Explore Lake Como with Our Complete Travel Guide

There is so much to be said about the beauty and historical heritage of Lake Como and its surrounding area and villages. This is the favorite destination of most Italians and tourists alike.
Read the complete travel guide of Hotel Villa Edy for your adventurous trip to Lake Como.

About Lake Como

Lake Como has long been a synonym for natural beauty, elegance, and Italian style. The home of many celebrities the likes of George Clooney, this glacial lake is the third largest in Italy and the fifth deepest in Europe.

Its deep blue waters cover an immense 146 square kilometres and have a unique shape if you see it from the air. Lake Como looks like an upside-down Y with three branches of water.

The official and oldest name of the lake is Lario, which means "deep place". It's so deep in some points, locals say that at the bottom of the lake lives a monster.

Lake Como is also the capital of Italy's silk production.

Aerial view of Varenna on Lake Como
Panoramic view of Lake Como and surrounding mountains

The Location of the Lake

Lake Como area is situated in Northern Italy, known as the industrial heart of the country. It's part of the picturesque Lombardy region. The lake is really close to the metropolitan city of Milan, situated 60 kilometres away. The fashion capital of Italy is also the main starting point for adventures on the lake.

What other cities are close to Lake Como?

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Monthly Weather and Temperature

One of the reasons so many Italians and foreigners travel to Lake Como in the summer is the nice and cooler temperatures. In spring, it ranges between 10 and 20 degrees, with a lot of sunshine. Spring is a wonderful time to visit because you will witness the blooming landscape around Lake Como.

During high season from June to August, the temperatures rarely go above 30 degrees Celsius. This provides some much-needed rest from the heat in Italy.

In autumn and winter, Lake Como and its mountainsides become a wonderful place for hiking, skiing and various other outdoor sports.

When is the best time to visit?

Learn more Charming alley in Bellagio with lake and mountain view
Sunrise by a lakeside gazebo on Lake Como

Nearby Towns to Visit

On the lake shore of Lake Como, there are 35 charming towns and villages that you can visit. Most people start from Como City and then go around the shores to other places.

Probably one of the most famous Italian resorts is situated on Lake Como – the small town of Bellagio.

The pretty town is referred to as the "Pearl of the Lake", and it's famous for its elegant historic villas and magical cobblestone streets.

What other towns and villages can you visit while on Lake Como?

Learn About Our Hometown – Tremezzo

Tremezzo, the place where Hotel Villa Edy is situated, is a wonderful, picturesque village with natural beauty and unique charm. Its famous as the place of the historical Villa Carlotta – a sprawling palace with luscious botanical gardens.

The Italian home is world-renowned for its diverse art collection and architecture.

What else can you explore in Tremezzo?

Find out more Church and marina on Lake Como with mountain backdrop

The Lake Como Sights and Attractions

Lake Como is the ideal place both for nature lovers and people who want to explore the rich and colourful culture of Italy. The main sights in the surrounding villages and cities include grand elegant villas, wonderful art museums and galleries, and breathtaking architecture. All of this is nestled in the magical nature of Lombardy.

The most famous Lake Como landmark is the magnificent Villa Del Balbianello. The mansion is part of the cultural heritage of Lago di Como and has been the background of international films such as James Bond: Casino Royale and Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.

Discover more Lake Como sights and interesting attractions to include in your itinerary.

Learn more Colorful buildings of Varenna by Lake Como with mountain backdrop
Wisteria-covered pergola overlooking Lake Como

Gardens to Visit

All grand villas on Lake Como have manicured gardens with rare plants, but all of the pale in comparison to the beautiful botanical garden of Villa Carlotta.

Situated very near Hotel Villa Edy, this luscious landscape will enchant you with its carefully curated collection of plants. The garden is constructed in terraces that overlook the lake, additionally enhancing this wondrous landscape with stunning views.

Where are the other hidden beautiful gardens of Lake Como?

The Nearby Mountains

Lake Como's surrounding mountains are easily accessible and are a heaven for rock climbers and trail explorers. The Alps provide a very dramatic and interesting backdrop of this magical lake. They are ideal for long hours in nature and are perfect for a hike throughout the year.

Which are the most famous mountain trails?

Find out more Lake Como mountain hiking people

Festivals and Events During the Year

Lake Como is probably one of the ideal places in Italy to experience a huge part of its festival culture. Throughout the year, there are several classical music events in the surrounding villages. Probably the biggest event is Lake Como Festival, which takes place in various places on the banks of the lake.

Learn more about the different events on Lake Como.

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Street performers in festive costumes with pan flutes in Como
Panoramic view of Lake Como with bell tower and mountains
  • Como City and Brunate Funicular Experience the bustling lake city and enjoy mountain views of the Alps and Lake Como.
  • Bellagio and Varenna Explore the charming streets of Bellagio and relax in the gardens of Villa Monastero in Varenna.
  • Tremezzo and Lenno Indulge yourself with the beauty of Villa Carlotta and experience the romantic allure of Villa del Balbianello.

Short Collection of Itineraries

The wide variety of options available at Lake Como probably seems very overwhelming, especially if this is your first time visiting the lake.

One of the most loved itineraries for travellers includes the main highlights of the lake's surroundings.

Discover other options for your stay at Lake Como.

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What to Wear During Your Visit

Your selection of clothes largely depends on what time you are going to visit Lake Como. One thing that you have to have with you at all times is a jacket or some kind of overshirt or coat. Lake Como is high in the mountains, so the evening tends to be colder than other places.

If you forget something, you can always explore the lovely shops and boutiques in the villages at Como.

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Lake Como dress code

Lake Como Beaches

Lake Como has a wondrous natural beauty, but it's not famous with sandy beaches. The shore is covered predominantly with small rocks and soil, but that doesn't mean you can't relax near the water of the lake.

Which are the nearest beaches to Hotel Villa Edy?

Learn more Lake Como Beach
Swimming at lake como

Swimming In the Lake

Swimming in the lake is a favourite pastime for locals and tourists. In the hot summer days, the glacial waters of Lake Como offer some much-needed refreshment. And imagine swimming in a lake, surrounded by the majestic mountains – what a magical experience that will be.

Where are the designated public beaches at Lake Como?

Using the Cable Cars for Views from Above

One of the most breathtaking ways to take the Lake Como view is with the available cable cars. They go high up the mountains, and it's almost mandatory to include them on your trip. That way you will easily understand why Lake Como is one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Where to find cable cars?

Find out more Lake Como cable car

Frequently Asked Questions:

How big is Lake Como? arrow icon

Lake Como is 46 kilometers long and covers a surface area of 146 square kilometers, making it the third largest lake in Italy. It reaches a depth of 410 meters, making it the deepest lake in the country.

Lake Como is located in northern Italy, in the Lombardy region, near the border with Switzerland. It's about 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Milan, making it an easy getaway from the city.

The biggest city on Lake Como is Como, located at the southern tip of the lake. It's known for its historic center, lakeside promenade, cathedral, and as a main gateway to exploring the lake region.