Where to stay in Lake Como

Lake Como is a Y-shaped lake in Lombardy, northern Italy, around 45 minutes from Milan by train. The main towns are Como (south, best transport connections), Bellagio (center, most picturesque), Varenna (east, quieter, excellent ferry connections) and Menaggio (west). For first-time visitors without a car, Como or Varenna are the best bases. Bellagio is the most romantic but most expensive. The far north, Colico, Sorico, is cheaper and less visited. Most visitors need 2 to 3 days to comfortably cover the highlights.

If you're planning a trip to Lake Como and wondering where to base yourself, this guide has you covered.

I live in northern Italy and have visited Lake Como multiple times. The towns, the ferry routes, the places worth the journey and the ones that disappoint.

In this guide I'll be sharing the best towns for every type of trip, with honest answers to the questions I get asked most: which town suits you best, whether you need a car and how to visit on a budget.

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Why visit Lake Como? 

Lake Como, Lago di Como in Italian, is famous for its postcard-perfect towns, elegant villas and scenic boat rides.  

Located in northern Italy in the Lombardy region, the lake is also known for its unique upside-down y-shape. Different parts of the lake attract visitors for diverse reasons, whether it be for the attractions or for specific activities. 

The dreamy Italian lake makes a great addition for any northern Italy itinerary, especially if visiting from Milan.

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Map of Lake Como towns

Lake Como's Y-shape means the distance between towns is greater than it looks on a standard map. That, and the atmosphere changes from south to north.

Use the map below to see exactly where each town sits before choosing your base.

Towns are color-coded by area so you can see at a glance how the southern, central and northern shores compare.

Where to stay in Lake Como 

Ultimately choosing where to stay in Lake Como depends on several factors.  

They include your reason/s for visiting, your travel style, budget and whether you’ll be traveling with a car.  

Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick comparison table to help you get your bearings. 

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Quick area guide to Lake Como Italy

Town	Good for
Como	Transport links, shopping, convenience
Bellagio	Sightseeing, ferry connections, luxury hotels
Varenna	Romantic breaks
Menaggio	Family trips, convenience
Lecco	Transport links, away from the crowds
Tremezzo	Luxury hotels, villas
Cernobbio	Away from the crowds
Northern Lake Como (Colico, Dervio)	Budget accommodation, outdoor sports

Use this Lake Como travel guide to help plan your Italy trip. 

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Southern Lake Como (Como, Cernobbio, Lecco)

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Como (southwest) 

Como is the largest city on the lake and often the first stop for travelers coming from Milan. It’s also the capoluogo (main city) of Lake Como. 

Located in the lake’s southwestern corner, Como strikes the right balance between convenience and relaxing scenery.  

At the heart of Como is a medieval old town filled with lively piazzas, shops and an impressive Duomo (cathedral). Add to this a scenic promenade lined with bars, restaurants and cafes plus a laidback vibe. 

Como is also a smart choice if you’re wondering 'where should I stay in Lake Como without a car?' 

The town has decent train and ferry connections and it’s simple to get to Como from Milan or Malpensa Airport. 

Ultimately, Como is ideal if visiting without a car, want city amenities and looking for a good connection point. 

Best things to do in Como 

• Explore Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como) 
• Take the cable car up to the town of Brunate for panoramic lake, and Alps, views  
• See Villa Olmo, a neoclassical villa with pretty gardens on the lake’s edge 
• Stroll through Piazza Cavour and the waterfront promenade by Lake Como 
• Discover Tempio Voltiano, the museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery. 

✅ Pros  

• Direct trains from Milan (around 40 minutes) 
• Large ferry terminal to reach Bellagio, Varenna, etc. 
• Good variety of restaurants and bars 
• Affordable accommodations compared to central lake towns 
• Great base for day trips to Brunate, Milan or even Switzerland 

❌ Cons 

• Not as picturesque as Bellagio or Varenna 
• Como can feel more urban compared to other towns 

Recommended hotels in Como

Luxury 

Enjoy a luxury stay at Vista Lago di Como. The 5-star hotel has colorful and modern rooms, some of which come with a garden or lake view. Other amenities include a restaurant, bar and a rooftop terrace. 

Mid-range 

Check in to the chic Suites&Atelier Lake Como art deco guesthouse. Situated close to Como Lago train station the family, and pet-friendly, hotel has soundproofed rooms and an onsite snack bar.  

