Look at a satellite image of Northern Italy and you’ll see a chain of blue lakes draped across the bottom of the Alps like an elegant necklace of sapphires. This is the Italian Lake District and from Lake Orta’s island monastery in the west to Lake Garda’s famous spas in the east, each lake offers something different to the curious traveler.
But one lake stands above all others for its sheer beauty and elegance — Lake Como.
Like an upside-down Y piercing the Alps, Lake Como is narrow, deep and decorated with some of Italy’s most extravagant villas. From Pliny the Elder to George Clooney, it has appealed to the powerful, famous and insatiable for more than 2,000 years. A big part of the lake’s draw stems from its mixture of alpine grandeur (after all, Switzerland is just over the ridge) and Mediterranean balminess. Palms, cypress and chestnut trees line the shore, while snowcapped peaks loom in the distance. It’s beautifully confusing and unmistakably Italian.
Because of its close proximity to Milan, it’s also an ideal place to launch a multi-week Italian vacation. To get to know the lake’s charms, we’ve assembled a quick beginner’s guide complete with must-visit villages, basic travel info, and information on Inspirato’s two properties — Vista Lago and Villa Pliniana.
Lake Como Travel Basics
Getting there: Lake Como is located a mere 31 miles north of Milan. Milan Malpensa is the closest international airport.
Day trips beyond Lake Como (distances from Bellagio): Milan (1 hour 20 minutes), Bergamo (1 hour 26 minutes) and even St. Moritz in summer (2 hours, 35 minutes)
Must-Visit Villages and Cities Near Lake Como
Bellagio
While Bellagio inspired the famous luxury resort of the same name in Las Vegas, it is still, at its heart, an intimate village of cobblestone alleys and family-owned shops. The grand hotels and palatial villas that share Bellagio’s peninsula tip only add to the town’s magical atmosphere. Frequent ferry connections and boat-tour options in Bellagio also make it a great stepping-off point to further explore the lake.
Ideal souvenir: A handmade olive-wood bowl or cutting board from Tacchi Bellagio.
Varenna
Quieter than Bellagio but equally appealing, Varenna is the most photogenic village on the lake. In fact, arriving in Varenna by boat is one of Northern Italy’s most dramatic experiences. Tucked under a castle-crowned hill, the buildings of the town center are decorated in caramel, lemon, and peachy colors, with the wizard-hat campanile of the Church of San Giorgio rising above it all. Walk along La Passerella, the romantic arch-covered walkway that enters the town, and enjoy an afternoon noshing on small plates at an outdoor cafe. It is ridiculously easy to forget your worries in Varenna.
Ideal souvenir: An oil painting of Lake Como scenes from local artist Paul Demaria Guaitamacchi.
Villages and Villas of Ramo di Como
The villages and villas that line the western branch of Lake Como — known as the Ramo di Como — are the definition of elegance and beauty. Best experienced by private boat or in a convertible driving down the SS340, the villages can be combined for a memorable afternoon. Start in Menaggio and proceed down the length of the shore with stops at Villa Carlotta, Lenno, Villa del Balbianello, Brienno (a contender along with Varenna for the prettiest village on the lake) and finally, a Franciacorta toast (Italy’s Champagne counterpart) and dinner at the world-famous Villa d’Este in Cernobbio.
Ideal souvenir: A bottle of Valtellina Superiore (a local wine similar to Barbaresco) from a local gourmet or wine shop in any of the villages.
Como
Tucked against the southwestern corner of the lake, the city of Como is world-famous for its silk production and continues to supply many of nearby Milan’s most prestigious fashion houses. But there is more to Como than just silk. Take a leisurely stroll through the city’s ancient quarter (Città Murata), ride the funicular up to Brunate for dazzling views and an aperitif. Feast your eyes upon the magnificent Duomo, which features Gothic, Renaissance and late-Baroque architecture.
Ideal souvenir: A locally made silk scarf or tie from one of Como’s many boutiques.
Where to Stay In Lake Como
Inspirato offers its members access to two luxurious Lake Como villas, both of which are located near Bellagio with many of Lake Como’s best sights and activities within easy reach.
Villa Pliniana
This 16th-century lakefront palazzo is located 1 mile from Torno and 6 from Como. With a private pool, dedicated butler service, on-site spa, and dock access with a custom-built boat it’s the perfect retreat for larger groups. You can experience the luxury vacation you’ve been dreaming of. Learn more about Villa Pliniana.
Vista Lago
With six bedrooms, a private pool, a stocked wine cellar, and gorgeous lake views, Vista Lago is the perfect getaway. While its lofty location is certainly its finest attribute, the outdoor dining loggia, with seating for up to 12, is perfect for sunset dinners and late-night summer aperitifs. Learn more about Vista Lago.
Join Inspirato today to experience Lake Como’s gorgeous scenery.
