Planning a visit to Lake Como? Don’t miss Bellagio, often called the Pearl of Lake Como. It sits perfectly at the point where the lake splits into three branches, offering breathtaking scenery, timeless charm, and a few hidden secrets that only the best guides reveal. If you’re wondering what to see in Bellagio, this guide will help you uncover its most beautiful spots, historic gems, and cultural highlights.
What to See in Bellagio – A Glimpse of Its Rich 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.
When thinking about what to see in Bellagio, exploring these ancient ruins will give you a glimpse into the town’s rich past.
During the Middle Ages, Bellagio’s strategic position made it a battleground for noble families such as the Visconti and Della Torre, both from Milan. Their long rivalry shaped the region’s history.
- 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: Must-See Highlights
- Stroll through the old town – Wander narrow lanes and stone stairways lined with shops, cafés, and artisan boutiques.
- Visit Villa Melzi’s Gardens – A peaceful escape filled with exotic plants, sculptures, and unforgettable lake views.
- Relax at Punta Spartivento – One of the most scenic spots in Bellagio, this panoramic viewpoint reveals the iconic ‘Y-shape’ of Lake Como, with breathtaking vistas in every direction.
- Take a boat ride – Explore Lake Como by ferry or private boat for a unique view of the surrounding towns and villas.
Bellagio’s Hidden Gems – Quiet Corners & Secret Spots
Beyond the postcard-perfect views, Bellagio hides secret corners and quiet treasures that most visitors miss. Here are some of the most rewarding hidden places to explore.
- San Giovanni – Just a short walk from the center, this quieter neighborhood with a small harbor, local beach, and authentic charm is worth a visit.
- The Tower of the Arts – A lesser-known cultural center that often hosts art exhibitions and performances.
- Pescallo – A peaceful fishing village with breathtaking lake views, perfect for a quiet moment.
- The ancient Roman road – Hidden between the buildings, some old paths still follow the original Roman route through Bellagio.
Bellagio and the Silk Tradition: A Unique Part of What to See in Bellagio
One unique thing to see in Bellagio is its silk heritage. The town has been part of the Lombardy silk trade since the 19th century, producing elegant silk scarves, ties, and garments that capture the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of the region..
Today, several small boutiques still sell high-quality silk items, keeping this centuries-old craft alive and linking Bellagio to Italian fashion 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 – Frequent routes connect Bellagio with Varenna, Menaggio, and Como.
- By car – The drive from Como is scenic but with tight curves and narrow roads. 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. The bus can also be quite packed during the busy season though.
Plan Your Visit to Bellagio, Lake Como
Whether you’re into history, scenery, or just relaxing by the lake, Bellagio offers something unforgettable. Its rich past, artistic soul, and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for anyone visiting Lake Como.
So if you’re still wondering what to see in Bellagio, remember: from peaceful gardens to historic villas, from hidden alleys to silk shops, this lakeside gem is full of scenic beauty, timeless elegance, and quiet secrets just waiting to be uncovered..
If you love Bellagio, don’t forget to check out our guides to other beautiful places around Lake Como, like Brunate, Cernobbio, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Balbianello!