The 20 best things to do in Lake Como, Italy

Choose horseback riding in the hills of Bergamo and ride along the trails and dirt roads in the area, surrounded by the green woods of the park.

The horseback riding tour routes are suitable for both beginners and experts. The rides are one to two hours in length and take place throughout the week.

You will be led by an experienced guide, who will be with you for the duration of the excursion, showing you the most beautiful places and leading you through the most striking landscapes of the Bergamo area.

(The walk will be at a walking pace and not a galloping pace).

With this horseback ride in the Ticino Nature Park you will have the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the horses, brush them and prepare the necessary equipment for an enjoyable ride.

The experience begins with a short introductory lesson that will help you learn how to tame your horse.

During the horseback ride, which will have an effective duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, you will ride through the forest and spring areas, rich in waterways and vegetation. If lucky, you may see storks, herons and other migratory species.

There is also an opportunity to picnic on horseback.

Take a horseback ride along the banks of the Serio River, within the nature park of the same name on the border between the provinces of Bergamo and Cremona. Depart from Romano di Lombardia.

Relying on your guide you will have the opportunity to admire the protected natural area, rich in biodiversity and pristine habitats.

Before or after the horseback ride you can rest inside the center's characteristic clubhouse, enjoying an aperitif, or book lunches and dinners or stay in the comfortable B&B, all with a background of ambient music.

Enjoy this equestrian experience as a couple, with family, with friends, and ensure a moment of happiness and relaxation.

Alpaca baptism in Milan allows you to have a relaxing experience surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The experience can last 1 or 2 hours at your choice and you will have the opportunity to hold an alpaca on a leash while walking inside the farm, also a guide will tell you how wonderful these animals are and their peculiarities, you will have the opportunity to feed them directly from your hands!

During the experience you will be offered a non-alcoholic or alcoholic drink. You will be able to choose between a spritz and a hot drink (tea or herbal tea).

Learn all the secrets about wine making and create your own unique blend with this workshop at the Urban Winery in Milan.

Program

As soon as you arrive, you will be served a welcome glass, which you can taste during a tour of the winery's production area, accompanied by a brief introduction to the project.

Next you will taste 3 wine bases, learning to recognize the differences related to production methods. Based on your tastes, you can then create your own custom blend.

To conclude, you will be able to unleash your imagination by decorating the bottle label of the created wine.

At the end of the experience you will be given a bottle of the wine made, one per group (group means the group that made the reservation), to take home as a memento of the experience.

Any extra bottles of the created blend can be purchased directly on site, at a price of 10€ per bottle, upon request to the facility prior to creation.

Botanical workshop in Milan to create a terrarium, that is a small glass garden made step by step with expert guidance.

During the experience you will learn how to design and make a terrarium, creating a small self-sustaining ecosystem inside a glass container. You will discover how to choose the most suitable plants, prepare the substrate, balance moisture and light, and properly assemble all the elements to ensure the longevity of your miniature garden.

The horseback ride, starting from Viggiù, a town in the province of Varese near the Swiss border, will take you through the territories of Monte Orsa, along the Cadorna Line, a place rich in history.

The experience begins with a short briefing of about 15 minutes that aims to get to know the horse and hang some basic rules for your own safety and that of the horse. After the briefing is over, you will leave the facility in the direction of the Cadorna Line and Monte Orsa.

During the walk, in addition to being able to admire nature and the splendid view of Lake Ceresio, also known as Lake Lugano, you will see the trenches and fortresses of the Cadorna Line. The guide will tell you some anecdotes regarding the area and, in particular, concerning the history of the defensive line, which became famous during the First World War.

For those who want, the experience does not end once you return to the facility. In fact, it is also possible to purchase an aperitif that includes a drink and appetizers.

In case of allergies or specific dietary needs, please contact the facility directly for the aperitif.

Horseback riding in the mountains above Lecco, 558 meters above sea level, starts in the town of Primaluna. Excursions offered for this experience are either 1 or 2 hours in length, as desired.

