Lago di Como
Lago di Como
4.5
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Top ways to experience Lago di Como
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
642 within 3 miles
Attractions
305 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Steve SPalm Springs, California1,677 contributionsA beautiful respite from the big cities of Italy.We rode one of the ferries on Lake Como all the way North to Colico. A beautiful day to be out on the water. We spent a few hours and had a fantastic lunch in Colico and returned to Varenna on a fast (hydrofoil) boat.Visited September 2022Written January 23, 2023
- muttibeyIzmir, Türkiye981 contributionsMake sure you don’t go spontaneouslyIt is very very beautiful and breathtaking. First good vibes. Amazing view. The lake is massive and it is made of different small towns. In each town there is something different. I stopped at Menaggio (not the best view) and Argegno which is better. This is totally personal opinion. The only worst thing is the parking. There are excellent spots for photo but parking is not avaliable. In summer this will be a nightmare for sure.Visited February 2023Traveled soloWritten February 21, 2023
- Petra MPrague, Czech Republic36 contributionsNot so goodBe better rich. Some people unpleasant. Poor wifi. Lake and houses around are very beautiful. Around Lenno no possibility to swim in the lake. Must be full of people in July and August. Think twice!Visited June 2023Traveled with friendsWritten June 22, 2023
- Nicole T3 contributionsTotal Shambles!I have just returned from my trip to lake como. It was eventful to say the least. We were travelling from Milan - lake como. The central station in Milan is huge and busy but was such a lack of help from anybody we finally found a tourist info centre and was greeted by a very rude Italian telling me I was wasting her time I only asked “do you know which train we get on to como” I soon told her she shouldn’t be working that job if she does not want to help tourists. It was One hour train and then one hour bus to menagio where we were staying. Now this place is authentic Italy and truly stunning but most nights we couldn’t get into a restaurant we got sorry we are full I just had a feeling they did not want us there and there was visible tables not being used. there wasn’t a huge variety to choose from. Then it was Saturday night we chose a bar for some drinks and was told they don’t serve past 10:30pm. It was so annoying considering it’s Saturday night and I was on my holidays. The lack of organisation with regards to ferry’s and bus and trains is astounding they never came on the times the bus timetable stated we was waiting over an hour and half. I really love Italy but I am afraid this has put me off ever visiting again I felt so unwelcome. Somebody mentioned Italians dislike blondes and I wondered maybe this was why I didn’t have a good experience? I love Italy hate italians. Afraid I won’t be returning to spend my money here.Visited July 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten July 30, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,870 reviews
Excellent
1,286
Very good
410
Average
95
Poor
44
Terrible
35
John M
Santa Cruz, CA4,376 contributions
Sep 2019
The combination of deep water, passenger ships, and extensive history makes Lake Como a very special place. You see so much more from the water. There is a daily slow boat that stops at each little town, and this is the one that you want.
Written March 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Deepayan B
Amsterdam, The Netherlands67 contributions
Jun 2022
The lake desperately needs better management of the ferry lines and more frequent ferries. Whenever a ferry arrives, there's no indication of which way tourists would board. The visitors often comprise racist dimwits who shout expletives and complain if they see people from outside Europe in the line.
Written June 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeff H
Melbourne9 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
There seems to be alot of romantic hype around Lake Como propagated by the tourism industry. At the end of the day, does it really matter that George Clooney lives there. No such luxury during our visit. We didn't get to see Bellagio or any of the other towns - just 100s of stressed tourists queued up in the stifling heat, or at an understaffed ticket box for hours waiting for the ferry to arrive. To make matters worse, there was no return journey back to Como, even though it was only early afternoon. Clearly, the organization and tourism infrastructure around the lake is appalling. The best advise I can offer is not to waste your time going there.
Written November 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Manula1987
Rome, Italy83 contributions
Jul 2021 • Friends
Amazing place with an amazing view. We spent two days in Como to our friends' house, having a boat trip around the lake and to Bellagio, a very small and nice village with narrow and charming streets with typical Italian shops. One of the best places in Italy worth visiting.
Written July 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nicole T
3 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
I have just returned from my trip to lake como. It was eventful to say the least. We were travelling from Milan - lake como. The central station in Milan is huge and busy but was such a lack of help from anybody we finally found a tourist info centre and was greeted by a very rude Italian telling me I was wasting her time I only asked “do you know which train we get on to como” I soon told her she shouldn’t be working that job if she does not want to help tourists. It was One hour train and then one hour bus to menagio where we were staying. Now this place is authentic Italy and truly stunning but most nights we couldn’t get into a restaurant we got sorry we are full I just had a feeling they did not want us there and there was visible tables not being used. there wasn’t a huge variety to choose from. Then it was Saturday night we chose a bar for some drinks and was told they don’t serve past 10:30pm. It was so annoying considering it’s Saturday night and I was on my holidays. The lack of organisation with regards to ferry’s and bus and trains is astounding they never came on the times the bus timetable stated we was waiting over an hour and half. I really love Italy but I am afraid this has put me off ever visiting again I felt so unwelcome. Somebody mentioned Italians dislike blondes and I wondered maybe this was why I didn’t have a good experience? I love Italy hate italians. Afraid I won’t be returning to spend my money here.
