Nestled on the promontory that divides Lake Como into its two branches, Bellagio has always been considered one of the most coveted destinations for international tourism MC Eurodriver will drive you to discover this beautiful village with our private luxury taxi service.
Its history, intertwined with that of the lake, dates back to ancient times. Even in Roman times, it was appreciated for its strategic position and the beauty of its landscape.
With the arrival of the Renaissance, Bellagio transformed into a renowned holiday destination for noble Milanese families.
Splendid villas surrounded by Italian gardens were built, which are still one of the main attractions of the place today.
The Enigma of Bellagio: A Journey Through Time
The name “Bellagio” envelops the pearl of Lake Como in an aura of mystery and antiquity. Its origins, deeply rooted in history, have always fascinated scholars and enthusiasts alike.
The first written records date back to the 9th century, when the town was referred to as Belagio, Bellas, Bellax, Bislacio, and Bilacus. These different spellings testify to the evolution of language over the centuries and the difficulty in establishing the original etymology with certainty.
For a long time, scholars have proposed various interpretations, often linked to Bellagio’s geographical position, nestled between the two branches of the lake.
It has been hypothesized that the name derives from the Latin “bilacus” or “bislacus,” meaning “place between two lakes,” or from expressions like “bell’agio” or “bel lago,” referring to the beauty of the landscape.
However, recent linguistic research has opened up new perspectives. By analyzing Celtic languages and the testimonies of the populations who inhabited the area before the Roman conquest, scholars have advanced the hypothesis that the name Bellagio may derive from the Celtic root “Bail-as,” meaning “village of huts on the water” or, more likely, “hill surrounded by water.”
This interpretation, although fascinating, remains a subject of debate among experts. What is certain is that the name Bellagio encapsulates a millennia-old history and a deep connection with the territory and the populations that have inhabited it over the centuries.
HOW TO REACH BELLAGIO:
Obviously, the first solution we recommend by land, in addition to being the best as you can take all your time to visit the city, is with our taxi service.
By water, with
Public Navigation
Bellagio is well served by lake connections via the ferry served by 4 lines:
- Bellagio-Cadenabbia
- Bellagio-Varenna
- Bellagio-Menaggio
View from the ferry landing to piers 1-2-3 It is also served by boat and hydrofoil connections from Colico-Como, by mid-lake shuttle services and by Bellagio-Lecco services.
Alternatively, with private navigation by renting expensive but beautiful Venetian boats you can reach Bellagio via other moorings.
Railways
Bellagio is not served by any railway line; the nearest station is Varenna-Esino-Perledo, which is about 3 km away on the Lecco shore, located on the secondary Lecco-Sondrio line.
The municipality should have been connected by the Asso-Bellagio, an extension of the Milan-Asso managed by FNM, which was planned several times but never realized.
The first project, in 1893, should have provided for two stations, one in the hamlet of Regatola, while the terminus should have been located near the Grand Hotel Bretagne, the second project, in 1995, instead should have been in the hamlet of Visgnola.
Tourist Attractions
- Gardens: Bellagio is famous for its gardens, true masterpieces of landscape design. Among the most famous are:
- Villa Melzi: An English-style garden, rich in exotic plants and sculptures.
- Villa Serbelloni: A centuries-old park, with panoramic terraces and a rich collection of plants.
- Historic Center: A labyrinth of narrow streets and picturesque squares, where you can admire noble palaces, churches, and artisan shops.
- Basilica of San Giacomo: A Romanesque jewel, with a bell tower that dominates the town.
- Museum of Navigation Instruments: A unique exhibition dedicated to the instruments used by lake navigators.
- Art Tower: A medieval tower, now used as an exhibition space.
Luxury Hotels and Charm
Bellagio offers a wide selection of hotels, from large luxury hotels to small bed and breakfasts. Many of these are located in historic buildings, offering guests a unique and unforgettable experience.
- Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni: An icon of luxury, with breathtaking views of the lake.
- Hotel Splendid: A historic hotel, located in the heart of the historic center.
- Bellagio Grand Hotel: An elegant hotel, with a relaxing atmosphere.
