Towns around Lake Como
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Latest page update: 14 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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There are numerous enchanting towns around Lake Como, each one offering a unique charm. Como, the largest town, features a beautiful cathedral and a funicular that takes visitors to scenic views. Bellagio, often dubbed the "Pearl of the Lake," is famous for its stunning villas and gardens, along with picturesque streets.
Varenna boasts a romantic lakeside promenade and historic sites like Villa Monastero. Tremezzo is known for the magnificent Villa Carlotta and its beautiful gardens. Lenno, with its tranquil atmosphere, is home to the exquisite Villa del Balbianello, making it a must-visit destination. |
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Como, a vibrant city at the southern tip of Lake Como in northern Italy, is renowned for its stunning lakefront setting and rich history. Surrounded by the Alps, it offers breathtaking views and a blend of natural and architectural beauty.
Major sights include the Como Cathedral, a Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece, and the Tempio Voltiano, a museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery. Visitors can enjoy a funicular ride to Brunate for panoramic views or stroll along the lakefront promenade. Founded in Roman times, Como flourished during the Middle Ages as a silk production hub, a tradition still celebrated today. |
Como
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Bellagio, often called the "Pearl of Lake Como," is a picturesque town situated at the lake's central point, where its three branches converge. Known for its elegant villas, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views, Bellagio is a favorite destination for visitors.
Major sights include Villa Melzi, with its beautifully landscaped gardens, and Villa Serbelloni, offering guided tours of its historic estate. The town’s charming waterfront and narrow lanes are lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Bellagio has a rich history dating back to Roman times and flourished during the Renaissance as a retreat for Italian nobility. Its timeless beauty continues to captivate travelers worldwide. |
Bellagio
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Varenna, a charming village on the eastern shore of Lake Como in northern Italy, is celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning lakeside location. Steeped in history, it was founded by local fishermen in 769 AD and later flourished as a key trading port.
Today, Varenna enchants visitors with its picturesque waterfront, narrow cobblestone streets, and colorful houses. Major sights include Villa Monastero, featuring exquisite gardens and a museum, and Castello di Vezio, a medieval castle offering panoramic lake views. The village’s romantic *Passeggiata degli Innamorati* (Lovers’ Walk) is a scenic pathway perfect for leisurely strolls along the lake’s edge. |
Varenna
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Cernobbio, a sophisticated town on the western shore of Lake Como in northern Italy, lies just a few kilometers from the city of Como. Renowned for its elegance and charm, it is home to grand villas and lush gardens. Villa d’Este, a luxurious 16th-century estate turned 5-star hotel, is a highlight, attracting visitors with its opulent architecture and scenic lakeside setting.
Another landmark is Villa Erba, a historic villa now used for cultural events and exhibitions. Cernobbio’s picturesque promenade and charming piazzas offer stunning lake views. Historically, it has been a retreat for aristocrats and remains a serene destination for relaxation and exploration. |
Cernobbio
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Lecco, a vibrant town on the southeastern shore of Lake Como in northern Italy, is surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Prealps. Known for its literary connections to Alessandro Manzoni’s novel *The Betrothed*, Lecco blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. Key attractions include the Basilica of San Nicolò, with its striking bell tower, and the Palazzo Belgiojoso, housing museums of history and science.
The picturesque lakeside promenade offers stunning views and leisurely walks. Historically a center of trade and industry, Lecco has evolved into a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering easy access to hiking, climbing, and cycling in the surrounding mountains. |
Lecco
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Mandello del Lario, a charming town on the eastern shore of Lake Como in northern Italy, lies between the lake and the towering Grigna mountains. Renowned as the birthplace of the iconic Moto Guzzi motorcycle, the town is home to the Moto Guzzi Museum, which attracts enthusiasts from around the world.
The historic center features quaint streets, the Church of San Lorenzo with its Romanesque architecture, and scenic lakefront promenades. With roots dating back to ancient Roman times, Mandello del Lario has a rich history intertwined with its natural surroundings. It is also a gateway to outdoor adventures, including hiking and climbing in the nearby mountains. |
Mandello del Lario
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Lenno, a picturesque village on the western shore of Lake Como in northern Italy, is located in the sheltered bay known as the Gulf of Venus. Renowned for its serene beauty, Lenno is home to the famous Villa del Balbianello, a historic villa with stunning gardens perched on a promontory overlooking the lake.
The villa has been featured in films like *Casino Royale* and *Star Wars: Episode II*. Lenno's charming lakeside promenade and historic churches, such as the Church of Santo Stefano, add to its appeal. With origins dating back to Roman times, Lenno offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural scenery. |
Lenno
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Torno, a picturesque village on the eastern shore of Lake Como in northern Italy, is situated just a short drive from the city of Como. Renowned for its tranquil charm, Torno offers a blend of historic landmarks and stunning lake views.
Key sights include the Romanesque Church of San Giovanni Battista, adorned with intricate frescoes and a striking rose window, and Villa Pliniana, a historic lakeside villa surrounded by legends and natural beauty. With roots tracing back to Roman times, Torno flourished during the Middle Ages as a center of silk production. Its peaceful atmosphere and scenic location make it a hidden gem on Lake Como. |
Torno
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Menaggio, a charming town on the western shore of Lake Como in northern Italy, is located at the junction of the lake’s midsection and the surrounding mountains. Its strategic position offers stunning views and easy access to other lake towns. The historic center features narrow streets, quaint squares, and the beautiful Church of San Stefano, with its ornate interior.
The elegant lakeside promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls, while nearby Villa Mylius Vigoni showcases classic Italian architecture and gardens. With origins in Roman times, Menaggio later became a popular retreat for aristocrats during the 19th century and remains a favorite destination for relaxation and exploration. |
Menaggio
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Colico, a scenic town at the northern tip of Lake Como in northern Italy, is surrounded by dramatic mountains and lush landscapes. Known for its outdoor activities, Colico attracts visitors with its beaches, windsurfing, and sailing opportunities.
Key sights include the historic Fort Montecchio Nord, one of Europe’s best-preserved World War I forts, and the nearby Fort Fuentes, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into 17th-century military history. The Abbey of Piona, a serene Cistercian monastery with stunning frescoes, lies on a nearby peninsula. With its rich history and vibrant natural surroundings, Colico is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure. |
Colico
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