Lake Como is one of the most popular destinations in North Italy. A luxurious and romantic area where the crystal-blue waters of the lake meet the majestic Alps mountains, Lake Como is a renowned tourist spot with charming towns, lakeside promenades and stunning historical villas facing the waters. Deciding where to stay in Lake Como is fundamental to having a memorable vacation packed with exciting experiences.
This guide will help you navigate the various towns along Lake Como’s shores so you can choose the best one to stay in, depending on your travel needs. We have also included some useful tips to make your trip to Lake Como stress-free, as well as the best things to see in each town and how to reach them.
Where To Stay In Lake Como
Lake Como covers a surface of almost 150 square km, so choosing where to stay in Lake Como can be tricky. We decided to include in this Lake Como accommodation guide the lake’s most popular towns and unique attractions.
Whether you are traveling with your family, partner, or friends, following our tips, you will surely find the best place to stay in Lake Como!
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The main neighborhoods of Lake Como
Lake Como has many beautiful towns, and below you will find a list of the best ones.
1. Como – The town that gives its name to the lake, elegant Como is full of charm and history and is the perfect base for the whole family.
2. Lecco – The poetic vibe is everywhere in this town on the eastern branch of Lake Como. The history of Lecco is deeply intertwined with one of Italy’s most famous novels, I Promessi Sposi by novelist Alessandro Manzoni.
3. Bellagio – Lake Como’s most romantic town, Bellagio rises on the promontory that divides the lake into the two branches of Como and Lecco. Its beautiful villas overlooking the lake’s waters make Bellagio the busiest town in the area.
4. Menaggio – With an elegant lakeside promenade, this picturesque town is fantastic for outdoor lovers and foodies, thanks to the many aquatic sports opportunities and traditional restaurants.
5. Varenna – A quiet town, in Varenna you will experience a more authentic side of Lake Como. Incredible views over Menaggio and Bellagio also characterize picturesque Varenna.
6. Tremezzo – This historical town will enchant you with its ancient churches and elegant villas. During the summer, Tremezzo is vibrant with events, from concerts to gourmet festivals.
Lake Como travel tips
How to get around
Since the best place to stay on Lake Como for your travel needs may be one town rather than another, you might wonder how to get to the other gorgeous places along the lake’s shores.
Many think having a car is necessary to get around Lake Como’s towns, but the truth is that they are very well connected by public transport. So here’s an overview of all the ways to get around Lake Como.
Ferry
All the most famous towns on Lake Como are sitting right on its shores, so the fastest way to move from one to another is by ferry. You can either buy the ferry tickets online in advance or directly at the ferry terminal in each town. Several types of tickets are available: one-way, return ticket, one-day pass, and multi-day pass.
While the passes can be purchased only at the terminals’ ticket offices, single tickets are available online at the official website of Navigazione Laghi, where you will also find the ferry timetables and prices.
We highly recommend you buy tickets online to avoid the long queues during the summer period.
Bus
Public buses are a great way to get around Lake Como as the routes connecting the different towns are incredibly scenic.
Numerous bus lines connect the different towns, so you will need to check the current timetables and prices for the various bus lines on the official website ASF Autolinee. The website is not the easiest to navigate, so you might want to ask for information at the tourist office of the town you currently are in.
On foot
You might be surprised that several of Lake Como’s towns are so close to each other that you can get from one to the other by walking via gorgeous lakefront promenades.
Car
Having a car will allow you to visit all the beautiful places around the lake at your own pace. If you’re looking to save money, make sure to learn about car rental coupon codes
However, if you are considering renting a car during your trip to Lake Como, there are some points you should think about:
- Car rental is expensive.
- The roads around the lake are twisty and often very narrow with sharp bends.
- Some locals drive in a pretty assertive manner.
- Finding parking will be challenging, especially in high season.
Neighbourhood map
Below is a map of Lake Como with all its major towns. As you can see, there are quite a number of them, so we’re only going to focus on the six most popular. If you are someone that would love to check them all out, be sure to read How To Backpack Europe On A Budget.
Plan your trip
To make your trip to Lake Como run smoothly, you will want to keep in mind these tips:
Learn some Italian before you go – Compared to more touristy places in Italy like Rome and Venice, fewer people in Lake Como speak English. Your life will be much easier if you learn a few key words and phrases in Italian beforehand.
