Figuring out the best area to stay at Lake Como can feel as grand and complex as the lake itself. This legendary Italian destination isn’t a single spot but a mesmerizing tapestry of charming villages, opulent villas, and dramatic alpine scenery, each offering a distinct experience. The key is to match your travel style to the unique personality of its shores. Whether you are searching for the vibrant social scene of Bellagio, the romantic seclusion of Varenna, the family-friendly atmosphere of Menaggio, the convenience of Como Town, or simply unforgettable luxury stays, this guide will navigate you through the shimmering waters to find your perfect base.
It’s a landscape steeped in romance and history, a world away from the fast pace of modern life. The allure is in the grand villas and their botanical gardens, a topic that draws parallels to the elegance found in tales of grand residences, such as the one surrounding george clooney’s house at lake como. Understanding the character of each town is the first step toward crafting an unforgettable Italian escape.
A Traveller’s Take on Finding the Perfect Spot
Before diving into the details, let me share a little story from my last trip. My wife and I spent weeks debating between Varenna and Bellagio. We read every blog and forum. In the end, we chose Varenna, and it was pure magic. Waking up to the quiet lapping of water against the ancient stone, strolling the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lover’s Walk) with our morning espressos, and feeling like we had discovered a hidden secret was priceless. We took the ferry to Bellagio for a day and, while stunning, we were so glad to return to our peaceful haven in the evening. It taught me that the “best” place truly depends on the kind of memories you want to create. It’s less about a ranking and more about a feeling.
Bellagio: The Glamorous Heart of the Lake
Often called ‘The Pearl of Lake Como’, Bellagio holds a regal position at the intersection of the lake’s three branches. This prime location offers unparalleled panoramic views and a palpable sense of prestige. The town itself is a beautiful labyrinth of steep, cobbled lanes lined with high-end boutiques, silk shops, and elegant cafes. The waterfront promenade is abuzz with activity, where well-dressed visitors sip Aperol Spritz while watching the ferries crisscross the water.
This is the destination for those who want to be in the centre of it all. The atmosphere is one of polished glamour, making it an undeniable magnet for couples on a romantic escape and travellers with a taste for luxury. The convenience of the ferry terminal means exploring other towns is incredibly simple, but you’ll find plenty to occupy your time within Bellagio itself, from the stunning gardens of Villa Melzi to the historic park of Villa Serbelloni. It is the quintessential Lake Como experience, vibrant and undeniably beautiful.
According to Isabella Rossi, a Lake Como travel specialist, “Bellagio’s central ferry hub is its greatest practical asset. While it’s the busiest town, you cannot beat its convenience for day-tripping. It allows you to have a truly comprehensive Lake Como experience without needing a car.”
Varenna: The Quintessential Romantic Hideaway
If Bellagio is the glamorous protagonist, Varenna is its romantic, soulful counterpart. Situated on the eastern shore, this former fishing village exudes an authentic charm that is utterly captivating. Its waterfront is a cascade of colourful, rustic houses, and the famous Passeggiata degli Innamorati, a suspended walkway over the water, provides one of the most romantic strolls on the lake. The pace here is noticeably slower, encouraging visitors to linger over a lakeside lunch or simply sit and absorb the serene beauty.
Varenna is the ideal choice for honeymooners, couples, and anyone seeking a quieter, more intimate atmosphere without sacrificing beauty. While it has fewer shops than Bellagio, it boasts its own treasures, including the enchanting gardens of Villa Monastero and the medieval Castello di Vezio, which looms above the town offering breathtaking views. The town feels less like a tourist hotspot and more like a cherished secret, a place where the history is as tangible as the scent of jasmine in the air. The historical layers here are deep and romantic, a far cry from the dramatic narratives you might find in a fictional story like a murder mystery murder at lake como.
