Lake Como, located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, is famous for its beauty and is considered one of the most iconic lakes in Europe.
It has been featured in numerous movies, such as James Bond and Ocean's Twelve, and is a popular destination for celebrities and the wealthy, and honestly, I can't blame them! With its natural beauty and some of the most incredible Renaissance architecture in the surrounding villages, it truly is one of the most magical places to visit.
However, you don't need to be a celebrity or super-rich to enjoy the magic of Lake Como! I fell in love with the lake on my last visit, and I'm neither of those. In this guide, I will show the best lake towns and hotels for any budget so that you can figure out where to stay in Lake Como.
The best towns to stay in Lake Como
Lake Como has an upside-down Y shape and three main towns situated on it – Bellagio at the tip of one arm, Varenna at the tip of the other arm, and Como Town in the middle.
For those visiting for the first time, Bellagio is the ideal spot to experience the iconic Lake Como vibe. Whereas, Como Town is a bit livelier with incredible nightlife and is also suitable for families. Varenna is a more peaceful and breathtaking location, perfect for couples or romantic getaways.
However, there are a few more towns around the lake that I think are worth mentioning. Menaggio, for instance, is a fantastic little place that offers plenty of hiking opportunities in the Lake Como area. Meanwhile, Cernobbio and the Tremezzina area are known for their stunning villas and luxurious hotels, making them some of Italy's most sought-after destinations.
1. Where to stay in Lake Como for the first time & most iconic Lake Como holiday: Bellagio
If you are looking for the iconic Lake Como experience, Bellagio is the perfect destination. Situated at the tip of one arm of the lake, it has a classic Italian feel with cobbled streets, colorful buildings, narrow alleys, and stunning Renaissance architecture. It is the stereotypical town you would imagine when thinking about Lake Como and is a great choice for first-time visitors.
Bellagio is a popular tourist spot, but it can get crowded due to its small size. So, if you want to avoid the crowds, it's best to visit during the shoulder season in April or September and October. This will give you a chance to enjoy the town's beauty without the hustle and bustle of the peak season.
Best area for:
First timers
Couples
Day trips
Things to see & do in Bellagio
Whenever I am in Bellagio, I love to wander through its narrow cobblestone streets and admire the charming pastel-colored buildings. The famous town has many boutiques, small cafés, and great local restaurants. I highly recommend Dispensa 63 in Bellagio for lunch. Their pasta and risotto dishes are absolutely amazing, and they also offer excellent local wine.
I also suggest visiting the iconic villas in Bellagio, such as Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni, as they have lush gardens which are home to many different exotic plants and flowers. However, it is important to book your ticket early, as space is often limited!
Best hotels to stay in Bellagio
($$$) Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
Villa Serbelloni is a property that has been owned by the Bucher family for three generations. It is located in Bellagio and offers stunning views of Lake Como and the Alps. The property boasts two gardens, an indoor and an outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub, and a wellness center, making it one of the best places to stay in Bellagio, Lake Como.
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($$) Hotel Belvedere
The Hotel Belvedere is a luxury hotel situated right in the heart of Bellagio. Located on the shores of Lake Como, it provides a private garden with an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, as well as a wellness center including a Turkish bath, sauna, therapeutic showers, and relaxation area.
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($) Hotel Excelsior Splendide
The Hotel Excelsior Splendide is a great mid-range option in Bellagio, located just a few minutes away from the main town center. It offers comfortable hotel rooms with private balconies that overlook the lake and has a large outdoor terrace with a swimming pool, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
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2. Where to stay in Lake Como without a car & nightlife: Como Town
Como Town is larger than the other towns on Lake Como, but it still has a charming old-town feel with cozy cafes and narrow cobblestone streets, making it perfect for you if you like some nightlife and a bit of hustle and bustle without sacrificing the iconic Lake Como atmosphere.
Como Town is easily accessible from Milan due to the town's train station, making it an ideal destination for those without a car. Once you arrive in Como City, you can explore the area on foot.
Plus, you can visit other towns around Lake Como without needing a car, thanks to the excellent public ferry network! The ferry ride from Como City to Bellagio or Varenna takes around one hour. However, it's more than just public transportation, as you'll get the chance to enjoy the most amazing views of the lake and nearby towns during your journey.
Best area for:
Families
Day trips
Bigger groups
Things to see & do in Como Town
Although Como Town is more bustling and larger compared to other towns, its old town still holds a lot of charm. When visiting Lake Como, you can enjoy wandering through its cobblestone streets, marveling at the beautiful buildings and ancient churches. The majority of shops and restaurants are located in the area between the lake and Porta Torre, which is also the best spot to take a casual stroll and discover the old town.
