Thursday, August 15, 2024 Explore Lake Como’s stunning scenery and celebrity charm without breaking the bank. Discover affordable ways to experience this picturesque Italian destination. Northern Italy’s Lake Como is a favorite among stars like George Clooney, but you might be surprised at how budget-friendly this stunning destination can be.

Here’s an insider’s guide to enjoying this scenic corner of Italy without breaking the bank. Lake Como is famous for its sparkling blue waters, lavish villas, and charming villages where celebrities like Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, and Amal and George Clooney try to escape the paparazzi. However, you don’t need to be a Hollywood star or a billionaire to savor the beauty of this picturesque, mountain-framed lake.

Over the past decade, my family has spent many summers at Lake Como, uncovering numerous ways to enjoy its charm without overspending. For instance, staying farther from the lakeshore and taking advantage of free or low-cost activities such as hiking, museum visits, and cycling can help you save. Skip the High-Profile Spots Lake Como, which is a one to two-hour drive from Milan, has a distinct upside-down Y shape.

The drive from Como at the southern tip of the western branch to Colico at the northern end takes just over an hour. Popular lakeside destinations include Lecco, a small city at the southern tip of the eastern branch; the town of Bellagio, located at the Y’s fork; and Varenna, a village on the eastern shore..