Menaggio: The Active and Family-Friendly Base
Perfectly positioned on the western shore, Menaggio offers a slightly different, more grounded Lake Como experience. It has a larger, more open town square and a splendid lakeside promenade that is perfect for leisurely walks and bike rides. What sets Menaggio apart is its blend of resort-town amenities and a genuine community feel, making it an excellent choice for families and active travellers. Its fantastic Lido with a pool and beach is a major draw for those with children, offering a fun-filled day in the sun.
From Menaggio, you have excellent access to hiking and cycling trails that venture into the surrounding hills, providing a different perspective on the lake’s beauty. The town also serves as a key transport link, not just for the central lake ferries but also for bus routes to Lake Lugano in Switzerland. This makes it a strategic base for those who want to explore beyond the immediate waterfront. Its grand hotels and community-focused events create a welcoming atmosphere, reminiscent of the timeless appeal of other iconic waterside venues, which you can learn more about in the context of the mansion at mountain lakes nj.
Tremezzina: A Stroll Through History and Horticulture
Tremezzina isn’t a single town but a collection of hamlets, including Tremezzo, Mezzegra, and Lenno, spread along the cherished western shore known as the ‘Riviera Tremezzina’. This area is famous for its concentration of grandiose villas and immaculate botanical gardens. The star attraction is undoubtedly Villa Carlotta, a magnificent museum and garden, and the iconic Villa del Balbianello, a stunning property famous for its movie appearances.
Staying in Tremezzina is for the traveller who appreciates history, art, and nature. It’s quieter than the main three towns but connected by the popular Greenway, a scenic walking path that links the villages. This area offers a more relaxed pace, perfect for those who want to spend their days exploring historic estates and enjoying the lush scenery. Planning your visit around the seasons is key, especially if the gardens are your focus; understanding the typical weather at lake como in october can help you see the magnificent autumn colours that transform the landscape.
Isabella Rossi adds, “Tremezzina offers the best of both worlds. You can immerse yourself in the grandeur of the villas, but you’re also just a short ferry ride from the buzz of Bellagio. It’s a culturally rich choice for a discerning traveller.”
Como: The Bustling and Convenient Gateway City
At the southern tip of the western branch lies Como, the largest city on the lake. Unlike the smaller villages, Como has a distinct city vibe with a bustling shopping district, a wide range of restaurants, and a lively nightlife. Its historical centre is beautiful, enclosed by 12th-century walls and home to a magnificent Duomo (cathedral). Being a major transport hub with direct train links to Milan, it is the most accessible and often most budget-friendly area to stay.
Como is the perfect base for travellers on a shorter trip, those relying on public transport, or anyone who enjoys the amenities and energy of a city. From here, you can take a funicular up to the village of Brunate for spectacular views over the lake and the Alps. While it may lack the postcard-perfect intimacy of Varenna or Bellagio, it provides a practical and vibrant starting point for your Lake Como adventure, blending urban life with lakeside charm. The experience of staying in a larger lakeside hub like this has its own unique appeal, much like the distinct atmosphere you might find at the lake house at ferry point.
Your Lake Como Questions Answered
What is the most beautiful town on Lake Como?
While beauty is subjective, Varenna is often cited by travellers as the most picturesque and charming town. Its colourful houses tumbling down to the waterfront, romantic lakeside path, and authentic, less crowded atmosphere give it an edge for those seeking quintessential Italian beauty. Bellagio is a close second for its grandeur and panoramic views.
Which part of Lake Como is best for first-time visitors?
For a first-time visitor, staying in one of the central lake towns like Bellagio, Varenna, or Menaggio is highly recommended. This “golden triangle” offers the best ferry connections, allowing for easy exploration of the lake’s most famous sights without needing a car. Bellagio is great if you want to be in the centre of the action, while Varenna offers a more romantic introduction.
Is it better to stay in Como or Bellagio?
This depends entirely on your travel style and priorities. Stay in Bellagio if you want the classic, glamorous Lake Como experience, with stunning mid-lake views and easy ferry access to other villages. Choose Como if you prioritize convenience, a wider range of budget options, direct train access from Milan, and the amenities of a larger city.
