Stunning Places to Enjoy Scenic Lake Como Views from Above

Few places in the world capture timeless beauty quite like Lake Como, a jewel of northern Italy. The poets Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger, as well as legendary composers Richard Wagner, Franz Liszt, and Giuseppe Verdi, all drew inspiration from its shimmering waters and dramatic landscapes. Many centuries later, Lake Como continues to enchant travelers with the same allure of incredible natural beauty. And while its lakeside villages and villas are undeniably captivating, the most unforgettable way to appreciate the scenery is from above. Elevated viewpoints reveal the lake’s unique shape, framed by mountains and dotted with colorful towns. In this article, you’ll discover the most convenient and breathtaking spots to admire Lake Como from above—places where history, nature, and panoramas come together to create views you’ll never forget.

Brunate, Lake Como

The small town of Brunate is located at a height of about 488 m—a great spot to view the lake. The first thing you notice is the countless number of villas dotting the hillside. You can get to the city by the cable railway which was opened in 1894. In just 7 minutes, passengers are carried to the viewing deck where you can view Lake Como, adjacent cities, and, in good weather, even Milan, Turin, and neighboring Switzerland.

Monte Bisbino Peak in Cernobbio

Monte Bisbino mountain is located above the city of Cernobbio. This is the starting point of the famous cycling and walking route “Via dei Monti Lariani” 125 km long. The trail is divided into four parts: Cernobbio — Val d’Intelvi (28 km); Val d’Intelvi — Val Menaggio (26 km); Val Menaggio — Valle Albano (24 km); Valle Albano — Sorico (46 km).

Covering the entire route will take more than a day, but during this time you can visit many villages and enjoy their unspoiled nature and authentic atmosphere.

Bellagio’s Nearby Monte San Primo

For panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see, Monte San Primo is an unmissable destination. Standing at 1,682 meters, it is the highest peak in the Lake Como area, offering a dramatic bird’s-eye view over the lake and surrounding Alps. Hikers and nature enthusiasts can follow well-marked trails that wind through alpine meadows and rocky outcrops, each step revealing progressively wider perspectives of the deep blue waters below. On clear days, the summit provides almost 360-degree views, allowing visitors to take in the full length of the lake, the rolling hills of Lombardy, and even distant glimpses of Milan. Whether it’s a sunrise hike or an afternoon excursion, Monte San Primo offers a striking contrast between the rugged mountain terrain and the tranquil elegance of Lake Como, making it a favorite for photographers and adventurers alike.

San Martino above Varenna

For a more intimate and peaceful viewpoint, San Martino, perched above the charming town of Varenna, offers a serene escape from the lake’s busier shores. Accessible via a scenic trail from the town, the path climbs gently through olive groves and woodland, rewarding hikers with progressively expansive views of the eastern shore. From the vantage point of San Martino, the lake appears to stretch endlessly, framed by colorful villages, terraced hills, and the distant mountains beyond. This spot is perfect for quiet contemplation, a picnic, or simply watching the play of sunlight on the water as the day progresses. Unlike the higher peaks, San Martino provides a cozy, almost postcard-like perspective of Lake Como, capturing the charm of its lakeside communities while still giving a satisfying elevation for photography and sightseeing.

Palanzo Belvedere

Perched above the quiet hamlet of Palanzo, the Palanzo Belvedere is one of the most authentic viewpoints over Lake Como. Unlike the busier terraces around Como or Bellagio, this belvedere offers a serene and unspoiled panorama, framed by olive groves and stone-built houses. From here, the lake stretches out gracefully, with views across its southern arm and toward the western shoreline. It’s the kind of place where time slows down—perfect for travelers who want to step away from the crowds and experience Lake Como as locals have for centuries.

The village of Palanzo itself is worth a stroll before or after your visit. Known for its rustic architecture and the historic wine press dating back to the 16th century, it adds a cultural touch to your scenic stop. Whether you come in the morning, when the lake glows softly, or at sunset, when golden light reflects on the water, Palanzo Belvedere guarantees a view to remember.

Castello di Vezio near Varenna

Castello di Vezio is more than a thousand years old. It was built to house people controlling the lake and protect the adjacent cities from the Queen of the Lombards Teodolinda. The square watchtower, Bascule Bridge, and fortress walls (with angle towers leading to the city of Varenna) have been preserved until modern day. 

Here you can take the best photos of Lake Como views as well as look at works of art, visit real dungeons and find out many interesting things about falconry.

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