Are two days enough to fall in love with Lake Como? Probably not. But a well-planned weekend can offer an authentic taste of one of Italy’s most fascinating destinations.
The eastern shore of Lake Como has everything you could wish for in a short getaway: picturesque villages, lakeside promenades, breathtaking views, excellent cuisine, nature trails and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier towns around the central lake.
Here is our ideal itinerary for spending a weekend between Varenna, Bellano and Mandello del Lario, discovering the most authentic side of Lake Como.
Where to stay
To explore the area with ease and comfort, the ideal starting point is Hotel Promessi Sposi in Malgrate. Overlooking the lake and offering spectacular views of Lecco’s skyline, it provides the perfect base for visiting all the main destinations along the eastern shore.
Between excursions and strolls through charming villages, you can unwind at the hotel’s spa or enjoy a panoramic aperitivo at the rooftop garden of People Cocktail Bar & Café at Hotel Promessi Sposi, one of the most enchanting spots to watch the sunset over Lake Como.
Day 1: Malgrate, Varenna and Bellano
Morning: A Stroll Along Malgrate’s Lakeside Promenade and a Visit to Varenna
Your weekend begins in Malgrate, with a relaxing walk along its elegant lakeside promenade, one of the most scenic spots on the Lecco branch of Lake Como. Overlooking the lake and offering breathtaking views of Lecco and the surrounding mountains, it is the perfect place to start the day while soaking in the authentic atmosphere of Lake Como.
From here, continue to Varenna, one of the most charming and romantic villages on Lake Como.
Getting lost among its narrow cobbled streets is the best way to experience the town’s timeless character. Colourful waterfront houses, boutique shops and picturesque corners make every stroll a memorable experience.
A must-see is the famous Walk of Lovers (Passeggiata degli Innamorati), a scenic lakeside walkway connecting the historic centre with the ferry terminal.
Visit Villa Monastero
Just a short walk from the center lies Villa Monastero, one of the lake’s most captivating historic residences.
Its botanical gardens stretch for over a kilometer along the waterfront, offering a succession of terraces, exotic plants, sculptures and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the lake.
Lunch with a lake view
After your visit, take a break at one of the restaurants along the waterfront and enjoy traditional dishes from the Lake Como area, featuring local flavors and seasonal ingredients.
Afternoon: Bellano and the Orrido
In the early afternoon, head to Bellano to visit the Orrido, one of Lake Como’s most spectacular natural attractions.
Suspended walkways allow visitors to cross a dramatic gorge carved over centuries by the waters of the Pioverna stream, surrounded by waterfalls, sculpted rock formations and breathtaking scenery.
Sunset from the Lake
To end the day in a truly unforgettable way, there is nothing more magical than a private cruise on Lake Como.
On board Hotel Promessi Sposi’s luxury boat, you can admire Varenna, Bellagio and the eastern shore from an exclusive perspective as the sun sets behind the mountains and golden reflections dance across the water.
Evening: rooftop aperitivo
Back in Malgrate, make your way to the rooftop garden of People Cocktail Bar & Café at Hotel Promessi Sposi for an aperitivo with a view.
Before you stretches the lake, the illuminated skyline of Lecco and the surrounding mountains reflected in the water—a perfect way to end your first day.
Day 2: Mandello del Lario and Lake views
Morning: discovering Mandello del Lario
Your second day is dedicated to Mandello del Lario, known worldwide as the birthplace of Moto Guzzi.
A visit to the Moto Guzzi Museum offers the opportunity to explore the history of one of Italy’s most iconic motorcycle brands through historic models, documents and fascinating memorabilia.
A walk along the waterfront
After the museum, enjoy a leisurely stroll along Mandello’s lakeside promenade.
The views of the Grigne mountains rising above the lake create a spectacular setting throughout the year and represent one of the most authentic images of the eastern shore of Lake Como.
Lunch and local flavors
Mandello offers numerous opportunities to experience local cuisine, from traditional trattorias to restaurants that reinterpret regional products with a contemporary touch.
Afternoon: nature and panoramic trails
Before concluding your weekend, dedicate a few hours to one of the scenic trails surrounding Mandello.
Even a short section of the Sentiero del Viandante (Wayfarer’s Path) provides magnificent views over the lake and helps explain why this area has become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
Relax before departure
Upon returning, treat yourself to a few hours of relaxation at the spa of Hotel Promessi Sposi.
After two days spent exploring villages, lakeside promenades and panoramic viewpoints, it is the perfect way to say goodbye to Lake Como and return home completely refreshed.
Why choose the eastern shore of Lake Como for a weekend?
Unlike some of the lake’s more crowded destinations, the eastern shore retains an authentic and relaxed atmosphere.
Here, life moves at a slower pace among historic villages, panoramic trails, local traditions and experiences that allow visitors to connect deeply with the territory.
Varenna, Bellano and Mandello del Lario are the perfect starting points for discovering the eastern side of Lake Como and enjoying a weekend that combines culture, nature, wellness and gastronomy.
A single weekend may be enough to fall in love with these places. And very often, that is exactly how the desire to return begins.
