Choosing where to stay in Lake Como is one of the most important tasks when organizing your trip to this beautiful area of northern Italy because, depending on the plans you want to make and the time you have, you can have one or more bases on the lake.
In this guide we are going to show you all the accommodation options available on the lake, from the most affordable to the most luxurious, but all with something in common: a breathtaking setting. We already tell you that, no matter which one you choose, you will have a lot of fun!
Based on our route around Lake Como, thanks to which we published these tips for traveling to Lake Como and this post on places to see in Lake Como, we share with you all the information to make choosing where to sleep in Lake Como a simple task. Let’s get started!
Areas to stay in Lake Como
Probably no one will be surprised to know that Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and famous lakes in Italy. Shaped like an inverted Y and surrounded by majestic mountains, the lake stretches for approximately 146 square kilometers and is dotted with gorgeous villages along its shores, such as Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, offering historic architecture, stunning gardens and cobblestone streets that invite you to explore its charms.
This scenic beauty has meant that Lake Como has been a haven for celebrities and aristocrats over the years, with elegant villas and palaces overlooking its waters, such as the famous Villa del Balbianello, adding a touch of historical splendor to the region. The lake is also known for its water activities, such as sailing, windsurfing and boating.
Its mild climate and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal destination to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In addition to water activities, the lake’s surroundings offer opportunities for hiking, biking and enjoying local cuisine in charming restaurants with panoramic views.
And now yes, after this introduction so that you more or less know what you will find on this trip, let’s talk about where to stay in Lago di Como so you can get down to work with the organization of your trip. In terms of accommodation, we are going to divide the lake into three zones:
- Southern area: the southern area of the lake is usually the point of entry due to its proximity to cities such as Milan, which can be reached by train. Here we find cities like Lecco on the east side or Como on the west side, but also other places not so well known but with the same charm.
- Central area: the central area is probably the best known. Here you will find the pearl of the lake, Bellagio, but also Menaggio, Tremezzo or, our favorite, Varenna.
- Northern area: in the northern area of the lake the accommodations are somewhat more affordable because it is also where fewer people decide to stay. The main reason for this is that it is further away from the main centers of visit but it is just as beautiful as the other areas. Here you will find beautiful villages with all the charm of the lake as Colico or Domaso.
- Villas: if there is something characteristic about where to sleep in Lake Como are the villas. These luxury houses with botanical gardens and breathtaking views are an incredible option to spend a few days at the lake, if your budget allows it.
With all the above in mind, if it is your first time on the lake and you are going to spend 1 or 2 days, we think it would be ideal to look for accommodation in one of the big cities like Como or Bellagio. The connections here are ideal for getting around the lake and the accommodation on offer will suit any trip and budget.
If you have more days and want to do a complete tour of the lake, the ideal is to move around. This, in addition to giving you the freedom of movement, also gives you the option of seeing the lake from various points of view with different accommodations.
Having said all this, let’s delve a little deeper into each area so you can learn about all the options available to you.
1. Where to stay in Lake Como South
The southern part of Lake Como is an enchanting combination of landscapes, elegant villas and villages. This is the most sought after area for accommodation in Lake Como because of its proximity to and easy access from Milan.
A popular destination in this region is the city of Como, located at the southwestern end of the lake, which features medieval architecture, cobblestone streets and the impressive 14th-century Como Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta).
Another of the most important places to stay on Lake Como is the town of Lecco, on the southeastern tip. Lecco offers spectacular views of the lake and is known for its rich history and architecture. The historic city center features picturesque squares, cobblestone streets and historic monuments, such as the Basilica of St. Nicholas. Here you can also enjoy outdoor activities in the surrounding area, including hiking.
On the south coast are several villages such as Cernobbio, home to the famous Villa d’Este, a Renaissance villa surrounded by gardens and considered one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. Another highlight is Mandello de Lario, a small charming village that offers breathtaking views and an authentic Italian atmosphere.
The southern part of the lake is also known for its steep hills covered with olive groves and vineyards, which produce high quality wines and olive oils. Here you can enjoy wine tours and tastings to explore the rich winemaking tradition of the region.
Which one to choose? If you opt for this area of the lake, the truth is that there will not be a bad choice. However, our choice would be between Como and Lecco, as they are the best connected, both to get there and to move around the lake, but the charm of the small towns is also something to take into account.
