If you are seeking inspiration, then Lake Como is swathed in creativity. From grand lake front mansions, to Michelin-starred restaurants, Como offers something for everyone. Visit Villa Balbianello and take a walk around a pristine 18th century example of a Villa, or take a train journey on the Bernini Express for breathtaking scenery.
Holidays to Lake Como offer visitors a true taste of Italian luxury, romance and beauty. A favourite destination with honeymooning couples, as well as the rich and famous, Lake Como is a popular break for a romantic getaway. Located not far from Milan, the lake is one of Italy’s most picturesque, and is surrounded by dramatic peaks, charming medieval towns and villages, as well as grand, luxurious hotels and villas.
Spend some time browsing the boutiques in elegant Bellagio, admiring the gardens in Tremezzo and Varenna with its ice cream coloured houses. It may be busy and popular but there are several untouched villages off the beaten track to explore further – including Lecco in the south east corner of the lake, quiet Bellano, and striking Argegno, which is backed by tall peaks. The town of Como shouldn’t be overlooked either – the gateway to the lake, most travellers are only passing through, but stop a while to explore its historic Medieval centre and take in the views from its lakeside promenade.
Holidays to Lake Como offer a great variety of dining options, but if you’re looking for somewhere unique with an interesting history, head to Crotto dei Platani - one of the oldest restaurants on the lake. Open since 1855, it’s located in a cave-like cellar, right on the shores of the lake in Brienno, and was even used as a smugglers' cave in the 1930s. Choose to sit down inside the atmospheric cellar or outside by the lake shore under the stars.
Do as the locals do and act like you’re at the seaside, by making a visit to the Lido de Lenno – a small artificial beach with sun loungers and a dedicated swimming spot.
If you like to be a little more active, take a hike along one of Lake Como’s prettiest walks. Colonno to Griante takes you via the quaint villages of Sala Comacina, Ossucio, Lenno and Mezzegra. It takes approximately two hours, but you can always take your time, stopping to explore the villages along the way.
Experience more of Italy by adding an excursion to your holiday. Below is a selection of our most popular group excursions in this area.
In addition we can also arrange private tours and experiences tailored to your individual requirements.
To pre-book please call our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 762410*.
The closest airport to Lake Como is Milan Malpensa (MXP). Direct flights to Milan are available from Birmingham, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Stansted and Manchester and take approximately 2 hours.
Direct flights to Milan Bergamo (BGY) depart from London Stansted, Bristol, Manchester, East Midlands and Belfast and take approximately 2 hours.
Lake Como is a summer destination, with the season generally running from April to October. Temperatures are at their hottest in July and August and this is when Como is at its busiest. The ideal time for swimming in the lake is from July to September when the water temperature exceeds 20 degrees. The climate in the spring and autumn is still warm which makes it perfect for visiting at the beginning or end of season too. For those who want to avoid the busiest crowds but still enjoy warm temperatures, May, June and September are ideal months to visit.
At the current time, British citizens do not require a visa to visit Italy.
You don’t have to leave a tip in Italy – most Italians don’t tip for restaurant meals, bar drinks, taxi rides or hair and beauty treatments. However if you do leave a tip, you might receive quicker service.