Included: 5-day Lake Como self-guided tour Accommodation: 4 nights based on double occupancy with private facilities, either in a comfy B&B or in a 4-star hotel with a view of Lake Como Meals as indicated in the itinerary (All breakfasts) Boat tickets on Como Lake as indicated in the itinerary Road Book with detailed walking itineraries, including highlighted maps 24/7 phone assistance Standard version of the trip only : Day 1 transfer from Lenno boat pier to the B&B Add-ons: A road map of the region Single supplement Not included: Flights to and from Italy Return boat Como/Lenno Meals not indicated in the itinerary Entrance fees to museums, gardens, and villas Travel and medical insurance — optional

How fit do I need to be?

This Lake Como self-guided hiking tour is rated easy , and it’s beginner-friendly , meaning that everyone is welcome. You don’t need a specific level of fitness to go on this tour, although some trails can be rocky , so be prepared with good, ankle-supported hiking boots. Hiking poles are also highly recommended for this trip. Expect to walk from 10-12 km / 6-7.5 mi on hiking days. For more hiking adventures in Italy, click here !

What are the trails like?

We recommend walking poles. The itineraries are more often than not waymarked and on well- defined paths, tracks, and sometimes back country roads. The trails can be rocky, so good boots with ankle support and walking poles are highly recommended. You will be in a zone where water is scarce, so you will have to bring enough water with you each day as there are few options to fill up during the walk. Occasionally in the late spring or early summer, you may encounter some snow, depending on the region you are hiking in.

Which itinerary is the right one for me?

If you choose the standard version of the trip, you’ll be staying at a comfy B&B in Lenno. If you choose any of the other two versions of the trip (Low Season or High Season) , you’ll be staying at an amazing 4-star hotel in Lenno. Prices vary depending on the date of the trip.

How do boat tickets work?

The boat tickets on the lake are booked for a specific date that can not be changed. If you want to change the boat ticket date, you will have to buy a new ticket (around 4 to 7 EUR / USD per person).

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Day pack large enough to carry everything you might need throughout the day (around a 25-40L bag) Hiking poles — optional, but highly recommended Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Comfortable hiking clothes Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

What is a self-guided tour?

A self-guided tour is an independent exploration without a formal guide leading the way. Instead of being part of a group with a tour leader, you will navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the operator, such as maps, guidebooks, or digital apps. Your guide will also take care of other parts of the tour, such as 24/7 support and accommodation.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this Lake Como self-guided tour, it takes a minimum of 1 person for the tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 6 participants. The cost per person decreases as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to hike with friends and family! Hiking in Italy can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your Lake Como self-guided tour is Lenno. To get there, most people fly into Milano Malpensa Airport (MXP) . From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Lenno.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

LENNO | ITALY

Self-Guided Hiking Tour of Lake Como in Italy

5.00 ()

Fountain in front of a villa in Lake Como

From $690 ()

Duration

5 days

Season

March through November

Self-guided adventure

Accommodation, breakfasts, boat ticket, detailed road book, and support arranged

Book a call

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Accommodation and food
Reviews
Things to know

Think Lake Como is all luxury yachts and celeb hideaways? Well, yes—but it’s also your ticket to an unforgettable hiking holiday. Wander the same shores that inspired composers, writers, and a certain secret agent, and step into a world where reality feels like a movie set. There was a time for shooting Star Wars and James Bond, but now it’s your turn to shine! From the azalea-draped Riviera to Bellagio’s enchanting streets and the Roman paths above Varenna, every day is a love letter to Italy’s most glamorous lake. Best of all, you call the shots: explore ancient castles, wander botanical gardens and luxurious villas, or simply sip an espresso while soaking in the views. Bellissimo, no?

Adventure highlights

Picturesque trails

Every hike offers stunning backdrops, from glittering waters to azalea-covered hills
Bond-worthy villas

Visit Lenno’s Villa Balbianello, a movie star in its own right, and Bellagio’s lush Villa Melzi gardens
Buongiorno bliss

Each morning begins with a hearty breakfast to energize your hikes

Download itineraries

Available itineraries

Self-Guided Hiking Tour of Lake Como in Italy: Standard Edition

Discover the beauty of Lake Como on a self-guided 5-day hiking adventure. This unforgettable journey includes carefully planned routes, fresh daily breakfasts, and stays in charming accommodations that highlight the region’s elegance and character. With 24/7 support and seamless boat transfers, you can explore at your own pace—whether wandering through the glamorous gardens of Villa Carlotta, hiking Roman-era paths above Varenna, or uncovering the hidden corners of Bellagio. From beautiful trails to serene boat rides, this trip is the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration in one of Italy’s most iconic (and glamorous!) destinations.

