10 Best Things to Do in Lake Como

Written By Natasha Orri

A Curated Guide by Aura Luxury

Designed by Freepik

A Curated Guide by Aura Luxury

Lake Como is where elegance whispers rather than shouts. Set against a cinematic backdrop of deep blue water and Alpine peaks, it’s a place where the aperitivo is perfectly chilled, the boats gleam in the sun, and time seems to move just a touch more slowly. Whether you’re chasing old-world charm or contemporary indulgence, here are ten quintessential experiences that capture the lake’s refined yet relaxed spirit.

1. Charter a Classic Riva Boat

Image source: Cantiere Ernesto Riva (Facebook)

There are boat rides, and then there’s a Riva. These handcrafted wooden vessels—gliding across the lake like vintage convertibles on water—are the epitome of Italian style. Perfect for village hopping, secluded picnics, or a golden-hour cruise that feels straight out of a Fellini film.

Recommended Charter:

Cantiere Ernesto Riva – Via Regina 36, Laglio

⸻

2. Stay in a Private Luxury Residence

Privacy is the ultimate luxury, and Aura Luxury’s Lakeview Townhouse delivers just that. Perched in a prime location with sweeping lake views, this fully serviced residence blends modern design with quiet elegance. Think glassy mornings, tailored breakfasts, and a concierge who’s more mind-reader than staff.

Property:

Aura Luxury Lakeview Townhouse – Via Regina 3, Carate Urio 22010

⸻

3. Dine at Michelin-Starred Restaurants—or Host a Private Chef

Image source: Ristorante Mistral (Google Review)

Como doesn’t just serve meals—it stages them. For the culinary curious, Mistral in Bellagio offers molecular delights with a side of lakefront romance, while Il Sereno Al Lago delivers sophisticated Italian flavours in minimalist-chic surrounds. Prefer to stay in? Private chefs are available to craft an in-villa tasting menu that’s tailored to your palate—and expertly paired with sommelier-selected wines.

Recommended Restaurants:

Mistral – Via Teresio Olivelli 1, Bellagio

Il Sereno Al Lago – Via Torrazza 10, Torno


More recommended fine dining restaurants here.

⸻

4. Visit Villa del Balbianello

Image source: Tripadvisor

There’s a reason filmmakers and romantics alike flock here. With its manicured terraces, whispering cypress trees, and commanding views of the lake, Villa del Balbianello is a scene-stealer. Opt for a private or after-hours tour to soak it all in—minus the crowds and selfie sticks.

Address:

Villa del Balbianello – Tremezzina, Province of Como

⸻

5. Explore Artisanal Shopping and Italian Craftsmanship

Image source: kimkim

Style is stitched into the very fabric of Italian life—literally. In Como, you’ll find exquisite silks, bespoke tailoring, and a rich textile heritage at Setificio Silk Museum. For the well-dressed gentleman, Larusmiani in Milan offers old-school craftsmanship with a modern sensibility.

Shops:

A.Picci – Via Vittorio Emanuele II, 61, Como CO

Mantero 1902 – Via Riccardo Mantero 4, Grandate CO

Larusmiani – Via Pietro Verri, 10,  Milano MI

Acqua di Parma – Via Gesù, 1,  Milano MI

⸻

6. Visit Boutique Wineries

Yes, Tuscany gets the spotlight—but Lake Como quietly holds its own in the wine world. Local gems like Cantine Angelinetta and Sorsasso in Domaso invite you in for relaxed tastings with vineyard views. Want to level up? Helicopter over to Franciacorta or Valtellina for a tasting you’ll talk about long after the last glass.

Vineyards:

Cantine Angelinetta – Località Pozzolo 16, Domaso

Sorsasso – Via Gaggio 1/Bis, Domaso

⸻

7. Experience Lake Como from Above

Image source: Lake Como, what else?

Nothing quite prepares you for seeing Lake Como from the sky. Charter a private helicopter for panoramic views of the villas, gardens, and snow-dusted Alps—or use it as your glamorous shortcut to Milan, St. Moritz, or the rolling vineyards of Langhe.

Departure Points:

Available from various private helipads and resorts around the lake.

⸻

8. Indulge in Bespoke Wellness Experiences

Image source: TRAVOH

Serenity isn’t hard to find here—it just needs to be tailored. Aura Luxury can arrange everything from lakeside yoga to in-residence massages and facials. For those craving a full reset, the Mandarin Oriental Lake Como offers spa experiences that are just as unforgettable as the views.

Spas & Services:

Mandarin Oriental – Via E. Caronti 69, Blevio

Aura Luxury Concierge Services – By appointment only

⸻

9. Attend Cultural Events and Gallery Exhibitions

Image source: Galleria Ramo

Beyond its postcard beauty, Lake Como boasts a rich cultural pulse. Catch an alfresco opera under the stars at Festival Como Città della Musica, or wander into Galleria Ramo for a dose of contemporary cool from both local and international artists.

Venues:

Galleria Ramo – Via Gerolamo Borsieri 4D, Como

Festival Como Città della Musica – Seasonal programming

⸻

10. Enjoy a Sunset Aperitivo

Image source: Terrazza 241

Italians do many things well—but the art of aperitivo might be their finest. Sip something crisp at Terrazza 241, where the rooftop views stretch across the water, or let Aura Luxury arrange a private terrace setup or boat aperitivo for your very own golden-hour ritual.

Bar:

Terrazza 241 – Via Borgo Vico 241, Como

⸻

Where Elegance Meets Experience

Lake Como doesn’t try too hard—because it doesn’t need to. It’s a destination that delights in nuance, where every moment feels curated by nature and elevated by design. With Aura Luxury’s Lakeview Townhouse as your base—and a dedicated concierge always one step ahead—you’re perfectly poised to experience the lake the way it was meant to be: beautifully, and effortlessly.

To book your stay or begin planning a bespoke itinerary, get in touch with the Aura Luxury team.

Natasha Orri