San Giovanni (Lake Como)
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Latest page update: 6 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside location of San Giovanni is situated in the Province of Como, on the shores of Lake Como. It's a part of the Comune of Bellagio and is located a distance of 79 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
San Giovanni has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Giardini di Villa Melzi and Villa Carlotta. |
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What People Ask About San Giovanni, Lake Como
Is San Giovanni worth visiting?
Where is San Giovanni in relation to Bellagio?
How do you get to San Giovanni?
What is there to see in San Giovanni?
When is the best time to visit San Giovanni?
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San Giovanni, located in the Lombardy region, is a small village situated on the eastern shore of Lake Como, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional charm, San Giovanni provides a tranquil retreat with easy access to the beauty of Lake Como and the surrounding landscape. The village’s narrow streets, historic buildings, and lakeside setting make it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy both nature and culture.
The village is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy relaxing walks along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the nearby hills. The village is also home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a small church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, San Giovanni offers a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails that lead through the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The village’s tranquil setting, combined with its natural beauty, makes it an ideal base for exploring the northern shores of Lake Como.
The village is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy relaxing walks along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the nearby hills. The village is also home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a small church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, San Giovanni offers a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails that lead through the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The village’s tranquil setting, combined with its natural beauty, makes it an ideal base for exploring the northern shores of Lake Como.
Top Things to Do in San Giovanni
- Lakeside Setting and Small Harbour: San Giovanni is a quiet hamlet of Bellagio, located just south of the main town. It has a small harbour with moored fishing boats and a short promenade lined with benches and traditional stone buildings. The waterfront offers a peaceful atmosphere and views across the lake to Tremezzina and the western shore.
- Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista: This parish church stands at the heart of the hamlet and dates back to the 12th century, with later Baroque additions. It contains frescoes, marble altars, and religious statues, and remains an active place of worship. The surrounding square is used for community gatherings and religious celebrations.
- Old Village Lanes and Local Life: San Giovanni retains its village character, with narrow alleys, stone houses, and modest courtyards that reflect its fishing and farming heritage. It is less frequented by tourists, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life on the lake’s shores.
- Walking Path to Bellagio Centre: A scenic lakeside path connects San Giovanni to Bellagio, taking around 20 minutes on foot. The walk passes villas, gardens, and viewpoints over the lake, making it a pleasant route for visitors staying in either location or exploring the area on foot.
- Day Trip to Villa Carlotta: Easily reachable by ferry from Bellagio, Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo offers art exhibitions, neoclassical architecture, and botanical gardens. It provides a cultural excursion that pairs well with a stay in the quieter surroundings of San Giovanni.
San Giovanni - frazione of Bellagio Comune
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Comune: Bellagio
Province: Como Region: Lombardy Elevation: 200 metres Highlights: House of the Flying Bicycles, Nautical Museum Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Giardini di Villa Melzi, Villa Carlotta, Menaggio |
My recommended accommodation options for San Giovanni:
- Agriturismo Il Colle Located in the hills above San Giovanni, about 10 minutes by car from the lakeside, this family-run farmhouse offers comfortable rooms, a garden, and lake views. Guests appreciate the quiet rural location, traditional breakfast, and warm hospitality. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamento San Giovanni al Lago Situated just steps from the small harbour and pebble beach, this self-catering apartment offers a lake-view terrace, two bedrooms, and a modern kitchen. Visitors enjoy the peaceful village setting and proximity to Bellagio’s centre via a short drive or scenic walk. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa Vitali – Bellagio Located on the hillside above San Giovanni, this elegant villa offers luxury apartments with shared access to a swimming pool, gym, and landscaped gardens. Guests value the refined interiors, panoramic lake views, and tranquil atmosphere just outside Bellagio. €€€€ (luxury)
- Appartamento Il Sogno A ground-floor apartment with lake views and outdoor dining space, situated close to the waterfront and San Giovanni’s historic boatyard. Guests appreciate the charm of the village, access to the lake, and convenience for visiting Bellagio and nearby towns by boat. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Alla Torretta Located in nearby Bellagio, just a few minutes' drive from San Giovanni, this charming B&B in a 19th-century villa features simple, colourful rooms, a garden, and lake views from upper floors. Visitors enjoy the homely feel, helpful hosts, and easy access to San Giovanni and the main town. €€ (mid-range)
