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Where to Stay in Lago Di Como

Where to Stay in Lago Di Como

Lago Di Como Lombardy And The Lakes, Italy Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Luxury Hotels:

    Opulent retreats, often in former noble villas, with high-end amenities and prime lakeside positions.

  • Boutique Hotels:

    Smaller, stylish properties with unique design and a personalized approach.

  • Mid-range Hotels:

    Comfortable establishments, often family-run, offering solid value and reliability.

  • Guesthouses/B&Bs:

    Locally-run options with a personal approach, many including home-cooked breakfast.

Other Accommodation Options

  • Hostels:

    Fewer than in major cities, found in larger towns like Como, catering to budget travelers.

  • Agriturismo:

    Farm stays in the hills, with rural charm and meals from local produce.

  • Villa Rentals:

    Private villas, from historic estates to modern homes, for families or groups.

  • Camping:

    Campsites at the lake's northern and southern ends, with pitches or mobile homes.

Choosing Your Base: Neighborhood Guide

Each area of Lake Como has a distinct atmosphere and access to various points of interest.

Bellagio

Benefits:
  • Iconic views, central location for ferries.
  • Wide selection of dining and shopping.
  • Very photogenic, charming cobbled streets.
Considerations:
  • Can be very crowded and expensive.
  • Hilly terrain for walking.
  • High demand during peak season.

Varenna

Benefits:
  • Direct train connection to Milan.
  • Beautiful lakeside promenade, picturesque alleys.
  • Generally a more relaxed feel than Bellagio.
Considerations:
  • Limited accommodation selection.
  • Fewer direct ferry links to all parts of the lake.
  • Can get busy despite being quieter than Bellagio.

Menaggio

Benefits:
  • Good ferry connections, including car ferry.
  • Diverse range of restaurants and shops.
  • Access to hiking and cycling paths, plus a lido.
Considerations:
  • Can experience more traffic.
  • Some find it less "charming" than smaller villages.
  • More urban feel in some parts.

Additional Considerations

Safety & Proximity:

All areas are generally safe. Take normal precautions in crowded places. Central Lake towns (Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, Tremezzina) are best for accessing famous villas and enjoying frequent ferry travel. Como City offers major transport links.

Noise Levels & Ambiance:

Bellagio and Como City buzz with activity. Varenna offers a calmer, more romantic atmosphere. Smaller villages away from the main hubs provide the most tranquility.

Smart Booking Strategies

Thoughtful booking can secure your preferred accommodation and save money.

When to Book

  • High Season (June - August): Book 6-12 months ahead for popular places.
  • Shoulder Season (April - May, Sep - Oct): Book 3-6 months ahead for good selection.
  • Low Season (Nov - March): 1-3 months ahead generally suffices.
  • Walk-in Rates: Negotiation not common for established hotels; prices are typically fixed.

Considerations

  • Booking Platforms: Widely used platforms Booking.com and Airbnb.
  • Direct Hotel Websites: Often have the best rates or exclusive packages.
  • Local Agencies: For longer villa rentals, specialized local agencies offer curated selections.
  • Cash Discounts: Minor discounts for cash payment might occur at very small B&Bs in low season.

Important Booking Details

Deposit & Cancellation Policies:
  • Vary greatly by property and platform.
  • Always review policies carefully before confirming.
  • Flexible cancellation options are recommended.
  • Non-refundable rates are cheaper but offer no flexibility.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations:
  • Prices can be 50-100% higher in high season.
  • Shoulder season offers a good balance of weather and value.
  • Low season typically has the lowest prices.
  • Plan accordingly for your budget.

Explore More Options

Global Bookings:

Booking.com - A vast selection of accommodations.

Asian Market Focus:

Agoda - Strong presence in Asia, useful for diverse choices.

Budget-Friendly Stays:

Hostelworld - Specialists in hostels and budget lodging.

Vacation Rentals:

Vrbo - A platform for vacation rental properties.

Hotel Chains:

IHG Hotels - Options from a global hotel group.

Unique Stays:

TrustedHousesitters - Consider house or pet sitting for unique lodging.

Accommodation Recommendations

These suggestions align with various traveler types, helping you pinpoint an ideal stay.

Luxury & Mid-Range Options

Luxury Top Picks:

For unparalleled elegance and service:

  • Grand Hotel Tremezzo (Tremezzo): Iconic Art Nouveau palace.
  • Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como (Blevio): Luxurious retreat in a historic villa.
  • Villa d'Este (Cernobbio): World-renowned historic hotel.
Mid-range Comfort:

For a good balance of comfort, price, and location:

  • Hotel du Lac (Bellagio): Central Bellagio location with lake views.
  • Hotel Garden (Varenna): Charming hotel with garden and lake views.
  • Hotel Garni Corona (Menaggio): Family-run near the Menaggio ferry port.

Budget & Specialty Stays

Budget-Friendly:

For travelers seeking affordability:

  • Ostello Bello Lake Como (Como): Popular hostel with social atmosphere.
  • Smaller B&Bs or guesthouses a short distance from main tourist hubs.
  • Camping options for outdoor enthusiasts.
Solo Traveler Focus:

Ideal for individuals exploring the region:

  • Hostels in Como for social interaction.
  • B&Bs in Varenna or Menaggio for a personal touch.
  • Well-connected towns like Varenna or Como for easy travel.

Family-Friendly Options

  • Apartment Rentals:

    Ample space, separate sleeping areas, kitchen facilities for self-catering.

  • Hotels with Pools:

    Grand Hotel Tremezzo or larger hotels in Como offer pools, a great amenity for families.

  • Larger Towns:

    Como city has more services, parks, and dining suitable for families.

  • Lidos & Beaches:

    Public and private beach clubs for swimming and relaxation.

Long-Stay & Historical Significance

  • Extended Stays:

    Apartment or villa rentals offer value and comfort for visits a week or more.

  • Less Touristic Towns:

    Consider Lecco, Domaso, or villages outside the "Golden Triangle" for lower monthly rates.

  • Cultural/Historical Stays:

    Villa d'Este (Cernobbio): A Renaissance architectural masterpiece.

  • Art Nouveau Elegance:

    Grand Hotel Tremezzo (Tremezzo): Fine example of early 20th-century luxury.

Accommodation Comparison at a Glance

Luxury Hotel

Best for: Couples, special occasions. Average price: €250 - €1000+ per night.

  • Pros: Exceptional service, amenities, prime locations, lake views, pools.
  • Cons: Very expensive, often booked well in advance, less intimate.
Mid-range Hotel/Boutique

Best for: Couples, families. Average price: €100 - €250 per night.

  • Pros: Good balance of comfort, price, location; often charming, includes breakfast.
  • Cons: Can still be pricey in peak season, may not have luxury features.

More Details for Your Stay

B&B/Guesthouse

Best for: Authentic experience, budget-conscious. Local charm, personal touch, often includes breakfast. Limited amenities, variable quality.

Apartment/Villa Rental

Best for: Families, groups, longer stays. Space, kitchen facilities, privacy. No daily cleaning, often minimum stay.

Agriturismo

Best for: Rural charm, foodies. Unique local experience, fresh food, tranquil setting. Often a car is needed, further from lake towns.