All horseback rides are on the bridleway along the Pioverna River, where you can admire scenic and very characteristic places in the valley. You cross the river, if possible depending on weather conditions and season, and reache the woods. 

The horseback riding experience is suitable for anyone, even first-time riders. Appropriate clothing for horseback riding, such as closed shoes and long pants, is recommended.

Rent a 40-horsepower boat and discover Lake Como in total autonomy, following your own pace and enjoying every moment with absolute freedom.

You will board comfortable boats that are easy to drive and do not require a boat license, making them ideal for a relaxing, enjoyable and uncomplicated experience.

Each boat is equipped with a comfortable sun shade to protect you from the sun and an ice chest with water, with refreshing drinks included to make the trip even more comfortable.

Fuel is also included, so you can focus only on the pleasure of sailing.

The itinerary is free and customizable, with the opportunity to admire some of Lake Como's most iconic villas from the lake, such as Villa del Balbianello, Villa La Cassinella, Villa Gaeta, and Villa Monastero.

During the cruise you will skirt fascinating locations such as Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Tremezzo, each with its own unique character and breathtaking scenery.

The farmhouse restaurant "La Selvaggia" is ready to host you for a moment of peace and relaxation where you can enjoy excellent dishes of Lecco's culinary culture in an environment in contact with nature and a breathtaking view.

The menuù "Unlimited wine" consists of a rich appetizer, first course, second course, dessert, and coffee. All is accompanied by half a liter of red or white wine, and a final bitter.

For children up to 10 years of age, the farmhouse offers the "menù baby" consisting of appetizer, first course of the day, Milanese cutlet with French fries, homemade dessert, and water.

To reach the farmhouse you have to walk for about 10 minutes along a small road, so it is recommended to wear appropriate clothing.

During the week, lunch or dinner will be confirmed upon exceeding 10 total reservations.

The farmhouse provides overnight accommodations with breakfast included in the price. The facility has 4 double rooms. Therefore, it is possible to reserve overnight stay on the same day even for more than two people, however, it will be necessary to make multiple reservations

Nature walk with views of Lake Maggiore, departing from Taino. The walks last 1 hour and are also suitable for those who have never ridden a horse before. In some cases the rider may be accompanied on foot by a guide.

After a brief introductory lesson on how to guide your horse, you will set out inside the Bruschera Oasis, a nature reserve that stretches entirely along the lake.

The route is through meadows and woods in the hills, with views of the Rock of Angera. The walk is entirely on trails, with the exception of 100 meters of paved road.

The minimum age to participate is 14 years old. For underage passengers, the presence of an adult is required.

A maximum of 2 people can participate.

Discover the beautiful Borromean Islands with a boat tour that allows you to explore this corner of paradise on Lake Maggiore in total freedom.

Get on and off the boat when you want to visit the different islands of the archipelago, following your own pace and interests. You can admire the botanical gardens, historic buildings, and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The non-scheduled public transportation service gives you flexibility in planning your day, allowing you to devote the time you want to each island.

The horseback ride, starting from Viggiù, a town in the province of Varese near the Swiss border, will take you through the territories of Monte Orsa, along the Cadorna Line, a place rich in history.

The experience begins with a short briefing of about 15 minutes that aims to get to know the horse and hang some basic rules for your own safety and that of the horse. After the briefing is over, you will leave the facility in the direction of the Cadorna Line and Monte Orsa.

During the walk, in addition to being able to admire nature and the splendid view of Lake Ceresio, also known as Lake Lugano, you will see the trenches and fortresses of the Cadorna Line. The guide will tell you some anecdotes regarding the area and, in particular, concerning the history of the defensive line, which became famous during the First World War.

For those who want, the experience does not end once you return to the facility. In fact, it is also possible to purchase an aperitif that includes a drink and appetizers.

In case of allergies or specific dietary needs, please contact the facility directly for the aperitif.

Become a cheesemaker for a day and taste aged cheeses on an authentic farm in the Novara region of Italy.

You will have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in farm life and participate firsthand in all stages of cheesemaking.

