If there is one place in Italy that perfectly blends elegance, cinematic scenery, and charming villages, it is undoubtedly Lake Como (Lago di Como, in Italian). Set in northern Italy, the lake stands out for its serene waters framed by towering mountains and historic towns; in addition, it boasts lush gardens that captivate everyone.
More than a simple tourist destination, Lake Como delivers an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a couple seeking romance, a family that values great food, or a traveler who loves nature and calm, this is the ideal spot. Throughout this guide, you will discover Where Lake Como Is, What to Do in the main towns, How to Get There, and Where to Stay so you can make the most of your trip.
Where Is Lake Como
Lake Como sits in the Lombardy region in northern Italy, about 80 km from Milan and close to the Swiss border. It is the third-largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore.
Thanks to its prime location, getting there is extremely easy—by car, train, or even by boat between towns. For example, the trip from Milan to Como takes just over 1 hour, which makes the destination very convenient if you are in the area. Moreover, many towns around the lake are connected by ferries, which simplifies travel and offers unforgettable panoramic rides.
Fun Facts About Lake Como
Lake Como ranks among the deepest lakes in Europe, with a maximum depth of about 425 meters. Shaped thousands of years ago by Alpine glaciers, its waters are incredibly clear, reflecting the sky and the surrounding mountains.
Besides that, the lake has long been a retreat for celebrities and influential figures. Notable homeowners include George Clooney, Madonna, and Donatella Versace, who own luxurious villas in the area. Interestingly, the lake also served as a filming location for movies such as Casino Royale (007) and Star Wars: Episode II.
Lake Como Map
Before you plan your route, it helps to study the Lake Como Map to better understand how the towns are laid out. The lake, which has the distinctive shape of an inverted “Y,” divides into three main shores: West, South, and East. Each one offers charming villages and unique landscapes, which guarantees distinct and memorable experiences.
Where the Lake Como Towns Are
West shore: Argegno, Brienno, Cadenabbia, Cernobbio, Como, Domaso, Dongo, Gravedona, Lenno, Mezzegra, Menaggio, Moltrasio, Musso, Ossuccio, Tremezzo.
South shore: Bellagio, Blevio, Como, Faggeto Lario, Lecco, Lezzeno, Malgrate, Oliveto Lario, Pognana Lario, Torno.
East shore: Abbadia Lariana, Bellano, Colico, Dervio, Dorio, Lecco, Lierna, Mandello del Lario, Varenna.
On the map, the top 10 towns are highlighted in purple with their numbers, so you can easily follow the details about each one throughout the text. Meanwhile, the other towns appear with a red pin, which helps you visualize the entire Lake Como region.
💡 Travel Tip: The west shore concentrates the most luxurious hotels and sweeping views, especially in towns like Tremezzo and Menaggio; the east shore is perfect if you want authentic, peaceful villages, such as Varenna and Bellano; while the south shore, where Como sits, offers the best infrastructure and transport links, which makes it an ideal starting point to explore the whole region.
How to Get Around Lake Como
Train
Reaching Lake Como is simple and comfortable. Leaving from Milan, there are direct trains from Milano Centrale and Milano Cadorna to the city of Como. The ride takes about 1 hour and, in fact, the journey already delivers beautiful views of the Italian Alps.
From Como, it’s easy to explore other towns using regional buses, ferries, and public boats, which connect the main villages around the lake in a practical and efficient way. During the high season (spring and summer), public transport tickets often sell out quickly. Therefore, buy in advance—especially if you plan to visit multiple towns on the same day.
💡 Travel tip: To simplify buying train and bus tickets in Italy, we recommend Omio. It’s a reliable platform with a multilingual interface and secure checkout; plus, it compares schedules, prices, and companies.
Ferry
Traveling by ferry on Lake Como ranks among the most enchanting experiences you can have in Italy. The most popular route links the central triangle of the lake: Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. This area offers frequent crossings, stunning views, and great tourist infrastructure.
