A Quick Overview of Lake Como
Lake Como is a top vacation spot in Italy. It is located in the northern region of Italy. Tourists come to this region from far and wide to explore the Duomo’s history and venture into the lake and its surroundings.
Are you looking for a vacation destination? Today is your lucky day! In this guide, you will find all the details you need to know about this unique vacation destination. You will discover the best towns you can visit, activities you’ll enjoy doing and the best places to stay while there. Lastly, you will learn how to get around Lake Como. Read further to get more information.
The Four Best Towns to Visit
When you look at the Lake Como map, you’ll realize the attractive towns and villages surrounding the lake. When you visit these towns, be ready to enjoy quiet alleys, picturesque views, pristine beaches, and enthralling villas.
Have you planned your trip to Lake Como? To make the most of your visit there, here are towns you must include in your itinerary. These towns usually attract thousands of tourists from all over the world each year.
Como City
Also known as the City of Como, it is located on the Italian-Swiss border. The city overlooks the southwest end of the lake and is encircled by green ridge hills, creating a uniquely serene environment. What you will love about this city is that there is a lot you can do.
What you can do in the city:
- You can enjoy shopping in the city.
- Take memorable pictures along the lakefront.
- Take a cable car for a quick trip to the Brunate to visit the lighthouse.
- Enjoy boat tours and relax at the sandy beaches.
Bellagio
Bellagio is regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Lombardy. The town is sandwiched between two branches of the lake to the south and is known for fine-looking villas overlooking the waters. You will not need transport to visit the tourist attractions in this town as most are located within walking distance.
What you can do in this town:
- Enjoy local foods and traditions at the town center.
- You can do a Lake Como wedding in the beautiful gardens at Villa Serbelloni or Villa Melzi.
- You can enjoy a quiet place to reflect at the Punta Spartivento and Pescallo.
- People also enjoy boat tours and relaxing at the beaches.
Varenna
Varenna is a traditional village with attractive features. It is situated at the eastern shore of Lake Como in Italy. If you are interested in visiting a quiet town by the lake, you must add Varenna to your itinerary. From Milan, you can get to the city by train in an hour.
What you can do in the town:
- At the town center, you can visit the Church of S. Giorgio and Riva Grande.
- You can visit a botanical garden and museum at the Villa Monastero.
- Discover secular trees and myths at the Villa Cipressi and Castello di Vezio.
- If you love nature, think about visiting Fiumelatte and Sentiero del Viandante to enjoy Lake Como’s weather.
Tremezzina
You will find this town on the western banks of Lake Como. It is located in front of Bellagio. The town resulted from the coming merger of Tremezzo, Lenno, Ossuccio, and Mezzegra. If you want to enjoy a great atmosphere, tourist attractions, and rich history, this is the town to visit. You will also love this town because of its closeness to other popular towns like Verenna and Bellagio.
Things to do in this town:
- You should visit the neoclassical Villa Carlotta and enjoy its flourishing gardens.
- Take an unforgettable trip down memory lane at the Ossuccio and Isola Comacina.
- Take a walk amid towns, villas, and churches at the Greenway del Lago di Como.
- You can also relax at the immaculate beaches or take a boat tour.
The Best Things to do on Your Trip
When you go to a place like Lake Como, you are likely to be overwhelmed by your choices. If you are using the Lake Como Italy map, you will be spoiled for choice. But, you are lucky because this guide will cover the best things you can do on your trip to make it memorable.
Explore the best towns in Lake Como Italy
Lake Como’s perimeter is studded with amiable towns and villages. But, some stand out from the rest. For instance, people highly regard Bellagio, Varenna, and the City of Como. The best move would be to choose a town located in the center of Lake Como like Bellagio. From here, you can effortlessly navigate to other popular towns and villages.
One of the most enjoyable activities you should do on your trip is to explore these popular towns, interact with the locals, and taste traditional food. In your exploration, you will come across some sites with a rich history. You will also find beautiful scenes where you can take memorable pictures.
You must take a boat trip
If you want to experience Lake Como’s best:
- Step out into the waters on a boat trip and tour.
- Don’t just stay in a Lake Como resort; take a boat trip to experience the best of what is on offer. You can take a trip to your favorite destination like the towns mentioned above or some historical villas.
- If you are there for your honeymoon or you are with your family, consider a private boat tour and experience the lake at your own pace.
Sit back and relax at the pristine beaches
If you visit during the summer, enjoy Lake Como’s weather relaxing at the beautiful beaches. You will find beaches on every corner of Lake Como. However, go to the lake’s central and northern parts if you want to enjoy clean water. Also, you can get a chance to go sailing or windsurfing if you are a fan.
Visit one of the historic villas
Lake Como is also known for its villas. If you visit in mid-March or mid-November, you will get an opportunity to see Villa Melze in Bellagio, Villa Balbianello in Tremezzina, and Villa Monastero in Varenna. There are also many other historic residences you can visit that are right next to the water.