Check the ferry timetable – This is of fundamental importance whenever you take a ferry: if you don’t catch the last ferry of the day, your only option to get back to where you’re staying might be taking a taxi – which usually is quite expensive.
Pack comfortable walking shoes – During your exploration of Lake Como you will be walking a lot, trust us! Plus, many of the lakefront towns are covered with jagged cobbles and have steep stairways, so a good pair of comfortable walking shoes is a must in your suitcase.
Cash on hand – While restaurants accept bank cards, you may run into the possibility of having to pay cash for smaller purchases, be it a cappuccino at the bar or a gelato at the ice cream parlor.
Bring with you a reusable water bottle – North Italy’s water is some of the cleanest you will find in Europe as it comes directly from the mountains, so having a reusable water bottle with you at all times is not only an eco-friendly option but also one that will save you money.
1. Como
What’s there and why visit
This town is the best place to stay in the lake district for its practical location. With direct access from Milan by train, Como is the lake’s biggest town offering many modern facilities.
The many restaurants, bars, and shops give Como a city feel while boasting unique attractions, like the Museo Volta and the Villa Olmo, one of the most beautiful and famous villas on the lake.
Plus, Como is not a hill town, so strolling around will be extra relaxing.
Suggested hotels near Como
BUDGET
Hilton Lake Como
This hotel is just a quick 10-minute walk from the shores of the lake. It features a sky bar, a rooftop infinity pool and a wellness spa and fitness center, including an indoor pool, a Finnish sauna, hot tub and Turkish bath. Only a 15 minute walk to the popular Como Town Center.
MID-RANGE
Sheraton Lake Como Hotel
This hotel is set in a beautiful park right on the shores of Lake Como. It features a huge, outdoor seasonal heated pool, a free 24-hour gym and wellness area. The breakfast buffet offered is very popular and there are three other dining options available for your choosing at the hotel.
MID-RANGE
Hotel Barchetta Excelsior
“Absolutely fantastic hotel. The excellently equipped rooms provide everything needed for a comfortable stay with an extremely large bed, and a lovely balcony to overlook the square and the lake. All the staff are extremely welcoming and efficient, and always on hand to assist and advise. The restaurant is simply perfect, serving delicious food and wine with great, professional service. Breakfast was also of high quality.”
LUXURY
Palaca Hotel Lake Como
The Palace hotel is made up of two buildings, one historic and one modern, which sit in the middle of beautiful landscaped gardens right on the shore of the lake. With it only being a 5-minute walk from the Como Cathedral, rooms offer views of that or the lake. All rooms are classically styled. There is a restaurant on site and a breakfast bar offered every morning.
Things to see near Como
Duomo di Como – One of the most beautiful monuments in northern Italy and the third-largest church in Lombardy, visiting Como’s cathedral is a great way to discover the architectural style of different historical periods as the church is a harmonious blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.
Villa Olmo – A mesmerizing neoclassical villa constructed at the end of the 18th century, Villa Olmi is made of a perfect-tailored garden and several adjacent buildings. The villa is today a lakefront location for art exhibitions and events.
Museo Volta – An incredible temple-like Neoclassical building that hosts the museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the Italian inventor of the first electric generator ever made. Built in 1927, the museum contains equipment Volta used in his research.
Piazza San Fedele – Como’s main square is the perfect spot for enjoying an afternoon of shopping, sipping a good espresso in one of its bars, or tasting a local meal in a traditional restaurant, all while people-watching.
Museo della Seta – A museum entirely dedicated to silk, one of the most luxurious fabrics out there. Visiting the museum, you’ll learn all about Lake Como’s history of producing this wonderful material. The museum also has a shop where you can buy handmade silk clothing pieces.
Funiculare Como-Brunate – Taking the cable car from Como up to Brunate is the best way to marvel at the breathtaking vistas of Como town, the lake, and the Alps in the distance. The funicular has been operating since the early 19th century and will get you to an altitude of almost 800 meters.
Getting there
Duomo di Como – From Como S. Giovanni train station, take Via Alessandro Manzoni. After 200 meters, turn left on Via Maestri Comacini and immediately right on Piazza del Duomo until you get to the cathedral.
Villa Olmo – A nice way to get to Villa Olmo is by taking a relaxing 15-minute sidelake walk along Passeggiata Lino Gelpi, which starts from Como’s city center.