Even if you don't plan on taking the ferry to other towns, I suggest taking a boat trip around the lake. It's an excellent way to see the rest of the lake without having to go from town to town. There's a huge range of boat tours available, including ferry rides, group tours, and private luxury tours with champagne! Or you could even rent your own boat for a few hours!
Best hotels to stay in Como Town
($$$) Relais Di Giada
If you're looking for an exclusive experience in Como Town, the Relais di Giada is located just a few steps away from Lake Como. It offers luxurious apartments with a private balcony, terraces, and kitchens and is one of the best Lake Como hotels!
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($$) Posta Design Hotel
For a mid-range option, the Posta Design Hotel is an excellent choice. This hotel is located in the historic center of Lake Como town and has modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs.
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($) New Fontana Rooms
For those on a budget, the New Fontana Rooms is an excellent option. This hotel offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and is located within walking distance of most attractions and the train station.
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3. Where to stay in Lake Como for couples & romantic getaways: Varenna
If you're seeking a romantic getaway with breathtaking natural scenery, Varenna is the perfect destination.
Originally founded by fishermen, the town sits at the eastern edge of Lake Como and features a charming waterfront promenade that's perfect for leisurely romantic walks with your partner. Additionally, Varenna is conveniently located near other charming towns such as Bellagio and Como Town.
Best area for:
Couples
Honeymoons
Seclusion
Things to see & do in Varenna
With Varenna being as picturesque as most of the other towns around the lake, it is an experience in itself just to explore the town with its many great restaurants. Being here with your partner can be truly romantic when you're sitting right by the water at Al Prato Restaurant and enjoying a glass of wine and some of the best seafood when you visit Lake Como.
If you're in Varenna, don't miss the chance to visit the stunning villas, Villa Cipressi and Villa Monastero. Take a leisurely stroll through their picturesque gardens, which are equally enchanting by day or night. Villa Monastero's botanical garden is particularly famous and very popular among tourists. So, make sure to stop by and explore this breathtaking location which is one of the most photographed places in Lake Como.
Best hotels to stay in Varenna
($$$) Hotel du Lac Varenna
If you're looking for an exclusive experience, the Hotel du Lac Varenna is situated in a beautiful and peaceful location right by Lake Como. It offers spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking the lake and gardens, as well as an on-site restaurant.
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($$) Hotel Olivedo
For a mid-range option, the Hotel Olivedo is an excellent choice. This hotel has comfortable rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. It's conveniently located within walking distance of all local attractions and the lakefront.
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($) Albergo Milano
Albergo Milano is a great choice for couples looking for a budget hotel in Varenna. Located right by the lake, this hotel offers self-catering apartments close to all the main attractions, and it has a lovely terrace with stunning lake views.
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4. Where to stay in Lake Como for outdoor activities & relaxation: Menaggio
If you're looking for a tranquil destination where you can relax and enjoy some outdoor activities, then Menaggio is the perfect choice.
This town is less visited than other towns on Lake Como, but it still offers plenty of things to do and see. It is located between Bellagio and Cernobbio, making it the ideal spot from which to explore the whole lake.
Best area for:
Outdoor activities
Relaxation
Things to see & do in Menaggio
If you're interested in hiking and exploring nearby mountains and forests, Menaggio is an excellent base. I hiked around Menaggio myself and highly recommend it, particularly if you've enjoyed a little too much pasta recently.
Val Sanagra is a lovely forested area with meadows and streams that's perfect for an easy hike or leisurely walk. For a more challenging hike, consider making your way to Rifugio Menaggio, a hut at 1400 meters elevation located at the base of Mount Grona.
Best hotels to stay in Menaggio
($$$) Grand Hotel Menaggio
If you're looking for a luxurious experience in Menaggio, consider staying at the Grand Hotel Menaggio. It is one of the best luxury hotels and is located right on the lakefront. Furthermore, the hotel offers elegant rooms with balconies, an outdoor swimming pool, and a private boat pier.
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($$) Hotel Garni Corona
For a mid-range option, the Hotel Garni Corona is perfect. This hotel is located in the center of town and offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
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($) Hotel Bellavista
The Hotel Bellavista is an excellent choice if you don't want to break the bank while staying in Menaggio. This budget hotel offers comfortable rooms and an amazing swimming pool right on the lake.
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5. Where to stay in Lake Como to see the most beautiful villas: Tremezzina
Tremezzina is a town situated on the western bank of Lake Como, directly across from Bellagio. It was created through a merger of Lenno, Mezzegra, Ossuccio, and Tremezzo.
Personally, I like Tremezzina because it is less crowded with tourists compared to other towns nearby. Wandering the streets here feels very authentic and real, which is great if you want to experience what life near the lake is like.