Ferries take about 10 to 20 minutes per leg, with departures every 30 minutes during the day. As a result, they are perfect if you want to hop between towns without a car.
💡 Travel tip: You can buy tickets right at the piers of the main towns—such as Como, Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio—or at Navigazione Lago di Como’s official ticket offices. In addition, you can buy online on the official website, where you’ll find updated timetables and ticket types (single, round-trip, or day passes).
Car
If you plan to visit several towns in one day or combine Lake Como with other Northern Italy regions—such as Lake Lugano or Lake Garda—renting a car is an excellent choice.
This option gives you total freedom and comfort, especially to reach smaller villages with fewer public transport connections. Moreover, driving the scenic roads around the lake is an incredible experience filled with viewpoints and postcard-worthy landscapes.
However, keep in mind that parking is limited and paid in the most popular towns, such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Como. Therefore, plan ahead and, if possible, book accommodations with on-site parking.
💡 Travel tip: To compare prices and find the best rental companies, we recommend DiscoverCars. The site shows company reviews, insurance options, and rental conditions, which makes it a safe, practical pick.
If you intend to drive in Italy, don’t miss our guides:
🚘 Driving in Italy: Essential Tips & How to Rent a Car in Italy: Complete Guide for Travelers
Unmissable Tours on Lake Como and Nearby
Taking tours around Lake Como makes the experience even more unforgettable. You can enjoy boat rides, join guided tours, and explore charming villages along the lake. On GetYourGuide, you can book your tours safely, read reviews from other travelers, check company ratings, and even cancel up to 24 hours in advance at no cost if your plans change.
What to Do and Where to Stay in the Top 10 Lake Como Towns
Choosing where to stay on Lake Como depends a lot on your travel style. To help you plan, we listed below the best towns to visit, with practical tips on What to Do, How to Get There, and Where to Stay. In addition, the 10 main towns are highlighted in purple on the Lake Como Map above with their numbers, which makes it easier to visualize and plan your itinerary.
1. Como
The town that gives the lake its name also serves as its main gateway. Como blends history, charm, and convenience; therefore, it is ideal if you want to explore the region with comfort.
What to Do: Visit the Duomo di Como, one of Lombardy’s most beautiful cathedrals; stroll the lungolago; ride the funicular up to Brunate for panoramic views.
How to Get There: From Milan, there are direct trains that take about 1 hour.
🏨Where to Stay:
- Hotel Villa Flori: Elegant, with incredible lake views.
- SantAgata bed&breakfast: Great location and excellent breakfast.
- Albergo Firenze: Perfect if you want to stay in the historic center.
2. Bellagio
Known as the “pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is one of Italy’s most romantic towns. Its cobbled lanes, gardens, and panoramic views charm every visitor.
What to Do: Explore Villa Melzi; wander the Historic Center; and, moreover, enjoy sunset at Lido di Bellagio.
How to Get There: Arrive by ferry from Como, Varenna, or Menaggio.
🏨 Where to Stay:
- Hotel Belvedere: Classic and sophisticated, with breathtaking views.
- Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni: An iconic luxury hotel on the lakefront.
- Hotel Fioroni: Cozy and great value.
- Agriturismo Il Colle: Ideal if you want to relax in nature.
3. Varenna
Quieter and less touristy than Bellagio, Varenna is a real gem. Its colorful houses and romantic vibe make it ideal if you seek authenticity.
What to Do: Visit Villa Monastero; walk the Passerella degli Innamorati (the “lovers’ walkway”); and enjoy the lakeside cafés.
How to Get There: It is one of the few towns with a direct train from Milan.
🏨 Where to Stay:
- Hotel Royal Victoria: Charming, with a pool and lake views.
- Casa du Lac: Modern, with panoramic balconies, bar, and restaurant.
- Varennahouse: Excellent value in the town center.
4. Menaggio
Located opposite Varenna, Menaggio is lively and well-structured.
What to Do: Stroll the lungolago; rent a boat to explore nearby villages; and take in the Alpine views.