Upon your arrival at the farm, you will begin the complete cheese-making process, taking part in each step, accompanied by clear and detailed explanations:

•    milk loading
•    curdling and fermentation
•    manual extraction and shaping of the cheese
•    start of stewing

After work at the dairy, a tasty natural snack of yogurt and fresh cheese will await you.

Next, you will participate in a workshop on aged cheeses, during which you will make some of the farm's typical aged cheeses, such as the famous wine cheese.

To end the day, you will enjoy a selection of aged cheeses served buffet style and accompanied by carefully matched wines.

In case of food allergies and intolerances, you can contact the facility following your reservation.

Nature walk with views of Lake Maggiore, departing from Taino. The walks last 1 hour and are also suitable for those who have never ridden a horse before. In some cases the rider may be accompanied on foot by a guide.

After a brief introductory lesson on how to guide your horse, you will set out inside the Bruschera Oasis, a nature reserve that stretches entirely along the lake.

The route is through meadows and woods in the hills, with views of the Rock of Angera. The walk is entirely on trails, with the exception of 100 meters of paved road.

The minimum age to participate is 14 years old. For underage passengers, the presence of an adult is required.

A maximum of 2 people can participate.

Discover the beautiful Borromean Islands with a boat tour that allows you to explore this corner of paradise on Lake Maggiore in total freedom.

Get on and off the boat when you want to visit the different islands of the archipelago, following your own pace and interests. You can admire the botanical gardens, historic buildings, and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The non-scheduled public transportation service gives you flexibility in planning your day, allowing you to devote the time you want to each island.

Become a farmer for a day and participate in a tasting of local products at a farm in the Novara region of Italy.

Through this experience, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in farm life and spend a day in close contact with friendly animals.

Once you arrive at the farm, you will participate in milking the goats, either by hand or with the help of machinery.

Afterwards, you will feed the animals and collect and arrange the eggs. Any extra seasonal activities are also planned, such as harvesting vegetables in the garden during the summer.

To conclude this experience, you will taste local products accompanied by selected wines.

In case of food allergies or intolerances, you can contact the facility after booking.

At Al Marnich farm you can taste traditional Italian and non-Italian dishes, prepared with creativity and ingredients of their own production.

The farm's fixed menu includes four courses: appetizer, first course, second course and dessert; while drinks are excluded. The chef creates her dishes by being inspired by seasonal, km0 ingredients.

The farmhouse is located 8 km from Lake Como (Argegno) and è provided with free parking. Its location and rustic features create a romantic and relaxing atmosphere.

The restaurant è open daily for dinner and on Saturdays and Sundays also for lunch, by reservation. 

For any allergies or dietary needs, please contact the establishment directly.

Wakeboarding at Como Lake Cable Park, a small lake near Colico, is an adventurous and adrenaline-pumping experience.

The experience includes 15-minute "laps" scattered throughout the day, during which you are always supervised by an instructor.

In addition, it is possible to purchase a 15-minute introductory wakeboard lesson: a first part of 5/10 minutes on land and then in the water the rest of the time.

It is strongly recommended to conduct the lesson if it is your first approach to the discipline.

Unlike classic wakeboarding in which a boat pulls you, cable wakeboarding allows you to glide across the water with a board thanks to an electric towing system, therefore "green."

The system consists of two poles about 100 meters apart, and allows the instructor to adjust the speed of the tow, making it easier to learn.

Horseback riding in the mountains above Lecco, 558 meters above sea level, starts in the town of Primaluna. Excursions offered for this experience are either 1 or 2 hours in length, as desired.

All horseback rides are on the bridleway along the Pioverna River, where you can admire scenic and very characteristic places in the valley. You cross the river, if possible depending on weather conditions and season, and reache the woods. 

The horseback riding experience is suitable for anyone, even first-time riders. Appropriate clothing for horseback riding, such as closed shoes and long pants, is recommended.

Rent a 40-horsepower boat and discover Lake Como in total autonomy, following your own pace and enjoying every moment with absolute freedom.

