Next morning, we made our way to Milano Nord Cadorna station and head towards Lake Como. We alighted at Como Nord Lago after an hour train ride. Trains run regularly from Milan to Como. However, there are 3 stations here (Como San Giovanni, Como Nord Lago, and Como Nord Borghi) which may add to the confusion. Como Nord Lago station is nearer to the waterfront. And what awaits us are Italy’s beautiful Lake District and the lakeside town of Como. Lake Como is one of Europe’s largest lakes surrounded by picturesque villages hugging the shore and great-looking mountainous scenery. It’s a nice change as compared to Milan’s urban jungle. The idyllic and dreamy surroundings are truly captivating.

Now, if only we have (lots of) spare cash to splurge on a villa overlooking the lake like our dear friend George. It’s reported that Clooney owns three beautiful villas on the lakeside, eh George, why didn’t you reply to my request for a retreat in one of them huh? George didn’t respond so I made a check on the rates of Villa d’Este, one lakefront hotel which was converted from a villa. A night stay in its Double Bedrooms would knock 700 Euros off my bank account. Wow…thanks but no thanks, for now.

No Lack of shopping around Lake Como

Just like other popular tourist attractions in Italy, the lakeside town is not short of shopping places with the presence of designers’ boutiques. Foxtown Outlets Mall is located across the Swiss border and within an hour bus ride for keen shoppers. The rates of Swiss Franc weren’t favourable back then so we gave it a miss.

But silk products are what Como most famous for. We saw clothing, ties, scarves and some home furnishings stuff. Be prepared to pay for their high-quality, though. After patiently waited for wifey to complete her shopping rituals, it’s time to check out the shore.

The Como Cathedral…

There are Lake Como boat tours offering a panoramic boat ride to cruise along the inverted Y-shaped lake or to visit one of many villages. We didn’t board any as wifey ain’t a fan of boat ride so we just enjoyed our leisurely walk around the lake.

It’s also possible to pedal along the lake in one of the funny boats.

The scenic view of Lake Como would qualify as an ideal place to retire – I am full of envy for those people living here. And perhaps we should have taken the funicular up to Brunate, next time then!