Campo, Lenno, Bonzanigo, Tremezzo and Varenna Italy Visit
Discover some of the most beautiful places on Lake Como, Italy, as you explore Campo, Lenno, Bonzanigo, Tremezzo, the stunning Villa del Balbianello, and the charming lakeside village of Varenna.
Lake Como Morning Drive to Lenno & Tremezzo, Italy
Let the main attraction, Varenna for the afternoon, and start with a visit to Lenno and Tremezzo.
Get ready to start the itinerary early in the morning. Therefore, around 8.30 am drive to Lenno. Have breakfast there at Bar Pasticceria Tremezzina.
You can do a quick visit to Campo hamlet. To do so, find the parking lot on the left after Sigma Di Lenno Statale supermarket and let the car there. Across the street there is Bar Pasticceria Tremezzina.
Lake Como Optional Visit – Campo Hamlet, Lenno
Pass by Casa Brenna Tosatto and by the pedestrian bridge over the Perlana stream and then reach the picturesque Historical hamlet of Campo, another hamlet of Tremezzina. The pedestrian path of the Greenway passes through the hamlet of Campo on Via Regina, named Via Andreea on Google maps. So, after Casa Brenna Tosatto, turn left and you will see the arrows indicating the way. At the crossroads turn right and arrive on the lakeshore and reach the promenade called Via Stazione. Then go to the right and find Campo boat stop, very picturesque.
Our Top Recommendation: Baby Carrier
If we had to choose just one recommendation, this would be it. Most of Lake Como’s villages has stairways and narrow streets can be much easier to navigate with a baby carrier than a stroller.
Continue to the left on the lakeshore, then turn left and then at the crossroads turn right and find Villa Monastero on the left. It is a beautiful wedding venue, but is not open to the public.
Villa del Balbianello
Move the car to the parking lot by the entrance to Villa del Balbianello.
Go right on Via Guido Monzino through the forest and keep going uphill on the path for about 20 minutes, 1 km until you reach Tomba di Guido Monzino and Villa del Balbianello fairy-tale villa where James Bond Casino Royale and Star Wars films were filmed. Price: garden – 13 euros, villa and garden – 24 euros – 45 minutes guided tours. Opening times: Monday and Wednesdays closed, rest of the days 10AM–6PM. Booking is mandatory, go to their website.
The villa itself is buried on the side of the hill, so you will need to approach by water transfer or taxi in order to see it. Gardens are well kept but are quite steep. You can take photos but without flash. Also, there is a shuttle boat from the parking lot to the villa every 15 min, around 7 euros. Or you can walk a hilltop route which will take 30 min, 1.2 km.
What to Pack for Your Trip: Foldable Day Backpack
Packing the right travel essentials can make your trip much more comfortable. Useful for carrying snacks, water, and baby essentials during a full day out.
Lake Como Walk & Lunch in Lenno
Go back on the path, reach the parking lot and then turn right and continue forward . You will eventally reach Lido di Lenno. Their prices are: antipasto 16 – 20 euros, first course 18 euros, dessert 10 euros, ice cream 16 euros; Lido entrance is 10 euros, sunbed 10 euros, parasol 6 euros. Check their website for updates..
Afterwards turn back and go right on Lungolago Guido Delmati and pass by the Tower of Villa and the historical hamlet of Villa. Then continue forward on the lakeshore and arrive at Parrocchie Lenno e Ossuccio – Church of Santo Stefano and Baptistery of San Giovanni Battista. Turn right and you will find Trattoria Santo Stefano Lenno, a nice trattoria in the square with nice lake views. Further right, on the lakeshore there you can also find Ristorante Lago. You should have lunch in one of these places.
Bonzanigo & Azzano, Tremezzo Italy
After lunch take the car and visit Bonzanigo and Azzano.
From the piazza continue north on Via Regina, see a supermarket on the left and then Caffe Milani on the right, followed by a wide parking lot and a big intersection. Turn right on Via XXIV Maggio and there you will find Antica Trattoria del Risorgimento on the right at the first intersection. The restaurant has reasonable prices and unique dishes. Continue up on Via XXIV Maggio.
At the first intersection turn right, then left and again right. Park by the Church of Saint Abundius from where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the promontory of Bellagio. There is also a playground. Then walk to the right and reach La casa dei presepi museum, hosting a crib exhibition open all year. The museum is located in an old barn. Continue ahead and reach Palazzo Brentano, which dates back to the 17th century and was built by the rich local Brentano family. Then continue on the left street, Via Fratelli Brentano. Cross the antique urban center of Bonzanigo, pass through a tunnel and then reach Palazzo Rosati. Finally return to the parking lot by the church.
What to Pack for Your Trip: Foldable Sun Hat
A practical accessory for sunny walks along the lakeside.Packing the right travel essentials can make your trip much more comfortable.
