Bellagio lies at the point where Lake Como divides into its two southern branches and is considered the "Pearl of Lake Como", with its characteristic stairways between the houses in the historic centre.

Just a few minutes' walk from the centre and from the pier are the botanical gardens of Villa Melzi, one of the best-known historic villas on Lake Como. It was commissioned by Francesco Melzi d'Eril, Duke of Lodi and personal friend of Napoleon.

At the entrance to the park you will be greeted by a small lake with water lilies and, a little further on, a kiosk in Moorish style with an enchanting view of Bellagio. Along the lake, next to a splendid Pinus montezuma, are ancient Egyptian statues from Napoleon's Egyptian campaign.

In the gardens, exotic and rare essences alternate with centuries-old trees, camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas. Among the most precious plants are Liriodendron tulipifera, cedars of Lebanon, red beeches, camphor trees, Ginkgo biloba and many others of both botanical and historical value.