Lake Como is the perfect destination for your next family vacation. With breathtaking lakeside views, charming villages, and plenty of family-friendly vacation activities in Lake Como, it offers something for everyone—from young children to teenagers and multi-generational families. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or relaxing moments by the water, Lake Como provides the ideal setting for unforgettable family moments. This guide covers the top family vacation ideas in Lake Como, along with must-visit attractions in Milan for families.
1. Take a Scenic Boat Tour
One of the best ways to explore Lake Como on a family vacation is by boat. Families can hop on a public ferry or rent a private boat to admire the stunning mountain scenery and lakeside towns. A boat tour lets you experience must-see spots like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, as well as iconic villas such as Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta, both of which have beautiful, kid-friendly gardens to explore.
For a more immersive experience, some boat tours include guided storytelling or themed adventures designed to keep kids engaged while taking in the sights.
2. Explore Beautiful Villas and Gardens
Lake Como is famous for its historic villas, many of which have family-friendly gardens perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
- Villa Carlotta (Tremezzo) – Expansive botanical gardens with fountains, exotic plants, and space for kids to explore.
- Villa Balbianello (Lenno) – Featured in Star Wars and James Bond, making it an exciting stop for movie-loving kids and teens.
These visits offer a mix of nature, history, and adventure, making them a fantastic option for families.
3. Experience Outdoor Adventures
For families who love the outdoors, Lake Como offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including:
- Hiking – The Greenway del Lago di Como is an easy, scenic walk perfect for all ages, while the San Martino Church Trail offers rewarding lake views.
- Water Sports – Kayaking and paddleboarding are great ways for families to experience the lake from a new perspective. Rental companies offer family-sized kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
4. Visit Lake Como Adventure Park
For an extra dose of adventure, visit the Lake Como Adventure Park, where kids and adults can enjoy tree-top obstacle courses, zip lines, and climbing challenges in a forest setting. Located on the western side of Lake Como, Lake Como Adventure Park is an exciting tree-top park with rope courses, zip lines, and climbing challenges designed for all ages. Kids will love the adventure, while parents can relax in the surrounding natural beauty. A perfect active day out for families!
5. Visit Family-Friendly Beaches and Swimming Spots
While Lake Como isn’t known for sandy beaches, several spots offer great family-friendly vacation activities by the water:
- Lido di Lenno – A sandy beach with shallow waters and a playground, ideal for young children.
- Lido di Menaggio – Features both a lakefront beach and a swimming pool, perfect for a full day of fun.
- Spiaggia di Onno – A quieter pebble beach, great for families looking to relax.
6. Discover Como City’s Attractions
A day in Como City is a must for families:
- Brunate Funicular – A scenic ride to Brunate with panoramic views of Lake Como.
- Tempio Voltiano – An interactive museum about Alessandro Volta, perfect for curious kids.
- Piazza Cavour – A lively central square with gelato shops and charming cafés for a relaxed family outing.
7. Take a Day Trip to Milan and surrounding areas
Since many families visiting Lake Como also spend time in Milan, consider adding a day trip to your itinerary. Milan and the surrounding areas offer a mix of cultural and fun activities for kids:
- Leolandia – Located 40 minutes outside of Milan, Leolandia is one of Italy’s best theme parks for children, with rides, interactive exhibits, and miniature versions of famous Italian landmarks.
- Sforza Castle – A fascinating medieval castle with family-friendly museums and large green spaces.
- Leonardo da Vinci Science and Technology Museum – A hands-on experience where kids can engage with interactive science exhibits.
Milan also has fantastic shopping, delicious food, and iconic sights like the Duomo di Milano, making it a great complement to your Lake Como family vacation.
8. Stay in a Family-Friendly Vacation Rental
Choosing the right accommodation is key to a stress-free trip. Family-friendly vacation rentals in Lake Como offer plenty of space, full kitchens, and outdoor areas where kids can play. Whether you prefer a cozy lakeside apartment or a spacious villa like Villa Pergola <link>, there are options to suit every family’s needs.
Create Unforgettable Family Memories in Lake Como
From boating and hiking to theme parks and cultural sites, Lake Como and Milan offer endless opportunities for family adventures. Book your stay in one of our family-friendly vacation rentals in Lake Como and start planning your dream getaway today!
