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Historic neighborhood · Bellagio, Lombardia
Centro storico di Bellagio
The village at the tip of the promontory where the Lago de Como splits, with stepped lanes, the Basilica di San Giacomo and the Punta Spartivento.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Centro storico di Bellagio
Bellagio sits at the tip of a promontory in the middle of the Lago de Como, exactly where the lake divides into two arms: the Como arm to the southwest and the Lecco arm to the southeast. The historic center descends in stepped lanes, the salite, among houses with colorful facades, silk shops and woodcraft stores and small restaurants.
The Salita Serbelloni and the Salita Mella are among the most photographed. At the top of the center is the Basilica di San Giacomo, a 12th-century Romanesque church, and beside it the medieval tower that houses the tourist office. The waterfront, with arcades and cafés, faces the boat pier.
Following the lanes to the end of the promontory you reach the Punta Spartivento, the point that divides the waters. From there you can see the northern arm of the lake, toward Menaggio and Varenna, and the mountains in the background.
The park of Villa Serbelloni, which covers the top of the promontory, can only be visited with a guide, in season, departing from the tower at the Piazza della Chiesa: check whether tours are available on the date.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 to 3 hours for the center, the basilica and the Punta Spartivento.
Best time
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, before and after the excursion boats' traffic. The busiest season usually runs from May to September.
How to get there
Navigazione Laghi boats stop at the central pier. The Punta Spartivento is about a 10-minute walk from the pier, following the lanes.
Tip
The stairways are steep: wear comfortable footwear. The silk shops sell products from the Como tradition; compare before buying.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Centro storico di Bellagio
What is the Punta Spartivento?
It is the tip of Bellagio's promontory, where the lake splits into the Como and Lecco arms. It's about a 10-minute walk from the pier.
Is Bellagio flat?
No. The center consists of stepped alleys, the salite. Comfortable shoes help.
Can you visit the park of Villa Serbelloni?
Only with a guided tour, in season, departing from the tower at Piazza della Chiesa. Check whether tours run on that date.