Regardless of the trip version you choose, the itinerary remains the same. Choose this version if you prefer staying at a comfy B&B in Lenno!

You travel on your own to Lenno. For the standard version of the trip, there’s a transfer from Lenno boat pier to your B&B in Lenno (as the B&B is located 15 walking minutes from the boat pier). Upon arrival, have a stroll through the peaceful village of Lenno. In summer, you can enjoy the small pebble beach by the lake and jump in for a swim.

If you arrive in the morning, we recommend starting your walking holiday in Italy with a visit to the gardens of the Villa Balbianello (not included), an elegant and romantic XVIII-century residence and one of the settings chosen for the Star Wars and 007 Casino Royale movies.

Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
From Lenno, your walk will take you through the hills of the Azalea Riviera providing stunning panoramas of the lake and surrounding mountains. Along the way, you can witness the fantastic contrasts between olive groves and immaculate gardens of the glamourous villas, along with medieval villages and stunning Renaissance churches.

You can visit the famous Villa Carlotta (not included), famous for its beautiful terraced garden with Italian lemon and carved boxwood, and a rich interior decorated with neoclassical works. Later on, there’s a boat transfer back to Lenno.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3 hours
Elevation: + 200m / +656 ft, -200m / -656 ft
Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
There’s a boat transfer that goes back and forth from Lenno to Bellagio arranged for you. The composer Gabriel Fauré called Bellagio “the pearl of Lario” and “one of the most beautiful sites of the Earth and the most voluptuous of Italy”. You’ll reach the picturesque village of Pescallo and cross the park of Villa Giolia before climbing to Perlo. Afterwards, it’s back to Bellagio by the beautiful gardens of Villa Melzi (not included), both rented by Stendhal.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 12 km / 7.5 mi, 4 hours
Elevation: +250 m / +820 ft, -250 m / -820 ft
Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
On Day 4, there’s a boat transfer to Bellano, on the eastern shore of the lake. Today is all about hiking above the lake, all the way to Varenna, a splendid colored village. The “sentiero del viandante” was traced by the Roman legionaries who reached the great passes of the Alps. It’s a gentle climb past the “Orrido di Bellano” (visit is possible), and natural gorges formed in antiquity. The path then offers panoramic views, passing through the village of Gittana and the Vézio castle.

You’ll end the walk in the village of Varenna, known for its colorful hillside houses. In Varenna, visit the Villa Monastero gardens (not included). The villa is surrounded by a botanical garden home to rhododendrons, glycines, magnolias, and citrus fruit trees. Garden enthusiasts can also visit the Villa Cipressi, dating back to the Renaissance era. Later on, there’s a boat ride back to Lenno.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3.5 hours
Elevation: +250 m / +820 ft, -250 m / -820 ft
Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
If you did not have a chance to visit the gardens of Villa Balbianello on Day 1, you have a chance to visit it today! The trip ends after breakfast. You can take the boat to Como, and then the train to Milan.

Meals: Breakfast

Self-Guided Hiking Tour of Lake Como in Italy: Premium Edition (Low Season)

Regardless of the trip version you choose, the itinerary remains the same. Choose this version if you prefer staying at a 4-star hotel with a view of Lake Como and you’re visiting during low season (March through beginning of April & October)!

You travel on your own to Lenno. For the standard version of the trip, there’s a transfer from Lenno boat pier to your B&B in Lenno (as the B&B is located 15 walking minutes from the boat pier). Upon arrival, have a stroll through the peaceful village of Lenno. In summer, you can enjoy the small pebble beach by the lake and jump in for a swim.

If you arrive in the morning, we recommend starting your walking holiday in Italy with a visit to the gardens of the Villa Balbianello (not included), an elegant and romantic XVIII-century residence and one of the settings chosen for the Star Wars and 007 Casino Royale movies.

Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
From Lenno, your walk will take you through the hills of the Azalea Riviera providing stunning panoramas of the lake and surrounding mountains. Along the way, you can witness the fantastic contrasts between olive groves and immaculate gardens of the glamourous villas, along with medieval villages and stunning Renaissance churches.