Budget 

Stay close to Como’s main attractions at La Terrazza di Como. Located close to Lago Como train and bus station the apartments are ideal when looking for where to stay in Lake Como. 
Look for more Como hotels  

⏩️ Look for more Como hotels  

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Cernobbio (southwest) 

Also located on Lake Como’s southwestern coast is the peaceful, and lesser-known, town of Cernobbio. 

It’s a good choice if looking for where to stay in Lake Como town with fewer tourists. 

Cernobbio is reachable by public transport for visitors planning on traveling without a car. A train from Milan, plus a bus from Como (S. Teresa), will get you to Cernobbio in around 1 hour. 

With its manicured gardens, grand villas and serene lakefront promenade, Cernobbio works well for families and weekenders coming from Milan.  

If you plan on seeing towns like Bellagio or Varenna, Cernobbio works best as an arrival or departure base. Don’t use it as a primary stay for lake-hopping. 

Best things to do in Cernobbio 

• See Villa d’Este – the historic villa turned luxury hotel has romantic estate gardens overlooking Lake Como. 
• Stop by Villa Erba – the lavish 19th-century villa is usually closed to the public when hosting events and weddings. However, it’s possible to visit the gardens when they’re not booked for private functions. 
• Lungolago di Cernobbio – spend time walking the lakeside promenade lined with benches and relaxing views. 

✅ Pros 

• Easy to reach from Milan, making it great for Italy weekend breaks 
• A relaxed pace compared to other busier towns 
• Upscale restaurants and hotels 
• Good for travelers seeking serenity over sightseeing 
• Good variety of shops and services 

❌ Cons 

• Limited ferry access. More convenient to travel by car or by taxi/private transfer 
• Fewer tourist attractions compared to Bellagio or Varenna 
• Pricey accommodations especially near the lakefront  

Where to stay in Cernobbio 

Luxury 

Experience one of the finest luxury hotels in Lake Como at Villa d’Este. Rooms and suites embrace a timeless old-world opulence, while the beauty center and sauna will melt your stresses away. 

Mid-range 

Book with a family or as a couple at the charming La Corte di Zizi – apartment Cernobbio. Modern, colorful and with plenty of natural light, it’s also an 8-minute walk from Villa Erba.  

Budget  

Around a 7-minute drive from Villa d’Este is the chic Tra Cielo e Lago. The one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment has a kitchen complete with electrical appliances.  

⏩️ Look for more hotels in Cernobbio  

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Lecco (southeast) 

Located at the southeastern tip of Lake Como Lecco blends together mountain and lake views with local life. 

A town that’s often overlooked, Lecco offers a less crowded experience while giving you front-row access to Lake Como activities. 

It’s a great base for outdoorsy types and for anyone that wants to see something other than the Lake Como postcard version.  

A year-round destination, Lecco has nearby ski slopes in winter (Piani di Bobbio) and hiking or biking in summer. 

What’s more, if looking for where to stay in Lake Como on a budget Lecco could be your perfect match.  

Plus, with direct train connections to Milan, Lecco is a practical option if you’re traveling without a car. 

Best attractions in Lecco 

• Lungolago di Lecco – walk along the serene lakeside promenade lined with playgrounds, cafes and restaurants.  
• Piani D’erna – take the cable car to the top of the mountain plateau to enjoy panoramic views. 
• Villa Manzoni – visit the former home of Italian writer Alessandro Manzoni, now a museum. At the time of writing, the museum is closed for renovation works and is scheduled to re-open in 2026. 
• Orrido di Bellano (nearby) – a dramatic gorge carved by the Pioverna river and an attraction we saw on our 3 days in Lake Como. 

✅ Pros 

• Less touristy than other towns on Lake Como 
• Wide variety of accommodations and dining options 
• Good base for outdoorsy types 
• Direct train to Milan (around 40 minutes) 

❌ Cons 

• Not on the main ferry route and limited lake transport 
• Not as visually iconic as Bellagio or Varenna 
• More of a city feel than a resort town 

Where to stay in Lake Como in Lecco 

Luxury 

Relax in one of the elegant modern rooms at Luxury Suites Rocopom – Lake Front. Each room has its own terrace overlooking Lake Como and the hotel has a top-rated restaurant onsite. 

Mid-range 

Le Casette di Osvaldo offer spacious self-catering apartments and houses in a residential neighborhood. It’s ideal if visiting Lake Como with kids given the space, facilities and local services nearby. 

