What to do in Lake Como like a local: 10 travel tips

Picturesque villages, sumptuous villas and the rural life that flow around the luxury of certain settings embrace each other in a sinuous and unique natural environment. 

Lake Como boasts that je ne sais quoi that used to attract cultured European travellers in the past. Still, it maintains a discreet and aristocratic reputation.

Although many are familiar with the famous towns of Bellagio, Cernobbio, Lecco, and Tremezzina, numerous secret and secluded areas await discovery. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and can be easily uncovered.

In case you're planning a trip and fancy to experience Lake Como like a local, our article has got you covered! We've gathered ten unique ideas to enhance your visit, including reaching a secret beach where you can soak up the sun or swinging on a special bench in a truly enchanted location.

Mercatini, markets, and fairs: if you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Lake Como like a local, start with the events and meeting places that are most popular among the citizens.

For instance, a market is held every Wednesday in Albate on Via Falciola. From Viale Battisti to Viale Varese, Mercato Mercerie is held on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, while Mercato Coperto in Via Mentana 5 operates every day except Sunday. 

If you're a fan of antiques, you won't want to miss the first Saturday of each month in Piazza San Fedele. That's when the antique market takes place, offering a treasure trove of unique finds. And if you're more interested in handicrafts, be sure to check out the market held on the following weekends in the same square. 

But that's not all - throughout the year, there are a variety of events and fairs to enjoy, including the Easter Fair and the Book Fair.

Moreover, the Fair of Sant'Abbondio, between the end of August and the beginning of September, is a kermis that livens Como streets with the agricultural market and the historic livestock fair. So no matter when you visit, there's always something to see and do in this vibrant city.

The line of houses with their vibrant facades reflecting on the water may initially make you think of Cinque Terre or some other seaside village. But no, we're actually on Lake Como, and Varenna is a must-see destination for anyone exploring the area. 

This charming town has some truly breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunset when the water reflects the colourful buildings in a very romantic way. And speaking of romance, don't miss the Lovers' Promenade - a footbridge leading to the town centre where you'll find cosy cafes steps away from the water. 

Take a moment to indulge in a coffee or aperitivo before joining the crowd of noisy (and stylish) locals and tourists. And be sure to visit Villa Monastero, which boasts a stunning botanical garden, and Vezio Castle - now home to a rescue and training centre for birds of prey.

Embrace the local culture and bask in the beautiful weather by lounging on a cosy deckchair by the lake. With a whopping 170 kilometres of coastline, you'll have access to plenty of equipped lidos and even hidden, isolated beaches. 

In Rezzonico, for example, in addition to wandering around the pleasant centre with its crenellated tower and low porticoed buildings, access a small white pebble beach impeccably framed (and protected) by the town. 

If you visit Tremezzina, then don't miss the green beach at Ossuccio. It's located near the church of Santa Maria Maddalena, the one with the jewel-like bell tower that often appears on search engines when typing 'Lake Como'. This spiaggia is unique because you can lay your towel on a soft lawn shaded by olive trees. Feeling adventurous? Take a motorboat from the nearby jetty to Comacina Island and explore secluded beaches and wild coves. 

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Careno, a tranquil shore located in the municipality of Nesso, on the eastern part of the lake. You can easily get there by boat, or if you're up for a bit of a walk, take a stroll through the charming, ancient streets of the small village. Just be mindful of the steep slopes and steps along the way. It's definitely worth it though, for the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere.

The typical dish of Bellagio is a simple, ancient recipe that has the flavour of Sundays spent together as a family. It's a special polenta-based preparation handed down with love from generation to generation. 

While only a few restaurants serve the authentic Tóc di Bellagio, as it is strongly linked to the domestic sphere, and few keep its secret, it is definitely worth trying. You'll taste a local speciality and experience a small cultural tradition preserved for centuries, too.

Indeed, the uniqueness of this Larian delicacy is not only about the ingredients (maize flour, butter, and low-fat or semi-fat cheese) but also has something to do with how it is eaten. 

The name itself offers a clue: it refers to the gesture of "touching." This dish is meant to be eaten with your hands without any fear of it being greasy, burning, or sticking. 

One of the events locals are most fond of is the Fiera di Sant'Abbondio, a festival held annually in Como that marks the celebrations for the town's patron saint on 31 August. 

Spanning the area between Porta Torre and Torre Gattoni, this festive gathering boasts numerous stalls featuring a market showcasing typical products. A dedicated kitchen area offers the chance to savour traditional dishes daily.

There is also a livestock exhibition that children will enjoy, with horses, alpacas, llamas, donkeys and calves to see up close. They can even enjoy a ride on the back of adorable ponies.

The Palio del Bardello kicks off in the first week of September following the fair. Immerse yourself in days filled with a medieval aura featuring historical re-enactments, themed events, and yesteryear competitions involving Como districts and the other villages dotting the lake area.