Best area for:
Couples
Seclusion
Relaxation
Things to see & do in Tremezzina
It is definitely worth taking a day or two to explore Tremezzina in depth. It is easy to wander around the town and appreciate its quaint charm. I recommend visiting the Villa Balbianello, which offers panoramic views from its terrace overlooking the lake, with its multiple buildings and towers.
It is probably the most impressive villa at the lake, and it was also set for some of the Star Wars movies! Be sure to stop by Villa Carlotta as well; it's a little smaller but equally as beautiful and definitely worth a visit while you are there. here.
Best hotels to stay in Tremezzina
($$$) Grand Hotel Tremezzo
The Grand Hotel Tremezzo is one of the most luxurious Lake Como hotels. It features panoramic views of the lake and its surrounding mountains from the terrace, as well as an outdoor pool with direct access to the lake.
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($$) Hotel La Perla
The Hotel La Perla is a great mid-range option for couples looking to stay in Tremezzina. This hotel has comfortable and spacious rooms, some with private balconies that overlook the lake.
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($) Albergo Villa Edy
Albergo Villa Edy is a fantastic budget option for travelers looking to stay in Tremezzina. Located close to the waterfront, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and a beautiful outdoor swimming pool with great views of the mountains.
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6. Where to stay in Lake Como for luxury: Cernobbio
If you're looking for a luxurious destination, Cernobbio is perfect. This town is located on the western side of Lake Como and is home to some of the most exclusive villas and hotels at the lake.
It is much quieter than other Lake Como towns, like Bellagio and Como Town. It's still close enough to explore the rest of Lake Como by boat.
Best area for:
Couples
Honeymoons
Luxury vacations
Things to see & do in Cernobbio
The historic center of Cernobbio is a great place to wander around. Take some time to admire the colorful buildings, old churches, and cobblestone streets that give this town its charm and character.
You can also visit Villa Erba, which was once owned by the Rothschild family and now houses a museum. And don't forget about the lakefront gardens that are just perfect for a romantic stroll. My favorite is the Giardino della Valle, a little hidden botanical garden where you usually wouldn't bump into any other tourists.
Best hotels to stay in Cernobbio
($$$) Hotel Villa Flori
If you're looking for a luxurious stay in Cernobbio, consider the Hotel Villa Flori. This hotel is located on the western shore and offers stunning views of Lake Como from its balconies. The rooms feature marble bathrooms, parquet flooring, and Venetian stucco work. Lastly, the hotel restaurant serves top-notch local and international cuisines.
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($$$) Hotel Miralago
The Hotel Miralago in Cernobbio is one of the best luxury picks for your stay at Lake Como. Not only does the hotel offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, but it also provides five-star amenities.
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($$) Hotel Asnigo
The Hotel Asnigo is a great mid-range option for couples looking to experience luxury without breaking the bank. Located by the lake, this hotel offers an outdoor pool and cozy rooms with stunning views of the lake and mountains.
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Where to stay in Lake Como – Frequently Asked Questions
⭐ Is Lake Como worth a visit?
Absolutely! Lake Como is one of the most beautiful places in Italy, and it's definitely worth visiting for a few days. Whether you want to experience authentic Italian culture and architecture or you just want to relax by the pool, Lake Como is always worth a visit.
📍 What is the best town to stay in Lake Como?
That depends on what you are looking for! If you want to experience authentic Italian culture, I think that Como Town is one of the best towns on Lake Como. If you want to relax by the lake, then Menaggio or Tremezzina are great choices.
📅 How many days should I stay in Lake Como?
It really depends on how much time you have! If you want to explore the entire lake, I would recommend at least three days; however, it's also totally fine to just come up for a day trip when you are in Milan.
😍 Which town is the most beautiful in Lake Como?
That's a tough question! Personally, I think Bellagio is the most beautiful town at Lake Como, with its colorful buildings, impressive villas, and cobblestone streets; it gives you that iconic Lake Como atmosphere you are looking for.
❓ What’s the main town of Lake Como?
The main town of Lake Como is Como Town, located on the southwestern shore of the lake. It is the largest town at the lake, and probably the best area to stay in Lake Como if you don't have a lot of time.
🚗 How do I get around Lake Como? Do I need a car?
No, you don't need a car. Lake Como has a great network of ferries that can get you around the lake easily and cheaply.
🏨 Is it better to stay in Como Town or Bellagio?
That really depends on what you're looking for! Como Town has great nightlife and plenty of things to do, while Bellagio is incredibly picturesque and perfect for a romantic getaway. It really comes down to personal preference!
Where to stay in Lake Como – Final Words
As you may have gathered from my post, I absolutely love Lake Como and highly recommend it. There are plenty of options for both relaxation by the lake and immerse yourself in Italian culture, so it's definitely worth a visit.
Now that you have information on where to stay in Lake Como, all that is left is to choose which town you want to explore first!
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