Budget 

Tuck into a high-rated breakfast and sleep soundly at B&B Partenza Funivia. The warm and inviting B&B is near the Piani d’Erna cable car making it perfect for outdoor travelers. 

⏩️ Look for more hotels in Lecco 

Central Lake Como (Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, Tremezzo, Lenno)

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Bellagio 

Bellagio is the town that most people picture when they think of Lake Como. 

Nicknamed 'pearl of the lake', Bellagio sits right where the lake’s three branches meet. 

Filled with cobblestone stairways, restaurants, shops and scenic viewing points, it’s a perfect town for first-time visitors to Lake Como. Its amenities also make Bellagio a good choice when looking for where to stay in Lake Como with a family. 

Another noteworthy mention are the good ferry connections from Bellagio. Ferries run regularly between Bellagio making it easy to hop between other lake towns. 

Top attractions in Bellagio 

• Villa Melzi gardens – the villa (not open to visitors) has a picturesque botanical garden filled with statues and exotic flora and fauna. 
• Villa Serbelloni Park – only accessible via guided tour with scenic lake views from the top. 
• Salita Serbelloni – the iconic staircase in Bellagio lined with shops and bistros 
• Church of San Giacomo (Chiesa di San Giacomo) – the 12th century Romanesque church in the town center 
• Punta Spartivento – a peaceful viewing point at the far end of Bellagio 

✅ Pros 

• Accessible location with easy ferry access to Varenna, Menaggio and Tremezzo 
• A good mix of lake and town activities  
• Varied selection of restaurants, shops and gelaterias 

❌ Cons

• Touristy — expect plenty of crowds during peak season 
• Higher prices for hotels and restaurants 
• Narrow, steep streets may be difficult for those with mobility issues and for people visiting with a baby 

Best Lake Como hotels in Bellagio 

Luxury 

Make your Bellagio trip more memorable by booking a few nights at Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. One of the most iconic 5-star hotels in Italy, enjoy its private beach, two pools and Michelin-starred restaurant. 

Mid-range  

Make good use of the spa and (seasonal) outdoor pool at Charming Bellagio Boutique Hotel. The lakefront B&B has modern rooms and suites that have views overlooking the lake or garden. 

Budget 

Located near Villa Melzi gardens and Bellagio ferry terminal is Villa La Rosa B&B. Beautifully bright and modern rooms, the hotel has a superb location and a rooftop pool. 

⏩️ Look for more Lake Como hotels in Bellagio 

When should you book hotels for Bellagio? 

It's important to know that Bellagio hotels can book up months in advance, especially in spring and summer. 

Easter, July and August are particularly busy, so if you’ve got your heart set on staying here, book early.  

For fewer crowds and more reasonable prices, consider visiting Bellagio during the shoulder seasons. May or September are both great choices. 

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Varenna (central east) 

While Bellagio is the showstopper of Lake Como, Varenna lets you experience Lake Como at a more peaceful pace. 

Located on the eastern shore, just across from Bellagio, Varenna makes a great choice for a romantic weekend. Think long, lazy walks by the lake, a glass of wine by the water and mornings that slowly unfold. 

While Varenna attracts its fair share of visitors it feels less busy than Bellagio. The town has a pretty, floral-lined promenade, dreamy lake viewing points and a quaint pebble beach.  

Thanks to its direct Milan train connections, Varenna is also one of the easiest towns to reach without a car. 

A good stopover for a Northern Italy itinerary, consider Varenna when looking for where to stay in Lake Como. 

Best things to do in Varenna 

• Villa Monastero – wander through the magnificent botanical gardens at this historic lakeside villa.  
• Visit Castello di Vezio – the 12th century castle perched above the town offers sweeping views of the lake and dungeon tours. 
• Stroll along the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Walk of Lovers) – this scenic lakeside promenade links the ferry terminal to Varenna’s town center. 
• Church of San Giorgio (Chiesa di San Giorgio) – dating to the 13th century, the church is a prime example of medieval Lombard architecture and Gothic architectural style.  

✅ Pros 

• Laid-back, less chaotic ambience (aside from summer) 
• Direct trains from Milan (via Varenna-Esino station) 
• Good base to explore Bellagio, Menaggio and Tremezzo by ferry 

❌ Cons 

• Limited selection of shops, bars and restaurants 
• Varenna is small and may feel too quiet for some 
• Prices are higher compared to lesser-known towns on Lake Como 
• Gets crowded in summer 

Where to stay in Varenna 

Luxury 

Indulge in a romantic Lake Como weekend at Hotel Villa Cipressi - by R Collection Hotels. The adults-only hotel has rooms and suites overlooking the lake, a romantic garden and terrace and free breakfast.  