Written July 31, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Julie B
2 contributions
Aug 2022 • Friends
Pretty Destination, very busy. The Bus service in Como is horrific, especially in the evening. Buses just don't show up. Taxis are pricy. The Walks and views are amazing. Great places for Foodies too. Swimming places are not easy to find, the lake is not plaisant yo swim in.
Written August 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jake23
New Jersey6,523 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
Lake Como is beautiful, mysterious, and amazing all in one. Some of the richest, most famous, and most powerful people in the world own property on the lake. The towns that surround the lake are beautiful and filled with shops and restaurants. Visiting Lake Como is a must do at least once in your life! It’s easy to access the many laketowns via the ferry and each has something new to offer.
Written July 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Annie M
Ojai, United States13 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
lake Como, Milan and Verona….Insanely crowded, rude and unfriendly…there are so many other places in Europe to go to where you won’t be treated like a second class citizen. I’ve travelled all over Europe the past 40 years, something has changed in Italy. Once a charming and gracious place it has fallen victim to popularity. So much more crowded than in past years, I was given the feeling in Como especially that they don’t need, want or like tourists. We should just dump our money on the sidewalks and go home. Never again. Next year I’m going back to France and Spain.
Written September 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mathias P
1 contribution
Aug 2022 • Couples
Being a calm guy from Dennark, yelling at an Italian ferry employee is not second nature for me. But after being pushed by terrible information at the harbor, having bought the wrong ticket (after their guidance) and having to travel 2 hours more than planned my patience ended. I'm sorry Italian guy. I wish I could have yelled at your manager instead.
The last time I'm doing this. Glad I'm leaving for France soon.
The last time I'm doing this. Glad I'm leaving for France soon.
Written August 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
muttibey
Izmir, Türkiye981 contributions
Feb 2023 • Solo
It is very very beautiful and breathtaking. First good vibes. Amazing view. The lake is massive and it is made of different small towns. In each town there is something different. I stopped at Menaggio (not the best view) and Argegno which is better. This is totally personal opinion. The only worst thing is the parking. There are excellent spots for photo but parking is not avaliable. In summer this will be a nightmare for sure.
Written February 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
chavda4
Grays Thurrock, UK3 contributions
Hi
Please can you let me know How would I get to Lake como from Milan by train ?
And from lake como to Rome by Train?
And the time it would take
Regards
Tash
Teresa D
Tampa, FL151 contributions
BY TRAIN: If your destination is Como or the western branch of Lake Como (i.e. Tremezzo), you can take a train from Milan Malpensa via Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni station. If staying on the central lake, from the station you either take a ferry or rent a car or take a taxi. There is also a C10 bus if you don't have large suitcases and if you're staying near the lake promenade without having to navigate a steep hill to your accommodations.
The eastern branch of Lake Como is entirely crossed by the railway network, starting from Milano Porta Garibaldi or Milano Centrale you can get off at the stations of Lecco, Varenna-Esino, Bellano, Dervio or Colico or one of the many local train stops.
Trenitalia – Timetables and tickets
Trainline – Timetables and tickets
Don't forget to VALIDATE your train tickets at the station machines before getting onboard.
BY CAR: You can check rates, book online & pick up from car rental offices like Hertz or Budget/Avis or Eurocar near the Como San Giovanni train station.
BY TAXI: There are taxis available at the Como San Giovanni train station that will take you to the central lake area. Because we had suitcases, we took one from there to our airbnb on a hill in Tremezzo/Azzano - cost 75e one way. We did not mind paying that as we had no plan to rent a car while on the lake. It's about 40 minutes from the train station.
BY PRIVATE CAR: Also an option you can pre-arrange online before arrival.
For getting around the lake, ferry & bus services are available as well. We took buses whenever we can, just REMEMBER to buy your tickets in advance at a tobacco "tabacchi" shop as they are not sold on the buses! Some local bars/cafes sell them too - don't be afraid to ask, everyone's friendly and helpful.
Here for 2 months...still here just on the opposite side in Bellano. Have fun & be safe. Ciao!
Hihansm61597
London, UK2 contributions
Hey can you visit Lake como in half a day or is that not enough?
Ponygirl64
Hayward, CA161 contributions
I haven't been on this site for some time and just saw your question. Yes, you can visit Lake Como in a half day. We went by train from Milan to Lake Como and came back in the evening so spent nearly a full day there.
