Lake Como with kids

When people think of Lake Como, most imagine romantic couples strolling through the picturesque streets of Bellagio. However, this magical Italian lake is a perfect destination for family vacations with children of all ages. From nature adventures to stunning botanical gardens, from fascinating museums to organized beaches, there’s something for everyone.

Why Lake Como is Perfect for Family Vacations

Lake Como doesn’t just offer breathtaking scenery – it truly understands families. Its unique location, surrounded by the Italian Alps, creates a pleasant climate almost year-round. Small, charming towns offer comfortable walks with strollers, while a well-developed ferry system provides convenient and safe transportation with children.

What’s special about the area is the amazing combination of cultural activities and nature adventures. In the morning, you can visit a historic villa with magnificent gardens, cool off in the hotel pool in the afternoon, and stroll through picturesque streets while tasting authentic Italian gelato in the evening.

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

The best season for families is April through October. Spring and autumn have fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and lower prices. Summer is perfect for water activities, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices. Remember that many attractions and hotels are closed from December to March.

Eastern Shore of Lake Como – Adventures and Nature

Nature Wonders and Most Exciting Adventures for Children

The eastern shore of the lake offers some of the most exciting natural experiences for children. Here you’ll find a perfect combination of adventure, education, and natural beauty.

Orrido di Bellano Canyon

This natural gorge, carved by the river over millions of years, is a fascinating experience for children. You can take a 20-minute walk on suspension bridges and marvel at spectacular waterfalls. Admission costs €7-10 for adults and €3-5 for children, and the walk doesn’t require special fitness. The path is lit and safe, but not wheelchair accessible. Better to visit on weekdays when there are fewer crowds.

Vezio Castle (Castello di Vezio)

This 12th-century castle, located on a hill above Varenna, is a real adventure for children who love stories of knights and ghosts. The walk to the castle is relatively difficult, but children will enjoy the well-maintained gardens and magical dungeons with moving puppet figures. Admission is €7 for adults and €4 for children and seniors.

Resinelli Mines (Parco Minerario Piani Resinelli)

This unique educational experience, designed for children aged 8 and up, takes families on a journey following the old miners. The 1.5-hour underground tour includes helmets and boots, and the temperature is 14°C and humid. The price is €10 for adults, and the site provides helmets and boots. The experience is suitable for families who love adventure and learning.

Mini Golf in Pasturo (Minigolf Antonio III, Pasturo)

This place offers a more relaxed activity for families wanting to unwind. The facility includes 18 holes, a ping pong table, table football, and a small soccer field. The price is €5.50 per person, and there’s also a small bar and barbecue facilities for rent. The location is near the Valsassina bike path and perfect for a relaxing family day.

Lecco Cable Car to Piani d’Erna

This cable car ride offers spectacular panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The ride itself is already an adventure for children, and at the top, you’ll find easy trails and restaurants with stunning views.

Horseback Riding and Agriculture: Great Options for All Ages

The area offers plenty of great opportunities for horseback riding, suitable for children of all ages and experience levels.

Ranch La Quercia in Colico offers horseback riding tours suitable for all ages and experience levels. The staff is friendly and professional, and the tours take you through open fields and paths alongside the lake. Prices vary according to tour length, but it’s perfect even for complete beginners.

If you’re looking for an authentic farm experience, La Fiorida in Mantello is the perfect place for families. The location offers farm tours, spa, pool, and restaurant with homemade food. Children can meet the animals and participate in farm activities. The farm also offers a shop with local products like cheeses, wine, and beer.

For the most authentic Italian countryside experience, Azienda Agricola Bonpra’ in Vendrogno is the place for you. Children can participate in cheese making, see how berries are harvested, and taste homemade delicacies. The atmosphere is family-friendly and warm, and the mountain views are simply breathtaking.

Western Shore of Lake Como – Nature and Activity

Nature Wonders and Adventures on the Western Shore of Lake Como

The western shore of Lake Como offers an exciting combination of underground adventures and challenging treetop activities.

Rescia Caves (Grotte di Rescia)

Rescia Caves offer a short and magical underground adventure for families. The tour lasts about 15-20 minutes and includes stalactites, stalagmites, and a small waterfall. The price is €7 for adults and €3 for children, perfect for young children (3-8) who want to experience something special without getting too tired.

