Italy is a gorgeous land of stunning architectural marvels, historical masterpieces, mind-blowing cities, and amazing experiences. It is also a country blessed with magnificent lakes and the Alpine mountains that offer a pristine natural vista to the entire country. Placed in the Rhaetian Alps foothills in Lombardy, Lake Como is one such lake that has recaptured the imagination of the tourist world with its incredible natural beauty. Get your Italy tourist visa, one of the mandatory documents for entering Italy, and explore this gorgeous lake at your convenience.
Introduction
Lake Como is mesmerizing and has spellbound people with its charm and elegance. The populated towns surrounding its shore further enhance its natural beauty. The luxury villas and multi-colored houses contrast the crystal-clear water for creating postcard vistas and core blocks of people's Instagram profile pics. Being the third largest lake in the Italian region at a depth of 410 meters, it also stands among the deepest lakes in the European region. The air is fresh, and the landscape conveys peace and tranquillity even though it's only an hour's drive away from the financial hub of Italy, Milan.
Lake Como offers the perfect ambiance to unwind for the locals and tourists alike. Many popular global celebrities like Madonna and George Clooney have chosen Lake Como their second home. Due to its rare combination of charm, elegance, and natural beauty, many generations of artists could not withstand capturing this on their canvas. Even the most popular ones, like Leonardo Da Vinci, were spelled bounded by their beauty, which led to them being captured on canvas.
Towns and Villages in Lake Como
Small villages dot the background of Lake Como with multi-colored houses and huge palaces. We bring you the five most gorgeous villages on the Lake Como shores that you should plan to fit into your itinerary while planning for your Italy tourist visa. All the five villages are interconnected via a ferry service.
Bellagio
This gorgeous village is placed at the intersection of the lower arms of Lake Como. Known as the Pearl of the Lake, you will find grand mansions built here due to their strategic position that was contested enclaves for many past ruling empires, including the bourgeoisie of Lombardy. Ancient ruins and fortifications that display the grandeur of these past empires can still be found.
The village landscape is decorated with narrow, flower-lined streets, picturesque houses with ivy-covered balconies, pastel-colored facades, and cypress wood forests. Many cafes and restaurants offer authentic regional cuisine like the Bistro Antichi Sapori, making it one of the gastronomical capitals among all the villages of Lake Como. The neighboring villages of Menaggio and Varenna are interconnected via the ferry service, and you can choose to stopover while covering these beautiful neighboring villages for a culinary treat coupled with unparallel coastal views. Villa Servelloni and Villa Melzi are two villas you should not dare to miss out on while exploring this village.
Como
Placed at the lake's southern end, this town offers the perfect ambiance and surroundings for a refreshing break from routine lives. This town also had a significant presence in the Roman Empire's military history due to its strategic location. The most underrated among the five villages, Como rewards all its explorers with a dose of rich Italian history, culture, and medieval architecture. Today, it stands among the tourist hotspots with ultra-luxurious resorts and cafes with breathtaking views. Stroll around the riverbanks on the terraces of these structures and bask in the glory of these stunning views.
The city's cathedral, the Duomo, the Piazza de Gasperi, the Porta Pretoria, the medieval center, and the lakeside promenade are some of the most popular attractions here. The cathedral square is an ideal place to relax and enjoy a drink and simultaneously stands among the vibrant corner and peaceful sites. This village continues to feature in every itinerary once people receive their Italy tourist visa.
Torno
You will get to this charming little village nestled among the mountains and placed in the neighborhood of the Como village. This beautiful tiny village combines past and present elements to offer a great combination of history, culture, art, nature, and food. With embedded roots of the great splendor between the 13th and 16th centuries, most architectural marvels here have a history dating back to the Middle Ages.
The Santa Tecla and San Giovanni churches are fine examples of the fine architecture that still oozes elegance from all quarters. The San Giovanni church also houses a Romanesque tower that further enhances the backdrop of this unique little village. If you have received your Italy tourist visa, it would be considered a cardinal sin if you skip this gorgeous little natural masterpiece.
Varenna
This traditional fishing village is easily accessible from the Bellagio village. Blessed with mesmerizing natural views, the 900+ inhabitants in this village have not hampered and played a critical role in maintaining its natural beauty. The vibrant colored facades, picturesque historical profile, and charming promenade make it one of the best romantic getaways. You will get several terrace bars and cafes that allow visitors and tourists instant access to the picturesque backdrops while enjoying a sip.
You can enjoy the laziness of small beaches in this village to unwind from the busy routine life. The Castle of Vezio, a 12th-century classical structure, is one of the most popular attractions here. Varenna is also known for its enticing villas blessed with gigantic gardens like the Villa Monastero. Apply for your Italy tourist visa and get to explore the romantic boardwalk, traditional colored facades, and picturesque churches for a relaxing holiday experience.
Menaggio
A huge hit in the tourist population, Menaggio houses more than 3000 inhabitants. With several opportunities for setting up camps, apartments, and hotels, this is one of the most touristic villages of Lake Como. This village was once a walled town and one of the initial discoveries of the Milanese in the 19th century that led to their summer residences being built here.
The indulging lakeside promenade promises mind-blowing views that instantly catch the eye of every tourist who visits this place. This colorful medieval town features a large square, a mini golf course, the Giussepe Garibaldi square, and is cornered by striking facades. Small retail shops and high-end boutiques decorate the village streets. You will often find popular celebrities who have regularly stopped over for a break in this village. The 19th-century classic Piazza Garibaldi is something you should miss out on while exploring this beautiful lakeside village. You will often find locals and visitors hanging out here for some conversations over a round of coffee or even a fun night out.
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