The Veneto Region of Italy should be tops your travel bucket list! In the first place, one of the most spectacular cities in the world is located here. Of course, it is Venice! Another city that we absolutely fell in love with is Verona – the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”! Furthermore, there is lovely Lake Garda. In addition, the Veneto wine region is one of Italy’s major wine producing areas. Have you enjoyed Prosecco, Soave and Pinot Grigio? All delicious, and all from Veneto.
Venice is romantic, magical and amazing! In fact,, you will fall in love the moment you see the canals, gondolas and beautiful architecture. Read all about this spectacular city in my travel guide! Venice and it’s lagoon are both listed as UNESCO‘s World Heritage Sites
Verona is the City of Love! Not only will you fall in love with your significant other, but you will definitely fall in love with this walkable, medieval city. In addition, Verona is known as the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo & Juliet.” Moreover, if you are a wine lover – this is definitely the place to be. Named a UNESCO world heritage site.
The area of Lake Garda is considered a major Italian tourist destination in the Veneto region. There are many lovely towns to visit on the Lake from the north to the south. Read my Lake Garda guide to explore some of the destinations. My favorite is Sirmione.
Discover more of the Veneto Region
The Veneto Region is very diverse with many little charming towns to visit. Therefore, if you are in Veneto, get to know the entire area. Try to visit some of these towns and let me know how you liked them!!
Padua, Vicenza (on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites Belluno, Montagnana, Asolo, Este, Marostica, Bassano del Grappa and Arqua Petrarca. The Veneto Region of Italy is a wonderful area, and you will love it!
Without a doubt, get ready for an Italian adventure as there are countless things to do and see in Taormina. This is an old town that is perfect for history, culture, delicious food and awe inspiring sights. Let me give you an edge on some of the best things to do in Taormina. Here they are in no particular order:
We loved this excursion! Beautiful scenery, great guide, music and a refreshing swim!
A great way to explore the Ioanian Coast. Discover the Grotto Azzurra as well as the beautiful nature preserve of Isola Bella. Be on the beautiful sea surrounded by the breathless landscape of Etna and Taormina. We did not reserve, as the boats are by the beach of Isola Bella. It was wonderful!
If you are visiting Taormina, try to see a show at the world famous Teatro Greco, possibly the most spectacular venue on earth. The Ancient Greek Theatre is amazing. During the day take beautiful pictures of the ancient ruins. In the evening, take in a show at the Greek Theatre with Mount Etna as a backdrop. There are concerts and operas as varied as Sting and The Barber of Seville. For upcoming shows, click here: events and tickets.
Mount Etna
A visit to Europe’s largest volcano, Mt. Etna offers an incredible chance to see lava flows up close. You can join a tour of Mt Etna’s lunar-like landscapes for an incredible experience. Mount Etna is on of the highest volcano in Europe and on of the most active in the world. The volcano shaped the Sicilian history and landscape and still affects the island today. It is an UNESCO World Heritage site since 2013 and the smoking volcano craters and the old and new lava flows are always an impressive experience for visitors.
MT. ETNA WINERY TOUR
Visit the vineyards and taste the wines of Mount Etna. There are wonderful local wineries where you can sample delicious varieties of wine. Visit a splendid winery nestled 900 Meters above sea level, on the northeastern slope of Mount Etna, and sample some of their delicious wines.
CASTELMOLA
Castlemola is a charming little medieval town up the mountain from Taormina. If you have a few hours, it is worth a visit. We took a bus up and walked back down to Taormina on an ancient path between the two. Included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy, in Castelmola time seems to have stopped. With its elevated position, Castelmola offers a view of a splendid Mediterranean from its central square.
Visit some of the iconic film locations of the blockbuster hit The Godfather. Step back in time in Savoca and Forza D’Agrò and become a part of the filming of The Godfather! Click here for more information.
A wonderful destination for a beach vacation is Taormina Beaches. Perched high upon a cliff is the old town city of Taormina. However, the beautiful beaches of Taormina are located down below, facing the Ioian sea. This area is know as Taormina Mare. The main road is sprinkled a handful of hotels and restaurants. Cross the street and you will find beautiful bays with several beach clubs, all within walking distance. Taormina beaches are gorgeous. They sparkle with crystal clear, beautiful blue water. Also, they are smooth pebble and rock beaches, which is so pretty.
