where to stay in lake como
Lake Como is the kind of place that pulls you in with a single postcard—crystal‑clear waters, cascading villas, and a dramatic mountain backdrop that feels both ancient and instantly Instagram‑worthy. But a trip to the Lombard lake is only as good as the place you call “home” while you’re there. Whether you’re after royalty‑level luxury, a cozy family retreat, or a budget‑friendly escape, there’s a spot for every type of wanderer. Below, we break down the top towns, accommodation styles, and insider tips that will help you pick the right base for your Como adventure.
1. Choosing Your Base: The Key Towns by the Lake
Instead of hopping around the lake every day, it’s usually best to pick a single town or two to stay in. The most popular anchoring points are:
| Town | Highlights | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Como – the city on the lake’s mouth | Train station, funicular to Brunate, bustling nightlife | First‑time visitors, train/metro access, city vibes |
| Bellagio | “Pearl of the Lake,” “Italian Venice” vibe, high‑end shops | Romantic get‑aways, luxury seekers |
| Varenna | Lighter mainland feel, historic villas, picturesque promenade | Artistic feel, families, mid‑budget stays |
| Menaggio | Seaside promenade, easy access to hiking, quieter | Outdoor adventurers, families |
| Tremezzo | Iconic Villa d’Este, expansive lake views | Luxury hotels, summer sports events |
| Cernobbio | Close to Como, more tranquil, good shopping | Business travelers, wedding venues |
(If you’re planning a multi‑day cruise, a few nights in each town can be worthwhile—most small towns are only a 10‑minute ferry ride apart.)
2. Types of Accommodation
A. Luxury Hotels & Palaces
These are the hotel‑goers’ paradise if you want a pampered stay with the biggest bang for your buck.
| Hotel | Notable Features | Price Range (per night) |
|---|---|---|
| Villa d’Este (Tremezzo) | 25 acres of formal gardens, 15 restaurants, 3 Michelin‑star dining | €800–€2,400 |
| Grand Hotel Tremezzo (Tremezzo) | Infinity pool, renowned spa, private beach | €500–€1,500 |
| Belvedere Hotel Amburgo (Cernobbio) | 15th‑century villa, terrace with “Varese‑style” scenery | €400–€900 |
| Hotel Metropole Suisse (Como) | Historic charm, rooftop terrace, lakeside location | €250–€600 |
| Gloria Hotel & Spa (Lugano‑nearby) | Swiss‑style luxury, Michelin‑star dining, lake views | €350–€800 |
Why choose luxury? High‑end hotels often own their own private docks or provide complimentary boat tours. Dining is usually a standout—expect a la carte menus with fresh local ingredients.
B. Boutique & Historic Hotels
If you like the charm of an older building with a modern twist, these are your pick.
| Hotel | Notable Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Albergo Terminus (Como) | 5‑star boutique, old‑world charm, rooftop pool | €300–€600 |
| Baita (Bellagio) | 3‑star, historic 19th‑century villa, small staff | €150–€300 |
| Villa Cora (Bellagio) | 5‑star, gardens, wine cellar | €400–€800 |
| Villa Vittoria (Varenna) | Family‑run, terrace overlooking the lake | €120–€250 |
C. Villas & Vacation Rentals
Private villas give you both privacy and a “real living” feel—essential for families or larger groups.
| Town | Typical Features | Price Range (per week) |
|---|---|---|
| Bellagio | 4–8 bedroom, infinity pool, terrace | €3,000–€8,000 |
| Menaggio | 2–4 bedroom, lake view, private dock | €1,500–€3,500 |
| Varenna | 1–3 bedroom, small garden, central location | €800–€2,200 |
| Tremezzo | 4–5 bedroom, picturesque setting | €2,500–€6,000 |
Why choose a villa? Shared and intimate; you control the furniture, décor, and food. Perfect for food‑loving groups or honeymooners who don’t mind a bit of work.
D. Apartments & Bed‑and‑Breakfasts
For those who want local authenticity without the villa costs.
| Town | Features | Price Range (per night) |
|---|---|---|
| Como | Small 1‑bed apartments, easy access to trains | €80–€150 |
| Varenna | 1‑bed B&B, mini‑kitchen, scenic terrace | €70–€120 |
| Menaggio | 1‑bed B&B, garden, kid‑friendly | €90–€140 |
| Bellagio | 2‑bed B&B, hotel‑style service | €110–€190 |
E. Budget Options
| Town | Affordable Spots | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Como | Hostels, small hotels | €30–€80 |
| Varenna | Guesthouses, farm stays | €30–€70 |
| Tremezzo | Budget hotels, expected mid‑week | €70–€110 |
| Menaggio | Family guesthouses | €60–€100 |
Remember: Budget rooms often still enjoy great lake views and can be found near ferry docks for easy day trips.