Museo Volta – Head to the lakefront and turn left to Lungo Lario Trento. Keep walking on the lakeside promenade until you see the Giardini del Tempio Voltiano. Turn left on Lungolago Mafalda di Savoia: the museum is at the end of the street.
Piazza San Fedele – From the Como S. Giovanni train station, exit from the main entrance and walk for about 10 minutes through the city center.
Museo della Seta – From Como S. Giovanni train station you can either walk for around 22 minutes or take the public bus to arrive at the museum. The bus N7 will drop you off at the Como – Università stop, just 1 minute away from the museum.
Funiculare Como-Brunate – With a 5-minute walk from Como S. Giovanni train station, you will find the funicular that will take you to Brunate.
Suggested activities in Como
Pasta and Tiramisu-Making Class With Tasting & Wine – Visit a local’s home to follow the traditional recipes to make pasta and tiramisu, which you will enjoy accompanied by local wines during a lovely lunch or dinner.
2-Hour Lake Como Scenic Boat Tour & Sightseeing – With this 2-hour private boat tour, you will admire some of Lake Como’s villas from the water and learn about the history of the lake.
2. Lecco
What’s there and why visit
The town gives its name to the eastern branch of Lake Como, and it is the best place to stay in Lake Como if you love mountain treks. Lecco is also the town where you can find the most affordable accommodation options, so it is where to stay in Lake Como if you don’t want to break the bank.
Lecco has a special place in Italian literature and culture as it inspired Italian novelist Alessandro Manzoni to write one of the country’s masterpieces, the novel I Promessi Sposi (The Betrothed in English). So make sure not to miss visiting Villa Manzoni while in town.
Suggested hotels near Lecco
GUEST HOUSE
Agriturismo Deviscio
This guest house offers free on-site parking, Wi-Fi, picnic area, garden and solarium. Every morning a continental Italian or American breakfast is offered. It’s within short walking distance to some of Lecco’s more popular landmarks, such as Itinerario Manzoniano (1.8 mi) and Piazza Era (2.0 mi).
BUDGET
Alberi Hotel
This hotel has been family owned and operated for forty years. This hotel is a comfortable stay, with views of the lake and mountains. It’s only feet away from the train station. The hotel can arrange boat tours in the summer months, or ski trips in the winter for you.
BUDGET
HLL Hotel LungoLago Lecco
This hotel is right by the lake-front promenade, where you can find numerous cafès and restaurants. A continental breakfast is available every morning. All rooms include a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar and a bathroom with slippers and hairdryer. Some rooms include a terrace overlooking the lake.
BED & BREAKFAST
Villa del Cigno
“Very special place to stay. The villa has large rooms and services are excellent. Our host Vivianna has given a lot of tips on where to eat and places to visit. Cleaning on a daily basis and the personal touch Vivianna provided made our stay in Lecco one we will remember for a long time!”
Things to see near Lecco
Chiesa di San Vitale e Valeria – Located in the namesake square, this church has several interesting design elements added over time. The most striking ones are the 15th-century bell tower and the baroque façade. This church is also known as the “Chiesa di Don Abbondio”, a character in the famous Italian novel I Promessi Sposi.
Basilica di San Nicola – This church underwent several changes and additions through the centuries. Beautiful is the church’s interior, with numerous frescoes, most notably the Glory of the Madonna on the ceiling. Moreover, the church’s bell tower with nine bells is the second highest in Italy, and when they ring can be heard in every corner of Lecco.
Villa Manzoni – The private summer residence of Italian novelist Alessandro Manzoni, the villa has been converted into the Civico Museo Manzoniano, where visitors can discover manuscripts, artworks, and mementos from his personal works and collection.
Getting there
Chiesa di San Vitale e Valeria – From Lecco train station, take the bus D35 for a 5-minute ride and get off at Lecco – Corso Matteotti. Walk until you reach the junction with Via Caldone to the right. Take the street, and after a couple of minutes, you will be at your destination.
Basilica di San Nicola – From Lecco train station, exit north to P.za Stazione and walk Via Centrone. At the roundabout, take the third exit on Via Giuseppe Resinelli. In 120 meters, turn left to Via S. Nicolò. The Basilica is on the right at the end of the street.
