Best things to do in Bellagio

A strip of gardens that line the lakeshore on the Bellagio peninsula, I Giardini di Villa Melzi is a manicured landscape that was once the playground of Francesco Melzi d'Eril, duke of Lodi and the vice president of the Italian Republic in the early 19th century. The Neoclassical villa and chapel set off the colors of the garden. A greenhouse, called the orangery, is home to a collection of artifacts from the Napoleonic period and other rare archaeological finds. On the other side of the grounds, bamboo surrounds a chapel to create a place quiet meditation.

Visit Villa Carlotta, built in 1690, to see a decorated house and botanical garden filled with fine art. Admire views of Lake Como as you wander through the garden among camellias, century-old cedars, a rock garden, rhododendrons, and a bamboo garden. Discover 19th-century sculptures, including pieces by Canova and Thorvaldsen. On the villa's first floor, see Hayez's "The Last Kiss of Romeo and Juliet" painting--one the collection's masterpieces. Princess Marianne of the Netherlands bought this villa for her daughter in the mid-18th century, and the second floor features furniture, pictures, and decorations from that period. The ancient greenhouse is now a cafe. Pick up an audio guides, or ask about guided tours.

The queen of Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello rests on the tip of a small wooded peninsula and is celebrated for its elaborate terraced gardens. The villa was built in 1787 on the site of a Franciscan monastery. By the time wealthy American businessman Butler Ames purchased the property in the early 20th century, the villa had fallen into a state of neglect. Ames renovated the estate extensively, making vast improvements to the already impressive gardens. In 1974 the property was sold to Guido Monzino, the leader of the first Italian expedition to Mount Everest, who filled the villa with a rich collection of fine art and artifacts acquired on his expeditions. After paying the entry fee, you can walk freely through the gardens and enjoy the sweeping views of the lake. Guided tours of the interior are available at additional cost.

Azalea - Silk of Como offers pure silk shawls, scarves, ties, and accessories. Each item sold here can be a great gift for someone at home--take a little time to find a perfect present for someone you love, or a quality, wearable souvenir to add to your closet.

Packed with perfumes, cosmetics, and other beauty items, Profumeria Bellagio attracts customers with its huge stock and friendly service. Favored by fragrance collectors, the shop offers a selection of rare scents packaged in attractive gift boxes. Look for designer perfumes, luxury skincare products, and reasonably priced hair treatments. Check the website for payment options and ongoing special deals.