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Where to Stay in Como

Where to Stay in Como

Como Lombardy, Italy Travel Guide

Accommodation Types on Lake Como

Lodging Categories

  • Luxury Hotels

    Grand historic villas transformed into opulent hotels. Find high-end amenities, spa services, fine dining, private lake access, plus pools.

  • Mid-range Hotels / B&Bs

    Family-run hotels, guesthouses, and charming Bed & Breakfasts dot lakeside towns. Discover comfortable stays with a personal touch, typically with breakfast and local insights.

  • Vacation Rentals & Apartments

    Popular for longer stays, families, or groups, vacation rentals offer self-kitchen facilities and more space. Locate options via Booking.com and Vrbo. They feel like a "home away from home."

  • Homestay & Community Tourism

    More relaxed staying with a local family or agriturismo (agricultural stays) exist in not as busy areas or inland from the main lake towns. These offer local life experiences. For longer when staying look at TrustedHousesitters.

Additional Options

  • Camping & Outdoor Accommodation

    Several campsites near the lake provide pitches for tents or caravans, sometimes bungalows or mobile homes. These present a budget-friendly option, especially when it's warmer. Seek options on Hostelworld for budget stays.

  • Hotel Chains

    International chain accommodations are present, to illustrate, explore options from IHG Hotels.

  • Urban Stays

    In larger towns like Como, hotel possibilities are more numerous and diverse, with both local and global brands.

  • Lakeside Resorts

    Many properties, especially luxury ones, offer direct lake access and private shorelines.

Neighborhood Guide for Lake Como Stays

Each area is a distinct character and differing proximity to attractions.

Bellagio

Highlights
  • Picturesque, central, popular
  • Excellent ferry links, stunning views
  • Wide a restaurant plus shop selection
  • Many attractions nearby
Considerations
  • Might be very packed in high season
  • Accommodation and food prices are often higher
  • Very safe generally
  • Lively during the day and evening

Varenna

Highlights
  • Charming, colorful fishing village
  • Direct train from Milan
  • Beautiful central lakeside vistas
  • Less crowded with tourists, quiet vibe
Considerations
  • Smaller, fewer dining/shopping options
  • Very safe generally
  • Good train and ferry access
  • Generally quiet, especially evenings

Menaggio

Highlights
  • Larger, more lively town on western shore
  • Car ferry hub, easy exploration
  • Good base for hiking trails
  • Features a popular lido
Considerations
  • Can be busy with traffic
  • Less quaint in parts
  • Very safe generally
  • Some traffic noise, quieter off main road

Area Specifics

Safety, Proximity, Noise:

All areas around Lake Como offer high safety. Petty theft is rare, but city precautions apply in Como. Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio connect well by ferry. Como City serves as the main train and bus hub. Central lake towns can be busy; smaller towns or lakeside properties away from ferry terminals offer more calm. Consider your preference for vibrancy versus tranquility.

Como City AND Tremezzina Area:

Como City, the largest, offers historical sites, wide-ranging shopping, and wide services. It functions as a prime transport hub. Tremezzina, on the western shore, has grand villas, beautiful gardens, and more peaceful villages with refined beauty and breathtaking scenery. Ferry service here can be less frequent to little stops.

Booking Strategies for Lake Como Accommodation

Strategic booking helps with securing your preferred accommodation and potentially economizing.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (June-August) & Shoulder Season (May, September): Booking 6-12 months ahead is advisable for luxury properties or sought-after locations. This secures desired accommodation and often better prices. Many places sell out quickly.
  • Low Season (November-March): More flexibility is present, and last-late deals might be found. Verify that hotels and services are operating, as many close for winter.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Accommodation prices can rise significantly, sometimes doubling or tripling, from low to high season.
  • Trusted Booking Platforms: Use popular platforms like Booking.com and Agoda for a wide range of options. Direct booking with luxury hotels might offer perks.

Policies and Specifics

  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: Review these carefully before confirming your reservation. Policies vary significantly, just for non-refundable rates, which are often more affordable but offer no flexibility. Understand the terms if plans change.
  • Local Reservation Systems: For smaller, local properties, checking their direct websites or contacting them by phone or email may be an option.
  • Flexibility: If your dates permit, consider visiting between peak and off-peak times (May, September) for agreeable weather and smaller crowds, alongside better prices.
  • Special Offers: Watch for promotions or package deals, especially outside peak travel times.