3. Making the Most of Your Stay
| Tip | Why it Matters |
|---|---|
| Book in Advance during Summer | June‑August sees a surge in visitors; prices scream for last‑minute rentals. |
| Consider the Ferry Schedule | Ferries run from 9 am to 9 pm (start times vary by season). Staying on the “Italian side” gives you priority ferries. |
| Rent a Private Boat If Possible | Even a ≤ 10‑meter paddle‑rentable can give you a few minutes of private “paradise.” |
| Verify Services | Pools, spas, and Wi‑fi can differ; ask for a quick tour before you book. |
| Ask About “Dinner With a View” | Many hotels have underwater‑price dining (sometimes with no‑drink charge). |
| Check the Weather Forecast | Lake Como can be foggy early mornings; early‑morning trips may be canceled if the fog covers the entire lake. |
| Family‑Friendly | For infants/children, book rooms with an extra bed or kitchenette. Some hotels provide high chairs, in a basket, and dedicated parking. |
4. Sample Itineraries
Romantic Honeymoon (5 days)
- Day 1–2 – Bellagio: Stay in a deluxe rooms at Villa Cora or a 3‑bedroom villa; dinner at Ristorante Silvana (Michelin‑star).
- Day 3 – Tremezzo: Switch to Grand Hotel Tremezzo; spend half‑day spa, afternoon boat to Villa d’Este gardens.
- Day 4 – Menaggio: Flick a short ferry over; stay in a small 2‑bed B&B; enjoy sunset over the lake.
- Day 5 – Como: Wrap up in a bed‑and‑breakfast, then take the train back home.
Family Adventure (7 days)
- Day 1–3 – Varenna: 2‑bed villa with a kids’ playroom; explore Villa Monterosa and Paper Museum.
- Day 4 – Menaggio: 3‑bedroom apartment with cabin style kitchen; hike the Riva Azzurra trail.
- Day 5 – Como: Hotel in the city with a balcony; treat kids to the lakeside Ferris wheel.
- Day 6 – Lake‑Crossing Boat Tour: In‑house boat charter for the family; picnic lunch on a boat.
- Day 7 – Como: Relaxing spa in Metropole Suisse before departing.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need a car? | Nope. Most towns are served by ferries, buses, scooters and taxis. But a car helps if you want to explore small villages or invest in the “Serenissima” weekend vibe. |
| Is there Wi‑Fi everywhere? | Most hotels and B&Bs offer free Wi‑Fi. Budget apartments may offer a “paid Wi‑Fi” or guest Wi‑Fi credentials. |
| What’s the best time of year? | Late May, early September for a blend of clear water, fewer crowds, and mild temperatures. August is peak for parks and events. |
| How do I get to the airport? | Hotel shuttle to Milan or Turin airports is common. Or use the Businessto shuttle train from Como to Milano Centrale (11 min). |
| What are the local specialties? | Polenta, porched (fried cheese), risotto alla Milanese, local cheeses (like crescenza), and spritz from a lakeside bar. |
| How affordable are local products? | Fresh produce is reasonably priced, but imported imported items can be pricey. The best value comes from market stalls in town centers. |
6. A Short Summary of My Personal Top 3 Picks
| Town | Personal Pick | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Bellagio | Home Hotel Bellagio | Central terrace view, prime location, chef’s menu |
| Menaggio | Villa Menaggio Guesthouse | Family‑friendly, good kitchen, short boat ride to Como |
| Varenna | BarchettaBA | Cozy, affordable, serene lake view, fertile garden |
Final Verdict
Lake Como is all about the experience—a page from a fairy tale set in a scenic slice of Italy. When choosing where to stay, match your desired vibe with the town, accommodation type, and price bracket. Whether it’s a heavenly villa overlooking the water or a budget apartment in supreme city center—the magic is that the world’s most stunning lake is within easy reach of countless options. Pack your camera, a good pair of walking shoes, and maybe a pinch of patience for the holiday crowds. Book early, be flexible, and enjoy a lakeside escape that’s both unforgettable and comfortably yours. Happy travels!