2. Where to stay in Lago di Como center
The central part of Lake Como is a region noted for its breathtaking scenery, picturesque villages and elegant villas. Bellagio, known as the Pearl of the Lake, is strategically located at the point where the branches of the lake divide. The town is famous for its narrow cobblestone streets, gardens and panoramic views from the peninsula towards the three arms of the lake.
Varenna, another charming village in the central part, boasts a beautiful coastline, colorful houses and the Castle of Vezio, which offers spectacular views. In addition, the region is home to the Villa del Balbianello, an elegant mansion with impressive terraces and gardens, famous for its appearance in films such as Casino Royale and Star Wars.
On the coast in front of Varenna you will also find accommodation options in towns such as Menaggio or Tremezzo.
The central part of Lake Como is known for combining natural beauty with architectural elegance, making it a unique tourist destination and one of the best places to stay in Lake Como.
To choose one of these places over the others you would have to find the balance between connection, budget and beauty of the place. In our opinion, the best option would be Varenna.
3. Where to sleep in Lake Como north
The northern part of Lake Como features a mountainous environment and a number of charming villages that add to the region’s appeal. Domaso is known for its beaches and is a popular destination for water activities such as windsurfing and sailing due to its strong winds.
The town of Colico, on the northern tip of the lake, is home to the Fuentes fortress, an ancient military fortress with panoramic views. In addition, the northern region is a starting point for exploring the Valtellina, a valley north of Como known for its vineyards and gastronomic specialties such as the famous Valtellina wine.
Dervio is another lakeside village with quiet beaches and a relaxed atmosphere that is surrounded by green hills and mountains, also offering opportunities for hiking.
The northern part of Lake Como offers a blend of natural beauty with a touch of authenticity and outdoor activities, making it an attractive destination for those looking to explore the rich culture and landscape of this Italian region. It is also one of the least crowded areas of the lake.
For us, the best options in this area would be Colico or Domaso.
Our recommendations for where to stay in Lake Como
- In the area south of the lake you will have more accommodation options in towns like Como or Lecco, but you can get charming accommodations in the village of Cernobbio.
- If you decide to stay in the central area of the lake, the best known, you can look for a hotel in Bellagio, but our favorite is Varenna, which perfectly combines the charm of its streets with the view of the lake.
- In case you go to the northern area, it would be ideal to look for accommodation between Domaso and Colico.
- The choice of the area of the lake to stay will depend on the route you have planned and the time you have available. If you have few days and you arrive by train to Como, the ideal is to look for accommodation in the south or central area. If you are going to do the tour with a rental car and you are going to continue touring the north of Italy, we believe it is best to look in the north, where you will have connections to follow the route and cheaper prices.
Tips for cheap accommodation in Lake Como
This area of Italy is not exactly the cheapest, so the budget can be high if you don’t choose the right accommodation.
The main advice to find cheap accommodation in Lake Como is to look for it 3 to 4 months in advance, especially if you are traveling in high season (summer).
In addition to the anticipation, the place where you are going to look for your accommodation is determinant. The central area is probably the most expensive while the northern area has more affordable prices.
Another aspect to take into account is the position of the accommodation, it will not be the same a lakeside accommodation than one a little further inland. Sometimes, to value this kind of details can make the difference between an expensive or cheap accommodation in Lake Como.
Frequently asked questions about where to stay at Lago di Como
Although we hope to have solved all your doubts about where to stay in Lago di Como, here are some of the most frequently asked questions:
What is the best time to visit Lake Como?
The best time to visit Lake Como is spring. You will not find the overcrowding that occurs in summer but you will have good weather to enjoy all the activities you can do here.
How many days are necessary to see Lake Como?
Although you can visit some of the most beautiful places on the lake in one day, the ideal is to dedicate 3 days.
What not to miss in Lago di Como?
The lake is one of the most beautiful places to see in Italy, so any place can conquer you, although there are certain places like Varenna, Como, Brienno or Colico that can not miss on your list.
Where is the best place to stay in Lake Como?
It will depend on your preferences and your budget. If you are looking for a complete and cheap stay, staying in the northern area is ideal. If you have a little more budget, Varenna (center) or Como (south) would be ideal.
What is the closest airport to Lake Como?
The closest airport to Lake Como is Milan Malpensa airport, although you can also reach Bergamo, Venice or Turin for a route through the north of the country.
