Visiting Lake Como with Kids: Top Things to Do, Why It's So Popular, and How to Get There
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Updated 06 March 2025
Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and family-friendly places in Italy, offering a perfect combination of scenic landscapes, charming villages, and exciting activities for all ages. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the surrounding mountains, Lake Como provides a memorable experience for families traveling with kids. Here's why Lake Como is so popular among families, top things to do with kids, and helpful tips on how to get there.
Why Lake Como is So Popular for Family Travel
Lake Como, nestled in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, is famous for its stunning views and picturesque lakeside towns. It’s a top destination for families because it combines natural beauty with a wealth of activities that children will love, from boat tours to exploring historic villas and lush gardens. The gentle pace of life around the lake also makes it an ideal spot for families seeking relaxation, while still offering plenty of fun experiences.
Lake Como is also probably the most visited of all the lakes in Northern Italy, largely due to its proximity to Milan, with its international airports, and its close proximity to the Swiss border. This strategic location, combined with the area’s excellent transportation network, makes the lake easily accessible and incredibly attractive not only to holidaymakers but also to day-trippers. Great ferry, bus, and train services in the area allow visitors to move around effortlessly, enhancing the convenience and appeal of Lake Como as a destination for families.
Top Things to Do with Kids in Lake Como
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Boat Tours on Lake Como
One of the most exciting activities for families visiting Lake Como is taking a boat tour. Kids will love the experience of cruising across the clear blue waters, with the chance to spot beautiful villas, lush hills, and scenic views along the shoreline. You can choose from public ferries, private boat rentals, or guided tours, depending on your preferences.
POPULAR Private Tours on Lake Como
02
Visit Villa Carlotta and Villa del Bambianello
Located in Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta is a beautiful historic villa surrounded by stunning gardens. It’s an excellent place for a family outing, as children can explore the vast parklands and marvel at the impressive flowers, sculptures, and fountains. The villa also houses a museum with art collections, making it both educational and enjoyable for older kids. Don’t miss Villa del Bambianello, a charming villa on the shores of Lake Como. Its beautiful gardens and tranquil surroundings make it a perfect spot for a peaceful family visit.
Photo by Debora Molteni on Unsplash
Lake Como: Villa del Balbianello
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Villa del Balbianello Gardens with Ferry Tickets. Take a public boat from Lake Como to the charming Villa del Balbianello. Disembark in Lenno and enjoy a scenic 30-minute self-guided walk to reach the villa.
03
Visit the Orrido di Nesso or Orrido di Bellano
Both the Orrido di Nesso and Orrido di Bellano are stunning natural wonders located near the lake. The Orrido di Nesso is a hidden gem—a waterfall flowing through a narrow gorge, which can be reached via a family-friendly hike. Orrido di Bellano is another dramatic waterfall that cuts through the rocky landscape, offering kids a thrilling experience. These awe-inspiring spots are perfect for nature-loving families seeking adventure.
Como Lake: visit Bellano Gorge
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Entry ticket Bellano Gorge and audioguide of lake. Discover the natural beauty of the Orrido di Bellano, an enchanting canyon, and enhance your visit with an audio guide to learn about the villages surrounding Lake Como.
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Relax at Lake Como’s Lidos
Lake Como offers a variety of lidos, perfect for families to relax and enjoy some time by the water. There is no shortage of these lakeside beaches where families can unwind and kids can splash around. If you prefer the local beach, Lierna Beach is the most perfect spot. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming, and the peaceful surroundings offer a wonderful place to relax after a day of exploring.
Lake Como TOP RATED day trips
05
Take a Scenic Hike to Piani dei Resinelli
For families who enjoy outdoor activities, a hike to Piani dei Resinelli is a must. This scenic mountain plateau offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Como. The hiking trails are family-friendly, and kids will love the opportunity to explore nature while taking in panoramic views of the area. It's a great way to introduce your children to hiking and outdoor adventure.
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Explore the Most Scenic Family-Friendly Villages Around Lake Como
Lake Como is dotted with charming and picturesque villages that are perfect for exploring with kids. Take a stroll through the colorful streets of Varenna, known for its romantic lakeside promenade and beautiful views. Visit Bellagio, the "Pearl of Lake Como," where cobbled streets, gardens, and local markets offer a quaint family experience. The town of Lecco offers a lively atmosphere and is great for a day of shopping and dining. Como, the main town, is rich in history and boasts a beautiful cathedral, while Menaggio provides a charming lakeside retreat with plenty of activities for families. Don't forget to visit Bellano, a lesser-known gem of Lake Como offering a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lake views. These villages are perfect for leisurely walks, local cafes, and the chance to soak in the stunning lakeside scenery.
BEST Activities to Enjoy with kids on Lake Como
07
Visit the Castles of Lake Como
Lake Como is home to some fascinating castles, perfect for families to explore. One of the most iconic is Castello di Vezio in Varenna. Perched high above the town, this medieval castle offers panoramic views of the lake and has a fascinating history. Exploring the castle grounds and learning about the area’s past is both educational and exciting for young visitors.
Varenna: Castello di Vezio Entrance ticket
How to Get to Lake Como with Kids
Getting to Lake Como is relatively easy, with several transportation options available depending on where you're coming from.
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By Train The most common way to reach Lake Como is by train. From Milan, you can take a direct train to Como, which takes about an hour. The train station in Como is well-connected to the rest of the lake, with ferry services available to take you to nearby towns like Varenna, Bellagio, and Tremezzo. Once you're at the lake, local buses, ferries, and even funiculars can help you get around easily.
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By Car If you prefer to have more flexibility, renting a car is another great option. The drive from Milan to Lake Como takes approximately 1.5 hours. Driving allows you to explore the area at your own pace, but keep in mind that parking in popular towns can be limited, especially during the peak tourist season.
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By Boat If you're already staying in a nearby town, some towns around Lake Como offer boat services that connect the various villages around the lake. This can be a fun and scenic way to explore the area, especially for families who want to enjoy the views while avoiding crowded roads.