Bellagio is one of the best-known villages on Lake Como. Its name comes from the Latin bi-lacus – “between the lakes”: the village is located at the tip of the promontory that separates the two branches of the lake, placing it right in the center of Lario’s waters.
Although it is only 30 km from Como, it takes about an hour by car to reach Bellagio due to scenic but winding roads. For this reason, the most comfortable and picturesque way to arrive is by boat. Private boats and ferries connect Bellagio with all points of the lake.
The village itself is characterized by narrow stairways, arcades, and local craft shops. A visit to the historic center can take as little as half an hour, but it is worth taking a leisurely stroll to discover every charming corner.
Bellagio is home to two historic villas open to the public: Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni. Villa Melzi is just a 10 minute walk from the village center. Tickets cost 10 Euros, and the gardens are open daily from late March to early November, 10:00–17:30.
Built in the early 1800s by Duke Melzi, vice president of the First Italian Republic during Napoleon’s era, the villa’s interiors are closed to visitors. The highlight is its expansive gardens, meticulously landscaped. A stroll through the gardens takes at least 30–40 minutes, though lingering longer allows you to fully appreciate the contrast between the lush greenery and the deep blue of the lake.
The park of Villa Serbelloni spreads across the steep promontory separating the two branches of the lake. Visits are guided only, at 11:00 and 15:30 (Friday–Sunday), lasting about two hours, from mid March to early November (ticket price: 13 Euro)
The park is a picturesque maze of paths surrounded by native and exotic plants, with terraces and statues along the way. It offers tranquil walks and breathtaking views of the Lecco and Como branches. Originally built by the noble Serbelloni family, the villa is now part of the Rockefeller Foundation.
One of Bellagio’s most evocative hamlets is Pescallo, a former fishing village. It can be reached in about 15 minutes from the village center via stepped alleys that climb the hill and descend toward the Lecco branch’s shore.
Punta Spartivento is the point where the lake splits into its two branches. From the pier, visitors enjoy a stunning panorama of the Alps. Punta Spartivento is easily accessible on foot, just 10 minutes from the Bellagio center.
