(2024 update) A wish-boned shape Lake where dreams really do come true. The third largest in Italy, Lake Como clinches the crown of fame as the deepest lake in Europe. Also as the home to George Clooney, filming locations such as Star Wars and Bond all set against the most magnificent Italian mountainous scenery. It is the perfect weekend getaway for those needing to recharge in nature whilst accompanied by the epitome of luxury.
What you need to know about getting to and staying in Lake Como
How to get to Lake Como
The nearest international airport to Lake Como is Milan known as Malpensa airport. From here you can hire a car, a private plane or helicopter or do what most people do – get the train or two depending where in Lake Como you are heading. There are 3 main towns: Como, Bellagio and Varrena so do ensure you head part of the lakes as it’s vast and taxi’s are expensive! You may be opting to stay in Milan first. The train also operates from the city. For the most up to date information and to book tickets then the Trainline is your friend.
If you don’t pre-book and are flying in headed for Como then to note the airport has train stations at terminal one and two and signs are clear but the ticket process wasn’t. For me! Luckily someone was on hand to help or there is a desk but I would highly advise booking.
Where to stay in Lake Como
This is not a cheap destination if you want to do it right! Many people opt to stay in the famous Bellagio and Varenna higher up on the lake. Or there is the incredibly exclusive and fabulous Ville D’Este – you certainly wouldn’t have got the train up if this was your hotel! Oozing opulence and glamour it even has a pool that floats on the lake and offering all the amenities one could desire—truly a haven for those seeking complete retreat and relaxation. But my budget dictated my stay and it certainly didn’t stretch here!
After much research I booked the Hilton in the main town of Como and didn’t feel I lost out at all – quite the opposite. The location was perfect and of course…. it had a rooftop restaurant and pool!
On arrival it looks pretty standard and no wow entrance but don’t let that fool you. Wait till you get on that roof! (If you are walking from the station, I would suggest taking the lake path to the hotel for a more scenic, If you turn left up to the hotel when you get to the village Olmo it will lead you up.
The rooms were lovely and super clean – we hadn’t opted for a view or fancy room as it was just a base. USB plugs by the beds and coffee machine! Two of my hotel must haves. Happy me.
The bathroom was cleverly separated so that steamy shower didn’t affect the ability to see in the mirror! Two sinks and loads of space! It really is these touches that makes a stay.
Breakfast is served down in an small restaurant which if it rains they can’t coup with capacity (as outdoor seating is a wash out) and so a wait list will appear but they are quick and really kind. Shame it’s not on the roof!
The hotel is quite small but airy and open so feels bigger – it’s the perfect base for Como and exploring the Lakes and having the odd rest day at their incredible infinity pool.
The Rooftop Pool at Hilton Lake Como
Located on the 6th floor is the rooftop. (Note there’s one random lift that goes there or use the back stairs – the main lifts stop at level 5.) Stepping out you will not be disappointed. What a view. The hotel is set back over a street but it didn’t make a jot of difference to the views. This was incredible.
There is one thing to note about this pool. Its popularity. There’s no rushing to get your towels out at stupid o’clock and leaving them there and then cheekily reappearing 5 hours later, no this is a fair but tricky system. Doors open at 9am and I mean on the dot. The super bean tanners are there ready and waiting as space is limited. Read more here. By the pool there are tables with buttons to call for Prosecco and pizza, this was dangerously fabulous! Not sure if just for pandemic times – I hope not!
How to get round the Lake
The lakes work on a ferry system rather than wasting money on those expensive taxis. Would have loved the private boat but it was literally hundreds of pounds and as much as I love a boat I’d rather splash on one I can jump into the ocean from. So ferry it was but it’s still not super cheap but worth it to hop around the towns.
Note there are two types- of ferries slow (batallo) or a fast boat (hydrofoil). For example the slow ferry takes 2 hour up to Bellagio, fast is just 40 minutes but is enclosed with no bar. Tickets can be bought here or at the terminal. However if you want to take the scenic slow ferry then there’s you will be treated to a little bar (paid) and open deck to take it all in on.
Visiting areas around Lake Como
Como town
Known for its silk, Como is the most famous area, with the lake named after it but not always the most popular destination. Bellagio and Varenna seem to be the go to towns. However sitting at the bottom of the lake it was a gorgeous little town to be based in.
It is also home to the the Cathedral of Como Duomo di which towers over the winding streets with the magnificent mountainous as a backdrop. Worth a wander.
Villa Olmo
This village is opposite the Hilton hotel in Como. ‘Village’ is probably a bit of a strong word but it has a stunning Villa (like a stately home) and gardens. There is also a lido for those in hotels without pools – where you can jump in the lake!
Bellagio Town
Naturally being the most famous I had to check out the town that Vegas has named a hotel after – Bellagio.
Known as the pearl of the lake and the third largest town and is charming and mucy more busy that the more sleepy Como. For shopping head up to Via Giuseppe Garibaldi.
Where to eat and drink in Lake Como
Rooftop Restaurant at Hilton Lake Como
Just wow. Same views as from the pool but something about putting on a dress and sitting looking out over the lakes. We had lunch and a dinner sat up here just taking in the awesome views. The food happily matched the view – with equally incredible food.
Lunch was elegant and chilled with pool activity behind us. Whereas dinner setting was even more breathtaking with soft music and vibes. (Same menu for both.) Oh and they have fun novelties like candy floss over your strawberries they burn off! Just makes it all more quirky and fabulous!
The Palace Hotel
The Palace Hotel in Como town faces the lake and is prime place for an afternoon watching the world go by at their terrace or an for alfresco dinner.
Da Pietro 1955 Restaurant
Set by the Cathedral in Como had excellent service and food and not as overpriced as feared for its more tourist location. The tuna and tiramisu was incredible!
Terrazza Olmo
A gorgeous little restaurant that felt more like Greece than Como. A must for lunch, if not dinner too if you are staying locally.
Una Finestra sul Lago
A window on the lake, Una Finestra Sul Lago was pure magic for dinner. What wonderful little hideaway over looking the lake… it felt like a rooftop! Reasonably priced and super lovely staff could honestly could have stayed drinking till sunrise!
Villa d’Este
As I mentioned earlier, Villa d’Este is the hotel of dreams so if I couldn’t afford to stay, I could certainly afford a drink. Well just one! And the taxi to get there as well was crazy (2020 is was £25 for a 10 minute journey) But worth every penny as this place was this was elegance on speed. I felt like I was in a movie. Opulent and overwhelming it was just beautiful.
Hotel Du Lac
Smack bang opposite the ferry terminal I feared this was a tourist trap. Maybe it was but loved my lunch over looking the ferry port – really reasonable and delicious.
Of course there was another reason to stop here – the rooftop bar. Full details of rooftop can be found here.
Final thoughts on visiting Lake Como
I’ve heard Lake Garda is often regarded as superior, but what could possibly surpass this slice of Italian paradise? Stunning scenery, one of the best rooftop pools I have been to and all the prosecco you can drink!