Bellagio and Varenna are about a 30 minute drive from Lecco. They are opposite each other. It is best to drive your own car and parking in the outskirts of the towns. Parking in Italy is a little confusing but easy once you figure it out! Blue line means pay for parking, yellow is residential (do not park here), and white is free parking. There is almost always somewhere to pay to park and if you're there earlier in the day, its very easy to find free white parking. If you plan to visit both towns in one day and are driving in, I suggest parking in the parking structure you will find in Varenna and taking the ferry over to Bellagio. There is a ferry between Varenna and Bellagio that is only 15 minutes long. Take into consideration first and last times the ferry leaves. You can easily buy your ticket there. You can also find a boat tour on Viator or Airbnb experiences.
AirBnB experiences is a great option as well for finding cooking classes!
Renting a car is super easy online and easy to pick up in Terminal 1 of MXP Malpensa airport in Milan. Make sure you check to see if you are renting and automatic or manual when checking out. You need to have an international drivers license so please make sure you go to your insurance company and ask for an international drivers license. It should cost around $20 and will last you a whole year.
Renting a classic wooden boat int Lake Como is a luxury and you must book ahead of time! This experience cost 300 euro for one hour. You may also find bigger boat options for bigger groups and longer times/ tours! This is the website we used to take engagement photos. You are welcome to browse around as there are so many options.
Go shopping and visit the famous Duomo cathedral. It is beautiful and worth going inside to tour. Must dress accordingly as you may not be allowed to enter the church.