Booking Tips

Verify Reviews:
  • Read recent reviews for properties on multiple websites to understand up-to-date guest experiences.
  • Pay attention to comments on cleanliness, staff friendliness, and noise levels.
  • Prioritize properties with consistently positive feedback.
  • Verify if there are any recent changes to services or facilities mentioned in reviews.
Location Details:
  • Map the exact location of your chosen accommodation.
  • Check proximity to ferry terminals, train stations, or bus stops.
  • Consider walking distance to eateries and main attractions.
  • Factor in whether the property is uphill, which can be tiring.

Important Note on Booking

Look at the Fine Print:

Carefully review all terms and conditions, notably regarding payments, deposits, and refunds, before finalizing your reservation.

Hidden Fees:

Inquire about any potential extra charges, like city taxes, service fees, or specific amenity usage fees, which may not always be included in the primary quoted price.

Accessibility:

If accessibility is a concern, contact the property directly to confirm specific needs can be met, as some older buildings could be challenging.

Accommodation Recommendations General Types

Here are general tips for varied travelers and budgets.

Top Picks for Different Budget Levels

Budget Stays

Consider Ostello Bello Lario in Como city for hostel stays. Explore campsites around the lake for highly economical options.

Mid-Range Stays

Hotel du Lac in Bellagio, Hotel Olivedo in Varenna, and Hotel Garni Corona in Menaggio consistently receive good reviews for location and value.

Luxury Stays & Unique Experiences

Luxury Options

Villa d'Este in Cernobbio, Luxurious Hotel Tremezzo in Tremezzo, and Mandarin Oriental Lario in Blevio deliver opulent experiences and renowned service. Explore IHG Hotels for luxury brands.

  • Direct booking for perks
  • Consider travel agents specializing in luxury
Historical Significance

Villa d'Este and Luxurious Hotel Tremezzo are historic landmarks, providing a stay within Lario's rich past.

  • Explore their heritage details
  • Check for guided historical tours within the properties

Traveler-Specific Recommendations

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Vacation rentals with kitchen facilities are often ideal, offering space and self-catering capabilities. Many hotels feature family rooms or connecting options. Look for properties with pools or near lidos.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Hostels in Como city provide social opportunities. Inns in smaller, welcoming towns like Varenna or Menaggio offer a individual and safe experience for solo travelers.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals are generally best for extended visits, offering home comforts and greater independence. Consider direct booking with local property management companies for longer stays. Explore Vrbo for rental options.

  • Pet-Friendly Stays

    Certain accommodations welcome pets. Always confirm pet policies and any associated fees prior to booking. TrustedHousesitters for pet-sitting options.

Factors for Choosing Your Stay

  • Location:

    Consider proximity to transport, attractions, and your preferred ambiance (lively vs. Quiet).

  • Budget:

    Define your budget range before starting your search to narrow down choices.

  • Travel Group:

    Individual, couple, family, or group travel will influence the most suitable type of accommodation.

  • Amenities:

    Prioritize amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, private bathrooms, or specific views.

Booking Considerations

Check for hidden fees

Some accommodations may charge extra for city tax, breakfast, or specific services. Clarify these before booking.

  • Inquire about breakfast inclusion.
  • Confirm city tax rates.
  • Ask about any vacation spot or service fees.
  • Check parking costs if driving.
Accessibility Needs

If you have specific accessibility needs, contact the property directly to confirm facilities and suitability. Older buildings might pose difficulties.

  • Verify elevator access.
  • Confirm accessible room features.
  • Ask about ramp availability.
  • Check proximity to accessible transport.

Local Insights on Stays

Villa Apartments

Many grand villas have self-catering units for rent, offering an unique blend of luxury and self-catering freedom. These are frequently listed on rental platforms.

Hotel Pools

A few hotels offer refreshing pools, a marvelous amenity especially during warm summer months, supplying an alternative to lake swimming.

Agriturismo

For an authentic rural experience, explore agriturismo options in the surrounding hills, often with farm-to-table dining.