Lake Como is one of the most stunning places in Italy! It is located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, surrounded by the magnificent Alps.
I am personally fascinated by this breathtaking destination because the moment you enter this place, you are treated to luxurious villas, picturesque towns, stunning Alps, and crystal-clear waters of the lake!
Lake Como Weather
The weather at Lake Como is mild year-round, making it a great destination in any season. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, perfect for sightseeing and walks by the lake. Summer is warm, around 25°C to 30°C, ideal for boat rides and swimming. Winter is cooler and quieter, with temperatures between 5°C and 10°C, giving the lake a peaceful charm.
Getting to Lake Como
Plane
The closest airport to the lake is Milan Malpensa Airport, which is about 45 minutes away by car. From the airport, you can hire a private transfer or take a train to reach the lake.
Other nearby airports include Milan Linate Airport and Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport.
By Train
The lake is well connected by train to major cities in Italy. You can take a train from Milan to Como or Varenna, which are two of the popular towns on the lake. The journey takes around an hour, and the trains are frequent.
By Car
If you love driving then you can take a drive from Milan, taking the A9 motorway and exiting at Como Nord or Como Sud.
Lake Como Ferry
This is the most exciting and fun-filled way to travel to the lake! You can also explore the towns around the lake by ferry.
There are regular ferry services from Como, Varenna, Bellagio, and other towns. This is a scenic way to travel and see the lake from a different perspective.
By Bus
There are regular bus services from Milan and other nearby cities to Lake Como. The buses are comfortable, and the journey takes around an hour and a half.
Places to Visit Nearby
Villa del Balbianello
The villa is nothing less than a castle sitting atop an island! On the western shore of the lake, this villa is surrounded by the sea and well-groomed, lush green gardens, and hence has the prettiest views of all time, the shore meeting the sky and the land lined with greenery.
You can visit the gardens and even the interiors of this villa. I was flabbergasted to see such a marvellous place, and to be honest, I could spend hours in these gardens!
Como-Brunate Funicular
A Funicular is a type of railway operated by a cable connecting two places. The Como-Brunate Funicular connects these two towns together. The funicular is the quickest mode of transport between the two towns, and the views I saw from this train were captivating!
This adds a spark to even the part before you reach the town with an astonishing view of the Alps and, of course, the lake.
Villa Carlotta
Villa Carlotta is a villa and botanical garden filled with ancient trees, palms, rhododendrons, azaleas, and many other plants.
You can also explore art collections, which include statues, paintings, and original neoclassical furniture, as well as valuable masterpieces in the Villa Carlotta Museum.
Menaggio
Menaggio is a nice town and a great starting point to discover the lake and the mountains that surround it. In this town, you can explore a range of restaurants, cafes, and shops as well as historic churches and buildings, including the Church of Santa Marta with its fascinating neo-Gothic architecture.
Lake Como Hotel
- B&B Hotel Como City Center
- Hotel Il Perlo – Lake Como
- Albergo del Duca
- Hotel Ristorante La Vignetta Cernobbio
- Mamma Ciccia
- Hotel Bellavista
Lake Como Restaurants
- Il Pacchero 2.0
- Al Prato
- Piazza Roma Ristorante Como
- Trattoria Pizzeria In Borgovico
- Osteria Quatro Pass
Lake Como Boat Tour
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Lake Como very expensive?
Lake Como can be pricey, especially in popular towns like Bellagio and Como, where luxury hotels and fine dining dominate. However, it’s still possible to visit on a budget by staying in smaller towns, eating at local trattorias, and using ferries instead of private tours.
When is the best time of year to visit Lake Como Italy?
The best time to visit Lake Como, Italy is during June when you can experience the liveliness and beauty of the area without the stifling crowds of July and August.
Why is Lake Como so famous?
Lake Como is famous for its breathtaking scenery, historic villas, and elegant lakeside towns. Its combination of mountains, water, and charming architecture has made it a favorite among celebrities, filmmakers, and travelers from around the world.
Where is the best place to go in Lake Como?
Some of the most popular spots around Lake Como include Bellagio for its stunning views, Varenna for its romantic vibe, and Como town for easy access and lively atmosphere. Each place offers something unique, making it worth exploring more than one town.
Conclusion
I hope this information will be useful for your travel. If you plan to visit here, let me know which place on my list of things to do proved the most appealing to you.
