Lake Como is one of the most stunning places in Italy! It is located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, surrounded by the magnificent Alps.
I am personally fascinated by this breathtaking destination because the moment you enter this place you are treated to luxurious villas, picturesque towns, stunning Alps and crystal-clear waters of the lake!
For more information about this natural wonder explore our detailed Lake Como travel guide.
Getting to Lake Como
By Air
The closest airport to Lake Como is Milan Malpensa Airport, which is about 45 minutes away by car. From the airport, you can hire a private transfer or take a train to reach the lake.
Other nearby airports include Milan Linate Airport and Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport.
By Train
Lake Como is well connected by train to major cities in Italy. You can take a train from Milan to Como or Varenna, which are two of the popular towns on the lake. The journey takes around an hour, and the trains are frequent.
By Car
If you love driving then you can take a drive from Milan, taking the A9 motorway and exiting at Como Nord or Como Sud.
This journey takes you around an hour, depending on traffic. From other parts of Italy, take the A1 motorway to Milan and then follow the A9 to Como.
By Bus
There are regular bus services from Milan and other nearby cities to Lake Como. The buses are comfortable, and the journey takes around an hour and a half.
By Ferry
This is the most exciting and fun-filled way to travel to Lake Como! You can also explore the towns around the lake by ferry.
There are regular ferry services from Como, Varenna, Bellagio, and other towns. This is a scenic way to travel and see the lake from a different perspective.
Accommodations In Towns Near Lake Como
Lake Como is surrounded by several beautiful towns and villages, each with its unique characteristics and charm. Some of the most beautiful and popular ones are:
Como Town
The Como City is a dreamy town around 40km away from the lake area connected well by road. Known around the globe for its artistic views, regardless of where you look. The parks, gardens, museums, theatres and especially the cathedrals like the Gothic Como Cathedral are a delight to look at!
Places To Stay In Como Town
If you are looking for a luxurious stay in Como Town, Vista Palazzo is the way to go! Vesta Palazzo is the most lavish hotel in the town, with all the facilities you might need. Beautiful rooms with an awe-inspiring view from each balcony what more could one want?
For pricing and availabilities, please visit booking.com here
For a pocket-friendly stay, which is just as perfect Albergo Firenze is ideal. A well-designed building that makes you feel like you are in Italy, and gives you the experience of it too. The hotel is close to the train station for the convenience of travel. And with that, they have facilities such as free wifi and a morning buffet too!
For pricing and availabilities, please visit booking.com here
Bellagio Town
Lake Como is known for its beauty, and Bellagio Town is a cherry on top. The aura is fresh, the streets are bright and the people are enthusiastic. To me all of this sums up a traveller’s dream! A picture-perfect view of the ally, filled with shops and air filled with the fragrance of Nerium flowers.
Domus Bellagio is a 4-star hotel with a variety of amenities, including a terrace with lake views, a garden, and a bar. You’ll enjoy its cleanliness and wonderful location and views of the lake.
To book your stay check this website.
Menaggio Town
Like a typical beach town, Menaggio is surrounded by the fresh sea and the air with a contagious vibe. The prettiest village near Lake Como, if you don’t visit this palace you miss out on a lot! Spend an evening at the beach admiring the alluring vistas!
Places To Stay In Menaggio Town
Grand Hotel Victoria is a great choice if you are looking for a luxurious stay in Menaggio Town. The hotel is right at the shore of the sea separated by a garden, you can imagine what a view it would be! surrounded by trees on one side and the sea on the other. In addition to this, the hotel also has a spa centre for complete relaxation.
For pricing and availabilities, please visit booking.com here
The Club Guest House is an ideal budget-friendly stay in Menaggio Town, pay less and enjoy more! I love this guest house for its attractive and perfectly maintained design of the greens especially! Apart from the interiors only seen in fairy tales, the place has abundant facilities for your comfort.
For pricing and availabilities, please visit booking.com here
Places to Visit Nearby
Villa del Balbianello
The villa is nothing less than a castle sitting atop an island! On the western shore of Lake Como, this villa is surrounded by the sea and well-groomed lush green gardens and hence has the prettiest views of all time, the shore meeting the sky and the land lined with greenery.
You can visit the gardens and even the interiors of this villa. I was flabbergasted to see such a marvellous place, and to be honest, I could spend hours in these gardens!
