Lake Como's shoreline roads are among the most scenic in Europe: narrow coastal roads clinging to cliffsides, medieval villages emerging from the water, and mountain backdrops that change with every bend. Exploring by Vespa is the way the locals do it — and the way you'll remember it longest.
The East Shore Route: Como to Bellagio
The SS36 along the eastern shore is the most scenic ride at Lake Como. Starting from Como city, the road hugs the shore for 30 km all the way to Bellagio, passing through ancient villages, rocky coves, and chestnut forests. Allow 4-5 hours with stops.
- •Torno (8 km from Como): medieval village, Sant'Agata church, tiny harbour
- •Nesso (18 km): spectacular natural canyon with waterfall (Orrido di Nesso)
- •Lezzeno (25 km): peaceful village with swimming coves in summer
- •Bellagio (30 km): the "Pearl of the Lake" — gardens, medieval lanes, panoramic terrace
The West Shore Route: Como to Menaggio
The SS340 Regina along the western shore is the classic lake road — wider than the east, with more villages and services along the way. From Como to Menaggio is 35 km, easily done in a morning.
- •Cernobbio (5 km): luxury villas, Grand Hotel Villa d'Este, elegant promenade
- •Laglio (15 km): George Clooney's famous residence is here
- •Argegno (22 km): gateway to Intelvi Valley, good lunch stop
- •Menaggio (35 km): lively village, ferry hub for Bellagio and Varenna
The golden loop: ride the east shore to Bellagio in the morning, take the car ferry to Menaggio, and return along the west shore to Como. Two completely different views of the same lake.
Must-visit: Varenna
Varenna on the eastern shore is voted one of the most beautiful villages in Italy every year. Its pastel houses reflected in the lake, the historic waterfront promenade (Passeggiata degli Innamorati), and the medieval Castello di Vezio make it essential. Take the car ferry from Menaggio or ride south from Lecco.
Practical tips for riding at Lake Como
- •Start early: roads are quieter before 9 am and the morning light is magical
- •Download offline maps: signal can be patchy in tunnel sections
- •Fuel up in Como or Menaggio — stations are scarce in between
- •Parking: scooters fit in motorcycle bays (free in most villages)
- •Summer traffic: July-August can get congested — prefer weekdays
Book your Vespa with home delivery
Larioway delivers the Vespa directly to your hotel anywhere on Lake Como. Book online, tell us your delivery address and time, and we take care of the rest. At the end of the day we pick it up wherever you are — even if you end up in a different village than planned.