One Day in Lecco: Itinerary, Map, Travel Tips

Lecco is Lake Como’s best-kept secret – and it was by pure chance that we were let in on this charming corner of Italy.

Sitting quietly on the shore of the lake’s southeastern leg, Lecco is lesser known than its famous counterparts. Still, with craggy mountains cloaking the crystal-clear water, it is truly stunning.

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To make the most of our one day in Lecco, we created an itinerary that allowed us to completely immerse ourselves in the majestic setting.

Why Spend a Day in Lecco, Italy

We were enjoying a month-long stay in Bergamo when we decided to take a day trip to Lecco.

Our proximity to Lake Como had us reminiscing about our previous visit to the fairytale towns of Como and Bellagio.

After Sightseeing in Milan, we were craving natural beauty over ticking off a list of sights. That’s when we stumbled onto Lecco.

A popular getaway for Milanese, but practically unknown to most international travelers, Lecco is a hidden gem.

The town itself has just handful of historic points of interest – but it’s the gobsmackingly gorgeous setting that really steals the show.

In our one-day Lecco itinerary, we outline what to see, do and eat. This way you can make the most of your trip to this underrated Italian lakeside destination!

One Day in Lecco Itinerary

Our agenda of things to do in Lecco in 1 day features sightseeing, waterside strolls and active adventures. Later, you will find our Lecco map of attractions and tips for trip logistics.

Morning: Explore Historic Lecco

We kick off our one day itinerary in Lecco right in the heart of town. Here, jagged peaks loom large at the end of pretty lanes. Nearby, remnants of the past are tucked inconspicuously into corners.

On a leisurely stroll through the delightful city center, you can take in the most impressive sights.

Visit the 11th century Basilica of St Nicholas and the 315-foot-tall Campanile di San Nicolo. The ‘Pencil’ (as it’s called locally) is one of the tallest bell towers in Italy. For a small fee, you can climb to the top.

See the remains of the ancient Vallo delle Mura. These fortifications date to the 14th century – and, along with a castle, were built to protect the strategically important settlement.

Wander into Piazza XX Settembre, which feels more like a wide, pedestrianized walkway than a square. On the north end is Palazzo delle Paure, that was built in 1905.

It housed the tax office and Land Registry, which caused dread and distress among the locals, thus the name: Palace of Fear. Today, it’s a museum hosting rotating exhibits.

The south end of the piazza is marked by the Torre Viscontea. Built by Matteo Visconti in 1296, it’s one of the last standing pieces of the former castle. Temporary exhibitions are held on the first floor.

Mid-Morning: Embark on a Lecco Lakeside Walk

The Lungolago di Lecco is a pedestrian promenade that hugs the shoreline of Lake Como – and we think walking along it is a must-do while visiting Lecco in a day!

Extending one mile north from the Monument ai Caduti War Memorial, the path sticks entirely to the coast.

The route is highlighted by lush greenery, blooming flowers and plenty of benches where you can stop to rest and savor the expansive views.

Lunch: Pizza and Gelato

We were all set to pack a picnic lunch for our one-day trip to Lecco, but we abandoned that idea when we heard about Al Borgo Antico City Pizzeria!

The small, unassuming restaurant is hidden down an easy-to-miss alleyway – but they welcome a steady stream of in-the-know locals and visitors.

Highly regarded for making the best pizza in Lecco, we had to try it for ourselves. After much contemplation, we ordered the Speciale 4.

This exceptional pizza is layered with tomato, radicchio, smoked Buffalo mozzarella, Buffalo burrata – and then topped with thinly sliced speck.

With quality ingredients and crust that is simultaneously crispy and chewy, it did not disappoint!

They do have a quirky rule that each seated patron must order their own pizza. So we ordered one to-go (which was plenty) and shared it on a bench overlooking the lake.

Then we moved on to Gelateria Toldo. Established in the Lombardy region in 1925, the shop churns out fresh and creamy gelato by using carefully selected natural ingredients.

The recommended trio of Salted Caramel, Pistachio and Dark Chocolate was out of this world – and the chocolate doused wafer was the cherry on top!

Afternoon: Wander the Fisherman’s District

Next up on our 1-day Lecco itinerary is Pescarenico, the compact and historic Fisherman’s Quarter.

The district sits along the Adda River, the waterway that connects Lake Como to Lake Garlate.

Boasting a tangle of narrow, cobbled lanes lined with colorful houses, Pescarenico evokes a village-like atmosphere – yet, it’s just a 20-minute walk south from the center of Lecco.

We recommend roaming the quaint alleyways, seeking out a Lucia boat (a traditional, wooden Lake Como vessel) and admiring the scenery.

You likely won’t be alone while wandering. Pescarenico served as the setting for a famous 19th century Italian novel, The Betrothed by A. Manzoni. Today, nostalgic citizens often pay the neighborhood a visit.