You will board comfortable boats that are easy to drive and do not require a boat license, making them ideal for a relaxing, enjoyable and uncomplicated experience.

Each boat is equipped with a comfortable sun shade to protect you from the sun and an ice chest with water, with refreshing drinks included to make the trip even more comfortable.

Fuel is also included, so you can focus only on the pleasure of sailing.

The itinerary is free and customizable, with the opportunity to admire some of Lake Como's most iconic villas from the lake, such as Villa del Balbianello, Villa La Cassinella, Villa Gaeta, and Villa Monastero.

During the cruise you will skirt fascinating locations such as Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Tremezzo, each with its own unique character and breathtaking scenery.

The farmhouse restaurant "La Selvaggia" is ready to host you for a moment of peace and relaxation where you can enjoy excellent dishes of Lecco's culinary culture in an environment in contact with nature and a breathtaking view.

The menuù "Unlimited wine" consists of a rich appetizer, first course, second course, dessert, and coffee. All is accompanied by half a liter of red or white wine, and a final bitter.

For children up to 10 years of age, the farmhouse offers the "menù baby" consisting of appetizer, first course of the day, Milanese cutlet with French fries, homemade dessert, and water.

To reach the farmhouse you have to walk for about 10 minutes along a small road, so it is recommended to wear appropriate clothing.

During the week, lunch or dinner will be confirmed upon exceeding 10 total reservations.

The farmhouse provides overnight accommodations with breakfast included in the price. The facility has 4 double rooms. Therefore, it is possible to reserve overnight stay on the same day even for more than two people, however, it will be necessary to make multiple reservations

Discover Villa Cipressi botanical garden in Varenna, on the shores of Lake Como.
Located in Varenna, the villa complex - built between the 15th and 19th centuries and recently restored - combines historical charm with the elegance and comfort of one of the most beautiful historic villas on Lake Como.

A favourite destination for scholars and garden enthusiasts, the park surrounding the property boasts exceptional beauty and invaluable cultural significance, showcasing the biodiversity of different regions of Italy.

From November 1st to January 6th, the botanical garden of Villa Cipressi becomes Villa Cipressi Christmas Garden: a magical wonderland of lights, music, and Christmas flavors. Come and experience the magic in the green heart of Varenna!

This ticket will allow you to enter the Villa's garden and stay inside as long as you wish, during opening hours.

This farmhouse above Bellagio, offers an organic wine tasting and visit to the vineyards overlooking Lake Como.

The tasting includes tasting of a Cascina Teresina Nebbiolo accompanied by a board with a selection of cheeses, sliced meats and a seasonal side dish.

In addition, the tasting includes water, homemade bread and coffeeè.

Before or after the tasting è it is possible to take a tour of the vineyards overlooking Lake Como, at an altitude of about 700 m.

The tasting will take place in a relaxing environment perfect for a day of vacation or a weekend getaway. The farmhouse has a panoramic veranda and a terraced garden from which to admire the view of the Lake.

In case of food allergies or intolerances è you can contact the property following the reservation.

Enjoy an original experience in the heart of Franciacorta with a quad bike tour suitable for everyone, even those who have never ridden on an ATV.

You will be able to choose one of two available tours:

Aperitivo (3 hours)

The quad bike tour with aperitif includes a loop through the vineyards with departure and arrival in Erbusco, near Brescia.

Halfway through the tour an aperitif awaits you in a place overlooking the Torbiere del Sebino Nature Reserve.

•    25+15 km
•    2h30' of actual driving
•    Total duration: 3h

Tasting (3h30')

During the excursion with tasting you can visit one of the most renowned wineries in Franciacorta.

•    25+10 km
•    2h of driving
•    1h visit to a winery + 2/3 Franciacorta tastings
•    Total duration: 3h30min

Wineries visited: Contadi Castaldi (usually Saturday afternoon), Ferghettina (usually Sunday morning) and Ronco Calino.

In case rain is expected, you will be contacted by phone the day before. It is possible to take turns while driving.

