04 Mar 5 unusual things to do in Lake Como (beyond the ordinary)
5 unusual things to do in Lake Como (beyond the ordinary)
When visitors imagine things to do in Lake Como, they often picture charming villages, grand villas or lakeside promenades. But for luxury travelers and curious explorers alike, this Northern Italy jewel offers experiences that go far beyond the usual guidebook highlights: eclectic, unexpected and deeply memorable.
Here are five truly unique Lake Como attractions you don’t want to miss, from elegant private boat excursions to hidden natural wonders, perfect for those seeking something extraordinary.
Experience the lake by luxury boat: Riva or Matteri
One of the most iconic things to do in Lake Como is to enjoy the lake itself: not from the shore, but from the water.
Whether you choose a classic Riva or a bespoke Matteri boat tour, cruising in style lets you see breathtaking villas, hidden coves and scenic villages from the most glamorous perspective imaginable. These private charter experiences combine the thrill of discovery with the refined elegance of Italy’s golden age of boating, making them an essential part of any Lake Como itinerary.
Glide past waterfront estates, sip a glass of fine Italian wine and let the dramatic backdrop of the Alps unfold around you, the ultimate aquatic way to savour the lake’s beauty. A private cruise on a classic Riva or a bespoke Matteri boat combines heritage craftsmanship with refined elegance. These handcrafted luxury boats allow you to glide across the lake in total comfort, discovering historic villas, secluded coves and charming villages from a privileged perspective.
From the deck of a luxury boat, Lake Como reveals its most cinematic side. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply embracing Italian dolce vita, this remains one of the most iconic things to see in Lake Como and the ultimate expression of lakeside sophistication.
Hike the mighty Via dei Monti Lariani
For a completely different kind of adventure, consider hiking La Via dei Monti Lariani, a long-distance trail that winds through the hills above Lake Como.
Stretching roughly 125 km along the western shore’s ridge, this trail offers panoramic views of the lake and the Alps that few tourists ever see. Each segment delivers spectacular scenery and solitude, ideal for nature lovers who want to trade villas for forested ridgelines and authentic alpine vistas.
This is one of those things to see in Lake Como that makes you feel as if you have the whole region to yourself.
Visit Villa Monastero’s Botanical Gardens
Tucked along the lakeshore in the picturesque village of Varenna lies Villa Monastero, a historic estate with exquisite botanical gardens.
Here you’ll find exotic plant species, century-old trees and meticulously maintained garden paths that seem to float between the water and the hillside. Far from being just another villa visit, exploring these gardens feels like stepping into a secret world of art, nature and serenity, a landmark to be included in every list of things to see in Lake Como.
Discover the dramatic Orrido di Nesso
Hidden between Como and Bellagio lies one of the lake’s most striking natural wonders: the Orrido di Nesso.
This spectacular gorge was carved over centuries by the Tuf and Nosè streams, creating a dramatic waterfall that plunges directly into the lake. The ancient stone bridge, Ponte della Civera, offers a postcard-worthy view of cascading water framed by steep rock walls.
Visiting the Orrido is one of the most unusual things to see in Lake Como, offering raw natural beauty that contrasts beautifully with the region’s refined villas and manicured gardens.
Take the funicular to Brunate for a sky-high view
For a breathtaking perspective, take the historic Funicolare Como-Brunate up to the hilltop village of Brunate.
In just a few minutes, the funicular climbs above the city of Como, revealing panoramic views over the lake and, on clear days, all the way to the Alps and even Milan’s skyline.
Perched above Como, Brunate is often called the “Balcony of the Alps” thanks to its extraordinary panoramic views over Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. Beyond the scenery, the village is renowned for its elegant Liberty-style villas (Italian Art Nouveau), built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as summer residences for Milanese aristocratic families.
Strolling through its quiet streets, visitors can admire ornate façades, decorative ironwork, frescoed details and lush private gardens. From Brunate, scenic paths lead to the iconic Faro Voltiano, a lighthouse dedicated to Alessandro Volta, offering one of the most spectacular viewpoints among the must-see Lake Como attractions.
Lake Como is a place where luxury meets authenticity, where timeless elegance and surprising experiences coexist on every shore. From bespoke boat tours in classic Matteri or Riva vessels, to hidden trails and artistic gems, these five unusual activities reveal facets of the lake that many visitors overlook.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another chapter in Lake Como’s rich story, these off-beat experiences are sure to expand your idea of what there is to see and do in this enchanting destination.
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