3 Days of Luxury & Leisure in Lake Como

Life in Lake Como is leisurely - you've finally arrived in one of the most beautiful places in the world. The name of the game here is to slow down and enjoy everything around you. You probably just arrived at your stunning hotel or villa and are eager to dive into everything the lake has to offer. Just remember, you have time to do it all and time to relax! This itinerary is designed to make sure you get a good mix of lounging, sight-seeing and indulging.

On your first day, you should enjoy all your hotel has to offer! Most hotels have incredible grounds, gardens, iconic floating pools, world-renowned spas and restaurants. After you check-in, head to your hotel's restaurant and bar for an Aperol Spritz and lunch. It's likely mid-day and you'll get to enjoy lunch with a view. After lunch, head to the pool with your favorite book and completely unwind while listening to the humming of boat motors buzzing by. Once you feel Al Dente from spending so much time in the afternoon sun, it's time to get ready for dinner. I suggest packing some of your favorite dresses and outfits. Lake Como is an extremely fashionable location.

For your first night on the lago, head to Ristorante Crotto Dei Platani for truffle pasta, a bold Italian red and panoramic views of the mountains. This restaurant has wonderful tables both inside and outside and is a perfect location to watch the sunset and the lights change. The food is delicious, the staff are attentive and it's one of my favorite restaurants on the lake.

Buon Giorno! Now that you're in vacation mode and enjoyed your first evening in Lake Como, it's time to get out on the water and explore everything the lake has to offer. There are two recommendations I have for enjoying a day on the lake. The first option is to rent your own self-driving boat (you are the captain now!) and pack a lunch and a bottle of rosé and drive around to your heart's desire! The lake is easy to navigate and never too busy. Make sure you drive up close to the iconic waterfall and bridge in Nesso. In the summer months, you'll see people jumping off the bridge and swimming around this picturesque watering hole. Continue north and drive past Villa La Cassinella (you might recognize it from Succession) and Villa Balbianello. These are two of my favorite properties on the lake. Keep going north past Bellagio and take a dip off the boat when you get to the colorful hillside town of Varenna.

Of course, if you feel more comfortable with a boat driver, you can spend the day on a classic wooden boat with a guide. They offer all different lengths of trips and your hotel will be able to help in arranging your boat day. The wooden boats are iconic and timeless, but are typically a little more expensive. Either way, you'll be living out your Italian dream!

After your boat day, head back to the hotel to relax and freshen up for Aperitivo Hour. Cocktails and snacks and golden hour is my favorite time on the lake.

Head to Bellagio for dinner at Ristorante Bilacus and don't forget to stop in for a glass of wine at the famous Aperitivo Et Al. It's one of the most photographed streets in Bellagio and is the perfect way to round out your day.

May I suggest you start your morning at the spa? Lake Como is known for it's upscale spas and it's the perfect way to start your morning. When you're ready, it's time to explore some of the famous villas and gardens. If you only want to go to one villa and do a tour, I absolutely recommend not missing out on Villa Balbianello. The villa was built in the 18th century and is now a historic landmark (plus, it's been featured in movies like James Bond & Star Wars). One of the main draws of Villa Balbianello is its spectacular gardens. The gardens are filled with exotic plants, including camellias, azaleas, and magnolias and offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. You'll need tickets to enter, but it's well worth it. Spend a couple of hours enjoying the gardens, getting your photo op and learning about the history of the villa.

For your last night in Lake Como, it's time to head to an iconic happy hour and dinner combo in the charming town of Cernobbio. George Clooney and Amal have a villa near this town and are known to frequent Harry's Bar for happy hour. This charming little spot is famous for it's bellinis and old-world charm.

After a couple of drinks at Harry's, head up the hill to Il Gato Nero. This is my favorite restaurant on the lake because the pasta is THAT good. You also get an excellent view being so high up.