Villa Manzoni – Exit Lecco Train station southwest towards Piazza Armando Diaz. Take this street on the left and keep walking until the roundabout. Take the first street, Via Digione, and right away to the left to Via Carlo Porta. Turn right at the intersection with Via Don Guanella, and after 100 meters, keep left to stay on Via Don Guanella until you reach the villa.
Suggested activities in Lecco
Sunset Hike in Lecco with Craft Beer Tasting – Spend an afternoon climbing to the top of Mount Resegone to marvel at stunning views and enjoy local craft beers with appetizers during golden hour on Lake Como.
Dining Experience at a Local’s Home in Lecco with Show Cooking – Dine with a homemade 4-course menu following authentic recipes while enjoying the warmth of Italian hospitality at a local’s family home.
3. Bellagio
What’s there and why visit
This is hands-down the most famous town in Lake Como. It has a luxurious vibe thanks to the high-end accommodation options and fine-dining restaurants. If you want to spoil yourself, Bellagio is where to stay in Lake Como.
Bellagio is conveniently located at the center of the lake, within striking distance of multiple attractions. It is considered the pearl of Lake Como for its beautiful villas and spectacular sunsets.
Suggested hotels near Bellagio
BUDGET
Hotel Bellagio
“Very nice hotel in Bellagio center. The staff is very kind. The room is very comfortable and clean with air conditioning and free WiFi. Bathroom is very clean. Breakfast is very rich and plentiful with terrace. I spent three very pleasant and relaxing days.”
MID-RANGE
Hotel Du Lac
This hotel sits right in the middle of Bellagio to give panoramic views of the lake and mountain range. It’s a family owned hotel, featuring a highly rated restaurant, specializing in a mix of Italian and international cuisine, as well as a well known spa.
APARTMENT
Casa Ketty
The Casa is less than a couple of miles from the Villa Melzi Gardens and close to the Bellagio Ferry Terminal. Each unit comes with a TV, ironing facilities, desk and a seating area with a sofa and a private bathroom. It features a solarium, sun terrace and peaceful garden you can relax in.
LUXURY APARTMENT
Pescallo Apartments
Recently renovated and covered in ivy, this apartment screams Italy! It features modern rooms, which include a large living area with kitchenette and dining area, and 2 or 3 separate bedrooms with attached bathroom. There is a beach close by, and it’s just over a half mile away to the ferry.
Things to see near Bellagio
Basilica di San Giacomo – A Romanesque church built in the 11th century, the Basilica is not impressive from the outside as it shows off an unadorned stone façade. You will need to step inside to marvel at a mix of artwork from the Umbrian and Lombard schools, Romanesque sculpture, and a marble pulpit with columns.
Villa Serbelloni – This gorgeous lakeside villa was constructed as the vacation residence of a noble family from Bergamo. In 1873, Villa Serbelloni was turned into a luxury hotel still open today. You will be glad to hear that although you aren’t a hotel guest, you can visit the villa and its 50 acres of garden.
Villa Melzi – This 19th-century mansion was commissioned by the Duke of Lodi and is one of the most beautiful of Lake Como’s lakeside villas. The best part of Villa Melzi is the huge outdoor botanical garden with exotic trees and flowers, an orangery, and a hill-pine forest.
Lido di Bellagio – Why not take a refreshing swim and sunbathe in the turquoise water of Lake Como to beat the summer heat? Bellagio has its own little beach with white gazebos and a bistrot for a delicious lunch. During the weekend, Lido di Bellagio turns into an exclusive nightclub, hosting the best DJ sets.
Getting there
Basilica di San Giacomo – Head left on P.za Giuseppe Mazzini from the Bellagio ferry terminal. Take the third street on the right, Salita Maraffio, and walk straight to the church.
Villa Serbelloni – From the Bellagio ferry terminal, head left on P.za Giuseppe Mazzini and walk for about 2 minutes to reach the villa.
Villa Melzi – Right outside the Bellagio ferry terminal, take a right on P.za Giuseppe Mazzini, and keep walking on the lakeside promenade Lungo Lario Manzoni until you reach your destination.
Lido di Bellagio – The beach is located along the Lungo Lario Manzoni. So From the Bellagio ferry terminal, take P.za Giuseppe Mazzini to the right and walk until you get there.
