From its stunning mountain views to its rich local culture, it’s no wonder Lake Como has become one of Italy’s top destinations. Whether you’re an international jet-setter or a family looking for a great vacation spot, Lake Como offers a wide range of activities, attractions, and delicious food that make it a fantastic place to visit. But there’s more to Lake Como than just the popular tourist spots and Italian cuisine. Here are five surprising facts about this geographically and historically significant destination.

First, Lake Como is nearly 30 miles long and almost 3 miles wide, making it one of the largest lakes in Europe by surface area. The lake has a unique ‘Y’ shape that formed during the Ice Age. Due to its vast size, it’s a favorite for boating activities. Whether you prefer ferries, steamships, or private speedboats, Lake Como is one of Italy’s top summer destinations for boating, kayaking, and other water adventures.