Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, Lake Como is one of Italy’s most breathtaking destinations, known for its shimmering waters, charming lakeside villages, and luxurious villas. Whether you're looking to cruise across the lake, explore historic towns, or simply relax in a scenic setting, this guide covers everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip.

How to Get to Lake Como

By Air: The closest major airport is Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), about 50 km away. Milan Linate (LIN) and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) are also options.
By Train: From Milan, take a direct train to Como San Giovanni or Varenna-Esino, depending on where you're staying.
By Car: Renting a car allows for flexibility, but note that some roads around the lake are narrow and winding.

Key Towns of Lake Como

1. Como (Gateway Town)

Description: The city of Como is the largest town on the lake and serves as the main entry point. It boasts a charming old town, historic cathedrals, and a scenic waterfront.
Highlights: Visit the Como Cathedral, ride the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views, and stroll along the lake promenade.

2. Bellagio ("The Pearl of Lake Como")

Description: One of the most famous towns on the lake, Bellagio is known for its elegant villas, picturesque streets, and stunning lake views.
Highlights: Wander through the Villa Melzi Gardens, explore charming alleyways filled with boutiques, and enjoy a lakeside aperitivo.

3. Varenna (Romantic Escape)

Description: A quieter alternative to Bellagio, Varenna is a charming fishing village with colorful houses and a romantic lakeside walkway.
Highlights: Walk the Lovers’ Path (Passeggiata degli Innamorati), visit Villa Monastero, and take in stunning sunset views.

4. Menaggio (Best for Relaxation & Families)

Description: A laid-back town with a beautiful lakeside promenade and easy ferry access to Bellagio and Varenna.
Highlights: Stroll along the Menaggio promenade, visit the Lido di Menaggio beach club, or hike to Monte Grona for incredible views.

5. Tremezzo (Home to Villa Carlotta)

Description: Tremezzo is best known for Villa Carlotta, a stunning 17th-century villa with lush gardens and art collections.
Highlights: Tour Villa Carlotta, enjoy fine dining at a lakeside restaurant, or relax at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s floating pool.

6. Lenno (Hidden Gem & Luxury Spot)

Description: A small and peaceful village, Lenno is home to one of Lake Como’s most famous villas.
Highlights: Explore Villa del Balbianello, a popular film location (featured in Star Wars and Casino Royale), and enjoy the scenic Greenway del Lago di Como walking trail.

7. Nesso (Off-the-Beaten-Path Beauty)

Description: A tiny, picturesque town known for its dramatic waterfall and ancient stone bridge.
Highlights: Visit the Orrido di Nesso, a stunning gorge with a waterfall, and cross the Ponte della Civera for picture-perfect views.

Top Hotels

Grand Hotel Tremezzo – Tremezzo
A historic 5-star hotel offering spectacular lake views, lush gardens, and a luxurious floating pool, blending old-world charm with modern elegance.
Passalacqua Hotel – Moltrasio
A beautifully restored 18th-century villa turned intimate luxury retreat, featuring exquisite gardens, lakefront views, and personalized hospitality.
Mandarin Oriental Lake Como – Blevio
A serene lakeside resort set in a historic villa, offering world-class spa treatments, fine dining, and breathtaking views of Lake Como.
Grand Hotel Victoria Concept & Spa – Menaggio
A refined luxury hotel blending historic architecture with contemporary design, featuring a state-of-the-art spa and stunning lakefront location.
Vista Lago di Como – Como
A stylish boutique hotel offering panoramic views of Lake Como, with modern interiors and a prime location near Como’s vibrant city center.
Villa d'Este – Cernobbio
One of Italy’s most iconic luxury hotels, this opulent 16th-century villa features elegant gardens, fine dining, and a legendary floating swimming pool on the lake.

Top Activities on Lake Como

Boat Tours: Cruise across the lake to admire stunning villas, charming towns, and the surrounding mountains. Ferries and private boat rentals are available from Como, Bellagio, and Varenna.
Villa Visits: Explore the historic Villa del Balbianello (famous for its gardens and movie appearances) and Villa Carlotta (known for its art and botanical gardens).
Scenic Hikes: Walk the Greenway del Lago di Como, a picturesque trail connecting lakeside villages, or hike to Monte Grona for breathtaking alpine views.
Funicular to Brunate: Take the funicular from Como to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Lakeside Dining: Enjoy fresh lake fish, risotto, and Italian wine at a waterfront restaurant in Bellagio, Varenna, or Tremezzo.

Travel Tips

Visit in spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is beautiful but can be busy.
Wear comfortable shoes, especially for exploring hilly towns like Bellagio and Varenna.
Use ferries and trains for easy and scenic transportation around the lake—parking is limited in many villages.
Book villa tickets in advance, especially for popular sites like Villa del Balbianello in peak season.

Top Restaurants

High-End Restaurants

Mistral (Bellagio) – A Michelin-starred restaurant at Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, offering refined Italian cuisine with a stunning lakeside setting.
Il Sereno Al Lago (Torno) – A contemporary fine-dining experience at Il Sereno Hotel, featuring elegant dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients.
Locanda La Tirlindana (Sala Comacina) – A charming lakeside restaurant known for its exquisite seafood and handmade pasta.
Materia (Cernobbio) – A Michelin-starred restaurant that blends innovation with traditional Lombard flavors.
La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi (Tremezzo) – Located in the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, this restaurant serves haute cuisine with breathtaking views.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

La Punta (Bellagio) – A relaxed lakeside restaurant serving fresh fish and traditional pasta dishes, perfect for families.
Trattoria del Glicine (Cernobbio) – A welcoming trattoria with classic Lombard dishes and a cozy ambiance.
Ristorante La Darsena (Tremezzo) – A waterfront spot offering local specialties and a kid-friendly atmosphere.
Al Prato (Varenna) – A casual trattoria with excellent homemade pasta and a warm, family-friendly setting.
Lido di Lenno (Lenno) – A beachside restaurant ideal for families, serving fresh seafood and pizza.

Local Favorites

Trattoria San Giacomo (Bellagio) – A beloved, no-frills trattoria known for its risotto and fresh lake fish.
Crotto dei Platani (Brienno) – A hidden gem carved into the rock, offering traditional dishes with a view.
Osteria Quatro Pass (Bellagio) – A cozy and authentic spot with excellent Lombard cuisine.
Ristorante Il Caminetto (Ghisallo) – A rustic, family-run eatery famous for its cooking classes and homemade pasta.
Vecchia Varenna (Varenna) – A charming lakeside restaurant known for its incredible seafood pasta and intimate atmosphere.

Lake Como Guide