Scenic Italy Drive Through Tremezzo & Cadenabbia & Return to Menaggio
Afterwards go back on Strada Statale 340 and you will reach Tremezzo. You can stop by Villa Sola Cabiati, there is a parking lot just before the villa. Then you will see the Church of San Lorenzo on the left and Parco Civico Teresio Olivelli on the right. There is a parking lot just before the entrance to the park. You can rest for a while on a bench in the park.
Drive forward and pass Hotel Ristorante La Darsena on the right. See Tremezzo promenade with all its glamorous hotels and restaurants, among which 5-star Grand Hotel Tremezzo Italy stands out. There is a parking lot just before the hotel. Park there and stop for an ice cream; Gelateria Tremezzo could be an option.
Next you will notice the beautiful Villa Carlotta on the left. There are parking spots available after the villa.
Then, as you get to Cadenabbia you will see another series of hotels and restaurants along Lungolago di Cadenabbia promenade. The Greenway Lake Como ends in Griante with the Chiesa Anglicana dell’Ascensione, followed by other hotels and restaurants.
As you enter Menaggio you will keep forward on Via IV Novembre, notice Grand Hotel Menaggio on the right and then at the first intersection go left on Via L. Cadorna, and in front of Pizzeria Lugano go left and finally arrive at the accommodation.
Lake Como Ferry from to Varenna, Italy
In the afternoon take the ferry to Varenna, 4.6 euros per person, a one way ticket. Get off at Varenna ferry terminal.
Just opposite the station you will notice Hotel Olivedo. It is an elegant small hotel in Art Nouveau style, charming and romantic. Head South along the lakeshore on Via Imbarcadero, you will find a playground on the right and a drinking water fountain on the left.
Varenna Accommodation
If you’re planning to spend a few days exploring Lake Como, Varenna is one of the most picturesque places to stay, with easy ferry connections and stunning lake views.
Lake Como Afternoon Walk in Varenna, Italy
Walk along the lakeshore on arched walkway called The Lovers’ Promenade or Passeggiata degli innamorati which offers plenty of photo opportunities of the Lake Como and surroundings.
Arrive at Porto Riva Grande with its Molo Riva Grande. Near Passerella ice cream shop you can see the stairs that lead up to the central square of Varenna. There are pillows on the stairs and you can enjoy some ice cream sitting there and have a beautiful view of the lake. Keep forward, along the lakeshore on Riva dei Marmisti. There will be another stairway to the left, Contrada Soscesa.
Explore Lake Como by Boat
One of the best ways to admire Lake Como is from the water, whether you choose a scenic cruise or a private boat tour.
Book a Boat TourHistoric Alleys & Lake Como Promenade in Varenna, Italy
Continue forward along the lakeshore on Riva Garibaldi; on the left there is another narrow alley – the most famous one – called Contrada dei Sarti. There you can come across Pelletteria Denti, a typical leather shop selling leather wallets, belts and purses are all made in Italy. And next to it it’s Bar Il Molo – where you should stop for a drink or snack, enjoying the beautiful lakeshore view. Their chairs are very nice. Prices: pizza around 10 euros, pasta 10 – 12 euros, 4.5 euros dessert, 2 euros refreshments, 4 euros a beer.
What to Pack for Your Trip: Comfortable Walking Shoes
Packing the right travel essentials can make your trip much more comfortable. Varenna’s steep cobbled streets make comfortable footwear essential.
Afterwards cntinue ahead on the lakeshore on Riva Garibaldi and get to Piazza al Prato. Walk ahead on Contrada del Prestino and pass by Hotel du lac. Keep forward on Contrada del Molo di Sotto and get to the Spiaggia – beach pavilion.
Our Top Recommendation: Smartphone Tripod
Perfect for taking family photos along one of Lake Como’s most scenic promenades.
Piazza San Giorgio & Historic Center, Varenna, Italy
Reach Piazza San Giorgio, the town center of Varenna, through the narrow Contrada della fontana. There is St. George’s Church. Be careful when walking: there are cobblestones, and some alleys are also quite steep and slippery. Across the square there is Hotel Royal Victoria, with its 2 restaurants: Royal Gourmet and Victoria Grill. The hotel is beautiful and has a nice beach view. Royal Gourmet it’s an expensive restaurant; while The “Victoria Grill” is the informal alternative to the Gourmet restaurant. The hotel also has a nice bar – Bar Giardino.
Villa Cipressi Botanical Garden & Villa Monastero, Varenna, Italy
Continue South East on Via 4 Novembre and arrive at Hotel Villa Cipressi. Visit the superb botanical garden laid out over several floors, offering a fascinating panorama of the lake. Typical of this garden are the many and centuries-old cypresses, from which the Villa originates its name. It is open everyday between 9 am and 7 pm, and a ticket costs 10 euros. Check their website for updates.
A little farther ahead is the entrance to Villa Monastero, also on the right side. It is a waterfront villa featuring terraced gardens with statuary & a mansion with opulent 1800s decor.