Mid-range 

Clean and well-maintained self-catering apartments is what you can expect at Villa Monti. Many apartments have lake-facing balconies and all the mod cons for a comfortable stay. Close to Villa Monastero, Villa Monti also has a (seasonal) outdoor pool. 

Budget 

Relax in the spacious, clean and inviting Casa Aidee apartment. Centrally located, it has a fully equipped kitchen and balcony overlooking Lake Como. 

⏩️ Look for more hotels in Varenna, Lake Como 

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Tremezzo (central west) 

Sophisticated, luxurious and refined best sums up Tremezzo.  

Its peaceful lakeside promenade lined with iconic hotels and villas makes Tremezzo ideal for a romantic getaway. Because of this, consider booking here if looking for where to stay in Lake Como for couples. 

A popular base for weddings and honeymooners, Tremezzo makes a quieter alternative to Bellagio. The town has ports providing easy access to ferries and for visiting nearby towns. 

If Tremezzo hotels are fully booked look for hotels in nearby towns like Lenno and Mezzegra.  

What to see in Tremezzo 

• Villa Carlotta – a beautiful villa dating to the late 17th century. Tour the sumptuous rooms and art collections before exploring the botanical gardens. Don’t miss out on seeing the views from the terrace that stretch across to Bellagio. 
• The Grand Hotel Tremezzo grounds – should your budget not stretch to spending the night, come for a drink at the iconic hotel’s lakeside bar. 
• Lungolago di Tremezzo – soak up the peaceful vibes of one of the quieter towns on Lake Como by walking its lakefront promenade 
• Villa del Balbianello – make the 5-minute drive to Lenno, or take a ferry, to visit the Hollywood famous villa (book entry tickets). 

✅ Pros 

• More peaceful compared to other Lake Como towns 
• Good ferry connections 
• Ideal for couples’ and adult-only vacations  

❌ Cons 

• Expensive, even mid-range hotels tend to be towards the higher end 
• Limited dining options 
• Few shops and services  

Recommended hotels in Tremezzo 

Luxury 

Shower your significant other with a romantic stay at the legendary Grand Hotel Tremezzo. With an indoor pool, seasonal outdoor pool and full-service spa it’s one of the most luxurious hotels in Italy. 

Mid-range 

A purse-friendly choice in nearby Tremezzina, Hotel La Perla has lake-view rooms, an outdoor pool and complimentary top-rated breakfast. 

Budget 

Also located in Tremezzina, Hotel Bazzoni et du Lac has a prime lakefront location, two restaurants and an outdoor pool. It’s a 1-minute walk to Tremezzo ferry terminal and 8 minutes’ walk to Villa Carlotta. 

⏩️ Look for more hotels in Tremezzo 

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Lenno

Lenno is one of my personal highlights on Lake Como.

One of the lesser-visited central lake towns, it’s home to one of the most beautiful villas on the water.

The town has a local feel that Bellagio and Varenna lack. It's quiet, charming and the kind of place where you find yourself slowing down without meaning to.

We visited on a day trip and it was one of the most enjoyable stops on the lake.

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Villa del Balbianello

The main reason most visitors come to Lenno is Villa del Balbianello.

Perched on a wooded promontory above the lake, the 18th century villa is one of the most photographed buildings in Italy.

Villa del Balbianello has appeared in several films including Star Wars Episode II and the 2006 James Bond film Casino Royale.

The gardens are extraordinary and the views across the lake from the villa's terraces are among the finest on Como.

⏩️ Book: boat trip from Lenno and VIP access to Villa del Balbianello's gardens

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The lungolago and beaches

Beyond the villa, Lenno has a pretty lakeside promenade and a small beach. Lenno Beach (Spiaggia di Lenno) is free to access, while the adjacent Lido di Lenno is a paid beach club with facilities.

One of my favorite moments on Lake Como was getting gelato from La Fabbrica del Gelato. With a tempting array of flavors, my husband and I brought ours to the lungolago to enjoy it with a lake view.

Lenno works well as a day trip from Como, Varenna or Bellagio. It could also work as a base for two nights, particularly for visitors seeking something quieter than the main tourist towns.

