On the western shore, roughly opposite Bellagio and Varenna, Menaggio is a relaxed, well-organised town that many travellers use as a practical base. It has a pretty central square, a breezy lakeside promenade, a swimming lido and — crucially — excellent ferry links across the central lake.
It’s also the gateway west toward Lugano in Switzerland, making it a handy hub for combining Lake Como with a cross-border day out.
Top things to do in Menaggio
Relax on the lakefront promenade
Menaggio’s waterfront is made for slow strolls and lakeside aperitivi, with mountain views across to Bellagio.
Swim at the Lido di Menaggio
One of the lake’s best-known lidos, with pools, lawns and lake access — a summer favourite for families.
Use the ferry triangle
Menaggio, Bellagio and Varenna form the central-lake ferry triangle, so you can visit all three easily from here.
Day-trip to Lugano
Buses and roads head west over the border to the Swiss lakeside city of Lugano — a popular add-on to a Como trip.
Explore Val Menaggio & the hills
Walking and cycling routes climb into the greenery behind town, including paths toward the little Lake Piano nature reserve.
How to get to Menaggio by boat
- By ferry: Menaggio is a central-lake ferry hub with frequent passenger and car-ferry links to Bellagio, Varenna and Cadenabbia.
- By boat tour: Some cruises and private trips call at Menaggio or use the western shore, and it pairs well with Villa del Balbianello just to the south.
- By car/bus: Regional buses run along the western shore from Como; the drive is scenic but the lakeside road is narrow.
- Menaggio is a great-value base with easy ferries — ideal if Bellagio hotels are booked out.
- Time your Lugano day-trip for a weekday to avoid weekend traffic.
- The lido is busiest at weekends in July and August; go early.
Best boat tours for Menaggio
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to enjoy Menaggio and its surroundings from the water:
Shared boat tour from €75 Bellagio Cruise & Villa del Balbianello Gardens (VIP Access)
A rewarding couple of hours on the central lake. You cruise from Bellagio across to the wooded headland of Villa del Balbianello, then get VIP garden access to explore the famous terraces at your own pace — a film location for Star Wars and Casino Royale. Note that garden entry is included (interior museum is not) and the visit is self-guided with a free audio-guide app rather than a live guide.
- Scenic boat cruise from Bellagio to Villa del Balbianello
- VIP skip-the-line access to the terraced gardens
- See the Star Wars and Casino Royale film locations
Full-day trip from €69 From Milan: Como Private Boat, Bellagio & Lugano Day Trip
The easiest way to experience Lake Como if you are based in Milan. This guided full-day trip handles the logistics: round-trip coach transport, time in Como (with its cathedral), a private boat cruise on the lake, free time in Bellagio, and a bonus stop across the border in Lugano, Switzerland. Bring your passport — you’ll cross an international border during the day.
- Round-trip coach from Milan — no car needed
- Private boat cruise on Lake Como
- Free time in Como and beautiful Bellagio
