Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and romantic destinations in Italy. It is a glacial lake surrounded by majestic mountains, charming villages, and historic villas. It has been a popular retreat for aristocrats, celebrities, and travelers for centuries.
If you are planning to visit Lake Como, you might be wondering where to stay on this stunning lake. There are many towns and hotels to choose from, each with its own character and attractions.
How do you decide where To Stay In Lake Como & which hotel is the best for you?
In this article, I will help you find the best hotels in each town on Lake Como according to your preferences and budget. I will also give you some tips on how to choose the best town to stay in Lake Como based on the factors that matter to you.
How To Choose Where To Stay In Lake Como
Lake Como is divided into three branches:
- The southwest branch, where Como is located
- The southeast branch, where Lecco is located
- The northwest branch, where Colico is located.
Along these branches, there are dozens of towns and villages that offer different experiences and views of the lake.
To help you compare and contrast the main towns on Lake Como, here is a brief overview of each one:
1. Como
Como is the largest and most urban town on Lake Como. It is located at the southern end of the southwest branch of the lake.
It has a rich history, culture, and shopping options. It is also the main gateway to Lake Como, as it has a train station that connects to Milan and other cities.
However, it is also more crowded and expensive than other towns. It has less of a lake vibe and more of a city vibe.
2. Bellagio
Bellagio is the most famous and picturesque town on Lake Como. It is located at the tip of the peninsula that divides the lake into three branches.
It has a romantic vibe, elegant villas, and stunning views. It is also one of the most popular destinations for tourists, as it has many restaurants, shops, and attractions.
3. Varenna
Varenna is a smaller and quieter town on Lake Como. It is located on the eastern shore of the lake, opposite Bellagio. It has a charming medieval center, a lovely promenade, and a relaxed atmosphere.
It is also one of the most relaxing destinations for travelers, as it has fewer crowds, lower prices, and more nature.
However, it is also less lively and convenient than other towns. It has fewer amenities and transportation options.
4. Other Towns on Lake Como
There are many other towns on Lake Como that are worth visiting and staying in if you want to explore different aspects of the lake. For example:
Menaggio
Menaggio is a lively town on the western shore of the lake, opposite Varenna. It has a golf course, a mini golf course, a lido (a public pool), and ferry connections to other towns.
Tremezzo
Tremezzo is an elegant town on the western shore of the lake, south of Menaggio. It boasts Villa Carlotta (a 17th-century villa with an art collection and a splendid garden).
Cernobbio
Cernobbio is a chic town on the western shore of the lake, south of Tremezzo. It hosts Villa d’Este (a 16th-century villa that is now a luxury hotel and a celebrity hotspot).
Lecco
Lecco is an industrial town on the eastern end of the southeast branch of the lake. It is famous for being the setting of Alessandro Manzoni’s novel The Betrothed and for its rock climbing opportunities.
Domaso
Domaso is an active town on the northern end of the northwest branch of the lake. It is ideal for windsurfing, sailing, kitesurfing, and fishing on the lake.
Gravedona
Gravedona is an historic town on the western shore of the northwest branch of the lake. It features Santa Maria del Tiglio (a Romanesque church with frescoes and sculptures).
Depending on what type of traveler you are, you might prefer different towns to stay in Lake Como. Here are some tips and recommendations on how to choose the best town for you:
- Couples: If you are looking for a romantic getaway, you might prefer Bellagio or Varenna.You can also enjoy a boat ride or a walk along the lake with your partner.
- Families: If you are traveling with kids, you might prefer Como or Menaggio. These towns have more spacious and affordable accommodation, as well as more family-friendly activities.
- Solo travelers: If you are traveling alone, you might prefer Lecco or Cernobbio. These towns have a more social and budget-friendly vibe, with more hostels, bars, and cafes.
- Adventure seekers: If you are looking for some thrill and excitement, you might prefer Domaso or Gravedona. These towns have more outdoor sports and hiking opportunities, as well as more natural scenery.
The Best Hotels in Lake Como
Como is the main gateway to Lake Como and the most convenient town to stay in if you want to explore the lake by boat or by train. It has many attractions and activities to offer, such as:
- The Duomo: The Duomo is a magnificent Gothic-Renaissance cathedral that is one of the most impressive in Italy. It has a stunning facade, a rich interior, and a tall bell tower that offers panoramic views of the town and the lake.
- The Funicular: The Funicular is a cable car that takes you up to Brunate, a hilltop village with panoramic views of the lake and the Alps. You can also enjoy some hiking trails, restaurants, and churches in Brunate.