The beauty about Lenno is you can have peaceful surroundings without sacrificing the central lake position.

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Menaggio (central west) 

Visiting Lake Como with children or as a multi-generational group? If so, Menaggio is one of the most practical places when looking for where to stay in Lake Como. 

Located across from Varenna, Menaggio offers a great mix of beautiful scenery, convenience and family-friendly appeal.  

Its wide lakefront promenade and flat terrain are ideal for travelers and seniors that use a wheelchair or traveling with a stroller. 

Menaggio may not carry the same 'fame' as Bellagio but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The town’s good for families as well as for anyone that values space and accessibility over glitz. 

What’s more, renting a car is helpful but not essential thanks to good ferry connections and frequent bus services.  

Things to do in Menaggio 

• Walk the Lungolago di Menaggio (lakefront promenade)  
• Browse the shops on Via Calvi, a main shopping street in Menaggio 
• Relax with a gelato from Gelateria La Fabbrica del Gelato in Piazza Garibaldi 
• Soak up the sun at Lido beach Menaggio – a kid-friendly beach with a swimming pool, sun loungers and snack bar 
• Visit the Menaggio mini waterfall 

✅ Pros 

• Good selection of services, restaurants and cafes 
• Great ferry connections to Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo 
• Wide, flat streets ideal for strollers and for wheelchair users 
• Relaxed pace and fewer crowds than Bellagio 
• Large variety of accommodation types 

❌ Cons 

• Not as scenic compared to Varenna/Bellagio 
• Limited luxury hotels 

Best hotels in Menaggio 

Luxury 

Experience lakeside views, luxurious rooms and suites and fine dining at Grand Hotel Victoria Concept & Spa. The beautiful 5-star hotel also boasts two onsite restaurants, an indoor and outdoor (seasonal) pool and full-service spa. 

Mid-range 

Stay at the heart of Menaggio with a night or two at the adults-only Suites Menaggio. Stylish apartments overlook the lake and town and have balconies to take in the views. 

Budget 

Lake Como Hostel is a reasonable choice for young travelers or families visiting Lake Como on a budget. While there are shared spaces, the hostel also has private double, triple, quadruple and family rooms.  

Should you prefer a hotel over a hostel, give Hotel Loveno a closer look. While located away from the lakefront, many of the modern rooms still have a lake view. 

⏩️ Look for more hotels in Menaggio  

Northern Lake Como (Colico, Dervio, Sorico)

Northern Lake Como, anchored by towns like Colico, Dongo and Dervio, is ideal for visitors that love the outdoors.  

It's where to stay in Lake Como if you’re all about adventure, nature and escaping the crowds. 
The region is also where Lake Como feels its most untamed. Wide, wild and framed by alpine peaks with steady winds, it’s a dream for kitesurfers and windsurfers. 

It's little wonder that outdoorsy types, backpackers and visitors wanting to go beyond the typical tourist path enjoy it here. 

The northern towns aren’t ideal if you’re looking for the glitzy side of Lake Como. However, they offer good value, authenticity and adventure.  

If traveling with a car this area is your playground. Take a day trip from Colico to Tirano to ride the magnificent Bernina Express. Or make the drive to Valtellina to visit a vineyard and local cantina. 

What to see in northern Lake Como 

Colico 

• Forte Montecchio Nord – a military fortress from 1914, the open-air museum offers guided tours and views of Lake Como. Piona Abbey – a remote Romanesque monastery set on a peninsula with panoramic lake views. 
• Laghetto di Piona – a small lake with a charming pebble beach and shallow water. 

Dongo 

• Museo della Fine della Guerra Dongo – Dongo is where Mussolini was captured, and the museum documents the dramatic WWII history of the region. 

Dervio 

• Sentiero del Viandante (da Dervio a Colico) – the scenic hiking path connects several lakeside towns such as Dervio to Colico. 
• Castello di Orezia – a remote medieval hilltop castle with panoramic views. 
• Windsurfing/kitesurfing schools – given the consistent 'breva' breeze in the region, Dervio is home to several windsurfing and kitesurfing schools. 

