Bellano
|
Latest page update: 26 May 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The lakeside town of Bellano is situated in the Province of Lecco, on the shores of Lake Como. It has a population of around 3,000 residents and is located a distance of 81 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Nearby places of interest include Dervio, Varenna, Dorio, Fiumelatte, Colico, Lierna and Lecco. |
|
What People Ask About Bellano
Is Bellano worth visiting?
What is there to see in Bellano?
How do you get to Bellano?
Can you swim in Bellano?
When is the best time to visit Bellano?
Related links
Discover
Discover Bellano
Bellano, located in the Lombardy region, is a charming village situated on the eastern shore of Lake Como, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its picturesque setting and historical significance, Bellano provides a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to explore the beauty of the lake and its surrounding landscapes. The village’s narrow streets, traditional buildings, and scenic lakeside location make it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy both history and nature.
Bellano is famous for the Chiesa di San Giorgio, a beautiful church with historical frescoes and a peaceful ambiance, adding to the village's rich cultural heritage. The Orrido di Bellano, a dramatic gorge carved by the Pioverna River, is another popular attraction, where visitors can walk along a series of bridges and paths offering stunning views of the rushing water below. For outdoor enthusiasts, Bellano offers a variety of hiking and cycling trails, with routes that lead into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Bellano’s combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and lakeside charm makes it a perfect base for exploring the eastern shores of Lake Como.
Bellano is famous for the Chiesa di San Giorgio, a beautiful church with historical frescoes and a peaceful ambiance, adding to the village's rich cultural heritage. The Orrido di Bellano, a dramatic gorge carved by the Pioverna River, is another popular attraction, where visitors can walk along a series of bridges and paths offering stunning views of the rushing water below. For outdoor enthusiasts, Bellano offers a variety of hiking and cycling trails, with routes that lead into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Bellano’s combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and lakeside charm makes it a perfect base for exploring the eastern shores of Lake Como.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Bellano
- Orrido di Bellano: A dramatic natural gorge carved by the Pioverna River, the Orrido di Bellano is the town’s most famous attraction. Wooden walkways suspended above the rushing water allow visitors to explore the narrow canyon, waterfalls, and steep rock walls. It has been a popular site since the 18th century for its striking and unexpected landscape.
- Chiesa dei Santi Nazaro e Celso: This Gothic-style church stands at the heart of Bellano and dates back to the 14th century. It features a striking black-and-white façade, rose window, and interior frescoes. The church remains a central landmark and is actively used by the local community.
- Lakeside Promenade and Harbour: Bellano’s promenade offers wide views over the eastern branch of Lake Como and includes small beaches, a marina, and a ferry terminal. The area is popular for lakeside strolls, with benches, restaurants, and direct access to the water for swimming and boating.
- Sentiero del Viandante: Bellano is an important stop on the Sentiero del Viandante, a historic walking route along the eastern side of Lake Como. The trail passes through olive groves, woodlands, and old stone villages, offering hikers scenic views and opportunities to explore the rural side of the lake.
- Day Trip to Varenna: Just a 10-minute drive or short ferry ride away, Varenna offers romantic gardens, lakeside cafés, and attractions such as Villa Monastero and the Castello di Vezio. Its proximity makes it an easy cultural excursion from Bellano, with strong ferry and rail connections.
Bellano Tours and Activities
Comune di Bellano
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Since: 2017
1 of 11 in Lombardy listed by Touring Club Italiano
Since: 2017
1 of 11 in Lombardy listed by Touring Club Italiano
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Bellano
- Hotel Meridiana Located directly on the lakefront in the centre of Bellano, this small hotel offers comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking Lake Como and an on-site restaurant with terrace seating. Guests appreciate the stunning views, welcoming staff, and proximity to the promenade and ferry pier. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B Villa Anita Situated in a quiet area above the town, this bed and breakfast features elegant rooms, a panoramic terrace, and homemade breakfast. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, scenic lake views, and just a short walk down to Bellano’s centre and lakeshore. €€ (mid-range)
- Residence Primavera Set within walking distance of the train station and lake, this modern residence offers self-catering apartments with lake-view balconies and access to a shared garden. Guests value the space, cleanliness, and location close to restaurants and shops. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Il Melo Verde Located in the hills above Bellano, about 10 minutes by car from the lake, this farmhouse offers rustic accommodation surrounded by greenery, with on-site dining featuring local produce. Guests enjoy the quiet countryside, mountain views, and hiking opportunities nearby. €€ (mid-range)
- Casa Vacanze Bellano A private holiday flat near the lake and close to the Orrido di Bellano gorge, offering a full kitchen, terrace, and parking. Visitors appreciate the convenience for exploring Bellano on foot and the comfort of a well-equipped home base. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Bellano
- Taverna Malanotte: Located in the centre of Bellano, this intimate taverna serves traditional Italian dishes in a rustic setting. The menu features lake fish, risottos, and homemade desserts, with a well-curated list of regional wines. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante La Darsena: Found along the lakefront in Bellano, La Darsena offers a menu focused on seafood and fresh local produce. Guests can enjoy views over Lake Como while sampling dishes such as grilled lavarello and seafood pasta. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Crotto di Biosio: Situated in Biosio (approximately 1.5 km from Bellano), this hillside restaurant offers panoramic lake views and a menu based on traditional Lombard cuisine. Specialities include polenta with braised meat, local cold cuts, and homemade cakes. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Dolce Vita: Also in Bellano, La Dolce Vita blends local ingredients with recipes from the surrounding region, including Valtellina. The restaurant is known for its terrace views over the lake, making it a popular choice for sunset dinners. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Lido di Bellano: Located by the water’s edge in Bellano, this relaxed venue combines a lakeside bar and restaurant with an informal menu of Italian classics. Options include pizzas, pasta, and salads, served in a lively, summery setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Bellano Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Bellano
- Varenna (approx. 5 km north of Bellano): A charming town on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Varenna is known for its narrow streets, colourful buildings, and stunning lake views. Visitors can explore the Villa Monastero, a historic villa with lush gardens and a museum, or hike up to Castello di Vezio for spectacular panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The town offers a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful getaway.