- Villa Olmo: Villa Olmo is a neoclassical villa that hosts art exhibitions and cultural events in its elegant rooms and gardens. You can also admire its architecture, sculptures, and fountains.
If you decide to stay in Como, here are some of the best hotels in lake como to choose from according to different categories:
Luxury hotel
Hotel Villa Flori
Hotel Villa Flori is a 19th-century villa that offers elegant rooms with lake views, a gourmet restaurant, a spa, and a private dock. It is located about 2 km from the center of Como, but it has a free shuttle service to the town and the ferry terminal.
Boutique Hotel
Hotel Borgovico
Hotel Borgovico is a stylish hotel that features modern rooms with original artworks, a cozy lounge bar, and a bike rental service. It is located about 1 km from the center of Como, but it has a convenient location near the train station and the lake.
Budget Hotel
Hotel Barchetta Excelsior
Hotel Barchetta Excelsior is a comfortable hotel that provides spacious rooms with balconies overlooking the lake or the piazza, a buffet breakfast, and a rooftop terrace. It is located in the heart of Como, right next to the Duomo and the ferry terminal.
The Best Hotels in Bellagio
Bellagio is the pearl of Lake Como and the most popular town to stay in if you want to experience the glamour and beauty of the lake. It has many attractions and activities to offer, such as:
- Villa Melzi: Villa Melzi is a neoclassical villa that boasts exquisite gardens with exotic plants, sculptures, and fountains. You can also visit its museum, chapel, and orangery.
- Villa Serbelloni: Villa Serbelloni is a former residence of nobility that now hosts a luxury hotel and offers guided tours of its parkland with stunning views. You can also enjoy its pool, spa, restaurant, and private beach.
- Shopping: Shopping is one of the main attractions in Bellagio, as you can browse through the quaint shops that sell local crafts, silk products, leather goods, and jewelry. You can also find some souvenirs, such as pottery, paintings, and postcards.
- Boat ride: Boat ride is one of the best ways to enjoy the lake and its views. You can take a ferry to visit other towns, such as Varenna, Menaggio, or Tremezzo. You can also rent a private boat or join a guided tour to explore the lake and its villas.
If you decide to stay in Bellagio, here are some of the best hotels to choose from according to different categories:
Luxury Hotel
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is a 5-star hotel that occupies a historic villa and offers lavish rooms with antique furniture, a Michelin-starred restaurant, a spa, and a private beach. It is located in the center of Bellagio, but it has a secluded and tranquil setting.
Boutique Hotel
Hotel Belvedere
Hotel Belvedere is a family-run hotel that features cozy rooms with lake views, a heated pool, a jacuzzi, and a wellness center. It is located about 500 meters from the center of Bellagio, but it has a free shuttle service to the town and the ferry terminal.
Budget Hotel
Hotel Bellagio
Hotel Bellagio is a charming hotel that provides simple rooms with balconies, a continental breakfast, and a rooftop terrace. It is located in the heart of Bellagio, right next to the ferry terminal and the main attractions.
The Best Hotels In Varenna
Varenna is the hidden gem of Lake Como and the most relaxing town to stay in if you want to enjoy the tranquility and charm of the lake. It has many attractions and activities to offer, such as:
- Villa Monastero: Villa Monastero is a former monastery that houses a museum and a botanical garden with rare plants and scenic paths. You can also admire its architecture, frescoes, and mosaics.
- Castello di Vezio: Castello di Vezio is a medieval castle that offers spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, as well as falconry shows and exhibitions. You can also explore its towers, walls, and dungeons.
- Walking: Walking is one of the main activities in Varenna, as you can stroll along the lakeside promenade or the cobbled alleys that lead to quaint cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can also enjoy the colorful houses, the fishing boats, and the swans on the lake.
If you decide to stay in Varenna, here are some of the best hotels n Varenna to choose from according to different categories:
Luxury Hotel
Hotel Royal Victoria
Hotel Royal Victoria is a 4-star hotel that occupies a historic building and offers elegant rooms with lake views, two restaurants, a pool, and a sauna. It is located in the center of Varenna, but it has a peaceful and romantic setting.
Boutique Hotel
Hotel du Lac
Hotel du Lac is a romantic hotel that features bright rooms with balconies, a terrace bar, and a private jetty. It is located about 200 meters from the center of Varenna, but it has a stunning view of the lake and the mountains.
Budget Hotel
Albergo Milano
Albergo Milano is a cozy hotel that provides rustic rooms with terraces, a continental breakfast, and a garden. It is located in the heart of Varenna, right next to the ferry terminal and the main attractions.