Lake Como Villas Tours
Love historic villas and botanical gardens? Guided tours can help you discover some of Lake Como’s most beautiful estates.
Finally get back to Piazza St. George, see St. George’s Church dating back to the 13th century. Get back the same way to the ferry stop. On the way back, stop to eat at Bar Il Molo.
Evening Back in Menaggio
Walk back to Varenna ferry terminal. Spend some time on the playground before boarding the ferry and cross Lake Como from Varenna back to Menaggio.
From Menaggio ferry terminal, head to the accommodation and you can stop at Pizzeria Lugano to order some pizza to takeaway if still hungry.
Read On
Be sure to explore Destination Italy: Lake Como and Lugano by Car + Baby on Board – Day 4, for the next chapter of the Italian journey — from hidden corners to breathtaking views, there’s so much more to discover. You can find all our posts about Lake Como on this page. For more inspiration and practical travel tips, don’t miss our maps and travel guides, and visit our Italy Travel Hub and Italy Bucket List — your go-to resources for exploring Italy in depth. Are you looking to expand your itinerary? Don’t miss our posts on Venice!
Where to Stay, Eat and Explore in Lake Como
Lake Como is a wonderful destination for a road trip from Milan Malpensa, especially when travelling with a baby. From the charming streets of Como and Cernobbio to the lakeside scenery of Menaggio, Argegno, and other beautiful villages, here are our favorite recommendations.
Find the Best Hotels in Lake Como
Lake Como offers beautiful lakeside views, charming villages, and easy access to some of northern Italy’s most scenic destinations. Compare hotels and find the perfect family-friendly stay in Como, Menaggio, Cernobbio, Argegno, or other picturesque towns around the lake.
Explore Lake Como by Car
Discover Lake Como at your own pace with a private full-day driving tour. Visit some of the lake’s most picturesque towns and sights, including Cernobbio, Villa del Balbianello, and Villa Carlotta, while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of private transportation.
Discover Lake Como by Boat
Experience Lake Como from the water and enjoy a completely different perspective of its villages and mountains. Choose from scenic ferry rides, shared cruises, private boat tours, sunset experiences, and guided excursions to some of the lake’s most beautiful destinations.
Lake Como Road Trip Travel Essentials
These are some of our favorite travel essentials for a road trip from Milan Malpensa to Lake Como, especially when travelling with a baby. From keeping your luggage organized to making stops easier, these practical products can make your Italian adventure more comfortable.
Digital Luggage Scale
A digital luggage scale is a handy travel essential for checking your suitcase weight before heading home. It is especially useful after shopping in Italy and helps you avoid unexpected excess baggage fees at the airport.
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are perfect for keeping clothes, baby outfits, and travel essentials organized during a road trip. They make it easier to find what you need without unpacking your entire suitcase at every stop.
Portable Stroller Organizer
A stroller organizer keeps baby essentials such as bottles, wipes, snacks, and small toys within easy reach while exploring Lake Como. It is especially handy when stopping in villages, cafés, and scenic spots along the way.
Portable Baby Changing Mat
A portable baby changing mat is a practical essential when travelling by car with a baby. Keep it handy for quick changes during scenic stops, shopping breaks, or whenever you need a clean and comfortable place for your little one.
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More Budget Travel Finds
Looking for affordable travel accessories? Discover our favorite luggage organizers, travel gadgets, waterproof bags, packing cubes, phone holders, and other useful items that make every trip easier without stretching your budget.
Planning Your Lake Como Adventure?
Discover our detailed travel guides, day-by-day itineraries, driving advice, scenic stops, hidden villages, family-friendly recommendations, and budget travel ideas to help you plan an unforgettable trip around Lake Como.
Best Restaurants in Lake Como
Discover our favorite restaurants around Lake Como, from authentic Italian trattorias and family-friendly cafés to charming lakeside restaurants. Enjoy fresh pasta, local specialties, pizza, and beautiful views after a day of driving and exploring.
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Table of contents
- Campo, Lenno, Bonzanigo, Tremezzo and Varenna Italy Visit
- Lake Como Morning Drive to Lenno & Tremezzo, Italy
- Lake Como Optional Visit – Campo Hamlet, Lenno
- Villa del Balbianello
- Lake Como Walk & Lunch in Lenno
- Bonzanigo & Azzano , Tremezzo Italy
- Scenic Italy Drive Through Tremezzo & Cadenabbia & Return to Menaggio
- Lake Como Ferry from to Varenna, Italy
- Lake Como Afternoon Walk in Varenna, Italy
- Historic Alleys & Lake Como Promenade in Varenna, Italy
- Piazza San Giorgio & Historic Center, Varenna, Italy
- Villa Cipressi Botanical Garden & Villa Monastero, Varenna, Italy
- Evening Back in Menaggio
- Read On
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