Suggested activities in Bellagio
Bellagio: The Devil’s Bridge Wilderness Walk – Discover a hidden side of Lake Como with a walk that starts from the mysterious Devil’s Bridge and runs through a paradise-like landscape that will delight you with spectacular vistas.
Lake Como Kayak Tour from Bellagio – Paddle with a local guide on Lake Como to discover its history and ecosystem while admiring scenic attractions such as Pescallo Bay, Rockefeller Cliffs, and Villa Serbelloni.
4. Varenna
What’s there and why visit
This picturesque town on the eastern shore of Lake Como is characterized by an authentic and peaceful atmosphere as opposed to the more touristy Como and Bellagio.
With a distinct village vibe, in Varenna you will experience the traditions of the past, with fishing being at the core of the locals’ activities.
The town is also home to stunning villas with botanical gardens and unmissable nature trails that will lead you to breathtaking panoramic vistas and history-rich spots.
Suggested hotels near Varenna
MID-RANGE
Hotel Olivedo
This historic 19th-century hotel features a highly rated, lake-view restaurant that serves traditional meals from the Lombardy area. It’s a short walk to the pier, where you can catch a ferry traveling around Lake Como to see different sights. Or relax on the hotel terrace where the sights and views are all around you.
MID-RANGE
Hotel Royal Victoria, by R Collection Hotels
This hotel is a top choice for history buffs. The hotel is a 19th century historical building located in the middle of Varenna, a charming medieval village, facing the lake shore. While it has been recently renovated, the building still has that historic charm about it. It has two restaurants onsite, its own private dock, a pool and a wellness center.
BED & BREAKFAST
Michelangelo B&B
This Bed & Breakfast is right on the shore of Lake Como and just feet away from the popular Villa Monastero. Its daily breakfast bar is highly rated, as well as the panoramic views from the comfortable rooftop terrace.
APARTMENT
Villa Monti
“A modern, stylish, comfortable and roomy apartment in a beautiful old building. A perfect combination of antiquity and modern. The location was wonderful, with view from the swimming terrace to the Lake. It was idyllic. The owner/manager met us, and was very helpful throughout our (too short) stay, with recommendations regarding restaurants, ferries, places to visit, etc.”
Things to see near Varenna
Villa Monastero – This stunning villa is one of the most photographed places in Varenna. It houses a museum that displays 14 of the villa’s rooms with their original furniture in neo-Renaissance and neo-Rococò styles. Villa Monastero’s best part is its impressive botanical garden with rare native and exotic tree species.
Villa Cipressi – Another magnificent villa on Lake Como’s shores, Villa Cipressi houses a 4-star hotel. The villa’s sumptuous terraced garden is open to the public, and you’ll surely love its bucolic but luxurious atmosphere!
Riva Grande – Varenna’s most authentic side, Riva Grande is the ancient fishing village. The quaint little harbor with views of Bellagio is the perfect spot to enjoy beautiful sunsets over Lake Como.
Castello di Vezio – The medieval castle of Vezio is located on a promontory over Varenna, boasting breathtaking views of the town and Lake Como. Besides being a scenic viewpoint, Castello di Vezio is immersed in olive groves which makes for a relaxing visit. The castle also houses a permanent exhibition dedicated to the Lariosaurus, around which is a local legend similar to the one of the Loch Ness monster.
Getting there
Villa Monastero – From Varenna ferry terminal head right on Via Imbarcadero. Walk the lakeside promenade for around 5 minutes, turn left on Contrada Giovanni Battista Pirelli and right on Via Venini. You will find Villa Monastero on the right after walking 280 meters more.
Villa Cipressi – Villa Cipressi is right before Villa Monastero, so follow the same road to get there.
Riva Grande – From the Varenna ferry terminal you can reach Riva Grande by walking the lakeside promenade, also known as “Passeggiata degli innamorati” (Walk of lovers). From the ferry station, just head right on Via Imbarcadero and walk until you arrive at your destination.
Vezio Castle – With a good 30-minute walk you will get to Vezio Castle. Take Via Piazza Martiri from the Varenna ferry terminal. Turn right on Via Venini and walk around 200 meters until you see some stairs on your left. Take the stairs and follow the path all the way to Via della Costanza. Take the right, and the destination will be on your left after 350 meters.
Suggested activities in Varenna
Walking Tour Varenna, the village and the craftsmen – Join a local guide for a 2-hour walk in the charming Varenna, visiting its famous attractions and hidden gems, and end the experience by cruising the lake on a traditional boat.