- Dervio (approx. 5 km south of Bellano): Located on the western shore of Lake Como, Dervio is known for its tranquil lakeside setting and historical sites. Visitors can explore the Chiesa di San Giorgio, a beautiful church with striking architecture, or enjoy the town’s scenic walking paths. The surrounding mountains offer excellent opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
- Mandello del Lario (approx. 10 km northwest of Bellano): A picturesque town on the shores of Lake Como, Mandello del Lario is famous for its connection to the Moto Guzzi motorcycle brand. Visitors can visit the Museo Moto Guzzi or take a boat ride on the lake to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The town also offers several hiking routes with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Lecco (approx. 25 km south of Bellano): Located at the southeastern tip of Lake Como, Lecco is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Piazza XX Settembre, take a cable car up to Piani d'Erna for panoramic views, or enjoy a walk along the lakeside promenade. Lecco also offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it a great base for exploring the region.
- Tremezzo (approx. 25 km north of Bellano): A beautiful town on the western shore of Lake Como, Tremezzo is home to the famous Villa Carlotta, which features stunning botanical gardens and an impressive art collection. Visitors can stroll along the lakeside promenade, explore nearby hiking trails, or take a boat ride on the lake for a closer view of the town and surrounding area.
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Bellano
By Rail: Bellano has its own train station on the Lecco–Colico railway line, served by regular regional trains operated by Trenord. Services run approximately every hour in both directions, with connections to Lecco, Milan, Colico, and Sondrio. The journey to Lecco takes around 30 minutes, while the travel time to Milan is about 1 hour and 30 minutes with a change at Lecco. The station is located just a short walk from the town centre and the lakefront.
By Road: Bellano lies on the eastern shore of Lake Como, around 75 kilometres north of Milan and 30 kilometres north of Lecco. Driving from Milan takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS36 dual carriageway, exiting at Bellano. The road continues along the lake towards Varenna and Colico. Public parking is available near the waterfront and around the town centre.
By Ferry: Bellano is served by Navigazione Laghi ferries, with passenger boats connecting to other towns along the eastern and central parts of the lake. Services run to Varenna, Menaggio, and Bellagio, particularly during the tourist season. While car ferries do not operate from Bellano directly, nearby Varenna—just 6 kilometres to the south—offers regular vehicle ferry services to Bellagio and Cadenabbia on the western shore.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Bellano lies on the eastern shore of Lake Como, around 75 kilometres north of Milan and 30 kilometres north of Lecco. Driving from Milan takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS36 dual carriageway, exiting at Bellano. The road continues along the lake towards Varenna and Colico. Public parking is available near the waterfront and around the town centre.
By Ferry: Bellano is served by Navigazione Laghi ferries, with passenger boats connecting to other towns along the eastern and central parts of the lake. Services run to Varenna, Menaggio, and Bellagio, particularly during the tourist season. While car ferries do not operate from Bellano directly, nearby Varenna—just 6 kilometres to the south—offers regular vehicle ferry services to Bellagio and Cadenabbia on the western shore.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Located approximately 85 kilometres south of Bellano, the drive takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Travellers can also reach Bellano by taking a bus or taxi to Milan Centrale, a train to Lecco, and a regional train to Bellano.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated about 70 kilometres south-east of Bellano, the drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Public transport options include a bus to Bergamo railway station, a train to Lecco, and a connection to Bellano.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Approximately 110 kilometres south-west of Bellano, the journey by car takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes. The Malpensa Express train connects to Milan Centrale, from where travellers can continue to Lecco and then to Bellano by regional train.
