I have spent many years traveling the world, but few places capture the heart quite like Italy. Specifically, Lake Como with dog companions is a dream come true for any traveler. This “Y”-shaped lake is the third largest in Italy. It offers a massive 170 kilometers of coastline to explore. If you are a mature traveler who loves a good road trip, this guide is for you. I want to share my personal experiences and tips for the Best Day Trips from Lake Como with Your Dog.
Getting Ready for Your European Adventure
Before you start your car and head for the mountains, you need to think about the journey to Italy. Many people ask about international dog flights to Europe. You must follow the rules for the European Union. Your furry friend needs a microchip. This chip must meet ISO standards. You also need an EU model passport and a valid rabies vaccine. The animal must be at least 12 weeks old when they get the shot. You can then travel 21 days after the first vaccination.
If you plan to travel to Europe with dog friends, the paperwork is very important. Always keep your pet passport with you. Additionally, remember to check with your airline about their specific rules for international dog flights to Europe. Some countries like Finland or Norway also require deworming treatments. Italy is one of the best places to travel with a dog in europe because the rules are often relaxed. You will find that dogs are a common sight in shops, malls, and even some grocery stores like Eataly.
Finding the Perfect Base: Lake Como Dog Friendly Hotels
I always suggest staying in a spot that makes driving easy. Bellano is a great choice. It is well-connected and more affordable than the bigger towns. I stayed at Hotel Meridiana once. It is a boutique hotel that is very welcoming to pets. They have a terrace that looks over the lake. On top of that, they have a private beach where dogs can play.
Another top spot is the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio. If you prefer a home feel, you can look for lake como dog friendly hotels or apartments on sites like Airbnb. There are over 100 properties around the lake that cater specifically to pet owners. Look for places with a “fenced property” or a “large garden”. This gives your dog a safe place to run while you enjoy a glass of local wine.
Driving Adventure 1: The Beauty of the North Shore
Our first driving trip takes us to the northern part of the lake. The roads here offer beautiful views of the water and the Alps. First of all, you must visit the town of Bellano. This town holds a secret called the Orrido di Bellano.
The Mystery of Orrido di Bellano
This is a natural canyon. It was formed over 15 million years by the Pioverana stream. You can walk on metal bridges fixed to the rock walls. The water makes a loud noise as it crashes below. It is a bit scary if you do not like heights! My dog, Nora, actually had to be carried because the floor was a metal grate. However, the views of the waterfalls and caves are breathtaking.
The entry fee is about €5 or €6 for adults, but dogs usually go for free. Later, you can walk to the nearby church of Santi Nazaro e Celso. This building was built around the year 1300 and it is also pet-friendly.
Dog Beach Lake Como: Dervio and Beyond
Continue your drive north to Dervio. This is where you will find a fantastic dog beach lake como. The beach is located on a pedestrian path. It is a free pebble beach where dogs can swim without any problems. The beach is about 30 meters long. It has a gate that you can close. Therefore, your dog can run free and safe.
Similarly, you can visit the dog beach between Gravedona and Dongo. Here, dogs do not need a leash. It is a perfect spot for water fun. Plus, the views of the mountains from the shore are amazing.
Driving Adventure 2: Villas and Gardens of the Central Lake
The central part of Lake Como is the most famous. It is home to grand villas and pretty villages like Varenna and Menaggio. You can use the car ferry to cross the lake easily. You simply drive on, park, and enjoy the 15-minute ride.
Exploring Villa del Balbianello
A visit to villa balbianello dogs is a must. This 18th-century mansion sits on a wooded hill. You can reach it by a 1-kilometer walk from Lenno. Dogs are always welcome in the beautiful gardens. However, they must stay on a leash at all times. Only guide dogs can go inside the actual villa. The garden is famous for its terraces and the Loggia Durini. It costs about €15 for a park ticket. It is one of the most romantic spots on the lake.
Varenna and Villa Monastero
Next, drive to Varenna. This town is picture-perfect with its colorful buildings. You should visit the garden of Villa Monastero. This garden is almost two kilometers long. It is full of rare plants. Dogs are welcome on a leash. After your walk, grab a gelato and sit by the water. Varenna has a small public beach south of the church where you can relax.
Driving Adventure 3: Crossing the Border to Lugano
If you want a change of pace, take a day trip to Lugano, Switzerland. It is only about 33 kilometers from the center of the lake. The drive takes about one hour. You must bring your passport because you are crossing a border.
A Taste of Switzerland
Lugano feels different than Italy. It is very clean and modern. Start your visit in Piazza Riforma. This is the main square with many shops and bars. Walk through the luxury shopping streets like Via Nassa. Later, stroll along the lakefront to Ciani Civic Park. This park is lush and green. It is a great place for a walk with your dog.
If you have time, take the funicular up Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore. The views from the top are incredible. You can see the whole city and the lake. Swiss prices are higher than Italian prices, so be prepared for a more expensive lunch.