How to Get There: Regular ferries connect Menaggio, Varenna, and Bellagio.
🏨 Where to Stay:
- Grand Hotel Menaggio: Prime location and a lakeside restaurant.
- Hotel Garni Corona: Cozy and good value.
- Hotel du Lac Menaggio: Charming and peaceful.
- Hotel Loveno: Excellent value in the town center.
5. Tremezzo
Tremezzo equals elegance. Here you find the famous Villa Carlotta, one of the lake’s most visited sights.
What to Do: Visit Villa Carlotta and its botanical gardens; then walk to the Cadenabbia waterfront for beautiful views of Bellagio.
How to Get There: Easy access by ferry or car from Como.
🏨 Where to Stay:
- Grand Hotel Tremezzo: One of Italy’s most iconic hotels.
- Hotel La Darsena: Right on the water, with a renowned restaurant.
- Albergo Villa Edy: Great value for money.
6. Lenno
Small and charming, Lenno is famous for Villa del Balbianello, a backdrop for Star Wars and James Bond.
What to Do: Tour the villa; wander the center; and relax at Lido di Lenno, one of the prettiest beaches on the lake.
How to Get There: About 30 minutes from Como by car, bus, or ferry from Tremezzo and Bellagio.
🏨 Where to Stay:
- Residence Lenno: A solid pick for families.
- Hotel Lenno: Central and great value.
7. Cernobbio
Close to Como, Cernobbio is sophisticated and calm—ideal if you want comfort and excellent dining.
What to Do: Visit Villa d’Este, a legendary palace hotel; then stroll the lakeside promenade.
How to Get There: Only 10 minutes from Como by bus, car, or ferry.
🏨 Where to Stay:
- Hotel Asnigo: Great value with panoramic views.
- Hotel Ristorante La Vignetta Cernobbio: Welcoming and well located.
- Albergo Della Torre: Well located and well priced.
8. Lecco
At the southeastern tip of the lake, Lecco offers a more authentic vibe, with fewer tourists and more local life.
What to Do: Explore the historic center; hike Monte Resegone; and enjoy the urban beaches in summer.
How to Get There: Direct trains from Milan take around 50 minutes.
🏨 Where to Stay:
- NH Lecco Pontevecchio: Modern and comfortable.
- Hotel Alberi: Excellent location.
- Albergo Nicolin: Charming and quiet.
- Agriturismo Deviscio: Ideal if you want to unwind in nature.
9. Colico
If you love nature and sports, Colico is the perfect choice. Surrounded by mountains, it is excellent for windsurfing, sailing, and hiking.
What to Do: Climb Monte Legnone; visit Forte Montecchio Nord; and relax on the sandy beaches.
How to Get There: In the north of the lake, arrive by direct train from Milan or via the panoramic SS36 road.
🏨 Where to Stay:
- Seven Park Hotel: Modern, with pool and spa.
- Hotel Risi: On the lakefront.
- Residence Lake Como: Near the center, with pool and bar; great value.
10. Bellano
Less famous, Bellano is a hidden gem on Lake Como.
What to Do: Visit the Orrido di Bellano, an impressive gorge with suspended walkways; then roam the historic center.
How to Get There: It has its own train station and ferry connections with Varenna and Menaggio.
🏨 Where to Stay:
- Hotel Meridiana: Wonderful views and a praised restaurant.
- Villa Marina: Charming, with a lovely lake view.
- Rosa dei Venti – Lake view Apartments & Suites: Welcoming, with beautiful views.
Our Final Thoughts
Lake Como sweeps you off your feet at first glance. Its calm waters, charming villages, and elegant vibe make every moment there unforgettable. Moreover, it’s a super versatile destination: it sits near one of Italy’s main airports and pairs perfectly with itineraries that include Milan, Lake Garda, and other Alpine regions.
We love Lake Como and highly recommend a visit. 🥰
And you—have you thought about adding Lake Como to your next-destinations list?
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