Gravedona Adventure Park (Lake Como Adventure Park, Gravedona)

Gravedona Adventure Park is the perfect place for children who love challenges. The park offers eight different courses for heights ranging from 110cm to 155cm. Each course is unique and creative, with balance obstacles, Tarzan jumps, zip lines, and climbing walls. The English-speaking staff helps with understanding safety mechanisms. The park is located in a real forest, adding to the experience. There’s also a snack and drink bar and restrooms.

Como-Brunate Funicular

The Como-Brunate Funicular is one of the oldest funiculars in the world and offers a five-minute ride to the picturesque town of Brunate. From the town, you can continue to Volta Lighthouse for spectacular views of the entire lake. The ride itself is an adventure for children, and the view from above is simply breathtaking.

Horseback Riding

The western shore offers several excellent stables for families. Ranch Prato Rotondo in Porlezza offers riding lessons and tours, but it’s important to know it’s more suitable for experienced riders. Maneggio del Ceresio in Carlazzo offers a more family-friendly atmosphere with patient and professional instructor Elisa. Il Cavallino in San Fedele is known for its professional staff who can introduce beginners to the world of riding in an interesting and safe way.

Greenway Trail – Family Walking Path

General Information About the Trail

The Greenway trail is a beautiful and accessible 10km family walking route that can be completed in 3.5 hours at a leisurely pace with children. The trail starts in Colonno and ends in Griante, but you can do parts of it. The trail follows the ancient Via Regina, a Roman road that once connected Como with territories beyond the Alps. The trail is well-marked with blue and yellow signs and small ground markers. There are gentle climbs but not too difficult, and the scenery constantly changes – sometimes close to the water and sometimes above it.

Entertainment for Children Along the Trail

The trail offers many stops for families. Gardens and playgrounds are scattered along the way. Ossuccio Municipal Park offers a green lawn for picnics and games. Mayer Park in Tremezzo is a perfect place for a break with magnificent views. Lido di Lenno and Nobiallo offer additional areas for families to relax.

Exploring ancient villages – the trail passes through Sala Comacina, Ossuccio, Lenno, Mezzegra, and Tremezzo. Each village has its own special charm, with small cobblestone streets, pleasant cafes, and gelato shops.

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Additional Attractions Along the Trail

• Villa del Balbianello is a romantic villa on the tip of a small peninsula. The villa was a filming location for Star Wars and James Bond movies, which interests older children. The terraced gardens and lake views are simply stunning. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance online.
• Isola Comacina is the only island in Lake Como and a place with rich military history. The island offers pleasant walking paths and a small beach. You can reach it by boat from Ossuccio or by regular ferry service. Admission is €6 per person.
• Villa Carlotta Gardens are among the most beautiful in the area. The botanical garden spreads across mountain slopes and offers two walking routes – short and long. Spring is the most beautiful time when azaleas and rhododendrons bloom. There’s also a restaurant on-site and picnic tables.

Northern Lake Como – Active Family Activities

Active Activities in Colico

Colico, located at the northern tip of Lake Como, offers an excellent base for active families. Whether you want to explore the area by bike, explore historic fortresses, or go on water adventures, there’s something for everyone in Colico.

Bike Rental and Cycling Routes

There are several bike rental shops in Colico, and one of the best cycling routes in the area is along the Adda River. The path is flat and comfortable, with beautiful views of mountains and lake. It’s very suitable for families.

Historic Fortresses: An Exciting Combination of History and Adventure

Two historic fortresses in Colico offer an exciting combination of history and adventure.

• Forte di Fuentes from the 17th century, located on a high hill, offers stunning views of the area. The place is free for self-guided visits, but the climb might be challenging, so bring water as there are no water sources at the fortress.
• Forte Montecchio Nord from World War I is much better preserved and includes guided tours. The original cannons still work perfectly, and the guides are excellent at explaining history. Tours run on weekends from 10 AM to 5 PM and include English. The price is €8 per person.

Water Sports: Tabo Surf Center

Tabo Surf Center offers water activities for families with children aged 8 and up. The place offers windsurfing lessons, kitesurfing, and kayak rentals. The staff is professional and English-speaking, and the facility includes showers, restrooms, and changing rooms. There are also bikes for rent.