✅ Pros 

• Good value for hotels, rentals and dining out 
• Ideal for outdoorsy types, budget travelers and for escaping the crowds 
• Less touristy and more local 
• Good base for day trips to Valtellina and Switzerland 

❌ Cons 

• The north requires a car for convenience and there’s limited ferry access 
• Few fine-dining options 
• Towns are small and there’s not much to do after dark 

Where to stay in north Lake Como 

Colico 

Hotel Lago di Como – the pet-friendly hotel has bright and cozy rooms, free breakfast and is a 4-minute drive from Piona Lake. 

Dervio 

B&B La Casa Del Poeta – Housed in a historic 17th century mansion, rooms are bright and bold, and the location is at the heart of Dervio. 

Dongo 

Albergo Dongo – clean and comfortable rooms, some with terraces overlooking the lake. A continental breakfast is included. 

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Sorico

Sorico sits at the very top of Lake Como's northern tip. Quiet and more residential, it’s a world away from the glossy tourist towns of the central lake.

This isn’t a destination for sightseeing. There are no famous villas, staircases or viewpoints that appear on postcards.

What Sorico offers instead is calm. It has a local atmosphere where people come to eat, drink, swim and sit by the water.

The lake at this end is serene and the pace of life is slower than anywhere further south.

From a practical perspective, Sorico is one of the most affordable bases on Lake Como. Accommodation costs are a fraction of what you'd pay in Bellagio or Varenna and food and drink is more reasonable too.

We didn't spend much time exploring Sorico, there isn't much to explore here.

But, as a base for families or budget-conscious travelers with a car, it makes a great deal of sense.

You're close enough to the central lake towns when you want the sights, but return somewhere more peaceful and affordable.

A car is essential here as Sorico has limited public transport connections. It's best suited to visitors who are already planning to drive around the lake rather than rely on ferries and trains.

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Varenna or Bellagio: which is better for Lake Como?

The Varenna vs. Bellagio debate is one of the most common questions about Lake Como. The honest answer is that both are worth visiting, but they suit different types of travelers.

Varenna

From my experience, Varenna is the quieter, more intimate of the two.

I love the Passeggiata degli Innamorati, the Lovers' Walk. It’s a narrow lakeside path that follows the water's edge and has some of the most romantic views of Lake Como.

At the far end of Varenna is a small beach (spiaggia). It’s serene when you find it quiet, though it fills up quickly in summer.

In terms of atmosphere, Varenna has a slightly more relaxed pace than Bellagio, though don't expect it to be empty.

It still draws large visitor numbers and prices reflect that.

Both towns attract a similar mid-range to luxury traveler profile, so budget visitors might find options limited in either.

For car-free visitors, Varenna is the stronger choice. Direct trains run from Milan Centrale and ferry connections make it the most accessible town on the eastern shore.

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🎥 Watch: 5 top places to swim in Lake Como

Lake Como isn't just for looking at.

Several towns have great swimming spots, from free public beaches to paid lido beach clubs with facilities. The video below covers five of the best places to swim on the lake, including options near the towns covered in this guide.

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Bellagio

Bellagio is undeniably beautiful and worth seeing, but it comes with a premium attached.

The town’s larger than Varenna with more to explore, including the famous Salita Serbelloni.

The long stone staircase, lined with bars and restaurants, has become one of the most photographed spots on the lake.

Where to eat in Bellagio

When it comes to dining in Bellagio, the situation is varied.

From my experience, many restaurants are expensive and the menus don't always reflect authentic Lombard cooking.

Because of this, I prefer to have a simple, yet hearty, lunch whenever I visit Bellagio.

Mr Panino, tucked away on Salita Grandi, is a sandwich spot that's cheap, cheerful and delicious. Weather permitting, take your panino down to the lake, find a bench and eat with the view.

For me, it's one of the better Bellagio experiences and costs a fraction of sitting down at a restaurant.

If you’d prefer to have a sit down meal at a Bellagio restaurant, these are the places I’d personally try.

• Torre Del Gusto Bellagio, Piazza della Chiesa, 12
• Dispensa 63, Salita Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour, 15

Practical things to know

A practical note about bathrooms in Bellagio: public toilets are limited. There are one or two near the port area but lines build quickly.

In practice this means buying a coffee or pastry to use a cafe/bar’s facilities. Factor this in if you're traveling with a baby/young children or anyone with mobility needs.

It’s also worth mentioning that Bellagio has some challenging terrain: inclines and staircases that are atmospheric but not always accessible for strollers or mobility aids.

We stayed in Bellagio on one visit, though away from the town center, which meant having a car was essential for getting back and forth easily.

If you're car-free, Varenna is the more manageable base of the two.

