If you’re visiting Lake Como, you have to see Bellagio! People call it the Pearl of Lake Como, and for good reason. It sits right where the lake splits into three branches, offering amazing views everywhere you look. With its charming streets, beautiful gardens, and historic villas, Bellagio is one of the most famous towns on the lake.
A Bit of History
Bellagio has been around for centuries. The ancient Romans (27 BC – 476 AD) loved it for its perfect location and peaceful views. They built villas here to escape the heat of the city, and some ruins still remain today, including the remains of ancient Roman walls near San Giovanni and traces of old Roman roads in the town center.
During the Middle Ages (5th – 15th century), Bellagio was strategically important because of its location on Lake Como, making it a highly contested area among various noble families. Notably, two main families fought for control of Bellagio:
- The Visconti Family: This influential family from Milan, who ruled the region during the 14th century, were key contenders for power in Bellagio.
- The Della Torre Family: Another prominent Milanese family, the Della Torre, also sought control over Bellagio during the same period, often in opposition to the Visconti family.
These families’ rivalry was part of the larger political and military struggles in Lombardy during the Middle Ages. The town’s strategic location on the lake made it an important prize for control of trade routes and influence in the region.
In the Renaissance period (14th – 17th century), Bellagio became a retreat for Milanese aristocracy, who built luxurious villas and gardens that still stand today, such as Villa Serbelloni and Villa Melzi.
By the 19th century (1800s), Bellagio had developed into a famous holiday destination, attracting European royals, artists, and writers including:
- Princess Caroline of Monaco – The sister of King Louis-Philippe I of France, who visited Bellagio in the early 19th century, attracted by the peaceful beauty of the lake.
- Mark Twain – The famous American author visited Bellagio in the late 19th century during his travels in Europe and wrote about his experiences in Italy.
- Tchaikovsky – The Russian composer, known for works like The Nutcracker and Swan Lake, stayed in Bellagio during his European travels in the 1870s.
- Giuseppe Verdi – The famous Italian composer of operas like La Traviata and Aida spent time in Bellagio and the surrounding areas of Lake Como, finding inspiration for his works.
Even today, you can still see the elegant buildings, old churches, and historic streets that make this town special.
What to Do in Bellagio
- Walk around the old town – The small streets and stairways are full of little shops and hidden corners.
- Visit Villa Melzi’s Gardens – This peaceful garden by the lake has beautiful plants, statues, and great views.
- See the view from Punta Spartivento – This is a spot where you can look out over the whole lake.
- Take a boat ride – Bellagio is the perfect place to hop on a ferry or rent a boat and explore the lake.
Lesser-Known places to see in Bellagio
While Bellagio is well-known for its beauty, there are also some hidden gems:
- San Giovanni, the quieter side of Bellagio – Just a short walk from the center, this small neighborhood has a peaceful harbor and a tiny local beach.
- The Tower of the Arts – A lesser-known cultural spot that often hosts art exhibitions and performances.
- Pescallo, the fishing village – A small, scenic area on the eastern side of Bellagio, perfect for a quiet escape with stunning lake views.
- The ancient Roman road – Hidden between the buildings, some old paths still follow the original Roman route through Bellagio.
Bellagio’s Timeless Connection to Silk: Craft, Luxury, and Tradition
Silk has had a significant influence on Bellagio, shaping its local economy and craftsmanship for centuries. The town’s proximity to the silk-producing regions of Lombardy made it an ideal location for the development of the silk industry.
By the 19th century, Bellagio became known for its high-quality silk products, including scarves, ties, and textiles, which were prized by both locals and visitors.
The tradition of silk-making continues today, with several small shops in Bellagio offering beautiful silk items, keeping this centuries-old craft alive and contributing to the town’s reputation as a center for luxury and artistry.
How to Get to Bellagio, Lake Como
Getting to Bellagio is easy, but since it’s a popular place, it can get busy:
- By ferry – Bellagio has ferries going to and from Varenna, Menaggio, and Como all day long.
- By car – The drive from Como is beautiful but has lots of curves. Parking can be tricky in the busy season. If you are going there by car, make sure to arrive early. It will make it more likely that you will find a spot to park the car.
- By bus – The C30 bus from Como is an easy way to reach Bellagio without worrying about parking.
Plan Your Visit to Bellagio, Lake Como
Bellagio is one of the most beautiful towns on Lake Como. Whether you love history, nature, or just relaxing by the water, it has something for everyone. Walk through the town, enjoy the gardens, and take in the views. Bellagio is a place you’ll never forget!
If you love Bellagio, don’t forget to check out our guides to other beautiful places around Lake Como, like Brunate, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Balbianello!