Bellagio
Latest page update: 17 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Often referred to as the "Pearl of Lake Como", Bellagio is a picturesque town located at the junction of the lake’s two branches in northern Italy. Renowned for its stunning views and charming streets, Bellagio features attractions like the beautiful Villa Melzi, with its exquisite gardens, and the historic Basilica di San Giacomo.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the lakeside promenade. Bellagio is accessible by ferry from Como, Varenna, and other towns around the lake, making it a convenient and delightful destination to explore. |
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Bellagio: the pearl of Lake Como
Bellagio, often referred to as the "Pearl of Lake Como," is a charming town located at the junction of the lake’s two branches in northern Italy. With roots dating back to Roman times, Bellagio has long been a favored retreat for aristocrats and artists, evident in its elegant villas and lush gardens. The town's cobblestone streets are lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering visitors a delightful atmosphere.
Key attractions include the beautiful Villa Melzi, renowned for its exquisite gardens, and the historic Church of San Giacomo, showcasing stunning frescoes. The scenic waterfront promenade provides breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Getting to Bellagio is convenient, with ferry services connecting it to Como, Varenna, and other lakeside towns. Additionally, visitors can take a bus or drive from nearby cities. Close by, the charming villages of Varenna and Menaggio offer more opportunities for exploration and scenic beauty, making Bellagio an ideal base for discovering Lake Como.
Key attractions include the beautiful Villa Melzi, renowned for its exquisite gardens, and the historic Church of San Giacomo, showcasing stunning frescoes. The scenic waterfront promenade provides breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Getting to Bellagio is convenient, with ferry services connecting it to Como, Varenna, and other lakeside towns. Additionally, visitors can take a bus or drive from nearby cities. Close by, the charming villages of Varenna and Menaggio offer more opportunities for exploration and scenic beauty, making Bellagio an ideal base for discovering Lake Como.
Comune di Bellagio
What are the top-rated hotels in Bellagio?
- Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni: A historic 5-star hotel offering opulent rooms, a spa, and fine dining, with panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
- Hotel Belvedere Bellagio: Family-run since 1880, this hotel features elegant accommodations, an outdoor pool, spa facilities, and a restaurant with lake vistas, all within a tranquil garden setting.
- Hotel Du Lac: Situated in Bellagio's heart, this charming hotel provides comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace overlooking the lake, and an on-site restaurant, ensuring a delightful stay.
- Hotel Florence: Located steps away from Lake Como's shores, this historic hotel offers individually decorated rooms, a wellness area, and a renowned restaurant, blending tradition with modern comforts.
- Hotel Il Perlo Panorama: Perched above the lake, this family-run hotel provides panoramic views, comfortable accommodations, and a renowned restaurant, ideal for guests seeking relaxation and scenic beauty.
What's the best way to reach Bellagio?
Bellagio, located at the meeting point of Lake Como’s three branches, is accessible by various transportation options.
The nearest airports are Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY). From Milan, the most convenient way is by train to Varenna-Esino (1 hour from Milano Centrale) and then a short 15-minute ferry to Bellagio.
By road, Bellagio is reachable via SS583, a scenic but winding road from Como (1 hour) or Lecco (50 minutes). Bus C30 from Como provides a direct connection, taking about 75 minutes.
From Como, ferries run to Bellagio, offering a 1-hour scenic trip. Fast hydrofoils reduce travel time to 45 minutes. From Menaggio and Varenna, frequent ferries provide easy access.
Public transport, including buses and ferries, is recommended due to limited parking in Bellagio. The combination of rail, ferry, and bus services makes reaching Bellagio convenient and picturesque.
The nearest airports are Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY). From Milan, the most convenient way is by train to Varenna-Esino (1 hour from Milano Centrale) and then a short 15-minute ferry to Bellagio.
By road, Bellagio is reachable via SS583, a scenic but winding road from Como (1 hour) or Lecco (50 minutes). Bus C30 from Como provides a direct connection, taking about 75 minutes.
From Como, ferries run to Bellagio, offering a 1-hour scenic trip. Fast hydrofoils reduce travel time to 45 minutes. From Menaggio and Varenna, frequent ferries provide easy access.
Public transport, including buses and ferries, is recommended due to limited parking in Bellagio. The combination of rail, ferry, and bus services makes reaching Bellagio convenient and picturesque.
Bellagio Gallery
Which are the best places to eat in Bellagio?
- Ristorante Bilacus: Located on the famous Salita Serbelloni steps, Ristorante Bilacus is one of the oldest restaurants in Bellagio, offering traditional cuisine in a charming setting.
- Ittiturismo Ristorante Mella: Situated in the San Giovanni area, this family-run restaurant specializes in fresh lake fish, providing an authentic dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.
- La Terrazza Lake Como: Offering panoramic lake views, La Terrazza serves Italian and Mediterranean dishes, making it a popular choice for both its cuisine and stunning scenery.
- Salice Blu: Led by Chef Luigi Gandola, Salice Blu offers creative Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, providing a refined dining experience.
- Aperitivo Et Al: Known for its extensive wine selection and Italian dishes, this wine bar offers a cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for both drinks and meals.