Lake Como Holidays: the best things to do
Looking for a Lake Como Holiday? Lake Como, situated in the region of Lombardy, is the third largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore, and its banks host enchanting villages such as Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo and Menaggio.
A popular retreat for aristocrats and wealthy people since Roman times and famous tourist attraction for well over 100 years for its combination of fresh air, water, mountains and good weather, it still sits at the top of many wish lists for travellers visiting Italy.
Considered the Beverly Hills of Italy’s Lombardy region, Lake Como has been the destination of choice for the jet set.
From the great Italian composers to Hollywood actor George Clooney, the list of Glitterati who’ve set up home in the beautiful villas that surround Lake Como is almost as impressive as the spectacular scenery.
If you come to Lake Como between mid-March and mid-November, you’ll be able to visit Villa Balbianello (Tremezzina), Villa Melzi (Bellagio), Villa Monastero (Varenna) and many other historic residences overlooking the water.
Villa del Balbianello worth a visit; the sprawling villa and its gardens have provided the backdrop for numerous films including Casino Royale and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones.
Lake Como has also numerous charming villages. Discover the best ones:
Varenna
Situated between the lake and the mountain, Varenna is a sweet little hamlet of Roman origin.
Its walkways above the water and infinite stairs gain ground, both on the lake and the mountain.
Tremezzo
The municipality of Tremezzo is a top tourist destination thanks to Villa Carlotta, a remarkable neoclassical residence sold in 1843 as a wedding present for Princess Charlotte of Prussia. Visitors can visit the mansion and its striking gardens.
Menaggio
Is a small medieval town which is beautifully preserved with an old castle that tourists can visit.
There are numerous villas and impressive villas by the banks of the lake, which make it a very agreeable walk.
Bellagio
Located at the intersection of the three branches, Bellagio is Lake Como’s most famous village.
It is a delightful little village with narrow, steep streets and stunning views of the lake. This village is truly special.
If you’re visiting Lake Como in the summertime, don’t miss the chance to see the beautiful beaches on its shores.
Beaches in Lake Como are the perfect place to relax during the hot summer days, and in some cases, they also give you the opportunity to go sailing or windsurfing.
Beaches can be found in every corner of Lake Como, but if you’re looking for clean and pure water, we recommend you to head toward the central and northern parts of the lake.
Don’t miss: the festival of San Giovanni in late June where thousands of boats are lit up by candlelight and fireworks.
Lake Como Holidays – How to get there
By car: renting a car from Milan is the easiest and most comfortable way of getting to Lake Como.
If you decide to hire a car, roads will offer you stunning views of the lakes.
By train: if you would like to get to Lake Como by train, you will have to get the train from “Cardona” railway station and take a one-hour train to the “Como Nord Lago” station.
Lake Como Hotels – Where to Stay
Best luxury hotel: Villa Marina, Bellano
Best for historic charm
Villa Marina is an historical house in Bellano. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century, the age of Art Nouveau.Villa Marina has a beach and a wonderful garden with lots of rare plants. The botanical garden currently covers roughly 100 meters along the lake, and it is known for its special collections and historical design.The privileged position, the originality of the building, the lake view and the soft light of the sunset make a romantic atmosphere… perfect for a romantic getaway.
Best mid-range hotel: Bello! Lake Como Suites, Como
Excellent location in the heart of Como
Located in Como and with Broletto reachable within 300 metres, Bello!Lake Como Suites provides express check-in and check-out, allergy-free rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi throughout the property and a terrace. The property is around 1.8 km from Como Funicular, 1.8 km from Basilica of Sant’Abbondio and 3.3 km from Baradello Castle.
Best budget hotel: Essentia Guest House, Faggeto Lario
Great breakfast
Located in Faggeto Lario, 41 km from Varese, Essentia Guest House provides a restaurant and free WiFi.
Fitted with a patio, the units feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with hot tub and free toiletries. Guests at the bed and breakfast can enjoy a continental breakfast.
Guests at the accommodation can enjoy hiking nearby, or make the most of the garden. Lugano is 42 km from Essentia Guest House, while Como is 12 km away.
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