Varenna: Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Castello di Vezio – Enjoy a wine-tasting experience of local sparkling wines, and explore the wonderful Castello di Vezio.
5. Menaggio
What’s there and why visit
The main town on the western shore of Lake Como, the charming Menaggio features a historic center with narrow alleys and medieval stone buildings, and a sumptuous lakeside promenade.
The pedestrian-only center is full of entertaining options, like shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors, while the promenade with gorgeous villas, colorful flowerbeds, and tall palm trees is perfect for a relaxing walk.
Suggested hotels near Menaggio
BUDGET
Hotel Loveno
“The hotel was lovely and the staff were really nice! The hotel is in a very peaceful location with a lovely garden and a great view of the lake, while being very close to the center of Menaggio. The room was spacious, comfortable and clean. Had a really great stay there and would highly recommend it!”
BUDGET
Hotel Garni Corona
Family owned and operated and recently renovated, this hotel features free Wi-Fi, self-controlled heating and cooling and a mini bar in every room. It is located in the middle of the main square of Menaggio, close by to restaurants and other attractions. The view of the lake is said to be amazing from the hotel.
MID-RANGE
Grand Hotel Menaggio
This hotel is located right on the shore of the lake and has its own private dock. It’s also close to the ferry dock, making it easy to get around the lake. The hotel features a heated pool and free parking for its guests. Enjoy a free breakfast that is offered every morning, while there are two restaurants on site to choose from for dinner. Live piano music can be heard on the terrace while enjoying the beautiful views
LUXURY
Grand Hotel Victoria
If you are wanting the ultimate Italian experience, look no further than here. With the Art-Nouveau design, a restaurant on-site, an outdoor pool, wellness center with an indoor pool, jacuzzi and treatments, meeting rooms, a fitness room and a children’s playground, you’ll find everything you want and need right here.
Things to see near Menaggio
Villa Mylius Vigoni – Crossing the halls of this villa, you’ll be surrounded by some of the most important artworks of the early nineteenth century. But Villa Mylius Vigoni is as stunning on the outside, surrounded by a well-curated English garden that creates a naturalistic setting of rare beauty.
La Crocetta – Lake Como is dotted with panoramic viewpoints, and La Crocetta is one that you really shouldn’t miss. So climb above Menaggio and get ready to be astonished by the panorama!
Chiesa di Santo Stefano – This 17th-century church has a beautiful façade but is even more gorgeous inside. Thanks to its remarkable frescoes and paintings, you won’t regret visiting this church.
Getting there
Villa Mylius Vigoni – From the Menaggio ferry terminal you need to reach Hotel Loveno. Take the stairs beside the hotel and at the intersection, take the street on the left and then again on the left at the junction with Via Catulla Milyus Vigoni. After 180 meters, turn right on Via Vigoni to reach the villa.
La Crocetta – Take the bus C12 from Menaggio’s center and get off at Croce – Piazza Chiesa stop. From the bus stop, walk to Via Pigato. The panoramic viewpoint is at the end of the street.
Chiesa di Santo Stefano – From Menaggio ferry terminal, head right to Via IV Novembre. After 5 minutes, your destination is on the left.
Suggested activities in Menaggio
Val Senagra: The Enchanted Valley Tour – This walking tour will take you to the enchanting Val Senagra to discover the naturalistic beauty of this hidden gem, at the end of which you will enjoy freshly-made food products from a sustainable fish farm.
Menaggio: Wine Tasting and Snacks with Views of Lake Como – Join a certified sommelier to dive for a wine-tasting experience of 3 local wines and snacks for a full-immersion in Lombardy’s gastronomic scene.
6. Tremezzo
What’s there and why visit
This stunning town on the western banks of Lake Como is a beautiful hamlet where you will find a perfect mix of nature, history, and lifestyle.
Crossed by the ancient Via Regina, the peculiarity of Tremezzo is that it is part of the municipality called Tremezzina with the nearby villages of Lenno, Mezzegra, and Ossuccio.
Praised since medieval times to be an area of eternal spring for which it has been nicknamed “Riviera delle azalee” (“Riviera of azaleas” in English), Tremezzo hosts the breathtaking Villa Carlotta, and it is within easy reach to Villa Balbianello, used as the movie set for Casino Royale and Star Wars II: Attack of the Clones.