Como-Brunate Funicular
A Funicular is a type of railway operated by a cable connecting two places. Como-Brunate Funicular connects these two towns together. The funicular is the quickest mode of transport between the two towns, and the views I saw from this train were captivating!
This adds a spark to even the part before you reach the town with an astonishing view of the Alps and of course Lake Como.
Bellagio promenade
The city is known for its fresh and bright aura, vibrant with the lovely scent of flowers. Happening city streets with even more happening people. All of these qualities come together in one location, which is the Bellagio promenade.
The Bellagio promenade is the most stop-and-stare beautiful sidewalk I have ever seen. Lining the shore of Lake Como on one side and Nerium flowers on the other, it seems like a walk in heaven. So much so that it inspired a profound American artist, Howard Behrens to paint this walkway!
Villa Carlotta
Villa Carlotta is a villa and botanical garden filled with ancient trees, palms, rhododendrons, azaleas, and many other plants. You can also explore art collections, which include statues, paintings, and original neoclassical furniture, as well as valuable masterpieces in the Villa Carlotta Museum.
Menaggio
Menaggio is a nice town and a great starting point to discover Lake Como and the mountains that surround it. In this town, you can explore a range of restaurants, cafes, and shops as well as historic churches and buildings, including the Church of Santa Marta with its fascinating neo-Gothic architecture.
Restaurants in Lake Como
La Terrazza Lake Como
A beautiful fine dining restaurant by the shore of Lake Como that best serves Risotto Alla Milanese along with refreshing cocktails with its breathtaking views of the glistening lake and majestic mountains.
The menu has Italian and contemporary delicacies perfectly made which is in tandem with the lovely ambiance. You can check out their website for more information.
Trattoria San Giacomo
Restaurant Trattoria San Giacomo sits at the heart of the city. The restaurant is famous among tourists and locals alike. The restaurant specializes in authentic Italian cuisine, prepared with the freshest ingredients and a traditional touch.
The view will make you feel like you are in Italy. The ambience of the restaurant is welcoming, accompanied by the aroma of the delicious food. For more information check out their website here
La Cucina della Marianna
The La Cucina della Marianna offers an unforgettable culinary experience, specialising in Italian cuisine. It is a cosy restaurant with a tropical aura and is located at the heart of the town.
The extensive menu features a wide range of appetizers, homemade pasta, amazing meat and seafood dishes, and a carefully curated wine selection.
For more information check out their official website.
Domaso: Winery near Como Lake
A wine estate run by an Italian family and passed over generations, this winery has a collection worth checking out. The vineyards stretch across picturesque landscapes too.
Visitors can indulge in delightful wine tastings, guided tours, and immersive experiences that showcase the winemaking process.
Tips and tricks for visiting Lake Como
- Explore the towns near Lake Como.
- Ride the funicular for breathtaking views of Lake Como.
- Try out the local cuisine, especially risotto alla Milanese.
- The best time to visit Lake Como is anywhere between July to September to avoid the rush and enjoy a hassle-free trip
- Italy is a fashion-forward place, so in my opinion it is best to keep casual clothing aside and go for the dressy options. It is advisable not to wear very revealing clothes here, especially in historical places.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is the best time of year to visit Lake Como Italy?
The best time to visit Lake Como, Italy is during June when you can experience the liveliness and beauty of the area without the stifling crowds of July and August.
What do I need to know before going to Lake Como?
The most convenient way to reach Lake Como from Milan is by train, which can take less than an hour depending on your destination of choice.
It is also important to note that finding public transportation, particularly buses, can be difficult at Lake Como. Therefore, it is advisable to check ahead for any national holidays that may affect bus schedules. Taxis can also be unreliable, so it is better to rely on trains or ferries for transportation.
What is the most popular part of Lake Como?
The most popular parts of Lake Como are Bellagio, Varenna, and Como. These destinations are known for their charm, picturesque scenery, and a wide range of activities for you to enjoy.
Conclusion
All of this and more makes Lake Como a must-visit on every travel enthusiast’s list. This Lake brings together a captivating blend of serene waters, lush greenery, charming lakeside towns, and excellent architecture.
The picturesque towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Como exude charm, with cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and delightful local cuisine.
Here’s another useful resource for you to explore things to do in Milan.