- Villa Aura al lago: Usually rent for events and weddings
- Borgo le terrazze: Rooms with a panormaic views
- in the very centre of Bellagio the du Lac, Suisse and Metropole hotels
- Bellagio is preparing to welcome the luxury of the Ritz-Carlton Lake Como, already renowned for its beauty and charm, is about to experience a new chapter in its history. Marriott International has announced the arrival of the prestigious Ritz-Carlton brand in Bellagio.
Great news for luxury lovers and for all those who wish to experience an unforgettable stay on the shores of Lake Como.
The agreement signed with Grimit S.r.l. provides for the complete renovation of the former Hotel Grande Bretagne, a historic icon of Bellagio. The result will be a top-level resort, capable of combining the timeless elegance of the Ritz-Carlton brand with the discreet charm of Lake Como.
What awaits us?
- An oasis of relaxation: The resort will offer 59 rooms and 46 suites, each with a breathtaking view of the lake and luxurious furnishings. The wellness center will be the ideal place to indulge in moments of pure relaxation, thanks to exclusive treatments and an indoor pool.
- Fine dining: Refined and informal restaurants will offer creative cuisine, enhancing local products and offering an unforgettable culinary experience.
- Event spaces: The resort will be the ideal setting for organizing exclusive events, meetings, and conferences, thanks to versatile spaces equipped with the latest technologies.
- A dream park: The large surrounding park will be a true paradise for nature lovers. A meditation garden, a path for long walks, an outdoor pool, and a private dock will allow guests to fully enjoy the beauty of the lake.
A unique opportunity for Bellagio
The arrival of the Ritz-Carlton in Bellagio represents a unique opportunity to further enhance the territory and attract high-level tourism.
This new resort will fit perfectly into the historical and landscape context of the place, becoming a reference point for lovers of luxury and wellness.
The opening is scheduled for 2026. In the meantime, we can only imagine the thrill of being able to live such an exclusive experience on the shores of Lake Como.
Villa Serbelloni:
Overlooking the historic center of Bellagio with majestic elegance, Villa Serbelloni is a true architectural and landscape jewel. Reachable via the charming Via Garibaldi, this historic residence, now owned by the prestigious Rockefeller Foundation of New York, hides centuries of history and refinement.
Over the centuries, the villa has undergone numerous renovations and expansions. In 1788, it passed into the hands of Alessandro Serbelloni, who transformed it into a princely residence, enriching it with precious decorations and works of art from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Its fame grew during the 19th century, attracting the attention of travelers and artists. In 1905, the villa was transformed into a luxurious hotel, becoming a destination for the international elite. In 1930, the American princess Ella Walker, the young bride of Prince Thurn und Taxis, purchased it, falling in love with its beauty and history.
Upon the princess’s death in 1959, as a sign of her deep connection to Italy, the villa was donated to the Rockefeller Foundation of New York, which remains its current owner. Since then, Villa Serbelloni has become an important cultural center, hosting high-level conferences and seminars held by scholars from around the world.
The villa’s gardens are a true masterpiece of landscape design. A green labyrinth that winds through centuries-old woods, exotic plants, and lush flowers, offering visitors a unique experience. Strolling along the paths, you feel as if you are traveling through time, admiring the beauty of nature and the elegance of architecture.
Villa Melzi d’Eril:
On the western shore of Lake Como, in contrast to the majestic Villa Serbelloni, stands Villa Melzi d’Eril, a Neoclassical gem that captivates visitors with its elegance and the richness of its park.
Commissioned by Francesco Melzi d’Eril, Duke of Lodi and Vice President of the First Italian Republic, the villa was designed by the architect Giocondo Albertolli between 1808 and 1810.
The result is an elegant and refined residence, immersed in a park that extends to the lake, enriched by priceless archaeological finds, including an Etruscan urn from the 3rd century BC and two Egyptian sculptures dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries BC.
While the villa itself, still inhabited by the Melzi d’Eril family, is not open to the public, its park, open to visitors, offers an unforgettable experience. Among the main points of interest is the orangery, now transformed into a small museum, which houses a rich archaeological collection, paintings, and sculptures, including a head attributed to Michelangelo.