The best hotels in other towns on Lake Como
There are many other towns on Lake Como that are worth visiting and staying in if you want to explore different aspects of the lake.
Each town has its own character and attractions, and you might find some hidden gems and surprises along the way. Here are some examples of other towns on Lake Como and their main attractions:
- Menaggio: Menaggio is a lively town on the western shore of the lake, opposite Varenna. It has a golf course, a mini golf course, a lido (a public pool), and ferry connections to other towns. You can also enjoy its promenade, its piazza, and its church.
- Tremezzo: Tremezzo is an elegant town on the western shore of the lake, south of Menaggio. It boasts Villa Carlotta, a 17th-century villa with an art collection and a splendid garden. You can also visit its museum, its cafe, and its chapel.
- Cernobbio: Cernobbio is a chic town on the western shore of the lake, south of Tremezzo. It hosts Villa d’Este, a 16th-century villa that is now a luxury hotel and a celebrity hotspot. You can also admire its architecture, its park, and its fountain.
- Lecco: Lecco is an industrial town on the eastern end of the southeast branch of the lake. It is famous for being the setting of Alessandro Manzoni’s novel The Betrothed and for its rock climbing opportunities. You can also explore its castle, its basilica, and its bridge.
- Domaso: Domaso is an active town on the northern end of the northwest branch of the lake. It is ideal for windsurfing, sailing, kitesurfing, and fishing on the lake. You can also enjoy its beach, its marina, and its church.
- Gravedona: Gravedona is an historic town on the western shore of the northwest branch of the lake. It features Santa Maria del Tiglio, a Romanesque church with frescoes and sculptures. You can also visit its palace, its tower, and its monastery.
If you decide to stay in one of these towns on Lake Como, here are some of the best hotels to choose from according to different categories:
- Luxury hotel: Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a 5-star hotel that offers opulent rooms with lake views, three pools, five restaurants, and a spa. It is located in Tremezzo, next to Villa Carlotta and opposite Bellagio.
- Boutique hotel: Hotel La Darsena is a modern hotel that features spacious rooms with balconies, a terrace restaurant, and a private beach. It is located in Tremezzina, near Tremezzo and Menaggio.
- Budget hotel: Hotel Lario is a friendly hotel that provides clean rooms with mountain views, a buffet breakfast, and an outdoor pool. It is located in Mezzegra, near Tremezzina and Lenno.
Conclusion
In this article, I have helped you find where to stay in Lake Como and the best hotels in each town on Lake Como according to your preferences and budget.
I have also given you some tips on how to choose the best town to stay in Lake Como based on the factors that matter to you.
Lake Como is a wonderful destination that offers many attractions and activities for visitors. Whether you are looking for romance, relaxation, adventure, or culture, you will find it on this stunning lake.
If you are ready to book your accommodation in Lake Como, you can use my website or affiliate link to find the best deals and offers. You can also compare prices and reviews from different sources and platforms.
Thank you for reading my article and I hope you enjoyed it. If you did, please share it with your friends or leave a comment below.
I hope to see you soon on Lake Como!
FAQs
What is Lake Como famous for?
Lake Como is famous for being one of the most beautiful and romantic destinations in Italy. It is a glacial lake surrounded by majestic mountains, charming villages, and historic villas. It has been a popular retreat for aristocrats, celebrities, and travelers for centuries.
How do I get to Lake Como from Milan?
The easiest way to get to Lake Como from Milan is by train. You can take a direct train from Milan Central Station to Como San Giovanni Station, which takes about 40 minutes. From there, you can walk to the lake or take a bus or a taxi. You can also take a train from Milan to Varenna, Lecco, or Colico, which are other towns on the lake.
Where should I stay on Lake Como?
There are many towns and hotels to choose from on Lake Como, depending on your preferences and budget. Some of the most popular towns are Como, Bellagio, and Varenna, which offer different experiences and views of the lake. You can also stay in other towns, such as Menaggio, Tremezzo, Cernobbio, Lecco, Domaso, or Gravedona, which have their own character and attractions. You can find more information on how to choose the best town and hotel on Lake Como in this article.
When is the best time to visit Lake Como?
The best time to visit Lake Como is in spring or autumn, when the weather is still pleasant and the lake is less crowded than in summer. During these seasons, you can enjoy the blooming flowers or the changing colors of the leaves on the lake. You can also find lower prices and more availability for accommodation and transportation. Winter is also a good time to visit if you want to ski in the nearby mountains or enjoy the wintry solitude of the lake. However, some ferries will run less frequently and some hotels and restaurants will close for the season.
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