Itinerary Option: Lecco Museums

If you would rather skip the old fisherman’s enclave, consider visiting a cultural institution instead.

We already mentioned a few art venues, but the Lake Como Museum Immersive Experience is a good option if you are interested in learning more about the area’s history.

Mid-Afternoon: Change Your Perspective

Now choose an activity that will give you a different point of view of the region. Hike into the hills, ride the cable car to a mountaintop perch, hop on a cruise or simply walk the shores.

Moderate Lecco Hike

For our 1-day itinerary for Lecco, we wanted to stretch our legs on a trek that culminated in an epic viewpoint – and the Pian Sciresa trail absolutely delivered!

The steady, uphill climb was a challenge, but the panoramic views were 100% worth the effort!

From the platform behind the Baita Pian Sciresca Mountain Cabin, we marveled at the stunning scene. The expansive vista encompassed the pristine lake, Monte Resegone and the ‘Dolomites of Lecco’.

From the Ponte Vecchia Bridge (aka Ponte Azzone Visconti), it took us about 2 hours to complete the out-and-back trek. You could nearly cut that in half by driving (or taking a taxi) to the trailhead.

Piani d’Erna Cable Car

In the hills above Lecco, a cable car transports passengers to the year-round mountain resort of Erna Piani.

Sitting at an altitude of 4500ft, the views are said to be sensational. The lower cable car station in Malnago is easy to reach by local bus #5.

Lecco Boat Cruise

Both ferries and cruises on Lake Como are fantastic ways to revel in the magnificent surroundings.

We took one on our first trip here and would have loved to do it again, but none were running during our late autumn visit.

Check ferry schedules on the official website – and you can find cruise options near the small marina, as well.

Malgrate

Sitting directly across the water from Lecco is Malgrate – and it’s simple to reach on foot via the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.

We believe the best reason to make the trip is to walk the Lungolago di Malgrate, the shoreline promenade that provides exceptional views of Lecco and the astounding landscape.

Evening: Drinks and Dinner

End your 1 day in Lecco, Italy with al fresco drinks and a delicious dinner. There are plenty of places where you can order a glass of wine, Aperol spritz or cold beer on an atmospheric patio.

As craft beer enthusiasts, we were excited to sample the creations from Birrificio Herba Monstrum Brewery, which is located opposite Pescarenico.

Established in 2012, they offer a full line up of their own brews on tap and in cans and bottles. In a country where excellent craft beer can be difficult to find, it was a delightful oasis!

We lingered over our beverages and our time in Lecco was dwindling, so we ended up skipping dinner (as we had a train to catch).

Otherwise, we would have loved to get a taste of the catch of the day. Both Mamaioa Bistrot and Ristorante Pontile Orestino were recommended as excellent spots for fresh fish, as well as other Italian classics.

Lecco Map

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our map of Lecco below.

Lecco Travel Tips

Now that you know what to do in Lecco for a day, we have some honest advice for your visit.

How Long to Stay in Lecco

We believe one day in Lecco is just enough time to skim the surface and get a feel for the area.

In the warmer months, we could have easily spent 2 days in Lecco hiking trails, navigating the shoreline, embarking on boat cruises and riding the cable car.

On the flip side, you can still get a good look with less time (or more daylight). With just a half day in Lecco it is possible to see the highlights, stroll the coastline and even set off on a short boat tour.

Lecco Accommodations

If you plan on spending a full 24 hours in Lecco (or a few days), then you will need a place to stay! For an overnight trip, we think Hotel Alberi would be sublime.

The property has a superb location right on the lakefront – with affordable rooms and stellar views. Plus, they get high marks for cleanliness, service and breakfast.

How To Get to Lecco

An inexpensive train ride takes just 40 minutes from either Milan or Bergamo (although track work during our visit doubled that time and required switching to a bus).

Those coming from Como can use the R18 Como-Molteno-Lecco regional train line or C140 bus route. Travel time is just over an hour.

If you are based in Bellagio, it is possible to make a 1 day trip to Lecco via ferry boat (but only during the summer season).

What You Will Need

In addition to our recommendations on how to spend one day in Lecco, we have a few tips about what you will want to bring with you.

Durable Shoes: Wear your most comfortable travel shoes for the cobbled lanes and inclined trails.

Layered Clothing: Be prepared for changing temperatures, especially if going to the mountains.

Travel Camera: We use a Canon Rebel; it’s a great DSLR camera for travelers!

Day Bag: Carry a functional day pack that is big enough to stow everything you will need.

Battery Boost: Don’t forget your portable charger; we rely on one by Anker.

Travel Planner

In addition to keeping track of the best things to see in Lecco, you’ll need to stay on top the details. With our Printable Travel Planner, nothing falls through the cracks!

Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

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