Common Tourist Mistakes on Lake Como (And How To Avoid Them)

Common Tourist Mistakes on Lake Como (And How To Avoid Them)

A little planning goes a long way on Lake Como. Here are the mistakes first-timers make and the quick fixes that keep your day smooth.

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Common mistakes and quick fixes

1) Only visiting Bellagio

Bellagio is lovely, but crowds build fast. Split your time with Varenna and Menaggio for easier walks, viewpoints, and faster ferry hops.

Fix
Plan a mid-lake triangle: Varenna in the morning, Bellagio for lunch, Menaggio at sunset.

2) Not checking ferry types or timetables

Slow boats, car ferries, and fast services run different routes and frequencies. Lines form at peak times.

Fix
Check schedules and pick the right service for each leg: Navigazione Laghi timetables.

3) Driving into a ZTL and getting a fine

Historic centers have restricted zones with camera enforcement. Many visitors get fined without realizing it.

Fix
If you must drive, learn the rules before entering. Como’s info is here: Comune di Como ZTL.

4) Showing up to Villa del Balbianello without a booking

Capacity is limited and interiors often require advance booking, especially in high season.

Fix
Reserve a time slot and plan access from Lenno by footpath or shuttle boat: Villa del Balbianello (FAI).

5) Rushing Villa Carlotta

Visitors try to blitz through, but the gardens and museum need time to enjoy.

Fix
Give it at least 60–90 minutes and check opening info here: Villa Carlotta.

6) Skipping Varenna’s shoreline and gardens

Many land, take a photo, and leave.

Fix
Walk the Passeggiata degli Innamorati and linger on the waterfront instead of racing to the next ferry.

7) Missing the funicular view because of timing

Queues spike late morning and at sunset. Last runs vary by season.

Fix
Ride earlier in the day or on a weekday. Check hours here: Como-Brunate Funicular.

8) Underestimating distances and hills

Maps look flat. Lanes are stepped and paths can climb.

Fix
Wear comfortable shoes and allow buffer time between ferries and villa entries.

9) Eating at the first place by the pier

Waterside menus can be fine, but you may pay more for less.

Fix
Step a few streets inland to compare menus, or grab a lakeside gelato and save your sit-down meal for a quieter spot.

10) Treating Como only as a transit point

Many rush through the city to catch boats.

Fix
If you have 60–90 minutes, add the Duomo exterior and a short waterfront loop toward the funicular base.

Quick planning checklist

Tickets and timing

• Check ferry times the evening before and again in the morning.

• Reserve Balbianello and Carlotta in busy months.

• Aim to arrive 15–20 minutes early for popular crossings.

Packing and pace

• Comfortable shoes for stone paths and steps.

• Light layers for breeze on deck.

• Travel light if you can. It speeds up every stop.