Lake Como: Chase Down George Clooney on a 3 Day Getaway
Day 1: Get there and get fresh
Either take the train or if you’re gutsy, rent a car. Have you seen Italian roads? Don't rent a big car. The train from MXP airport doubles back to Milan, so it’s about a 2 hour journey, otherwise it’s about an hour from Milano Central. Taxis are sometimes a little challenging to find, so grab one if you see it and head north to your hotel.
Just north of Como, stay at Hotel Lago, a fresh boutique hotel with modern large rooms, great views, a fantastic restaurant and a helpful and charming family who run the place. They are helpful in sorting out transportation, showing you the path into town, and just generally lovely people.
Torno, where your hotel is, is a quiet, laid back town. Take a walk on the back paths from the hotel to the small town. You're proably going to get lost. That's ok! Carpe diem and just wander. At some point you'll get to town. From there you can grab a bite at one of the local spots or stop for an amazing pizza at Pizzaria Primavera di Luca Salvatore. This guy knows what’s up. If you like spicy pizza, get the one with peppers and be prepared for your mouth to be on fire. Otherwise, go with what you like. Many choices. He prefers if you eat it fresh right on the stoop of his little shop and will encourage you to do so. Or at least that's what I think he said. I wish I spoke Italian.
Relax and enjoy watching the ferries (or hop one for a ride around). Eat dinner at the hotel and spend some time enjoying the view, quiet, and charm of Torno.
Day 2: ahoy mateys, take the ferry
Time to explore the lake! Head into Como to the ferry terminal (by taxi, local bus, or ferry from Torno) and grab the ferry up to Bellagio to check out the jewel of the lake.
There are fast and slow ferry options (1hr vs 2hr) and sometimes the fast ferries sell out. Enjoy the views and the tour of the south part of the lake. If you're doing this in the peak of summer, bring a small fan. It gets warm in Como.
Bellagio can be a little crowded with tourists, so take your time. Head to the beach club for a swim and relaxing if it’s early. Otherwise, stop at one of the many lakeside cafes for drinks to build up for your uphill walks.
Make your way around to some of the great shops, gelato stops, silk stores, and photogenic alleyways. Enjoy dinner at one of the many great restaurants with a view.
Day 3: free skate, do you, boo
Options for today include
-> hire a private boat for a ride around the lake (doable by just walking to port or making arrangements ahead of time)
-> take the public ferry and visit Tremezzo and the Villa Carlotta gardens
-> grab your hiking shoes and take one of the many trails up the mountains around the lake
-> take a walk around Como town and take the funicular up
-> travel to Mennagio and wander around the town
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