Of course the beach clubs (lidos) in Taormina are fully equipped with rentals of beds, umbrellas and towels. Furthermore, they have delicious restaurants on their property. It is Italian custom to take a break from sunning and have lunch at the beach. Additionally, there is also a free public beach connecting to the small pretty island of Isola Bella.
At all the beaches you can find excursion boats to take you on a tour of the coast and bring you to the Grotto Azzura. I highly suggest taking the excursion. It is a delightful way to see some lovely areas, including going into caves. The boat also stops for swim in some of the most beautiful waters. There is music, fun and just a fabulous time! This is an experience that you will always remember! I recommend the excursion with Sebastian and Carmello. Price – Summer 2022: Depends on how many people, it can be from EUR 24 – 29pp.
My girls and I on the Excursion Boat – so much fun with music, swimming and beautiful sites!!!Back from a great tour of the beautiful Bay of Mazzaro. We loved Grotto Azzurra and the landscape of Taormina, Isola Bella and Mt. Etna!
Taormina Beaches – How to get there
Taormina – Mazzaro Funivia – Connecting the historical town of Taormina with it’s beach area
If you are without a car, you may take a bus. But, a great option is the cable car or in Italian, the funivia. Indeed, It is located a short five minute walk from the east end of the Corso Umberto. In my opinion, it is an exhilarating and fun ride down the mountain that only takes a few minutes! It cost 3 euros one way or 6 roundtrip. Once you arrive at the bottom there are several beach clubs directly across the street, including the free public beach of Isola Bella. Note: The funivia line gets crowded in the late afternoon. Therefore, give yourself extra time if you have dinner reservations.
Walking to the Taormina Beaches
Walking to the beach- gorgeous!!!
It is a beautiful scenic walk from Taormina down to the beaches. You can walk down in 30 minutes but it took us about an hour, because we stopped so many times to take pictures of the beautiful scenery and amazing views! It is definitely worth it. Walking Directions: First, exit the Corso Umberto via the arch of Porta Messina and bear right. Then continue past the funivia station, La Pensione Svizzeria and a gas station. Second, bear left onto Guradiola Vecchia. You will come to a beautiful lookout area that you cannot miss. It almost looks like an ancient ruin with steps going up to the platform and columns on each side. Here you will wind up taking tons of pictures! Third, you will see a painted wooden sign that says “Isola Bella” to the left of the steps. This points to the path going down to the beach. Enjoy your walk!
In Taormina, don’t worry about time, just stop and smell the roses! After spending the day at La Plage Resort, we took the funivia back up to town.
Isola Bella Beach
Isola Bella is a tiny island and nature reserve which is connected to the mainland by a small strip of beach. This is a free public beach that consists of pebbles and smooth rocks. Just gorgeous! Bring your own towels!
If you want sunbeds, umbrellas, towels and a great lunch, make sure to enjoy the Taormina Beach Clubs!!
It’s time to spend a beautiful day in the Sicilian sun enjoying the hospitality of Taormina Beach Clubs! Indeed, it is ideal to spend a pleasant day with sun, sea, relaxation and great food. I love to go to the beach and grab a sunbed and umbrella. It is swim, sun, tan and repeat! Of course, there is a delicious lunch break in between all this fun. All the lidos have delicious restaurants. Take into consideration that these lido’s fill up fast. Therefore, make sure you reserve in advance or make reservations through your hotel for beds and umbrellas. Consequently, if you don’t have reservations, make sure you arrive early (11am). If not, your spot will be in the back row – if you get one at all!
Getting to Taormina Beach Clubs
The Funivia (cable car) is great way to get to the beach area (Taormina Mare). It is located a short five-minute walk from the east end of Corso Umberto. In my opinion, it is an exhilarating and fun ride down the mountain that only takes a few minutes! The cost is 3-euro one way or 6-euro roundtrip.