If you love flourishing gardens and historic residences, you will love the villas. You can also find openings in some Villas during the low season. If you are looking for a honeymoon destination, you should consider visiting Villa De’este Lake Como.
Five of the Best Places to Stay
If you are looking for the best place to stay in Lake Como, you will find one in this section. Your best pick depends on whether you are on a romantic getaway or traveling with your family. Read on to discover more.
Hotel Du Lac, Bellagio
Star Rating: 3
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Located at the heart of Bellagio Hotel Du Lac is suitable for couples. At this hotel, visitors are treated to excellent food and panoramic views. You will also feel welcome when you interact with the hotel’s gracious staff. The staff is also well versed with local knowledge and tourist information. Hotel visitors enjoy free Wi-Fi access during their stay.
The modern rooms complete with satellite TV and air conditioners will ensure your stay is unforgettable. For couples on their honeymoon trip, consider the bigger rooms with a balcony where you can enjoy a full view of the lake. You will also enjoy the assorted mix of Italian and other international Cuisines.
Hotel La Perla, Tremezzo
Star Rating: 3
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Hotel La Perla is located in the hills above Tremezzo and is an excellent place for couples and families where visitors enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the olive trees surrounding the hotel. You can also relax with your loved ones’ poolside.
The hotel provides free parking and a 15-minutes walking distance from Tremezzo. Most hotel rooms have a balcony offering magnificent views, and you will also enjoy satellite TV and air conditioning. Many regard this quiet hotel as an excellent family hotel, and its staff is very hospitable. If you are traveling solo, you can interact with other visitors at the TV lounge or terrace bar.
Le Stanze del Lago, Como
Star Rating: 4.5
Apartments Le State del Lago are a perfect location for families to stay. You will enjoy a fully equipped kitchenette together with your family. The apartments are air-conditioned and have a separate living room fully equipped with an LCD satellite TV and DVD player. They also have a sofa and a sofa bed. Below the apartment, you will find the famous Ristorante Sociale.
Varennahouse, Varenna
Star Rating: 4.5
Verennahouse offers visitors self-catering apartments. They are situated at Verenna and a short 2-minute walk from Lake Como lakefront. All the apartments have a balcony with unmatched lake views to the lake. These apartments are a great place for families. You can make your booking through Airbnb Lake Como.
In the apartments, you will find terracotta floors and wood-beamed ceilings to make your stay comfortable. You can follow your favorite TV shows on the flat-screen TV and DVD player. It also has a kitchenette furnished with an oven and refrigerator. Furthermore, The bathrooms are equipped with showers, hairdryers, and bidet.
Hotel Bellavista, Menaggio
Star Rating: 3
Hotel Bellavista is the perfect destination for couples and families. It is located at the lakefront and central Menaggio. What’s more, visitors enjoy a bar, restaurant, and classic rooms. All the hotel rooms are en suite, and some have a perfect view of the lake.
At the restaurant, you can enjoy international cuisines and top-rated lake fish specialties. You can also grab a drink at the bar as you enjoy the stunning views of the lake. You will enjoy free Wi-Fi, a garage, and a private mooring for motorboats.
How to Get Around Lake Como
There are different ways visitors can get around Lake Como without a car. You can select from the many private and public transport options available to travel to towns on the west of Lake Como like Tremezzina, Como, Menaggio, and Bellagio, boat service and buses are the best options.
To travel to the eastern towns and villages like Varenna, Lecco and Colico train service is the best option. It is critical to note that trains don’t operate on the western side of the lake. The modes of transport you can use while at Lake Como are:
- Train
- Boats
- Taxis
- Bus
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to take a trip to Lake Como?
The best season to visit Lake Como is between March and November. During this time, there is warm weather that allows you to take boat trips and city walks. But, during the peak season, the towns are overcrowded. If you prefer a more serene trip, go during the off-peak season.
What makes Lake Como so unique?
The picturesque territory, attractive and stylish towns, and the historic villas with plush gardens are unmatched. You will also enjoy traditional food and exquisite service in the restaurants and resorts such as the Lake Como Nudist Resort.
The nearest airport to Lake Como?
The distance from Milan to Lake Como depends on the area you want to visit. Each region has the shortest route you can take. To get to Como City, Milan Malpensa Airport is your best bet. To go to Varenna, Lecco, and Bellagio, consider using the Milan Linate Airport. However, all the Milan airports will allow you to reach your preferred destination with ease.
For how long should you be at Lake Como to have fun?
You must spend at least three days to explore as much as you can. You should be able to visit most of the destinations mentioned in this guide in three to four days.
As you can see, Lake Como is a top tourist destination. You can visit many destinations, including some not mentioned here, like the Sheraton Lake Como Hotel. With so many tourist attractions, it would help if you plan your trip well before heading there. Once you are there, ensure you have fun. Explore as much as possible, and don’t forget to taste the Lake Como pizza – we highly recommend it, it is unforgettable!
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