Planning your Lake Como adventure but not sure where to stay in Lake Como? Don’t worry — I’ve got you covered! Whether you’re visiting for romance, relaxation, family fun, or your first time, there’s a perfect town (and hotel) waiting for you.
Let’s explore the best places to stay around the lake — with options for every budget and the coolest things to do nearby.
🏛️ Como – Best for First-Time Visitors & Convenience Lovers
Why stay in Como?
Como is the gateway to the lake and a great home base for first-time visitors. If you are not sure where to stay in Lake Como, this is really the safe choice. This vibrant city is full of shops, restaurants, museums, and historical sights, like the majestic Duomo and charming Piazza Cavour. It also has the best transport connections — trains to Milan, small boats to other lake towns, fast ferry to Bellagio and Varenna and even a 👉funicular to Brunate! It offers an urban Italian vibe while still delivering stunning lakefront scenery.
For more information on what to see and do in Como please read my 👉Guide to the 10 most important things to see in Como
Top Hotels in Como:
- ⭐ Luxury: Palace Hotel – Gorgeous lakeside location, elegant rooms, and a short stroll from everything.
- 💰 Budget-Friendly: Hotel Engadina – Great value, clean, comfortable, and just a 10-minute walk from the old town.
Fun Things To Do:
- 🚶 Como: 2-Hour Walking Tour – Discover Como’s cathedral, old walls, and hidden gems with a guide.
- 🚤 Lake Como Boat Tour – Enjoy a scenic cruise to admire the lake’s beauty.
🌸 Bellagio – Best for Couples & Picture-Perfect Moments
Why stay in Bellagio?
Bellagio is often called the “Pearl of Lake Como” and for good reason. This romantic town is full of charm — colorful villas, narrow cobbled streets, and terraces overlooking the water. It’s a dream destination for couples and one of the most photogenic places on the lake.
For more information about Varenna have a look at my 👉 guide to Bellagio
Top Hotels in Bellagio:
- 💸 Luxury: Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni – One of the finest hotels on the lake, with spa, gardens, and unbeatable views.
- 💡 Budget-Friendly: Hotel Bellagio – Central, charming, and walkable to everything.
Fun Things To Do:
- 🍷 Bellagio Food Tour + Villa Melzi – Try local wine and cheese with a local expert.
- 🚤 From Bellagio: Lake Como Cruise and Villa Balbianello Tour – Visit Villa Balbianello and Varenna by boat!
🌿 Varenna – Best for Peace, Views & Local Charm
Why stay in Varenna?
Varenna is a quiet gem nestled along the eastern shore of Lake Como. It’s less touristy than Bellagio but equally charming. With pastel-colored houses, romantic lakeside walks, and authentic Italian vibes, Varenna is perfect for travelers who want to slow down and take in the beauty.
Top Hotels in Varenna:
- 🏠 Luxury: Hotel Royal Victoria – Lakeside beauty with classy rooms and amazing gardens.
- 🏨 Budget-Friendly: Hotel Olivedo – A charming 19th-century building with a cozy feel and lake views.
Fun Things To Do:
- 📸 Varenna: Guided Walking Tour with Wine and Food Tasting – Tour Varenna’s famous villa and botanical gardens.
- 👣 Varenna Walking Tours – A local guide takes you to the best hidden spots.
🌽 Menaggio – Best for Families & Outdoor Adventures
Why stay in Menaggio?
Menaggio has a laid-back vibe that’s great for families. It features a beautiful lakeside promenade, wide open spaces, playgrounds, and easy ferry access. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy hiking, with trails starting just behind town.
Top Hotels in Menaggio:
- 🏡 Luxury: Grand Hotel Victoria – A restored 19th-century villa with elegant rooms and a lake-view pool.
- 👟 Budget-Friendly: Hotel Garni Corona – Clean, central, and surprisingly affordable with lakefront vibes.
Fun Things To Do:
- 🚴♂️Lake Como to Lake Lugano: E-Bike Three Panoramic Lakes – Explore the valley behind Lake Como, perfect for nature lovers.
- 🥾 Val Senagra: The Enchanted Valley Tour – Get into nature just above Menaggio.
🏖️ Tremezzo – Best for Luxury Lovers & Villa Hopping
Why stay in Tremezzo?
Tremezzo is elegant, peaceful, and ideal for travelers seeking luxury without the crowds. It’s home to some of the lake’s most iconic villas, like 👉Villa Carlotta and nearby 👉Villa Balbianello. With manicured gardens, quiet lanes, and world-class hotels, it’s made for indulgence.
Top Hotels in Tremezzo:
- 🛎️ Luxury: Grand Hotel Tremezzo – The ultimate in old-world glamour, with pools, a private beach, and gourmet dining.
- 🌄 Budget-Friendly: Hotel La Perla – Family-run, friendly, and set in the hills with killer views.
Fun Things To Do:
- 🏛️ Lakeside Villas Entry Tickets with Ferries – Discover the best three villas of Lake Como.
- ⛵ Villa del Balbianello Tours – See one of Lake Como’s most iconic villas, featured in Star Wars and James Bond!
🪕 Dongo – Best for History Buffs & Local Culture
Why stay in Dongo?
Dongo is a peaceful lakeside town with a rich history, especially from World War II. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a more authentic, small-town vibe and who enjoy walking, relaxing by the lake, and exploring museums.
Top Hotels in Dongo:
- 🛏️ Luxury: There is not really any luxury hotels in Dongo, but Grand Hotel Tremezzo is close by.
- 🧳 Budget-Friendly: Albergo Dongo – Simple, clean, and right near the waterfront promenade.
Fun Things To Do:
- 🏄♂️ Water Sports and Lakeside Activities: Dongo has a broad lakefront great for windsurfing, sailing, or swimming. The beach has rental facilities nearby.
- ⛪ Day Trip to Piona Abbey: Accessible by boat or car via Colico, Abbazia di Piona is a Romanesque monastery set on a quiet peninsula just across the lake from Dongo.
🛶 Colico – Best for Active Travelers & Nature Seekers
Why stay in Colico?
Colico, located at the northern tip of the lake, is perfect for those into hiking, water sports, and exploring the less touristy side of Lake Como. With mountains behind and a wide stretch of beach, it’s a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers.
Top Hotels in Colico:
- 🌟 Luxury: Seven Park Hotel – Modern hotel with pools, wellness center, and a lakeside location.
- 🚲 Budget-Friendly: Hotel Risi – Cozy, great location near the promenade, and bike-friendly.
Fun Things To Do:
- 🏄 Colico Water Sports Activities – Engage in various water sports suitable for all levels. Both on the lake and in the river.
- 🚂 Bernina Red Train – Day aboard the Red Bernina Train! Departure by train from Colico.
✨ Final Tips: Where to Stay in Lake Como
- Without a car? Stay in Como, Varenna or Bellagio — all well-connected by public transport.
- For romance? Go with Bellagio or Varenna.
- Traveling with kids? You’ll love Menaggio.
- Want luxury? Splurge in Tremezzo.
- Love history or calm towns? Try Dongo.
- Looking for outdoor adventure? Colico and Valtellina is your best bet.
No matter what kind of traveler you are, there’s a great town and hotel waiting for you. Now you know where to stay in Lake Como — but, remember to enjoy your trip and make some unforgettable memories!