Once you arrive to Taromina Mare by funivia (or by car) there are several Taormina beach clubs directly across the street, just steps away. Furthermore, this includes the free public beach of Isola Bella, which is spectacular.
La Plage is a beautiful hotel resort, in fact, it is my favorite, when it comes to breath-taking scenery and ambiance. Keep in mind, it’s lido is not open to the public. However, you are able to make reservations in advance to rent lounges and umbrellas. It has a great vibe, music and it’s also very attractive. In addition, you can also use the lounge area and enjoy delicious cocktails and food. The Beach Club of the La Plage Resort has sunbeds, beach umbrellas, a bar kiosk, and an inviting gazebo where you can enjoy a massage while embraced by the sea breeze. The Beach Club of the Plage Resort is open from April to October. Price – summer 2022: EUR 75 for 2 beds, 2 towels and one umbrella
From dawn to dusk Tao Beach Club offers fun and relaxation. The bar service offers refreshments, fresh meals and snacks for breaks between sunbathing and swimming, as well as lunch to be enjoyed on the terraces. Tao Beach Club represents one of the most exclusive corners of Taormina with its private sandy beach, the emerald coloured Ionian Sea and finally the Sicilian sun .
Lido La Pigna is a lovely lido with a terrific restaurant. Relax on a comfy sunbed, under an umbrella and enjoy the magic of Isola Bella. Definitely stop here for lunch. We had a delicious lunch on the terrace, overlooking the umbrellas. Mangia! Lido La Pigna is located only a few minutes from Taormina Town Center, comfortably reachable by the Funicular. Price – summer 2022: EUR 40 for 2 beds, 2 towels and one umbrella
It seems that this is the spot to do many things! We got a boat here that took us on a beautiful excursion to the Blue Grotto and all of Isola Bella. You can rent canoes, paddle boats and even water ski. Not to mention delicious food at the terrace restaurant. All this, in the gorgeous bay, filled with sun and fun!
Lido La Caravella is one of the best beaches in Sicily and offers wonderful service. In addition to sunbeds and umbrellas, there is bar service on the beach. Moreover, the lido offers transfers from and to hotels by van, free changing rooms and hot water showers. There is also a private terrace overlooking the sea. Yes, this is what a Taormina beach club is all about!
Letojanni Beaches
Letojanni is a short 15-minute drive from Taormina. It is a popular coastal resort with a long-pebbled beach and crystalline water. That being the case, it is the perfect spot for many beach clubs along the strip. By the way, check with your hotel, since some offer free shuttles to Letojanni Beach.
You will find colorful umbrellas and good restaurants and cafes. The lidos are fully equipped with anything you need for a day in the sun. In addition, you have an assortment of restaurants to choose from. Not to mention, they specialize in excellent seafood.
Paradise Beach Club is a very nice lido with a pool, bar and beach facilities. Moreover, it boasts a splendid garden overlooking the sea. Located on Letojanni beach a few minutes from Taormina, you will be in total relaxation, while admiring the scenic bay. You will find terraces submerged by olive trees and tropical plants, to the seawater pool adorned with lava stone. In the “Mojito bar” you can enjoy a snack, an exquisite cocktail based on fresh fruit and delight in the best Sicilian and Italian specialties in the restaurant.
Finally, you can also check out Beach Flamingo. Located on the beach of Letojanni, it has a panoramic terrace, with breathtaking views of the bay of Taormina. This beach is equipped with all comforts and the staff will be happy to make you spend a wonderful day in one of the most beautiful seas of Sicily.
In conclusion, discover the joy of a beautiful day at one of these Taormina beach clubs. You will always remember the beauty and will surely have many pictures to show for it!
Look at the water – how clear and beautiful!!!Isola Bella – Heaven on earth!
Amalfi Town Italy is small, historic, and has a seafront location on the famous Coast. Once you walk through the arched entrance into Amalfi town proper, you will be In the historic main square, Piazza del Duomo. Here you will find a most impressive masterpiece, Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea. This centerpiece looms high over the bustling, crowded square and is really an incredible work of art.
Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea
Not only is the beautiful Cathedral in the piazza, but you will encounter a very interesting fountain, Fontana sant’Andrea. It serves as a meeting point for tourists and a source of free drinking water. In addition, it is the place for a photo opportunity, if you can find a few seconds alone with it!
Fontana Sant’Andrea
I was surprised to see how crowded the square was! This is the Times Square of the Amalfi Coast – at least in August. There are rows of shops, outdoor restaurants, bars, wine shops and street vendors. There is a lot of hustle and bustle. Let’s not forget the many caffe’s and gelato shops to visit. The crowd follows the the main pedestrian road, Via Lorenzo D’Amalfi. It is bliss for shoppers since there is an abundance of stores, one after the other. Clothing, ceramics, shoes, handmade items- you can find anything.
If you head out of the arches toward the water, you will see Piazza Flavio Giola to your right. This is the transit hub of Amalfi town. Taxi, bus and ferry areas are located here. Additionally, you will find a few shops by the ferry station.
Amalfi Town Beach Clubs
You will also find beach clubs right outside of the historic center. It is always great to spend part of a hot day relaxing at the beach. All the beach clubs provide umbrellas and beds as well as a nice lunch and drinks. During high season, all beach clubs need reservations, I really liked the look of Marina Grande, but didn’t make a reservation. Stella Maris was the only one that is first come, first serve, but you must arrive early to get a lounge. We had first row on the water and a beautiful day!
Amalfi Italy Restaurants
My favorite meal was at Taverna deli Apostoli Ristorante. Enjoy this lovely family run restaurant, just left of the cathedral steps, at the top of the first flight. The food was great and it was so nice sitting outside looking at the piazza.
Sensi Restaurant
Sensi Restaurant has a beautiful view and is inside the elegant Hotel Residence. The food, the service, and the ambiance is most excellent. Moreover, they serve a tasting menu only, with an optional wine pairing for each course.
Amalfi Town Italy Hotel
I really loved staying at Terrazza Duomo, which was directly across from the Duomo. I booked it for the fabulous view of the cathedral, and it did not disappoint! It was wonderful to wake up to that view! But I didn’t realize that the room itself would be so awesome! It was a good size, sparkling clean, and beautifully, freshly decorated. As an added bonus, the hotel has a rooftop terrace to enjoy. This is where breakfast is served. In addition, the staff was so nice and accommodating. I highly recommend Terrazza Duomo when in Amalfi town Italy.
View from my room in Terrazza Duomo!View from my balcony in Terrazza Duomo Hotel
All in all, Amalfi town was very nice, but, unfortunately, it does not compare to Sorrento, Positano or Ravello.
Ravello Italy is the definition of classy and chic. Located high above the Amalfi Coast’s seaside villages, Ravello offers stunning, panoramic views of the mountains and sea below. White houses cling to cliffs, along with green citrus groves dotted with yellow lemons. What’s more, majestic villas warmly welcome you for drinks or dinners. Enjoy the grandeur, beauty and pleasure of Ravello.
Ravello is perched 1200 feet above the Amalfi Coast. The drive up is a little terrifying for me, since cars and cliffs are not my thing! Yikes! However, it is quite a magical place and definitely worth seeing. You will find beautiful villas, cliffside gardens and stunning vistas. Getting there: It is a 17 minute drive from Amalfi, 1 hour drive from Positano, and 1.5 hour drive from Sorrento. A preferred way is to ferry from Sorrento/Positano to Amalfi and then taxi or bus to Ravello. This is a compact town which can be seen in a day trip. On the other hand, two nights is a terrific way to relax and enjoy its historical villas, jaw dropping views and delicious restaurants. After all, this charming medieval village is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Villa Cimbrone’s Terrace of Infinity
Piazza Vescovado is the beautiful center hub of Ravello. It is a large square which embraces its ancient Duomo. Built in the 11th century, the Duomo is a dedication to Saint Mary of the Assumption. The exterior bears a stark white appearance. The interior, on the other hand, is adorned with granite columns, intricate mosaics, and a marble chapel.
