Many people’s first entrance to the Como area is by train into Como San Giovanni train station.
This is probably the best time to start looking around Como. Situated a stone’s throw from the Italian-Swiss border.
There’s a lovely relaxed atmosphere up here; I’d recommend sitting for a coffee or lunch with a view.
Your next step is heading back down to Como on the funicular and taking a ferry to Bellagio. There’s a couple of options for boats.
A boat tour such as this two-hour jaunt around the lake will give you a great insight into the highlights of this sumptuous region.
Situated on the shores of the lake, the beautiful garden here is terraced and dotted with fountains and sculptures.
Menaggio itself is a charming little town, surrounded by mountains on the west shores of the lake, and definitely worth a wander.