Lake Como is one of the most beautiful of the Italian Northern Lakes. Surrounded by extraordinary villas that were built by the Italian elite, mostly from Milan, this lake welcomes European Aristocrats and Hollywood stars, like George Clooney who has an exceptional lake-front property, directly accross from the town of Bellagio.
The lake is a Y shape and is is Italy's 3rd largest lake. Como is the largest town on the lake and has the most hotels, however there are dozens of other towns that dot the lake and the top 10 worth-while of a visit, include:
This is perhaps the most famous of the towns on
Lake Como, situated at the junction of the lake’s two legs, this is an extremely attractive town yet less crowded and quieter than the others in the vicinity.
Bellano – located on the east side of the lake just to the north of Varenna, this lesser visited town features a pedestrian-only area in the center of town.
Colico – although the town may not appear to be as attractive as the others surrounding
Lake Como, it is still worth visiting because of its views from the top of the lake. There is a historical World War I fort that is open to the public once a week.
Como – the main town of the group is Como which is located at the southern end of the lake. It is a more elegant resort than most and makes an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas and towns.
Griante – situated on
Lake Como’s western plateau, this small village is well worth visiting because of its spectacular vistas out over the lake and the surrounding countryside villas. Be sure to visit the small church that is perched high up the village’s mountain side.
Lecco – sitting at the southeastern end of
Lake Como is the quaint town of Lecco and its 25,000 or so residents.
Menaggio – located on the western shoreline, this attractive tourist destination is not as busy as
Bellagio and Varenna. There is a youth hostel located here but it is usually filled on weekends so keep that in mind. Additionally, the pedestrian-only area in the heart of town is populated with coffee shops, gelaterias, a lakefront mini-golf course and snack bar, and several restaurants.
Nesso – located about halfway between
Bellagio and Como, this very small town is situated on
Lake Como’s western leg.
Tremezzo – right across the lake from
Bellagio is the beautiful little town of Tremezzo. The main attraction of the town is
Villa Carlotta with its botanical garden and waterfront.
Varenna – sitting across from
Bellagio and Menaggio along the eastern shoreline is this beautiful town with its charming villas of Villa Cipressi and Villa Montastero, the attractive and relaxing gardens of which are worth visiting.
One of the best ways to visit these towns is by boat and there are ferries that depart every hour that are inexpensive to take, about 8 Euro and will give you a wonderful tour of these areas from the lake and allow you to get off where you choose to browse the shops, enjoy a delightful coffee or just marvel at the spectacular scenery that Como has to offer.
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