Shopping Bellagio on Lake Como, Italy: What Souvenirs to Bring Home

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I had this romanticized idea of the Italian Lake district for years– narrow stone lanes framed by blooming flowers, grand terraces along the water, and of course, the home of George Clooney. With expectations sky high, I wouldn’t have been surprised if the reality was a let-down. But after an all-too-brief visit, I can happily confirm that Lake Como is all that. Even in the drizzly rain, I couldn’t stop snapping photos. Every adorable bar beckoned me to stop for a glass of wine. The shops were mostly independently run, filled with cute things and fairly priced.

My Lake Como experience was limited– as I was day tripping from Milan, I only had time to see one village, and I couldn’t help but choose storybook Bellagio.

Bellagio is small enough that you can easily wander all its lanes on a day trip, making plenty of stops for shopping, cocktails and gelato. Since my visit was so brief, and most of my time was spent meandering its streets, I can’t write a comprehensive post on all the shops and souvenirs on offer– but I can offer you a glimpse of what’s out there.

My Photo Tour: Shopping Bellagio on Lake Como

The ferry ride to Bellagio isn’t just transportation– it’s a great way to enjoy the views of the tiny villages along the lake.

We headed up the stone stairwell right off the ferry and walked past this adorable spot, Ristoro Forma & Gusto. I just had to stop.

Can’t go wrong with bruschetta and a crisp local white.

A typical picture perfect alleyway in Bellagio, lined with shops, restaurants and bars.

Arte e Moda

This bag if I recall was about 275 euros– worth it for a handmade piece of art that I will always have.

Local Bellagio Cheese

Like most regions of Italy, the Lake District has its own delicious local cheeses. I found a deli on the main road on the very top of the village that seemed to have a wide selection of regional cheeses.

Local cheeses that aren’t widely exported make great souvenirs.

Every stone pathway presented yet another photo opp.

Local Silk from the Italian Lake District

The Lake District (in particular Lake Como) is well-known for its silk production. A souvenir made from local silk (scarves, dresses, ties) is easy to find in the local Bellagio shops. Prices range from ridiculously affordable to stratospheric, depending on quality and design.

Pasticceria Bar Dal 1919

A pasticceria is an Italian pastry shop, serving pastries along with coffee and other beverages.

This pasticceria is over a hundred years old.

I loved these vintage look Lake Como and Bellagio candy tins

The charming owner proudly shared a photo of his grandfather with me.

Leather

I’m not sure if all the leather I saw was locally made, but when I spot checked it seemed like most is from Italy, with a range of styles and prices.

Other Independent Shops in Bellagio

Just one example of local paintings. I loved the easily packable and affordable handpainted bookmarks– a great souvenir.

I’m a sucker for anything vintage or even vintage inspired– loved these t-shirts.

In case you wondered if Bellagio has any good gelato.

Have you been to the Italian Lake district? Share your favorite spots!

Disclosure: I visited Milan as part of the Blogville program sponsored by Lombardy tourism.

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