Jill A
Chicago, IL
Is European (e.g. topless) sunbathing common at Como Beach Park ?
johnhp702
Derby, UK18,529 contributions
Hi 939jilla
There are various Lido's/Beach's around the Lake but not sure if they allow topless sunbathing, you might be better trying to contact the listing directly.
regards, john
Hello! Pl let us know as to how far the ferry/boat pier is from Varenna train station. Do you suggest that we stay in Colico ( need to know how far from ferry station) or Varenna? We are first reaching Tirano(at 1pm) from Chur and next day by evening we need to be in Venice. so we have a day for Como. Since we have luggage to carry please suggest the right place to stay for the night and enjoy the lake Como same day or next day. Thanks in advance. Greetings Dilip from India
volevo sapere da milano centrale a quale stazione di como debbo fare riferimento per essere il più vicino ai mercatini. grazie
AntonelloM805
Nave San Rocco, Italy6,632 contributions
una stazione cè a Como
petenyc306
Tennessee60 contributions
Hello. We will be visiting Italy for 10 days next April. I will be traveling w my wife and four kids 11,12,14,,16. We are planning to go to Lake Como area. How many days should we stay and we’re else should we go while we are in the area.
Cheers
Pete
Paul B
Melbourne, Australia29 contributions
Pete. I’m sure that the family will enjoy Como, the lake cruise is great. This said I found Comona little run down particularly near Como. Undoubtedly you will find lovely places to visit however like other reviewers I also found it not up to scratch particularly the food quality. I prefer Stresa and the islands nearby.
petenyc306
Tennessee60 contributions
How much time do you need to spend around Lake Como. I want to go next April . We will stay in Italy for ten days. How long here and were else should we go and for how long. Ciao. Thanks dawn
Unclesogg
New London, CT724 contributions
I would say a day unless you have actual plans. It’s just a great place to take in the views and the people and the food. Absolutely stunning views
Myriam M
1 contribution
Est ce ok pour reserver e bike pour une jeune fille de 15 ans 1/2 mesurant 1.60m et accompagnee par 3 adultes?
Carmen280570
Barcelona, Spain97 contributions
No utilice el servicio de bicicletas
sunflower6777
13 contributions
Hi, I am planning a trip to Italy for my family of 5 this summer. I only plan to have 1 day for Milan and one day for Lake Comeau. I realize this is very little time but we are trying to do a couple days in several areas. I am wondering if I should make the trip to the Bellagio a priority part of the trip to Lake Comeau or will just relaxing on the mainland of Lake Comeau, maybe a bike ride, be enough to get the experience of the area? I have children aged 10, 12, and 16.
Thank you
Marianna E
Brisbane, Australia29 contributions
Sailing down Lake Como is an experience in its own. The houses and scenery is just incredible - everything is so green and luscious! I think the boat trip is around 2 hours from Como to Bellagio, so keep that in mind for your children too..
Sara B
4 contributions
Hi there,
I will be staying in Como at the beginning of May for 2 nights.
I have read that Bellagio, Menaggio and Varenna are worth visiting but given my short trip, wondered whether I would get to see more by hiring a car or to stick to the ferry?
Are there any other lake villages closer to Como that are worth visiting?
I would appreciate any guidance! :)
Thanks
amy
Fairfield, CT395 contributions
Train and ferry. No car. I did Miland > Como > ferry to Belagio > ferry to Varenna > train back to Miland. I think that was smart decision so I don't have to back fourth on islands. There is a village on top of Como is worth visiting on a good day. You can take the funicular from Como (near center). Get ferry ticket first then plan how much time you'll spend in Como.
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Claim your listingLago di Como - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Lago di Como
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Lago di Como:
- Lake Como and Bellagio Day Trip from Milan (From $100.36)
- Lake Como: Private Tour of Bellagio & Varenna (From $671.27)
- Lake Como & Lugano Day Trip from Milan (From $111.63)
- Cruise and Dinner on Lake Como from Varenna (From $532.58)
- Sailing Experience on Lake Como with Private Skipper (From $964.19)
- Hotels near Lago di Como:
- (0.10 mi) 54b Bed&Breakfast
- (0.11 mi) Villa Bianca
- (0.20 mi) Suites & Atelier Lake Como
- (0.19 mi) Hotel Marco's
- (0.40 mi) Vista Lago di Como
- Restaurants near Lago di Como:
- (0.17 mi) Platēa Ristorante
- (0.16 mi) OX Como
- (0.19 mi) Cervo
- (0.18 mi) Yokosushi
- (0.16 mi) Borgo S. Agostino
- Attractions near Lago di Como:
- (0.06 mi) ComoLakeBoatTour
- (0.15 mi) Funicolare Como-Brunate
- (0.22 mi) Stunning Bike Co-Tours
- (0.43 mi) Lake Como Adventures
- (0.41 mi) Lake Como Guided Tours
Lago di Como Information
Excellent Reviews | 1,286 |
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Lago di Como Photos | 2,664 |