Which should you choose?

Choose Varenna if you want a slightly quieter atmosphere, easy car-free access and a more intimate lakeside experience.

Stay in Bellagio if you want more to explore, the famous staircases and a livelier town center. However, go in with realistic expectations about cost and crowds.

If time allows, visit both. The ferry crossing between them takes around 15 minutes and seeing both in a single day is entirely doable.

Most people think of eggs, toast or something savory when they imagine their morning meal. But, in Italy, breakfast looks completely different.

Where to stay in Lake Como without a car 

Good news, Lake Como is entirely manageable without a car.

Many towns are reachable by train, bus or ferry and going car-free can make your trip more relaxing. 

Below is a brief go-to guide for the best places to stay in Lake Como without a car. It also includes tips on how to get around and what to expect in each spot. 

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Best Lake Como towns for car-free travel

Town	Direct train access	Ferry access
Como	✅ (from Milano Centrale, Porta Garibaldi)	✅
Varenna	✅ (from Milano Centrale, Porta Garibaldi)	✅
Lecco	✅ (frequent trains from Milan)	❌ (no ferry port)
Bellagio	❌ (no train)	✅
Menaggio	❌ (bus only)	✅
Colico/Dervio	✅ (from Milano Centrale, Porta Garibaldi)	❌ (no ferry port)

Northern lake towns typically have fewer tourists, are cheaper but only have train access. Best suited to visitors who want a quieter base and plan to day trip by train rather than ferry.

Of the three train-accessible options, Varenna is my top recommendation for car-free visitors.

Accessible directly from Milan Centrale, it offers a classic Lake Como romantic experience with good ferry connections across the lake.

A one-way adult ferry ride from Varenna to Menaggio costs €5.50* and €2.80 for children aged 4 to 11. It’s an affordable and scenic way to explore neighboring towns without a car.

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Getting around Lake Como without a car  

• Trains – Milan to Como, Lecco, or Varenna are frequent and affordable (see how to get from Milan to Lake Como for more detailed information). 
• Ferries – the main form of lake transport. Central-lake towns like Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio are best connected. Check the website for routes and current prices.
• Buses – bus services connect towns like Menaggio and Tremezzo with Como. However, schedules can be irregular so be sure to plan. 
• Water taxis – taxis offer a private and scenic (but pricier) alternative to ferries. 

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Lake Como itineraries without a car 

• Stay in Como and take ferries or the train to nearby towns and Milan. 
• Choose Varenna for easy ferry access to Bellagio and Menaggio. 
• Choose Lecco (or Como) if coming from Milan for a quick trip to Lake Como 

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Where to stay in Lake Como on a budget 

Lake Como has a global reputation for luxury, but with the right approach, it's possible to visit on a modest budget.

🏨 Budget-friendly hotels in Lake Como (prices will vary according to season) 

Como 

La Terrazza di Como 
B&B Volta 
  
Varenna 

Casa Aidee 
New Apartment Lake 10 
  
Lecco 

B&B Partenza Funivia 
Le Casette di Osvaldo 
  
Menaggio 

Lake Como Hostel 
Hotel Adler 

How to visit Lake Como on a budget  

• Use trains, buses and ferries whenever possible  
• Book early – budget spots sell out fast especially in Varenna and Bellagio. 
• Travel in shoulder seasons – visit in April, May, September (see 'Italy in September') or October for better rates and fewer crowds. 
• Don’t overlook agriturismo stays (farmstays). They often include rustic accommodation at a fraction of hotel prices. 
• Avoid Bellagio if you're on a tight budget as hotels and meals tend to be marked up significantly.  
• Consider Lecco. It’s lesser known to international tourists than Como but has good transport connections, a local feel and lower accommodation prices.
• The far north of Lake Como, particularly Sorico and the surrounding area, is where prices are more likely to be lower. Less visited than the central lake towns, it's affordable and rewards visitors who want a quieter side of the lake. Accommodation costs here can be a fraction of what you'd pay in Bellagio or Varenna.
• Look into camping options. Lake Como has several campsites that dramatically reduce accommodation costs while keeping you close to the water.

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FAQs about Lake Como

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Final thoughts

What are your thoughts on this travel guide of where to stay in Lake Como? Has it given you a good idea of where you’d like to book? Reach out or leave me a comment below. 

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

Written by Lisa Rivera: Italy traveler and resident for 10+ years. First-hand researched for 2026.

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