Lake Como at a glance
Lake Como is situated in the Lombardy region of Italy, north of Milan and only a few kilometers from the Swiss border. The lake stretches 50km from north to south, splitting in two at Bellagio. Historically a route between central Europe and the Mediterranean, the area has been influenced by many cultures, visible in the fantastic array of exquisite villas that surround the lake, which attract the rich and famous of today.
Dotted around its shores are numerous resorts, ranging from tranquil villages to bustling towns. One of the largest, Menaggio is on the western shore, a lively, cosmopolitan base for numerous excursions. Tremezzo and Cadenabbia, close to Menaggio, have a collection of beautiful lakeside hotels, classic villas and a peaceful atmosphere while historic Como Town, on the south-western tip of the lake, is brimming with magnificent architecture. All the resorts are well connected by boat, so it’s easy to discover their individual charm.
Great for...
✓Como’s Beautiful Villas: Many villas around the lake are open to the public and are often used as venues for concerts during the summer. Don’t miss the stunning Villa Balbianello whose grounds were used for James Bond’s Casino Royale or Villa Carlotta dating back to 1690 and surrounded by magnificent gardens containing over 500 species of plants and flowers.
✓Walking: From Varenna, a steep path leads to Vezio Castle, where you can admire the wonderful panoramic views before taking a track above the eastern shoreline. Don’t miss the waterfalls and the 14th century church along the way.
✓Boat trips: Take a boat tour around the lake for the best view of Como’s exquisite private villas including those belonging to George Clooney and the former residence of Gianni Versace.