Piazza VescovadoWhite Duomo of Ravello
In addition, the square hosts an array of cafes to sit, relax and absorb the beauty in front of you. Cafe Duomo happened to be my favorite. Delicious caffe espresso and cappuccino, along with pizza and other delights. In addition, the square hosts an array of cafes with delicious cappuccino, pizza and other delights. My favorite happened to be Caffe Duomo – great service and coffee!
Cafe Duomo
There are so many little corners to discover that are certainly picture worthy. Discover the cobbled steps and ramps that go up and down the town. There is something to see at every turn. Indeed, there is an abundance of vines and bougainvillea as well as fountains and statues.Ca
What to do in Ravello Italy
To begin with, explore the main square Pizzza Vescovado. At the edge of the Piazza is a little park with stunning views – a great place for pictures. Next, at the edge of the square, visit Villa Ruffalo. It is an elegant villa with a small museum containing artwork and historical artifacts. In addition, the terraced gardens are also a beautiful attraction for visitors.
Via Roma
Walk the entire Via Roma. This narrow-cobbled street will tempt you with beautiful ceramics, clothing and a host of other beautiful souvenirs to take home. Don’t forget to purchase some Limoncello so that you can still savor the Amalfi Coast when you get back home.
Entrance to Villa Cimbrone – at the top of Ravello
Villa Cimbrone in Ravello
You must walk up to the spectacular 11th century, Villa Cimbrone. It is the pinnacle of Ravello and offers magnificent views of the Bay of Sorrento and coastline. The villa itself is a 5-star hotel – Hotel Villa Cimbrone. It boasts stunning terraced gardens that are open to the public from 9am till 8pm daily. It is truly a romantic, perfect spot for weddings and honeymoons.
Palazzo Avino Ravello Italy
Palazzo Avino’s spectacular terrace over the sparkling Mediterranean Sea is a must!
Delight in dinner, drinks or both on Terrazza Belvedere at this fantastic destination. Palazzo Avino is a stunning 5-star hotel on Italy’s famous Amalfi coast. Originally it was a 12th century private villa for Italian nobility. Currently, it is one of the most beautiful hotels I have ever seen!
Terrazzo Belvedere
Where to Stay – Ravello Italy Hotels
I would love to advise you to absolutely book Villa Cimbrone or Palazzo Avino. But I can only recommend if you are splurging on an extravagant honeymoon or simply have money to burn. I stayed at Palazzo Confalone and loved it. It was in the perfect location, with a beautiful room at a reasonable price in Ravello Italy.
Ravello in Pictures
Ravello Amalfi Coast is more beautiful than any picture can depict! But this will give you a taste of the beauty and magic of Ravello. Enjoy and click to enlarge.
View from Villa RuffaloTerrace of InfinityCeramic StoresRavello Gatto (cat)Villa AvinoPiazza Duomo
The city of Como Italy is clearly worth a visit! Thousands of people throng here to enjoy Como and the lake area. It has natural beauty and plenty to see and do. Moreover, since the train from Milan stops here, it is the perfect spot in Lake Como to stay for a day or more as a starting point for your vacation. In fact, Lake Como boasts an abundance of other beautiful towns and picturesque villages. Without a doubt, add Bellagio and Varenna to your list, as well as Como.
I found the city of Como lively and exciting. It has a multitude of fine restaurants, large piazzas, historical churches and beautiful architecture. Of course, the town center has delightful streets full of shops. Ideal for a fashion lover at any budget. Lastly, you will have your choice of cafes, where you can relax and sip coffee while you people-watch.
Piazza Duomo
Things to do in Como Italy
Lose yourself in the delightful cobbled streets in town center. Wander to Piazza San Fedele. It is the main square of Como in the historical center of town. You will find the Basilica of San Fedele, a beautiful Romanesque church dating back to 1120. Moreover, every Saturday there is a market here with handcrafted items and antiques.
Church of San Fedele
Next, stroll toward the magnificent Piazza del Duomo, and visit the Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como). This is the main church of Como, dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It was built between the 14th and the 18th centuries. Although the Gothic style is predominant, the cathedral also hosts many Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.