You can visit the famous Villa Carlotta (not included), famous for its beautiful terraced garden with Italian lemon and carved boxwood, and a rich interior decorated with neoclassical works. Later on, there’s a boat transfer back to Lenno.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3 hours
Elevation: + 200m / +656 ft, -200m / -656 ft
Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
There’s a boat transfer that goes back and forth from Lenno to Bellagio arranged for you. The composer Gabriel Fauré called Bellagio “the pearl of Lario” and “one of the most beautiful sites of the Earth and the most voluptuous of Italy”. You’ll reach the picturesque village of Pescallo and cross the park of Villa Giolia before climbing to Perlo. Afterwards, it’s back to Bellagio by the beautiful gardens of Villa Melzi (not included), both rented by Stendhal.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 12 km / 7.5 mi, 4 hours
Elevation: +250 m / +820 ft, -250 m / -820 ft
Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
On Day 4, there’s a boat transfer to Bellano, on the eastern shore of the lake. Today is all about hiking above the lake, all the way to Varenna, a splendid colored village. The “sentiero del viandante” was traced by the Roman legionaries who reached the great passes of the Alps. It’s a gentle climb past the “Orrido di Bellano” (visit is possible), and natural gorges formed in antiquity. The path then offers panoramic views, passing through the village of Gittana and the Vézio castle.

You’ll end the walk in the village of Varenna, known for its colorful hillside houses. In Varenna, visit the Villa Monastero gardens (not included). The villa is surrounded by a botanical garden home to rhododendrons, glycines, magnolias, and citrus fruit trees. Garden enthusiasts can also visit the Villa Cipressi, dating back to the Renaissance era. Later on, there’s a boat ride back to Lenno.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3.5 hours
Elevation: +250 m / +820 ft, -250 m / -820 ft
Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
If you did not have a chance to visit the gardens of Villa Balbianello on Day 1, you have a chance to visit it today! The trip ends after breakfast. You can take the boat to Como, and then the train to Milan.

Meals: Breakfast

Self-Guided Hiking Tour of Lake Como in Italy: Premium Edition (High Season)

You travel on your own to Lenno. For the standard version of the trip, there’s a transfer from Lenno boat pier to your B&B in Lenno (as the B&B is located 15 walking minutes from the boat pier). Upon arrival, have a stroll through the peaceful village of Lenno. In summer, you can enjoy the small pebble beach by the lake and jump in for a swim.

If you arrive in the morning, we recommend starting your walking holiday in Italy with a visit to the gardens of the Villa Balbianello (not included), an elegant and romantic XVIII-century residence and one of the settings chosen for the Star Wars and 007 Casino Royale movies.

Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
From Lenno, your walk will take you through the hills of the Azalea Riviera providing stunning panoramas of the lake and surrounding mountains. Along the way, you can witness the fantastic contrasts between olive groves and immaculate gardens of the glamourous villas, along with medieval villages and stunning Renaissance churches.

You can visit the famous Villa Carlotta (not included), famous for its beautiful terraced garden with Italian lemon and carved boxwood, and a rich interior decorated with neoclassical works. Later on, there’s a boat transfer back to Lenno.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3 hours
Elevation: + 200m / +656 ft, -200m / -656 ft
Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
There’s a boat transfer that goes back and forth from Lenno to Bellagio arranged for you. The composer Gabriel Fauré called Bellagio “the pearl of Lario” and “one of the most beautiful sites of the Earth and the most voluptuous of Italy”. You’ll reach the picturesque village of Pescallo and cross the park of Villa Giolia before climbing to Perlo. Afterwards, it’s back to Bellagio by the beautiful gardens of Villa Melzi (not included), both rented by Stendhal.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 12 km / 7.5 mi, 4 hours
Elevation: +250 m / +820 ft, -250 m / -820 ft
Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
On Day 4, there’s a boat transfer to Bellano, on the eastern shore of the lake. Today is all about hiking above the lake, all the way to Varenna, a splendid colored village. The “sentiero del viandante” was traced by the Roman legionaries who reached the great passes of the Alps. It’s a gentle climb past the “Orrido di Bellano” (visit is possible), and natural gorges formed in antiquity. The path then offers panoramic views, passing through the village of Gittana and the Vézio castle.

You’ll end the walk in the village of Varenna, known for its colorful hillside houses. In Varenna, visit the Villa Monastero gardens (not included). The villa is surrounded by a botanical garden home to rhododendrons, glycines, magnolias, and citrus fruit trees. Garden enthusiasts can also visit the Villa Cipressi, dating back to the Renaissance era. Later on, there’s a boat ride back to Lenno.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km / 6 mi, 3.5 hours
Elevation: +250 m / +820 ft, -250 m / -820 ft
Accommodation: B&B or a 4-star hotel in Lenno
If you did not have a chance to visit the gardens of Villa Balbianello on Day 1, you have a chance to visit it today! The trip ends after breakfast. You can take the boat to Como, and then the train to Milan.