Driving Adventure 4: The High Alps and the Bernina Express
For a truly epic day, drive to Tirano. This town is the starting point for the famous Bernina Express train. This is the highest railway line in Europe. The train travels through 55 tunnels and crosses 196 bridges.
Dogs on the Bernina Express
Yes, dogs are allowed on this panoramic train. If your dog is smaller than 30 cm, they can travel for free in a bag or carrier. Larger dogs need a ticket, which is usually half the price of a second-class fare. A day ticket for a dog in Switzerland costs about 25 CHF.
The journey takes you from palm trees in Italy to glaciers in the Swiss Alps. You will reach a height of 2,253 meters at Ospizio Bernina. The views of the white Lago Bianco and the Cambrena glacier are stunning. Remember to bring your passport and check the entry rules for your dog’s nationality.
Practical Tips for Your Road Trip
Driving in Italy is fun, but you need to know a few things.
- Leash and Muzzle Laws: In Italy, a leash is mandatory. You should also carry a muzzle with you. Even if you never use it, public transport and ferries often require you to have one.
- Ferry Fares: Dogs can board the ferries for a small fee. Small dogs (under 50 cm) are often free on some routes, while larger dogs pay a reduced fare of €1.50 to €3.50.
- Dining Out: Most restaurants in Italy are very dog-friendly. You can usually sit outside on a terrace without any trouble. Always ask the waiter before you sit down.
- Dog-Friendly Museums Europe: Sadly, most indoor museums in Italy do not allow dogs. You will find that some archaeological sites like Pompeii allow small dogs on a leash, but grand art galleries usually say no.
Hiking Trails for Active Pups
If your dog has a lot of energy, Lake Como has many trails.
- Sentiero del Viandante (Wayfarer’s Path): This is a 70-kilometer route along the eastern shore. You can do it in stages. It offers great views and passes through old stone villages.
- Monte San Primo: This mountain is over 1680 meters high. It offers views of the Alps and the whole lake. The walk takes about two hours each way. Note that there is no drinking water on the trail, so bring plenty for your dog.
- Greenway del Lago: This is a flatter walk through gardens and villages. It is perfect for a more relaxed day.
FAQ
How dog-friendly is Lake Como?
Lake Como is considered a perfect destination for pet owners, featuring numerous dog-friendly activities, restaurants, and bars. Many visitors report that almost everywhere they visited allowed dogs, including local shops and parks. Public transportation, such as ferries and regional trains, is generally accommodating to pets.
What are good day trips from Lake Como?
Excellent day trips include visiting Lugano, Switzerland, which is only 33 kilometres from the centre of the lake and easily reached by car or train. Another popular option is taking the Bernina Express from Tirano for a journey through the Alps to the luxury town of St. Moritz. You can also visit Milan, which is approximately an hour away by train.
Where to go in Italy with a dog?
Beyond Lake Como, dog-friendly locations include Venice, where dogs are allowed on water boats (vaporettos), and Tuscany, known for its welcoming hill-top towns. Other pet-friendly destinations include the Cinque Terre for hiking, the Dolomites, and historic sites like Ostia Antica.
What can I combine with Lake Como?
You can easily combine a stay at Lake Como with a trip to Switzerland via Lugano or St. Moritz. It is also simple to include a visit to Milan or other northern Italian regions like Valtellina.
Which is the prettiest town around Lake Como?
Varenna is described as a “picture-perfect” town with colourful buildings and layered alleyways. Bellagio is also noted for being exceptionally stunning, with winding cobbled streets and beautiful boutiques.
Where can I go with my dog?
You can take your dog to most restaurants and cafes, many shops and shopping malls, and even some grocery stores. Additionally, pet dogs are permitted in the gardens of famous historic villas and many ancient archaeological sites.
Is Italy very dog-friendly?
Yes, Italy is highly dog-friendly, with pets commonly seen in shops, malls, and dining establishments. Rules regarding muzzles and leashes on public transport exist but are often relaxed for well-behaved pets.
Is Pompeii dog-friendly?
Pompeii is dog-friendly, though small dogs must remain on a leash and should be carried when entering buildings. There are signs on-site suggesting dogs should generally weigh no more than 10kg.
Can dogs go into restaurants in Italy?
Most Italian restaurants and cafes allow dogs inside, though it is always recommended to check with the staff upon arrival. In warmer weather, sitting in outdoor or terrace areas is a popular and widely accepted choice for pet owners.
Concluding words
Lake Como serves as an exceptional hub for driving adventures with your dog, offering easy access to both Italian treasures and Swiss alpine landscapes. From the panoramic journey of the Bernina Express to the Mediterranean charm of Lugano, the region provides a variety of pet-friendly excursions.
With a high density of dog-friendly villas, restaurants, and historic gardens, pet owners can enjoy a seamless “dolce vita” experience while exploring the scenic beauty of the Alps and the surrounding lake towns.