Horseback riding among the vineyards in Franciacorta near Lake Iseo from Corte Franca will provide a unique activity immersed in the tranquility of nature.

Available rides are 1 or 2 hours and extend through local vineyards passing through villages and some of the most renowned wineries such as Berlucchi.

The walks are suitable for all levels of experience, and the instructor will teach you the basics of riding as well as accompany you throughout the itinerary.

Sportswear with long pants and closed shoes is required to participate in the activity.

Choose horseback riding in the hills of Bergamo and ride along the trails and dirt roads in the area, surrounded by the green woods of the park.

The horseback riding tour routes are suitable for both beginners and experts. The rides are one to two hours in length and take place throughout the week.

You will be led by an experienced guide, who will be with you for the duration of the excursion, showing you the most beautiful places and leading you through the most striking landscapes of the Bergamo area.

(The walk will be at a walking pace and not a galloping pace).

Take a horseback ride along the banks of the Serio River, within the nature park of the same name on the border between the provinces of Bergamo and Cremona. Depart from Romano di Lombardia.

Relying on your guide you will have the opportunity to admire the protected natural area, rich in biodiversity and pristine habitats.

Before or after the horseback ride you can rest inside the center's characteristic clubhouse, enjoying an aperitif, or book lunches and dinners or stay in the comfortable B&B, all with a background of ambient music.

Enjoy this equestrian experience as a couple, with family, with friends, and ensure a moment of happiness and relaxation.

The guided winery tour with lunch at the Ambrosini Estate will allow you to learn about Franciacorta wine production techniques and enjoy a lunch of local products.

The activity begins with a walk through the estate's vineyards, followed by a guided tour of the winery.

Followed by lunch based on the selected menu. 

Lunch

Lunch consists of 4 courses:

•    Antipasti based on typical Brescia cured meats, savory pies, zucchini frittatas and sweet and sour vegetables
•    Risotto with Franciacorta Tenuta Ambrosini DOCG paired with Franciacorta T.A. EXTRA BRUT DOCG
•    Brescian skewered mixed meats cooked on the grill with a side dish, paired with Franciacorta T.A. BRUT DOCG 
•    Sweet paired with Franciacorta SATEN Millesimato DOCG

Gold Tasting

Lunch consists of 4 courses:

•    Antipasti based on typical Brescian cold cuts, savory pies, zucchini frittatina and sweet and sour vegetables
•    Risotto with Franciacorta Tenuta Ambrosini DOCG
•    Brescian skewered mixed meats cooked on the grill with side dishes
•    Sweet

The lunch is accompanied by a tasting of 5 Franciacorta Tenuta Ambrosini DOCG wines.

Platinum tasting

The lunch consists of 5 courses:

•    Antipasti based on typical Brescian cold cuts, savory pies, zucchini frittatina and sweet and sour vegetables
•    Risotto with Franciacorta Tenuta Ambrosini DOCG
•    Brescian skewered mixed meats cooked over charcoal with side dishes
•    Tagliere di Formaggi delle Valli bresciane paired with Franciacorta RISERVA "Lorenzo Ambrosini" 2011 vintage DOCG
•    Sweet

The lunch is accompanied by the tasting of 6 Franciacorta Tenuta Ambrosini wines including the "Eccellente Riserva 2011.

The tour with lunch has a total duration of about 3 hours and is ideal for groups and families, but also for having a romantic lunch with your partner. At the end of the experience it will be possible to go to the wine shop.

A sweatshirt is recommended for the winery visit.

Starting from the stable, it will be possible to take a nature walk with an experienced guide who will accompany you on foot.

The route follows the ancient Via Mercatorum, a historic mule track that runs along the river through the woods, passing through Cornello dei Tasso, a very characteristic medieval village and one of the best preserved in all of Lombardy, until you reach Oneta, another small mountain village guarded by the Harlequin House Museum. Crossing the arched gateway on horseback and listening to the sound of hooves on the cobblestones will really feel like going back in time.

The walk will end by returning to the stable all together.

A small welcome breakfast (water and coffee) is included in the price.

Sports and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.