Lake Como: beautiful Bellagio

last year(edited)

Lake Como, Italy can be likened to an upside down Y in shape. At the middle point where the 2 ”branches” meet, lies Bellagio. The name says it all. “Bella” - the Italian word means pretty or beautiful in English and that is a part of its name. It is indeed a pretty, charming and glamorous town which is a very popular tourist destination. Bellagio is called the "Pearl of Lake Como".

view from the lake of Bellagio

There are many villages along Lake Como. At first glance, they might all seem alike - with similar architecture and terracotta and pastel coloured buildings at the foothills of mountains. However, each village has its own unique characteristics, attractions and feeling. You will sense what I mean when exploring.

The waterfront
There are ferries and water buses transporting many day trippers to Bellagio.

the ferry terminal

As a result, the area around the terminal

view of the ferry terminal and Bellagios's waterfront

and the town center is bustling with tourists during summer.

the busy ferry terminal area

One can literally drive around the town or see it via this tourist train called the Bellagio Express train.

The town center
Traversing the mostly pedestrian center by foot is the best way to discover what’s on offer. It starts at the waterfront with many cafes, hotels and stores to admire.

Then there is a network of cobblestone stairways which lead uphill to the picturesque town center. It is best to wear comfortable shoes.

As it is summertime, the alleys are filled with tourists.

Not all are overcrowded though

and not everyone is going in the same direction.

There are lovely colourful alleys to discover with many cafes, restaurants, exclusive boutiques

and winebars.

Once uphill, a visit to Chiesa Giacomo is well worthwhile. This Romanesque church was built between the 11th and 12th century. (I didn't linger as some visitors were praying)

From the church it is possible to walk over to the famous and most photographed street view of Bellagio.

view down Sarlita Serbelloni

At this elevation, many people pause to appreciate the beautiful view, style and architecture of the town.

There is a very pleasant atmosphere in town and everyone enjoys the friendly Italian hospitality.

After having one’s fill of these photogenic alleys, walk downhill to the waterfront. If you look closely, you will notice drapes hanging in front of some buildings. It obscures the arcade but it provides a cooler atmosphere for shoppers.

Soon you will arrive at a beautiful promenade by the lake.

strange clouds over the promenade

You will pass, the once luxurious 19th century Hotel Grand Bretagne, which now lies in ruins.

view from the lake

Villa Melzi
Close to the end of the promenade is Villa Melzi.

view from the lake

It was the summer residence of Francesco Melzi d’Eril, who was vice president of the Italian Republic and close friend and ally of Napoleon Bonaparte. It was built between 1808-1815. Visiting this villa might not be for everyone as the building does not appear as impressive as some of the other villas on the lake. Also, it is not possible to enter the building; it is still privately owned.

Villa Melzi - view from behind on an overcast day

However, with its immaculately kept English-styled garden you might find yourself visiting time and time again - like I did. It has elegant Roman styled

and Egyptian sculptures.

There is also a Moorish pavilion - which is a summer or tea house.

view of the Moorish pavilion - from the terraced garden

There are many exotic trees,

beautiful grounds

and amazing views.

avenue of plane trees by the lakeside

The terrace landscape leads to the entrance of a Japanese styled garden.

This is my favorite area as it seems magical here. It is so enchanting - it almost seems unreal.

colourful maples and cedar tree

Isn’t it simply awesome? Flowers are not needed to make this garden beautiful and that is its secret. It is just breathtaking from every angle.

I paused here for a while to enjoy its beauty before many tourists arrived. Thereafter, I visited this small hidden man-made cave across from the japanese garden, before departing.

There is a lot more to discover in Bellagio but I hope you enjoyed this visit with me.

All photos are my own -made with my iPhone SE2020. Please do not use photos without my permission.

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24 comments

@hotspotitaly70

last year

From exploring Bellagio's quaint shops and cafes to strolling its waterfront promenade and taking a boat out onto the lake, there are so many ways to enjoy its appealing ambiance. Bellagio is indeed bella in every way!

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