The 15 Best Hotels In Lake Como, Italy
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Have you ever wondered what it feels like to wake up to the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore, with misty mountains rising from crystal-clear waters right outside your window? That magical experience awaits you at the stunning Lake Como hotels, where Italian dreams come true every day!
Welcome to Lake Como, the playground of celebrities, artists, and travelers seeking beauty in northern Italy. This wishbone-shaped lake has captured hearts for centuries with its amazing views, charming towns, and wonderful climate. But what really makes a Lake Como vacation special is choosing the right place to stay.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Lake Como hotels for every type of traveler – whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or adventure-filled trip. From luxury palaces to cozy family-run spots, we’ve got you covered!
Luxury Lake Como Hotels
Lake Como hotels in the luxury category offer some of the most amazing experiences in all of Italy. These grand properties combine beautiful old buildings with modern comforts that will make you feel like royalty.
Villa d’Este (Cernobbio)
The Villa d’Este stands as the crown jewel among Lake Como hotels. This 16th-century palace turned five-star hotel offers:
- Beautiful gardens that look like they belong in a painting
- A floating pool right on the lake
- Rooms with amazing antique furniture
- Famous guests like Hollywood stars and world leaders
A stay here isn’t cheap (rooms start around $1,000 per night), but the experience is truly once-in-a-lifetime!
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
With over 100 years of history, this art nouveau gem sits directly across from Bellagio. What makes it special:
- Three swimming pools including one that floats on the lake
- A private beach with real sand
- Beautiful rooms with balconies facing the water
- A spa that uses local olive oil in treatments
The Grand Hotel Tremezzo perfectly captures the magic that makes Lake Como hotels so famous around the world.
Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como (Blevio)
One of the newer luxury Lake Como hotels, the Mandarin Oriental brings Asian-inspired service to Italian lakeside charm:
- Set in a botanical garden with rare plants
- The largest spa on Lake Como
- Private villas for extra privacy
- Modern design mixed with historic architecture
Mid-Range Lake Como Hotels
Not all Lake Como hotels come with celebrity price tags! These wonderful mid-range options offer great value while still providing that special Lake Como experience.
Hotel Belvedere (Bellagio)
Family-run for five generations, this hotel offers:
- Amazing views from its hillside location
- A beautiful outdoor pool and garden
- Spacious rooms with balconies
- Homemade breakfast with local products
At around $250-400 per night in high season, it’s not cheap but offers true Lake Como charm for less than the grand palaces.
Hotel du Lac (Varenna)
Located in charming Varenna, this lakefront hotel features:
- Rooms with direct lake views
- A wonderful restaurant right over the water
- Simple but comfortable rooms
- Easy access to the ferry
Hotel Royal Victoria (Varenna)
Named after Queen Victoria who once stayed here, this historic hotel offers:
- A beautiful swimming pool in a garden setting
- Rooms with original antique details
- Lakefront dining options
- Central location in one of Lake Como’s prettiest towns
Budget-Friendly Lake Como Hotels
Believe it or not, you can enjoy Lake Como without breaking the bank! These budget-friendly Lake Como hotels offer clean, comfortable stays with some of the same amazing views as their fancier neighbors.
Hotel Olivedo (Varenna)
This bright yellow building right by the ferry dock offers:
- Simple, clean rooms starting around $150
- Many rooms with lake views
- A family-run restaurant serving local dishes
- The perfect location for exploring
Albergo Milano (Varenna)
This small hotel offers incredible value with:
- Amazing lake views from most rooms
- A beautiful terrace restaurant
- Simple but comfortable accommodations
- Central location for exploring on foot
Hotel Central (Menaggio)
Located in lively Menaggio, this budget option provides:
- Clean, basic rooms at reasonable prices
- A central location near shops and restaurants
- Easy access to ferries and buses
- Friendly, helpful staff
Family-Friendly Lake Como Hotels
Traveling with kids? These Lake Como hotels welcome families with open arms and special features that make traveling with children easier and more fun.
Grand Hotel Victoria (Menaggio)
This elegant but welcoming hotel offers:
- A large swimming pool perfect for kids
- Family rooms and connecting options
- Beautiful gardens for playing
- Kid-friendly menu options
Hotel Britannia Excelsior (Cadenabbia)
This all-inclusive option makes family budgeting easy with:
- Multiple pools including kid-friendly options
- All-inclusive meal plans available
- Spacious family rooms
- Easy ferry access to explore the lake
Best Lake Como Hotels for Views
While most Lake Como hotels offer beautiful scenes, these properties take lake views to another level!
Hotel Bellagio (Bellagio)
Located in the “pearl of the lake,” this hotel offers:
- Panoramic views from its rooftop terrace
- Rooms with balconies overlooking the water
- Central location for exploring by foot
- Beautiful sunrise views over the mountains
Hotel Villa Aurora (Lezzeno)
This hidden gem provides:
- Quiet location away from tourist crowds
- Every room faces the lake
- Private balconies or terraces
- Clear water for swimming right from the hotel
Best Towns for Lake Como Hotels
When choosing among Lake Como hotels, location matters! Each town offers a different experience:
Bellagio: The most famous Lake Como destination, offering luxury shopping, beautiful gardens, and central location.
Varenna: Charming, walkable village with excellent restaurants and fewer crowds.
Como City: The largest town with best transportation connections, shopping, and city amenities.
Menaggio: Family-friendly with a lovely promenade and more local feeling.
Tremezzo: Home to beautiful villas and gardens with a peaceful atmosphere.
When to Visit Lake Como Hotels
The best time to stay at Lake Como hotels depends on your preferences:
April-June: Wonderful spring flowers, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds.
July-August: Warmest weather for swimming, but busiest season with highest prices.
September-October: Beautiful fall colors, harvest festivals, and pleasant temperatures.
November-March: Many Lake Como hotels close for winter, but some remain open with special winter rates.
Getting to Lake Como Hotels
Most visitors reach Lake Como hotels by:
- Flying into Milan airports (Malpensa or Linate) – about 1-2 hours away
- Taking trains to Como, Varenna or Lecco
- Driving from other parts of Italy or Switzerland
- Private transfers arranged through your hotel
Once at the lake, ferries connect all major towns, making it easy to explore from any Lake Como hotels you choose.
Lake Como Hotels: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best town to stay in Lake Como?
Bellagio offers the most central location with easy ferry access to other towns. Varenna provides charm and fewer crowds. Como City offers the best transportation connections to Milan and the airports.
How many days should I stay at Lake Como?
At least three days allows you to explore different towns and villas. A week is ideal to truly experience the relaxed Lake Como lifestyle.
Are Lake Como hotels expensive?
Lake Como offers accommodations for every budget, from luxury palaces starting at $1,000+ per night to charming family-run hotels for $150-300 per night.
When is the best time to visit Lake Como?
May, June, and September offer the perfect combination of good weather, open attractions, and fewer crowds compared to July and August.
Do I need a car to explore Lake Como?
No! The ferry system connects all major towns, and many Lake Como hotels are within walking distance of ferry docks, restaurants, and attractions.
Can I swim in Lake Como?
Yes! The lake is clean and safe for swimming from late May through September. Many Lake Como hotels offer private beaches or pools.