and later a residence for scholars and nobility. Its gardens stretch gracefully for nearly two kilometers along the water, dotted with marble sculptures and ancient fountains.
The atmosphere here feels scholarly yet romantic. The hush of the gardens, the interplay of sunlight and shade through lemon trees, and the glint of the lake below all evoke and order rhythm of life – one where mornings linger and conversations unfold over hours.
Pause for a coffee at the small café within the garden’s edge – it offers a perfect moment to sit
12:30PM – Lunch in Varenna
Lunch at Ristorante La Vista, perched within the Albergo Milano hotel, offers sweeping lake views from its terrace. The menu blends refinement and comfort – homemade pasta, local fish, and delicate tiramisu paired with crisp white wine.
Afternoon: Varenna Stroll & Boutique Finds
After lunch, wander through Varenna’s old streets. Narrow cobblestone lanes descend toward the water, shops selling linen garments perfumes and ceramics.
Evening – Private Boat at Sunset
As the afternoon begins to fade, take a Private Wooden Boat tour with skipper. Your classic Riva-style wooden boat awaits at the dock – polished mahogany, white leather seats, and skipper who knows every curve of the lake. Bring along a chilled bottle of champagne; the captain will keep it ready on ice.
👉Book your experience here
As the boat glides away from the harbor, the air cools and turns still. You pass by the ivy-covered walls of Villa La Cassinella, discreet and private, often called the most beautiful residence of Lake Como’s western shore. The sound of the old wooden engine hums like a heartbeat beneath the water. You raise a glass as the sun dips behind the mountains, the sky melting into gold and rose.
It’s the kind of evening that makes you want to dress for the scene – a light scarf, rolled sleeves, a touch of gold. The clothes become part of the setting – blending with the light, the air, the mood.
Bring a camera, or simply your phone, and take your time with photos. Capture quiet details – a glass catching the sunlight, fingers resting on the edge of the boat, reflections on the water. Don’t pose; just move, laugh, and let the light do the work. The best photos here aren’t staged – they’re stolen moments that feel alive.
You pour the champagne as the boat sways gently, the sound of water brushing the hull like a metronome. Someone takes a photo; no one poses. The lake reflects the sky, and for a minute, everything feels suspended – timeless, cinematic, almost unreal.
Dinner by the Lake – The Evening You Remember
As the boat glides back into Bellagio, the last light faded into violet across the lake. You step onto the dock with the scent of champagne still on your skin, the night air carrying a hint of cedar and jasmine. Just beyond the harbor sits La Punta, a small lakeside restaurant where the tables stretch almost to the edge of the water.
It’s not the luxury in the obvious sense – it’s about unhurried time. About the way the waiter refills your glass before you notice it’s empty, the way the lake mirrors the restaurant lights, and how conversation feels softer here marks the perfect end to the journey.
Additional Tips for a Seamless Experience:
- Comfortable footwear is key: Even the most elegant strolls demand shoes that can handle cobblestone streets. Pack walkable options for daytime explorations.
- Smart bag strategy: For heels or secondary outfits, bring a slightly oversized purse – nothing flashy, just enough to store essentials and swap items effortlessly.
- Capture the moments: A compact tripod that fits in your purse is perfect for couple photography, ensuring those timeless lakeside shots.
- Prepare for evening breezes: Lake Como can get surprisingly cool even on hot summer days; a light jacket or wrap is always a wise companion.
- Layer thoughtfully: Linen, silk or lightweight cashmere pieces allow you to transition from daytime exploration to evening elegance without compromising style.
- Hydration and small bites: Bring a reusable water bottle for long walks and consider keeping a few light snacks in your bag – it’s more refined than stopping for convenience foods.
- Plan for sun and shade: Polarized Sunglasses, hats, and light scarves protect from strong midday sun while maintaining a polished look.
- Timing matters: Early morning and late afternoons are ideal for photography and enjoying the villas before crowds arrive – perfect for capturing that serene, old money atmosphere.
- Stay Powered: Bring a portable power bank to keep your phone and camera charged during long days of exploration.