Lake Como in 3 Days: The Complete Itinerary

Three days at Lake Como cover the lake and the Alps. Here is how to spend three perfect days — with the best-rated tours to book for each.

At a glance

Bellagio and Varenna by boat.

Villa Balbianello and a cooking class.

Lugano and the Bernina Express.

Is 3 days enough for Lake Como?

Three days is ideal — the villages on day one, the villas and food on day two, and a Lugano and Bernina Express trip into Switzerland on day three.

What is the best day trip from Lake Como?

A trip to Lugano in Switzerland, often with the scenic Bernina Express to St. Moritz, is the standout day trip.

How do I plan a 3-day Lake Como itinerary?

Spend day one cruising to the villages, day two on villas and food, and day three crossing into Switzerland, booking tours ahead.