Duomo di Como
The Como Lakefront
You will find some of the best places to take pictures along the lakefront. Start at Piazza Cavour and go west (left) along the water. First, you will find the Volta Museum. It is a beautiful neoclassical temple built in 1927. It is dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery, who was born and died in Como Italy. This photographic museum will wake up your camera!
Volta Museum
Continue walking on Passeggiata Lino Gelpi and you will come upon Villa Gallia. There is a public walkway along the lake which is perfect for pictures! Next you will find historic and impressive Villa Olmo. It is a beautiful neoclassical villa dating back to the 1780s.
Villa Gallia Walkway
Como to Brunate
A fun thing to do is to take the funicular from Como Italy to the small adorable town of Brunate. From Piazza Cavour walk east (right) to the Como Brunate funicular. It is nearby the train station. The cable car scales the mountain and you arrive within a few minutes. Going up was easy, but going down…..I confess that I screamed from fright!! LOL
The funicular route up the mountain to Brunate
You will find stunning views when you reach the top. Of course there are places to eat, sip coffee and enjoy the wonderful views of Como, the lake, and the mountains.
Como Beach
l love to have a beach day on vacation. We walked to Lido di Villa Olmo, just a few steps away from the beautiful Villa. This lido has a small beach, two swimming pools, and a large meadow. In addition the Beach Bar offers drinks, hot and cold dishes, snacks and cocktails. It was a fun few hours and a good light lunch in Como Italy!
Lido di Villa Olmo
Lake Como Italy – Villa d’Este
Overlooking one of the most romantic lakes in the world, Lake Como, Villa d’Este is magnificent! If only my wallet could afford it! Located in Cernobbio, it is only a 15 minute car ride away. Definitely go for a drink on the most luxurious terrace on the lake! You can also walk the grounds and gardens. Worth the drive, for sure!
Luxury 5 Star Villa d’Este is gorgeous!Villa d’Este GardenHaving a drink at Villa d’Este – beautiful lakeside terrace
Varenna Italy is yet another enchanting town on Lake Como. You will find magnificent scenery, beauty, charm, and perfect spots for photos at every turn. Bellagio may be my number one, but Varenna is definitely next!
Recognized as one of the most picturesque towns on popular Lake Como, Varenna is enchanting and definitely worth a visit. In addition, it is one of the easiest places to access. Since Varenna has its own railway station, you can take a direct, one hour train ride from Milan. Upon arrival, you will find magnificent scenery, beauty, charm, and perfect spots for photos at every turn.
This adorable small village flourishes with cobbled lanes, colorful shops, elegant villas and art-filled church galleries. Varenna, Lake Como is a smaller, slower paced town than Bellagio.
It is perfect for relaxing by the lake and taking a stroll to see its beauty. You will be free of the touristy crowds who tend to gather in Como and Bellagio.
Things to do in Varenna, Lake Como
Villa MonasteroVila Monastero
Other than experiencing colorful town center itself, my highlight was exploring Villa Monastero. It is truly breathtaking and a photographer’s dream! We took a long stroll in the Villa’s botanical gardens. It has the most beautiful view of the lake. This spectacular villa is 8 centuries old, hosts a museum and conference center. Of course, the main attraction is a gorgeous botanical garden.
Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lover’s Walk)
Take a scenic walk on the trellised path of Passeggiata degli Innamorati. It displays wonderful views of both Varenna, Lake Como and the mountain backdrop. It is aptly named, since it is truly a romantic walk through a dreamlike lakeside town.
The Church of San Georgio is located in the town’s main square, Piazza St. Georgio. The church dates back to the 13th century and has many frescos and works of art dating between the 15th and 18th century.
Among other things to do is to explore the medieval Castello di Vezio. Next, visit Villa Cipressi, which is now an outstanding hotel. Then, take a boat tour of the lake. Lastly, make sure that you visit other towns along the lake; especially the nearby towns of Bellagio, Menaggio, Tremezzo and Lenno! Enjoy your visit to Varenna Italy!