Suggested hotels near Tremezzo
BUDGET
Hotel Bazzoni
This hotel features a beautiful terrace where you can enjoy your Italian style meal from the buffet while looking over the lake and mountains. Located on the main street of Tremezzo, the bus stop and ferry are within walking distance, as well as other fun attractions.
BED & BREAKFAST
Casa Lumaca
“Casa Lumaca exceeded our expectations! The room was very clean, quiet and it had all the necessary amenities. The breakfast is amazing and delicious, and we even got the chance to enjoy it on the beautiful garden. The host, Marina, was outstanding. Always kind and helpful! We’ll definitely come back to this beautiful B&B.”
APARTMENT
Tremezzo Residence
This location offers free private parking, a year-round heated outdoor pool, a sauna with a hot tub, a garden and a barbecue area open for guests to use. Each apartment complex features a kitchen with a dishwasher and oven and a large living space with a sofa and TV. Some apartments include a balcony, in which you can see views of the lake and mountain.
LUXURY
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
This hotel features numerous dining options and 3 swimming pools, a modern wellness center that includes a gym, sauna, relaxation lounge, an outdoor hot tub, tennis court and multiple jogging paths around the park the hotel resides on. It’s only a 3-minute walk from Villa Carlotta and close by to several other attractions. You can enjoy the views of the lake from one of the numerous wine bars included on-site.
Things to see near Tremezzo
Villa Carlotta – If there is a villa you need to see while in Lake Como, that is Villa Carlotta. A neoclassical masterpiece, the villa’s vast terraced garden is a paradise of colorful flowers and plants from every corner of the world. The villa is also famous for the art collections housed inside, which gather pieces by Antonio Canova, Francesco Hayez, and Bertel Thorvaldsen.
Chiesa di San Lorenzo – If you are passionate about art and architecture, you will love this church with an eclectic style already evident in the neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque elements of the façade. The towering hills in the church’s background make it truly extraordinary!
Chiesa di San Bartolomeo – A small church featuring architectural elements from different centuries, get inside to see beautiful decorative paintings around the altar. Next to the church starts a path known as “Selve di Rogaro” that leads to the small village of Rogaro, boasting panoramic views.
Getting there
Villa Carlotta – From the Tremezzo ferry terminal, take the right and walk on the lakeside promenade for about 8 minutes until you get to your destination on the left.
Chiesa di San Lorenzo – Take the lakeside street to the left of the Tremezzo ferry terminal and proceed for about 5 minutes until you reach a parking lot. Turn right to find the church.
Chiesa di San Bartolomeo – The church is right in front of the Tremezzo ferry terminal.
Suggested activities in Tremezzo
Walking tour: Tremezzo, Isola Comacina, Villa Balbianello – A fantastic walking tour to discover Tremezzo’s historical center, the village of Ossuccio, the elegant Villa Balbianello, and Isola Comancina’s pristine landscape, which will be reached by ferry boat.
Wine and wind: tasting in the cellar and regatta on a sailing boat on Lake Como – This luxury tour takes you to a local vineyard for a leisurely walk and a wine-tasting experience before heading to a sailing club for a special 3-hour private sailing regatta on Lake Como.
Frequently Asked Questions
Although it always depends on the type of travel experience you are looking for, Como town is where to stay in Lake Como for its convenient location, many services, and closeness to Milan.
While Como is the ideal town for all kinds of travelers, Bellagio is undoubtedly the most romantic place around the lake! So you should opt for it if you plan a romantic or luxurious getaway.
The two more affordable towns on Lake Como’s shores are Lecco and Varenna.
Every corner of Lake Como is beautiful, but if you are looking for classic charming views, you should stay in Bellagio or Varenna.
Final Thoughts
Lake Como is an unmissable destination in Italy, with gorgeous landscapes, charming lakeside towns, and breathtaking villas.
Lake Como has numerous towns where you can stay during your vacation, and choosing one or another depends on your travel needs and budget. Whether opting for the elegant Bellagio or the authentic Varenna, Lake Como will give you unforgettable memories!
Travel Resources For Your Next Trip
If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.
Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature.
Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.
Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.
Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one is Airalo. Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.
Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.
Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.
Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.
- Insured Nomads – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
- RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
- SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
- Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
- InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.
If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.