The Neoclassical chapel, located at the southern end of the park, is another architectural gem, characterized by pure lines and harmonious proportions.
The presence of a Venetian gondola and the statue of Dante and Beatrice, which inspired Franz Liszt’s famous Dante Sonata, gives the park a romantic and evocative atmosphere. It is no coincidence that among the villa’s illustrious guests is Stendhal, who admired its beauty and tranquility.
Villa Melzi d’Eril is much more than a simple historic residence: it is a place where art, nature, and history merge in a unique harmony, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.
Villa Giulia:
On the tip of Bellagio, where the lake divides into two branches, stands Villa Giulia, one of the most fascinating historic residences on Lake Como. The villa, with its immense park of over 20 hectares, offers visitors a unique spectacle, combining architectural elegance with the beauty of nature.
Its origins date back to the 17th century, when the residence of the Camozzi family stood in place of the current villa. However, it was at the end of the 18th century that, commissioned by Count Pietro Venini, the architect Iacopo Masino gave life to a new villa, dedicated to his wife Giulia.
Completed in 1806, the villa is distinguished by its sober Neoclassical elegance and its vast park that extends over both branches of the lake, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Throughout its history, Villa Giulia has been home to illustrious figures, including Count Blome of the House of Austria and King Leopold I of Belgium. Each of them has left an indelible mark on the history of the villa, contributing to making it a place rich in charm and memories.
Cuisine
The Tóc: A Traditional Bellagio Dish
The traditional and typical dish of Bellagio is tóc, a polenta cooked with butter and local cheese, especially consumed on festive occasions.
Tóc is much more than just polenta. It encapsulates the soul of Bellagio, a unique sensory experience passed down through generations.
An Ancient Ritual
The preparation of Tóc is a true ritual. Cornmeal, butter, and cheese melt together in a slow and patient embrace, thanks to the rodec, a wooden spoon that, with a continuous and rhythmic movement, combines the ingredients.
The cooking process, which takes hours, is a moment of sharing and waiting, during which you can breathe in the atmosphere of the past.
Secret of the Name
The origin of the name “Tóc” is shrouded in mystery. Some say it comes from the characteristic noise produced by the rodec during preparation, others from the continuous addition of small pieces of butter and cheese.
The most fascinating explanation, however, is linked to the way it is eaten: Tóc is eaten with your hands, “you touch” it.
And when you do, there are three golden rules to follow: it must not be greasy, it must not burn, and it must not stick. A perfect balance of consistency and flavor.
Recommended Restaurants in Bellagio:
Ristorante La Punta Lake Como is famous not only for its beauty but also for the richness of its waters. And what better place to savor its fish than at La Punta? Overlooking the lake, it offers you the opportunity to savor the authentic flavors of local culinary tradition.
From delicate perch to flavorful whitefish, every dish is a celebration of fresh, seasonal fish.
- Perch risotto: A revisited classic, with an intense fish broth and saffron that enhances the flavor of the fish.
- Mixed lake grill: A taste of various types of fish, grilled and served with our seasonal vegetables.
- Pike in green sauce: A typical dish of the Lombard tradition, prepared with a delicate and fragrant sauce.
Accompany your meal with a glass of local white wine for a complete gastronomic experience.
Polentoteca Chalet Gabriele: A few kilometers from Bellagio, climbing towards Mount San Primo at very affordable prices, you can find this beautiful chalet with panoramic views of the mountains and the lake where you can savor the goodness of traditional cuisine and above all, as the name suggests, POLENTA in all its versions.
Ristorante Alle Darsene della Loppia: Very nice directly on the lake in the hamlet of Loppia with tasty and refined dishes.
Lido di Bellagio: Mainly used for events and weddings also because the venue is also used as a disco.
Come visit THE PEARL of the most famous lake in the world with us. With our private luxury taxi service, we will take you from Malpensa, Malpensa Prime, Linate, Linate Prime, Orio al Serio airports, Milan Central Station, or wherever you want to this beautiful destination, for tours or transfers to stay a few days and experience the Bellagio atmosphere with the following button