My favorite town in Lake Como is beautiful Bellagio! It is a charming, attractive town with the lake in front and the hills behind. Moreover, the views are spectacular. Here you will enjoy a pedestrian old town with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. The food is great and the locals are so friendly. Bellagio Italy, known as the Pearl of Lake Como has everything I look for in an Italian town.
Of course, Bellagio, is considered the highlight of Lake Como. It has a wonderful blend of cute shops, caffes and delicious restaurants on active cobblestone streets. Not to mention spectacular views. It is a small town and completely walkable – perfect for taking a long leisurely stroll. Narrow streets run uphill from the lake giving you a beautiful lake view from the top of town. Moreover, there are some special hotels here.
Things to do in Bellagio Italy
Exploring the streets, especially with your camera, is one of the best and first things to do, since there are so many picturesque spots. Undeniably, Salita Serbelloni is one of the most beautiful. It is a long straight flight of stairs which runs from the harbor and goes straight up the hill. All along the street there are shops, small cafes, colourful houses and lots of plants and flowers. Indeed, you will definitely enjoy soaking in Italian sights and sounds of this special town.
Melzi Gardens
Secondly, to see stunning views of the lake, beautiful plants, trees and walking paths, take a stroll to Melzi Gardens. They are on the grounds of a 1800’s villa once owned by the President of the Italian Republic. The gardens are free to the public and worth the 15 minute walk.
Melzi Gardens
Third, take the time to visit other towns of Lake Como. You will fine Varenna, Lenno, Tremezza and Mennagio close by. The ferry in Bellagio is connected to many other Lake Como towns that criss cross the lake. This public boat service easily connects the shore towns. Go to Navigazione Laghi to see timetables and costs.
Ferry Service throughout the lake
Lido di Bellagio
Then, I always try to fit in some fun in the sun! If you would like to relax in the sun with gazebos and sun beds, Bellagio offers Lido di Bellagio. It is on the shore of the lake between Bellagio and Villa Melzi. It is a fun little ‘beach’ where you can sip a cocktail and have a light lunch. Subsequently, in addition of things to do, visit the Romanesque basilica of San Giacomo (St James). The church was built in the 12th century and the iconic bell tower is seen from the shore.
At this point, follow your footsteps and your heart will be happy just to live in the moment of amazing Belligio Italy. Defiitely a must visit!
Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and popular places to visit in Italy. It is an upscale resort area known for its stunning scenic beauty. In all honesty, there is nothing like it! Without a doubt, the lake itself is a beautiful sight. What’s more, the distant backdrop of the Alps makes it even more breathtaking. You will definitely find jaw-dropping natural beauty here. The lake boasts a coastline of scenic, charming towns, elegant old villas, and amazing private homes. Say YES to Lake Como Italy, as you will definitely fall in love with everything it has to offer.
Lake Como is shaped like an upside down letter Y. To drive around the entire lake by car would take 4 hours. There are also fast hydrofoils that can transport you from Como, which is at the southwest leg to Bellagio, where the two legs meet. There are many charming towns to visit and explore along the shore.
You can conveniently travel to Lake Como from Milan with a direct 1-hour train ride. Furthermore, your destination station will be the city of Como. This is a delightful, lively place to explore which is located on the southern tip of the lake. Here you will find delicious food and fun activities. For instance, take the funicular that travels up to the cute mountain town of Brunate, and enjoy the view.
Bravo Bellagio!
Explore Lake Como
From Como, take the public ferry service which connects all the major towns along the shores of the lake. Visit Navigazione Laghi to see schedules and costs. There are so many attractive, charming towns along the lake. Indeed, I picked beautiful Bellagio as my home base. What an excellent decision – the pearl of Lake Como. We simply walked onto a ferry every day to explore the uniqueness of other towns.
Time to explore yet another beautiful spot!
Every single town is worth exploring! Visit my posts to explore the other lake towns we visited. Moreover, you will find in depth information and lots of photos of Bellagio, Brunate, Como, Lenno, Tremezzio and Varenna. All of them are worth a visit, especially Bellagio which is my favorite and perfect as a home base. Varenna is number 2 on my list!
Varenna
Lake Como Italy is loved by many people, you will fall under the spell too! I would definitely spend a few days here.