How many days do you need in Lake Como?
To truly appreciate the area, a minimum of three full days is recommended. This allows you to explore the central triangle of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, visit at least one famous villa, and enjoy the relaxed pace. However, to explore more widely, including the northern and southern ends of the lake, five to seven days would be ideal.
Ultimately, choosing the best area to stay at Lake Como is a delightful puzzle where every piece is a stunning destination. Whether you are drawn to the vibrant heart of Bellagio, the romantic soul of Varenna, the active spirit of Menaggio, the historic elegance of Tremezzina, or the urban convenience of Como, your perfect Italian lakeside dream is waiting. Consider what you want from your holiday—be it romance, adventure, family fun, or cultural immersion—and you will undoubtedly find your perfect corner of this earthly paradise.
Reviews
Eleanor Vance
★★★★★
We stayed in Varenna for our honeymoon in early June 2024 and it was absolute perfection. Quieter than Bellagio, which we visited for a day trip. The walk along the Passeggiata degli Innamorati at sunset is a memory I will cherish forever. The ferry service was efficient for getting around. Highly recommend for couples!
Marcus Holloway
★★★★☆
Chose Menaggio for a family holiday with our two kids (8 and 11) in August 2023. It was the right call. The Lido di Menaggio was a lifesaver on hot days, and having a proper town square for them to run around in was great. It felt less tourist-crammed than Bellagio. Only downside was that dinner reservations were essential.
Anya Sharma
★★★★★
I was a solo traveller and stayed in Como town for 4 nights in September 2024. It was the perfect base. The train from Milan was direct and easy. I loved the city vibe, the shopping, and the Duomo is stunning. I used the slow ferry one day to cruise up to Bellagio which was a fantastic way to see the scenery. Great for budget-conscious travellers.
Ben Carter
★★★★☆
Stayed in an Airbnb in Tremezzo. The location was fantastic for visiting Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello. The Greenway walk is a must-do. It’s very quiet in the evenings, so if you’re looking for nightlife, look elsewhere. But for a peaceful, scenic stay, it was wonderful.
Sophie Chen
★★★★★
Bellagio is everything you dream it will be. Yes, it’s busy and more expensive, but the views from our hotel were breathtaking. We stayed for my 30th birthday in July 2024. The central location made hopping between Varenna and Menaggio incredibly simple. It felt like we were at the centre of the universe.
David O’Sullivan
★★★☆☆
We might be in the minority, but we found Bellagio a bit too polished and crowded for our taste during our visit in late July 2023. It’s beautiful, no doubt, but we preferred the more authentic feel of the smaller villages we visited on day trips. Glad we saw it, but wouldn’t stay there again.
Isabella Rossi (not the expert!)
★★★★★
We took a chance and stayed in Lenno (part of Tremezzina) in May 2024 and loved it. The Friday market was a highlight, and the walk to Villa del Balbianello from the town is gorgeous. It was a perfect, relaxed base away from the main crowds but still well-connected by ferry.
Liam Gallagher
★★★★☆
Varenna was lovely, but be prepared for steep hills! We stayed in an apartment a bit up from the waterfront in October 2023. The climb was a workout every day, but the views were worth it. The town itself is incredibly romantic and the train station is a huge plus.
Chloé Dubois
★★★★☆
Como town was our base for a long weekend. The funicular up to Brunate is an absolute must-do; the views are insane. It’s a real, working Italian city, not just a tourist village, which we really enjoyed. It’s a bit far from the mid-lake towns if you have limited time.
Oliver Smith
★★★★★
We splurged on a hotel just outside Bellagio and it was the best decision. We had the beauty and access of Bellagio but with a bit more peace and a private pool. Waking up and having coffee overlooking the “Y” of the lake is an experience I’ll never forget. Visited in June 2024.
