A weekend by Lake Como is often described as timeless, but when shared as a couple it takes on an even deeper meaning. The lake’s shimmering waters, elegant villas, and cobblestoned streets provide the perfect setting for romance. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary, planning a proposal, or simply looking for a quiet escape together, Como and its surroundings offer everything you need for a memorable getaway.
What makes this destination so enchanting is the balance between luxury and authenticity. You can spend a morning wandering through historic piazzas, share an espresso at a local café, then take a boat to a villa garden where every path seems designed for lovers to stroll hand in hand. Let’s explore how to craft the perfect romantic weekend in Como, combining culture, relaxation, and a touch of adventure.
A gentle arrival: first impressions of Como
Arriving in Como city sets the tone for the weekend. The town is small enough to explore on foot, but large enough to feel vibrant. The piazza in front of the Cathedral is an ideal place to start. The Gothic and Renaissance details of the Duomo reflect centuries of history, and just nearby, charming boutiques and cafés line the streets.
For couples, a leisurely walk along the lakefront promenade is a must. The path runs from Villa Olmo on one side to the modern Life Electric sculpture on the other, offering views across the water and plenty of benches to stop, sit, and take in the moment. The soft light of late afternoon makes the scene particularly romantic.
Hidden corners and quiet moments
Beyond the main squares, Como hides narrow alleys where time seems to slow down. These backstreets are ideal for strolling without a plan. Many lead to small courtyards, artisan shops, or intimate wine bars where you can pause for a glass of local Nebbiolo. It’s these unexpected discoveries that give couples a sense of shared adventure.
One highlight is the funicular to Brunate, a hillside village above Como. In just a few minutes, you leave the busy town behind and find yourself surrounded by quiet, fresh air, and sweeping views. From Brunate, a short walk leads to panoramic points where you can see the lake unfold below. At sunset, this is one of the most unforgettable experiences the city can offer.
The charm of villas and gardens
No romantic weekend on Lake Como would be complete without visiting at least one of its famous villas. These residences, often centuries old, combine architectural elegance with lush gardens that seem made for strolling couples.
Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo is renowned for its terraced gardens, sculptures, and sweeping views of the central lake. In autumn or spring, the gardens are alive with color, while in summer they provide shaded paths and blooming roses.
Villa del Balbianello in Lenno is perhaps the most cinematic. Its perfectly manicured grounds overlook the lake from a peninsula, making it one of the most photographed spots in Italy. Walking here hand in hand, it is easy to feel like you are inside a film — and in fact, the villa has served as a backdrop for movies like James Bond and Star Wars.
A boat ride for two
Perhaps the most romantic activity on Lake Como is exploring it by boat. You can join a scheduled ferry, which is convenient and scenic, or you can rent a private boat for a more intimate experience. Many companies in Como, Bellagio, or Menaggio offer small motorboats that don’t require a license, so you can simply set off together across the calm waters.
Drifting past villages, watching the mountains rise steeply from the shore, and stopping in hidden coves turns the day into your own personal journey. Pack a picnic, a bottle of wine, and enjoy the sense of freedom that only a boat ride can give. At sunset, the reflections on the water add a final touch of magic.
Dining with a view
Food in Como is a pleasure in itself, and sharing a meal is one of the most romantic rituals of any getaway. For couples, lakeside restaurants offer candlelit dinners with views stretching across the water. Traditional dishes include risotto with perch, fresh pasta, and local cheeses, paired with wines from nearby Valtellina.
For a unique experience, try a dinner in a mountain refuge above the lake. Reaching it might involve a short drive or a cable car, but the reward is a cozy atmosphere, wooden interiors, and hearty cuisine served as the sun sets over the peaks. The intimacy of these places, away from the crowds, makes them perfect for special moments.
Wellness and relaxation
Romance is also about slowing down together, and Como offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation. Luxury hotels around the lake feature spas where you can enjoy a couples’ massage, saunas, and pools with panoramic views. In colder months, these warm retreats are especially inviting.
If you prefer something more adventurous, thermal baths in nearby regions such as Valtellina can be reached within a short drive. The combination of warm waters, mountain air, and a serene environment is both rejuvenating and romantic.
Bellagio: the pearl of the lake
No romantic weekend would be complete without visiting Bellagio, often called the “pearl of Lake Como.” This village, situated where the lake divides into two branches, has narrow cobblestoned lanes, colorful houses, and elegant shops. Couples can explore its gardens, such as those of Villa Melzi, or simply sit at a café on the waterfront, watching boats come and go.
Arriving in Bellagio by boat is particularly special: as the village slowly comes into view, framed by mountains and sparkling water, it feels like a scene designed for romance.
Crafting your own love story
What makes Como such a unique destination for couples is that it allows you to create your own rhythm. You can spend hours exploring historic sites, or simply sit quietly by the water. You can indulge in luxury or enjoy simple pleasures like sharing a gelato as you stroll through a village square.
Each experience, whether planned or spontaneous, becomes part of a shared memory. By the time you leave, you will carry with you not just photographs, but the feeling of having lived something timeless together.
A romantic weekend in Como is not about doing everything — it’s about choosing the moments that feel meaningful to you as a couple. And with the lake, the villas, the mountains, and the cuisine, there is no shortage of beauty to shape your story.