Things to see and do in Menaggio

Today I will briefly tell you what to see in Menaggio and the things not to be missed if you decide to visit this pretty village in the centre of the lake.

It is one of the most visited towns on Lake Como and can offer several interesting possibilities, especially in the summer months, but not only!

Here, then, are my tips for getting the most out of this little village.

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What to see in Menaggio: here is the best of this pretty village on Lake Como

1# The lakeside promenade of Menaggio

Menaggio’s lakeside promenade is a must-see.

It is beautiful because it is full of flowers, it offers an extraordinary view of Bellagio, it is lively and is often animated by evening markets, especially in summer or at Christmas time.

The square from which it starts is a little gem, surrounded by many small bars, restaurants, ice-cream parlours and boutiques. It is a bit like your living room, where chatting, sitting at a small table with a beautiful painting in front of you, is a real pleasure not to be missed.

Overlooking the square is an exhibition space with free admission where interesting exhibitions of all kinds alternate. It is always nice to take a look and browse around inside..

But you can also satisfy your craving for art along the main street that starts from the square: just cross the threshold of the two churches along Via Calvi and you’re done! They are the Parish Church of St. Stephen and the Church of St. Martha and both house interesting frescoes and paintings.

2# The historic hamlet of ‘Castello’

As in all the best villages, also in Menaggio there is a historic hamlet to see. It is a nucleus from which the town has developed over the centuries. And, as is often the case, it is located in the upper part of the village.

The way to get there, Via Castellino, runs to the left of the parish church and leads to the hamlet known as Castello (Castle). Well, it is obvious that you are standing on the site where a castle stood in medieval times, of which only the walls are visible today.

The Church of St Charles was then built on its ruins. It has a beautiful bell gable, which is actually visible from the centre of the village.

Although the castle no longer exists, you realise to be in the old part of the village from the style of the streets and houses, the large gates and the many fascinating details. Here you breathe a different atmosphere from the rest of the village, an atmosphere of old times, with an irresistible charm!

3# Fun!

And the fun in Menaggio is especially true in summer!!

Yes, because in Menaggio there is also a lido with several swimming pools and there is a minigolf course. But also a renowned golf course, rental points for boats, kayaks and motorboats and for the more athletic there is also a rock wall on which to climb.

If you feel like doing, there is no shortage of possibilities here!

Menaggio also offers much for those who love cycling or walking.

It is both the starting point of the 12-km cycle path that follows the old route of the former railway to Porlezza, and the starting point for more or less easy excursions within the Val Sanagra Park and on the slopes of the mountains behind it.

Certainly a beautiful tour that I often propose around Menaggio is the loop trail that, for a stretch, runs along the route of the old railway. Easy and full of surprises!

But Menaggio does not lack tennis, volleyball and basketball courts either. Let’s say that there is no chance of getting bored, you just need to know how to choose!

Until next time 🙂

Looking for more ideas for a trip to Lake Como? You might be interested in: My Lake Como, a local guide on what to see and do.