Meals: Breakfast

Self-Guided Hiking Tour of Lake Como in Italy

Adventure Brochure

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If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guide

5.00

Walk inn

Walk Inn have been organizing cycling and hiking tours for over 15 years now. All their tours were created by their expert team of local guides that have been on site, drew the itineraries, and walked the paths that you will be walking on.

Accommodation and food

Il Grifo (Standard edition)

Located 150 m / 492 ft from Lake Como, Il Grifo has a restaurant serving typical regional cuisine. The property has a garden and features free Wi-Fi in public areas. The rooms feature parquet floors, a flat-screen TV and private bathroom with shower and free toiletries. Some also have a mountain-view balcony.

Albergo Lenno Hotel (Premium edition)

Hotel Lenno is set in an elegant building just off the main road, and right on the shore of Lake Como in the fantastic Gulf of Venus. There is free Wi-Fi. At the Lenno, you can spend relaxing moments on the lake-view terrace or by the swimming pool. There is also a sauna. Some rooms offer a lake view, while other rooms are spacious and comfy attics.

Food

All breakfasts are included in the price of this Lake Como self-guided hiking tour. Locals in the Lake Como area often start their day with a cappuccino or espresso paired with a croissant, known as a cornetto, which might be filled with jam, custard, or chocolate. Freshly baked bread accompanies butter and local honey, while seasonal fruit adds a burst of natural sweetness. For a heartier option, some enjoy slices of cheese and cured meats, showcasing the region’s artisanal traditions.

5.00 (2 reviews)

Martha Schrader (source: Google Reviews)

One of our most memorable trips with our kids.

Bastien Serafin (source: Google Reviews)

Very professional service coupled with great customer care.

Things to know

Included:
- - 5-day Lake Como self-guided tour
  - Accommodation: 4 nights based on double occupancy with private facilities, either in a comfy
  - B&B or in a 4-star hotel with a view of Lake Como
  - Meals as indicated in the itinerary (All breakfasts)
  - Boat tickets on Como Lake as indicated in the itinerary
  - Road Book with detailed walking itineraries, including highlighted maps
    24/7 phone assistance
  - Standard version of the trip only: Day 1 transfer from Lenno boat pier to the B&B
Add-ons:
- - A road map of the region
  - Single supplement
Not included:
- - Flights to and from Italy
  - Return boat Como/Lenno
  - Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  - Entrance fees to museums, gardens, and villas
  - Travel and medical insurance — optional
This Lake Como self-guided hiking tour is rated easy, and it’s beginner-friendly, meaning that everyone is welcome. You don’t need a specific level of fitness to go on this tour, although some trails can be rocky, so be prepared with good, ankle-supported hiking boots. Hiking poles are also highly recommended for this trip. Expect to walk from 10-12 km / 6-7.5 mi on hiking days.

For more hiking adventures in Italy, click here!
We recommend walking poles. The itineraries are more often than not waymarked and on well-
defined paths, tracks, and sometimes back country roads. The trails can be rocky, so good boots with ankle support and walking poles are highly recommended. You will be in a zone where water is scarce, so you will have to bring enough water with you each day as there are few options to fill up during the walk. Occasionally in the late spring or early summer, you may encounter some snow, depending on the region you are hiking in.
If you choose the standard version of the trip, you’ll be staying at a comfy B&B in Lenno.

If you choose any of the other two versions of the trip (Low Season or High Season), you’ll be staying at an amazing 4-star hotel in Lenno.

Prices vary depending on the date of the trip.
The boat tickets on the lake are booked for a specific date that can not be changed. If you want to change the boat ticket date, you will have to buy a new ticket (around 4 to 7 EUR / USD per person).
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Day pack large enough to carry everything you might need throughout the day (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Hiking poles — optional, but highly recommended
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Comfortable hiking clothes
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
A self-guided tour is an independent exploration without a formal guide leading the way. Instead of being part of a group with a tour leader, you will navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the operator, such as maps, guidebooks, or digital apps. Your guide will also take care of other parts of the tour, such as 24/7 support and accommodation.
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this Lake Como self-guided tour, it takes a minimum of 1 person for the tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 6 participants.
  - The cost per person decreases as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to hike with friends and family!
Hiking in Italy can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your Lake Como self-guided tour is Lenno. To get there, most people fly into Milano Malpensa Airport (MXP). From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Lenno.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.