We went to Lake Como in March, and even though the weather was pretty gloomy and the gardens weren’t fully green yet, the atmosphere was really special. There was a quiet, almost magical feel to the towns, and even the misty mornings added to the charm. Here’s how our trip went.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Como
We arrived in Milan and took the train straight to Como. The ride itself was beautiful, with glimpses of rolling hills in the distance. Once in Como, we headed to Hotel Barchetta to drop off our bags. It was small but cozy, the perfect home base for a short trip. After settling in, we went for a walk in Como’s old town. The pedestrian streets along the lake were quiet, and the cool air made the walk feel fresh and energizing.
We visited Tempio Voltiano, a neat little museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, and then Villa Olmo, with its grand architecture and lake views. There was another villa nearby that we wandered past, I wish I could remember its name! Even though it was still early spring, the promenade had little bursts of flowers here and there, giving it life and color. 
For dinner, we went to Passion Como, which quickly became our favorite spot. You can build your own Italian sandwich for just 5 euros, super affordable and delicious. After eating, we wandered around town a bit more. Then we headed back to the hotel to rest for the next day’s adventure.
Day 2: Lenno, Villa del Balbianello, and Bellagio
We woke up early to catch the ferry to Lenno, excited for the day ahead. From there, we walked to Villa del Balbianello. We had booked tickets in advance on the official website, which was definitely worth it. The villa itself is breathtaking, with terraces overlooking the lake, winding paths, and a mix of manicured gardens and natural greenery. The light rain added a cozy vibe, with mist curling over the water and leaves glistening from the drizzle. It almost felt like stepping into a movie scene.
After exploring the villa inside and out, we spent some time wandering through Lenno. The town was peaceful, and it felt like a place you could easily imagine living in for a quiet getaway. We had lunch there, then took the ferry to Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of Lake Como.” The town is stunning, with narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, boutique shops, and cafes overlooking the lake. Every corner felt like a postcard, and even in the drizzle, it had a romantic and charming feel.
By evening, we returned to Como by bus. After eating, we walked to the Duomo Cathedral. There was a mass happening, and we stayed to watch it. It was peaceful and moving, and that’s also when my boyfriend proposed, one of the most unforgettable moments.
Day 3: Rainy Morning and Departure
The next morning was rainy, so we stayed close to town. We visited a few nearby churches, taking our time to enjoy the quiet moments before heading home. After a cozy lunch, we made our way back, already thinking about when we could return to this magical part of Italy. Even with the rain and early spring chill, the trip felt special, and full of little discoveries.
Tips for Visiting Como in Early Spring
- Even though Como itself is a beautiful town, I’d suggest staying closer to the famous villas if your main goal is to visit them all. We only managed Villa del Balbianello, and there’s so much more to explore around the lake.
- The area is quite mountainous, so dress warmly, even in late spring, it can get chilly.
- Expect some rain, especially in the spring months, so bring a jacket or umbrella.
- Book tickets for villas and attractions in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Most importantly… just enjoy! Take your time wandering the towns, soaking in the views, and enjoying the lake’s charm.
