This Charming Italian Town Along Lake Como Is A Less-Crowded Alternative To Bellagio

Along the western shore of Lake Como, Menaggio offers a casual elegance that feels both timeless and refreshing. Unlike its sister town Bellagio, known for Instagram-worthy gardens and bustling piazzas, Menaggio surprises visitors with peaceful promenades, charming local shops, and a more relaxed pace. Its vibrant Piazza Garibaldi, lined with cafes serving espresso and gelato, beckons travelers to linger and soak in the scenery.

If you're flying in from the U.S., Milan will be your best entry point: Malpensa Airport is about 52 miles away, while Linate sits roughly 75 miles from Menaggio. From Malpensa, you can take the Malpensa Express train into Milan (about 57 minutes to Centrale), then hop a regional train to Varenna and ferry across to Menaggio. 

Total travel via public transit runs between 3 and 4 hours and costs around $25 to $40. If time is tight, or you're traveling with a lot of luggage, private transfers start at around $660 for up to six people and take approximately one hour — luxury, speed, and peace of mind rolled into one.

Menaggio is a delightful mix of lakeside ease and historic appeal. Take a stroll down Viale Benedetto Castelli, a graceful promenade awash with flower beds and framed by colorful houses — and don't forget to pose for a photo with Bellagio's silhouette in the background. Meander through the historic center to see the neo-Gothic Church of Santa Marta and the fresco-filled Chiesa di Santo Stefano. With its richly frescoed naves, it's a living testament to the town's heritage.

For a taste of local history, visit the ruins of Menaggio's 10th century castle. Its two towers and perimetral walls offer a quiet, evocative stop — a far cry from Bellagio's manicured gardens, yet equally rich in history. You can then head north on foot or by bike to the fishing hamlet of Nobiallo. Its narrow lanes, picnic spots, Romanesque church, and fresco-framed façade are a low-key treat most tourists miss.

Menaggio also offers excellent access to outdoor adventure. Hop on a ferry to hidden beaches, or set off on hiking trails that meander along the lake and into the hill for a day that's serene, uncrowded, and unforgettable. Then, you can travel south to the town of Lecco, recommended by Giada De Laurentiis for the best authentic Lake Como experience.

Budget-wise, Menaggio offers a mix of options for different traveler types. Four-star hotel rates average around $420 per night, while three-star stays can be found starting in the high $100s. If you're aiming for quieter travel and better rates, fall — especially November — is generally the most affordable time to visit.

Accommodations range from boutique bed and breakfasts and lakeside hotels to the storied Grand Hotel Victoria, where Belle Époque architecture meets contemporary spa comforts. If you're a music lover, Menaggio also hosts the Menaggio Guitar Festival each summer — a melodic treat that draws travelers from around the world.

Timing your trip is key. High season — late spring through summer — brings sunshine, buzzing cafés, and ferry schedules that may cut off at dinner hours (water taxis run late but are pricey). Shoulder seasons offer milder crowds, softer light, and cozier experiences. Pack swimwear for sunny lidos and beaches, hiking shoes for trails, sunscreen, and a light jacket for evenings.

If you're looking for a less crowded alternative to Bellagio, Menaggio delivers with rich history, accessible transport, and a relaxed ambiance — all without sacrificing charm. Or, explore the sleepy town of Nesso, a nature-rich oasis on Lake Como. While there's plenty to experience in this gorgeous region, there are also some mistakes to avoid when visiting Lake Como.