Central Lake Como: Entertainment Around Bellagio

Despite Bellagio being considered the most romantic place on the lake, there are also great activities for families.

Jungle Raider Park in Civenna, about 10 minutes drive from Bellagio, is the best treetop adventure park in the area. The place offers courses for all ages and levels, with professional instructors who speak German, English, and Italian. The park is busier on weekends, so it’s worth booking in advance. Prices vary according to course, and there are summer discounts when buying a second course.

The park is suitable for children from age 3 with baby courses, and older children can try more advanced courses. There’s also archery and additional activities. The park is located in a forest and offers pleasant shade even on hot days.

Special Activities for the Entire Area

Extreme Entertainment

• Canyoning is an exciting experience for children aged 8 and up. This adventure involves descending along mountain streams, with jumps, slides, and climbs, offering an opportunity to explore the natural landscape unforgettably. Professional and safe guides provide all necessary equipment, and you can choose different difficulty levels, including easier options for those who don’t want to jump.
• Boat Rental Without License is a great activity for families, allowing you to explore the lake at your own pace. No license is required to drive small boats, making the experience more accessible for families.
• Nautic Planet in Menaggio and Tremezzina offers high-quality boats and excellent service, with staff explaining in detail how to drive the boat and emphasizing safety rules. The price is about €75 for two hours, including insurance, and the service is very professional.
• Nettuno in Moltrasio is known for its new and well-maintained boats, conveniently located near the train station, making it convenient for families arriving by public transport. Prices are competitive, and service is friendly.
• Marinella in Como city offers convenient location for families staying in the southern part of the lake.

Best Beaches with Services

Northern Shore

Piona Beach (Spiaggia di Piona, Colico) is one of the best family beaches, with grass instead of sand, making it comfortable for small children. There’s parking for €5 which also includes coffee or water at the bar. There’s a lifeguard on weekends, and magnificent views of the lake and mountains.

Domaso Beach (Spiaggia di Domaso) is a quieter beach suitable for families wanting to avoid large crowds.

Eastern Shore

Lierna Beach – Riva Bianca (Spiaggia di Lierna – Riva Bianca) is considered one of the best family beaches on the lake. The rocky beach offers clear water and magnificent views of Bellagio. You can rent sun beds for €7-10 per day, and there are several nice cafes in the area. The water is relatively deep, so watch small children carefully.

Abbadia Lariana Beach (Spiaggia di Abbadia Lariana) is perfect for families with plenty of space on the grass, bar, and restrooms. The water here is shallower and suitable for small children. There are also opportunities for water sports and additional activities.

Onno Beach (Spiaggia di Onno) is a public beach with parking for €1 per hour and €5 for a full day. The beach is rocky, so bring water shoes for children. There are cafes and taverns nearby, but no restrooms or changing rooms.

Western Shore

Lido di Menaggio recently underwent complete renovation and is one of the most beautiful places on the lake. The place includes an infinity pool overlooking the lake, imported white sand, DJ, and an Ibiza-like experience. Prices are €25 for a sun bed per day, and the place offers delicious pizzas and quality bar. Suitable for families wanting a pampering day and not just a regular beach.

Santa Maria Rezzonico Beach (Spiaggia Santa Maria Rezzonico) is a small, hidden beach near the ancient castle. The place is relatively quiet and offers a more authentic experience. Important to bring water shoes as there are sharp glass fragments on the beach.

Central Part

Bellagio Public Beach (Spiaggia Pubblica di Bellagio) isn’t the cleanest, but it’s what’s available in Bellagio. The beach is rocky, and there’s a small bar. You can rent sun beds for €10, and mainly there are stunning views. Bring water shoes and be careful of broken branches scattered on the beach.

Museums for Children

Como City and Southern Area

• Silk Museum (Museo della Seta, Como) offers a fascinating educational experience about the thriving silk industry. The museum includes well-maintained machines, fabric samples, and audio guide. Adult admission is €10, with student discounts. The visit lasts about two hours.
• Alessandro Volta Temple (Tempio Voltiano, Como) is a beautiful science museum dedicated to the inventor of the first battery. The museum is located in a temple-like building by the lake and offers a fascinating exhibition of scientific instruments. Admission is €3, with English-speaking guides available.
• Toy Horse Museum (Museo del Cavallo Giocattolo, Grandate) is a magical place for small children. The museum displays a collection of toy horses from all periods, and there are also creative workshops where children can decorate their own polystyrene horse. Admission is free, and the museum is only open Saturday afternoons. The museum is located near Cernobbio village and perfect for a unique birthday celebration.