My recommended restaurants in San Giovanni and the local area:
- Ittiturismo Ristorante Mella: Situated in San Giovanni, this family-run restaurant offers a unique dining experience focused on fresh lake fish. The menu features traditional dishes prepared with the day's catch, such as risotto with perch fillets and grilled agoni. The dining area provides views of the small harbour, enhancing the authentic atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Silvio: Located in Bellagio (approximately 1 km from San Giovanni), Ristorante Silvio is renowned for its lake fish specialities and Italian cuisine. The terrace offers panoramic views of Lake Como, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Pergola: Situated in Pescallo (about 1.5 km from San Giovanni), La Pergola offers Italian and Mediterranean dishes with an emphasis on seafood. The lakeside setting provides a tranquil dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Alle Darsene di Loppia: Found in Loppia (approximately 2 km from San Giovanni), this restaurant offers a refined menu focusing on Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. The garden seating area adds to the charm of the dining experience. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria Baita Belvedere: Located in Chevrio (about 5 km from San Giovanni), this trattoria offers traditional Italian dishes in a rustic setting. The hillside location provides stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
San Giovanni Gallery
Close to San Giovanni
- Torno (approx. 5 km south of San Giovanni): A small and peaceful village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Torno is known for its historic charm and stunning lake views. Visitors can explore the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista, a beautiful church with a tranquil setting, or take a relaxing stroll along the lakeside promenade, which offers panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Moltrasio (approx. 10 km southeast of San Giovanni): Situated on the western shore of Lake Como, Moltrasio offers a picturesque lakeside setting and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the lake, visit the charming streets lined with cafes and shops, or take part in outdoor activities like hiking in the surrounding hills. The town is known for its beautiful villas and serene environment.
- Cernobbio (approx. 15 km southeast of San Giovanni): A charming town on the shores of Lake Como, Cernobbio is famous for the luxurious Villa d'Este, a renowned hotel set in extensive gardens. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade, explore the town’s quaint streets, or take a boat trip across the lake to admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and water.
- Como (approx. 20 km southeast of San Giovanni): The city of Como, located at the southern tip of Lake Como, is rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Cattedrale di Como, the Tempio Voltiano, and the vibrant Piazza Cavour. A funicular ride to Brunate offers spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding region. Como is a perfect base for exploring the lake and surrounding towns.
- Argegno (approx. 25 km north of San Giovanni): A picturesque village on the western shore of Lake Como, Argegno offers a quiet, scenic retreat. Visitors can take the cable car up to Pigra, a hilltop village that provides stunning panoramic views of the lake. The village is also known for its charming streets, local cafes, and a peaceful lakeside promenade perfect for leisurely walks.
How to get to San Giovanni
By Rail: San Giovanni does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is Como San Giovanni, located approximately 30 kilometres to the south-west. Trenitalia and Trenord operate frequent services from Milan to Como San Giovanni, with journey times of about 40 minutes. From Como, travellers can reach San Giovanni by bus, taxi, or ferry.
By Road: San Giovanni is approximately 75 kilometres north of Milan and about 30 kilometres north-east of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340 road along the western shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 50 minutes via the SS340 road. The roads along the lake can be narrow and winding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports:
Lake Como Ferries: San Giovanni is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in San Giovanni offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from San Giovanni to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Ferries operate multiple times daily, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: San Giovanni is approximately 75 kilometres north of Milan and about 30 kilometres north-east of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340 road along the western shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 50 minutes via the SS340 road. The roads along the lake can be narrow and winding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located about 85 kilometres south-west of San Giovanni, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes via the A36 and A9 motorways, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340 road. From the airport, travellers can take the Malpensa Express train to Milan Cadorna station, then a train to Como San Giovanni, followed by a bus, taxi, or ferry to San Giovanni.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 100 kilometres south of San Giovanni, the drive takes approximately 2 hours via the A9 motorway, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340 road. Public transport options from Linate Airport to San Giovanni involve taking a bus to Milan Centrale station, then a train to Como San Giovanni, followed by a bus, taxi, or ferry to San Giovanni.
Lake Como Ferries: San Giovanni is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in San Giovanni offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from San Giovanni to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Ferries operate multiple times daily, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
