Best Things to Do Around Lake Como, Italy

Tranquil Gorges of Lake Como

View of colorful houses, a stone bridge, and the water of Lake Como, from Ponte del Lago in Nesso, Italy.

1. The Breathtaking Orrido di Nesso (Ponte del lago)

Discover the iconic Orrido di Nesso (Gorge of Nesso) and spectacular waterfall in the charming village of Nesso, Lake Como. The short, moderate 0.8 km (0.5 mile) out-and-back trail descends steeply to the historic Ponte del Lago stone bridge, an unmatched viewpoint for photography. Capture stunning views of the 30-meter waterfall, quaint Italian architecture, and enjoy a refreshing swim directly from the bridge in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.

View Our Orrido di Nesso Trail Guide (0.8 km)

The gorge of Bellano (Orrido di Bellano) with a suspended trail that wraps through the canyon, turquoise pools of water, and a large waterfall in the background.

2. The Stunning Orrido di Bellano

Explore the spectacular Orrido di Bellano (Gorge of Bellano), a dramatic natural gorge carved into the lake's eastern shore in the town of Bellano, Italy. This thrilling, short (0.6 km / 0.35 mile) experience takes you deep inside the canyon on modern suspended walkways. You will witness roaring waterfalls—including a majestic 20m (65ft) cascade—sheer canyon walls, and vibrant turquoise pools of water. The Orrido di Bellano is a must-see natural wonder and one of the best-kept secrets for your Lake Como itinerary.

Explore the Orrido di Bellano Trail (0.6 km)

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Explore Menaggio: Waterfalls & Lake Como Vibes

A waterfall plunges into a lush forest with a stone footbridge that crosses overhead near Lake Como, Italy.

3. A Short Hike to Cascata di Tobi

Escape the typical Lake Como crowds for an enchanting waterfall hike to the stunning Cascata di Tobi (Tobi Waterfall) near Menaggio, Italy. Starting from the quaint village of Codogna-Cardano, this moderate, family-friendly, 1.5 km out-and-back trail plunges into the lush Val Sanagra Regional Park. Traverse historic footbridges like the beautiful Ponte di Tobi, descend switchbacks into the dramatic Orrido della Val Sanagra (gorge), and reach the base of the 7.5-meter cascade where turquoise pools await. Known for its serene, "Jurassic Park"-like atmosphere filled with ferns and ancient stone structures, the Cascata di Tobi offers one of the most scenic and rewarding short adventures in the Lake Como region.

See Our Detailed Cascata di Tobi Trail Map (1.5 km)

4. Menaggio's Mini Waterfall in the Val Sanagra River

Discover a beautiful hidden gem right in the heart of Menaggio, Lake Como, with a visit to the charming Menaggio Mini Waterfall. This effortless, scenic 0.3 km out-and-back walk (known locally as the Fiume Sanagra Menaggio Mini Waterfall) offers a perfect escape from the crowds, leading you through Menaggio's quaint streets to the beautiful 3.5 m (12-foot) cascade. Explore the natural beauty of the Sanagra River gorge, where the waterfall plunges into a crystal-clear, blue-tinted pool—an ideal spot for photography and a quick, unique Lake Como adventure.

A view of the waterfall in the Val Sanagra River located in Menaggio, Italy along Lake Como.

Explore Menaggio's Mini Waterfall Walk (0.4 km)

A view of Lake Como, Italy and dramatic mountains in the background with an ornate fence with flower boxes along the Menaggio Promenade.

5. Lake Como Stroll Along the Menaggio Promenade

Discover the iconic Orrido di Nesso gorge and spectacular waterfall in the charming village of Nesso, Lake Como. The short, moderate 0.8 km (0.5 mile) out-and-back trail descends steeply to the historic Ponte del Lago stone bridge, an unmatched viewpoint for photography. Capture stunning views of the 30-meter waterfall, quaint Italian architecture, and enjoy a refreshing swim directly from the bridge in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.

Stroll the Menaggio Promenade (1 km)

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A Medieval Castle Above Lake Como

A ghostly figure sits on the terrace of Castello di Vezio with Lake Como and mountains in the background.

6. Breathtaking Views From Castello di Vezio

Elevate your Lake Como adventure with an unforgettable walk to the medieval Castello di Vezio, a historic fortress perched high above the lake near Varenna. This short 1.1 km (0.7-mile) roundtrip walk rewards visitors with some of the most spectacular, panoramic views of Lake Como, including the iconic Bellagio peninsula and the Southern Alps. After a picturesque stroll through the ancient village of Vezio, explore the castle's unique features, from its ghostly Nazgûl-like statues and historic Church of Sant'Antonio Abate to the chance to climb the main tower for sweeping, 360-degree vistas. Don't miss this bucket-list photo opportunity and deep dive into local history—it's easily one of the best viewpoints on Lake Como.

View Our Castello di Vezio Trail Guide (1.1 km)

Ready to Explore Lake Como?

This guide is just your starting point. Use our detailed, full-length trail guides below to plan the logistics, parking, entry fees, and specific routes for your Lake Como adventures.

See All Lake Como Trail Guides