A Week on Lake Como

Fly from London to Milan and transfer to 4-star Hotel NH Lecco Pontevecchio for seven nights. 

Embark on a half-day walking tour of Lecco this morning. Glimpse one of the tallest bell towers in Italy, set atop the Basilica of San Niccolò, and visit the medieval Viscontea Tower, the only remaining remnant of the historic Lecco Castle. Stroll along the Adda river, passing the Azzone Visconte bridge and Viscontea Island, and visit the scenic fishing village of Pescarenico. Featured in Alessandro Manzoni’s novel, The Betrothed, this historic hamlet is lined with quaint narrow streets and surrounded by idyllic mountain scenery. End the tour with an aperitif, before enjoying an afternoon free to explore Lecco at leisure.
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Enjoy a full-day excursion to Bellagio today, known as the ‘Pearl of Lake Como’. Reached by boat from Lecco, this elegant village sits on a promontory above the lake and is filled with cobbled streets and elaborate architecture. Enjoy a guided tour of the village, including the Roman-era Basilica of San Giocomo, then visit Villa Melzi. This neoclassical feat was built as the summer residence of Francesco Melzi d’Eril, former vice president of the Italian Republic. Today it houses a museum as well as a chapel, orangery and impressive botanical garden, which you’ll tour with insider insight from your guide.
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Today is free to enjoy at leisure. Spend some time exploring the colourful architecture of Lecco, venture into the mountains on a hike or head out onto the lake; kayaking, windsurfing, water-skiing and stand-up paddleboarding are all available on the water. Alternatively, hop on a boat to explore one of the many picturesque villages that line the shores.
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Venture to Como by coach today on a full-day tour of this charming city, set on the southern shore of the lake. Highlights include the elaborate Como Cathedral and the Broletto, a medieval town hall built in the 13th century. Wander around Piazza San Fedele, the city’s atmospheric market square, and take in the Casa del Fascio. This modernist feat, designed in 1932, is considered one of Italy’s Rationalist masterpieces. Afterwards, sit back with an aperitif in the main square, set right in front of the lake. Enjoy some free time in the city.
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Enjoy another free day today. Relax at one of Lecco’s many lakefront cafes, or travel to one of the surrounding towns and villages. Postcard-pretty Varenna is a short train ride away with its colourful houses, cobblestone streets and historic Castello. If you’re looking to go further afield, Milan can be reached by train in an hour.
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Embark on a full-day excursion by coach today. Your first stop is Piona Abbey – an active monastery built in the 12th century on the lake’s northeastern shore. Set on the Olgiasca Peninsula, this tranquil spot offers breath-taking views over the lake and mountains. From there, you’ll venture to a wine cellar in the scenic Valtellina valley. Enjoy a tasting of three of the region’s unique mountain wines, paired with local cured meats and cheeses. On the way back, stop at the Orrido di Bellano – a majestic waterfall that cascades down a dramatic gorge. Explore its towering rock formations on foot via a scenic walkway.
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Transfer to Milan for your flight home.
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