Eastern Shore

• Moto Guzzi Museum (Museo della Moto Guzzi, Mandello del Lario) is paradise for motorcycle enthusiasts of all ages. The free museum displays over 150 pieces, including production motorcycles, sport bikes, and prototypes. The museum is located at the original factory site that still operates, and the tour tells the story of the iconic brand and Italy’s development. The museum is open Fridays and Saturdays, and it’s worth booking online in advance.
• Cycling Museum Madonna del Ghisallo (Museo del Ciclismo Madonna del Ghisallo, Magreglio) is dedicated to cycling history in Italy. The place is considered the holy of holies for cyclists, and the museum displays an impressive collection of historic bicycles, trophies, and memorabilia. There’s an excellent shop with quality cycling clothing, and the staff is very professional and helpful.

Central Part

• Cycling Museum Madonna del Ghisallo (Museo del Ciclismo Madonna del Ghisallo, Magreglio) is dedicated to cycling history in Italy. The place is considered sacred for cyclists, and the museum displays an impressive collection of historic bicycles, trophies, and memorabilia. There’s an excellent shop with quality cycling clothing, and the staff is very professional and helpful.

Northern Western Shore

• Larian Boat Museum (Museo della Barca Lariana, Pianello del Lario) showcases the maritime history of the lake. The museum includes an impressive collection of traditional boats, beautiful period photographs, and an hour-long film about lake life. The place is a real hidden treasure, completely self-funded through donations and visits.

Practical Tips for Families

Transportation

Buses – There are regular lines connecting cities around the lake. Tickets are sold at tobacco shops or machines, and it’s important to validate them before boarding.

Boat Service – This is the most beautiful and convenient way to travel on the lake. There are daily tickets allowing unlimited travel, and children usually love the boat rides. Boat service operates from April to October, with limited service in winter.

Tips for Traveling with Children – Strollers are allowed on most boats, but check in advance. Journeys can be long, so bring snacks and water for children. Public transport load is high in summer, so leave early or late.

Accommodation

Lake Center (Bellagio, Menaggio, Varenna) is most convenient but most expensive. The location is perfect for tourism, but prices are high and crowds large.

Como offers more accessible budget options and good access to public transport to Milan and the rest of the lake.

Small towns along the lake offer a more authentic experience and lower prices, but ensure good access to public transport.

Visit Planning

Recommended vacation length – At least 4-5 days to see the main sights without pressure. A week allows visits to mountain valleys and more hidden places.

Age Adaptation

• Babies and toddlers (0-3) – Short walks, gardens, quiet beaches, short boat rides.
• Young children (4-8) – Light adventure parks, interactive museums, water activities, horseback riding.
• Older children (9-15) – Hiking trails, water sports, canyoning, advanced adventure parks.
• Multi-generational families – Combination of relaxed and active activities, wine and cheese tours, villa visits.

Money-Saving Tips

• Combined tickets – Most villas offer discounts for additional museums in the area.
• Picnics – Supermarkets offer good selection of local products, and there are many beautiful picnic spots.
• Local food – Restaurants in small towns are much cheaper than those in central Bellagio or Menaggio.
• Visit timing – Many attractions are cheaper on weekdays, with fewer crowds.

Lake Como offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and enjoyable activities for the whole family. From relaxed walks along picturesque scenery to exciting adventures in rope parks, from visits to historic villas to tastings of local cuisine – there’s truly something here for every family member to enjoy.

The secret to success is flexible planning that considers children’s ages and preferences, combining active and relaxed activities, and getting to know the unique character of the area. Instead of trying to do everything, it’s better to choose activities that truly suit the family and let Lake Como’s charm work its magic.

The lake invites you to return again and again – as children grow, you’ll discover there are more and more layers to explore. This is where romance meets family adventure, and where every visit creates memories that will stay with you for life.

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