Best Hidden Gems on Lake Como: 6 Places Most Tourists Miss

Lake Como is famous for Bellagio, Varenna, Como and its elegant lakeside villas. They are beautiful—but during the busiest months, they can also feel crowded and surprisingly hectic.

Fortunately, the lake still has quieter villages, medieval lanes, peaceful viewpoints and unusual places that many visitors never discover.

Some are only a short ferry ride or drive from the main tourist centres. Others require a little more effort. That is precisely why they remain special.

Here are six of the best hidden gems on Lake Como, selected by locals for travellers who want to explore beyond the obvious attractions.

1. Corenno Plinio: a Tiny Medieval Village on the Lake

Corenno Plinio is one of the most atmospheric villages on Lake Como.

Built on a rocky promontory above the water, the village consists of stone houses, steep stairways and narrow medieval passages leading towards the old harbour.

At the top of the village stand the remains of the medieval castle and the Church of San Tommaso di Canterbury. From the small belvedere beside the church, you can enjoy an open view across the lake towards the mountains of the western shore.

Corenno is small: you do not need an entire day to visit it. But that is part of its charm. Come here to walk slowly, take photographs and experience a side of Lake Como that still feels connected to its past.

Best for: medieval atmosphere, photography and quiet lake views
Time needed: around 1–2 hours
Local tip: combine it with Dervio, Piona or a section of the Sentiero del Viandante.

2. Rezzonico: a Castle Overlooking the Lake

On the western shore, between Menaggio and Gravedona, lies the small village of Rezzonico.

The village is dominated by a medieval castle built in a strategic position above the lake. The castle is privately owned and is normally closed to visitors, but its walls and towers create one of the most picturesque views in the northern part of Lake Como.

From the village, a series of narrow lanes and stone passageways leads down towards the small harbour and beach.

Rezzonico does not offer souvenir shops or a long list of attractions. It is a place to visit for its atmosphere, its views and the pleasure of discovering a village that many travellers pass without stopping.

Best for: quiet walks, medieval architecture and photography
Time needed: around 1 hour
Local tip: stop here during an itinerary between Menaggio, Santa Maria Rezzonico and Gravedona.

3. Piona Abbey: Silence and Views over the Northern Lake

Piona Abbey is located on the Olgiasca peninsula, near Colico, in a secluded and peaceful position.

The complex includes a Romanesque church, an elegant cloister and a small garden. A monastic community still lives inside the abbey, helping to preserve its simple and contemplative atmosphere.

From the peninsula, you can enjoy beautiful views over Piona Bay and the mountains of the northern lake. The priory is considered one of the most important examples of Lombard Romanesque architecture on Lake Como.

This is not a destination for travellers looking for shops, nightlife or entertainment. It is, however, one of the best places to slow down and spend an hour away from the busiest tourist areas.

Best for: history, architecture, silence and landscapes
Time needed: 1–2 hours
Local tip: check the opening hours before visiting and respect the peaceful atmosphere of the site.

4. San Giorgio in Mandello: a Small Church above the Lake

Between Abbadia Lariana and Mandello del Lario stands the small Romanesque Church of San Giorgio.

The church is located in a panoramic position along a section of the Sentiero del Viandante. Inside, it preserves an important series of frescoes dedicated to the Last Judgement.

The site is little known among tourists who travel quickly along the road between Lecco and Varenna. However, the combination of architecture, silence and views over the lake makes it one of the most interesting stops on the eastern shore.

The Sentiero del Viandante passes close to the church before continuing towards Mandello, Lierna and Varenna.

Best for: art, history and short panoramic walks
Time needed: around 1 hour
Local tip: check the opening hours in advance, as the interior is not always accessible.

5. Pescarenico: the Fishermen’s Village Described by Manzoni

Pescarenico is located in Lecco, along the River Adda, just before its waters leave the lake.

Today it is part of the city, but it still retains the appearance of a small village, with colourful houses, moored boats and a peaceful waterfront path.

The area is also famous for its connection with The Betrothed. Alessandro Manzoni described it as the village where Friar Cristoforo’s convent was located.

Compared with Bellagio or Varenna, Pescarenico is less dramatic. However, it is authentic, easy to reach and offers a different perspective on the history of the lake.

Best for: walking, literature and photography
Time needed: 1–2 hours
Local tip: visit at sunset and continue your walk along the Adda towards the centre of Lecco.

6. Pescallo: Bellagio’s Quiet Side

Just a few minutes’ walk from the busy centre of Bellagio, Pescallo feels like a completely different place.

This small fishing village overlooks the eastern branch of Lake Como and is built around a peaceful little harbour. Stone houses, narrow lanes and boats moored along the waterfront create a much quieter atmosphere than the crowded streets around Bellagio’s main ferry terminal.

Pescallo is not a destination full of attractions. Its appeal lies in the silence, the lake views and the feeling of discovering a more intimate side of Bellagio.

The village is especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light reflects on the water and most day visitors have not yet arrived—or have already left.

Best for: peaceful walks, photography and a break from the crowds
Time needed: around 30–60 minutes
Local tip: walk to Pescallo from the centre of Bellagio instead of driving. The route is short but includes steps and uneven sect

Discover More Secret Places with Our Map

These are only some of the lesser-known corners of Lake Como.

Want to plan your Lake Como day better, with viewpoints, beaches, restaurants, villages, villas and practical local tips?

👉 Explore the free MySecretView Lake Como Map
https://mysecretview.com/free-map

⭐ Get the Premium Map with more local spots and practical tips
https://mysecretview.com/premium-map