Lake Como holidays

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Holidays to Lake Como mean dramatic mountains, colourful villages, romantic villas and peaceful gardens – all effortlessly chic.

A work of art

Framed against a stunning landscape of steep, pine-swathed mountains, Lake Como's famed for its atmospheric sense of calm and elegance. The wishbone-shaped lake is over 20 miles long, and is one of the deepest in Europe – its bed is more than 200 metres below sea level. Its shores are dotted with a collection of rainbow-coloured towns and villages, whose surrounding hills serve up lovely walks and even lovelier views. The whole effect is a blend of regal Italian charm and Caribbean-esque beauty.

Historic fame

Lake Como's been a popular holiday spot since the Roman times, and it's even home to a few famous faces – so you may end up brushing shoulders with celebrities like George Clooney, Sylvester Stallone and Richard Branson. With beautifully kept public gardens, historic villas and dramatic mountain landscapes, what’s not to love? Bellagio's one of the most stunning lakeside towns not only on the lake, but in Europe. It’s known for its lavish villas – particularly Villa Serbelloni and Villa Melzi – pretty cobbled streets and knockout views from the tip of the peninsula.

Menaggio, Cadenabbia and Tremezzo

Menaggio is a lakeside hotspot on the western shore and sports an old-town centre and a pretty promenade. Just down the road is Cadenabbia, a tiny hamlet with the most stunning views, which is an ideal base for exploring the region. Just next to that is Tremezzo, famous for its vibrant gardens bursting with colour and its mountain walking trails surrounded by olive and orange groves. The best way to explore the rest of the lake is by water – Varenna has transport links to Milan, the city of Como is a cosmopolitan wonder, and the boats can take you to must-see landmarks like the fascinating Villa Balbianello.

Top destinations in Lake Como

Ariel view of lakeside town with orange rooftops and pine trees

Ariel view of lakeside town, orange roofs and mountains in the background

Yellow Italian buildings and green trees along the lake edge with purple sky

Popular hotels in Lake Como

Top things to see and do in Lake Como

Beaches

Laze by a lido

Although Lake Como doesn't have the wide sandy beaches of a typical seaside resort, what it does have is an array of beautiful lake-front lidos and pebbly shores dotted around the towns. Many are accessible by public transport, but parking and traffic around lidos can be difficult if you have a car - the best way to get there is often by boat.

A spot to suit all

These lidos and shingle beaches range from simple grassy lawns to luxury spaces with canopy beds and fine dining restaurants, as well as the comfortable middle-ground with sun loungers and a snack kiosk.

Enjoy the water

The great thing about staying in Lake Como is that anywhere you go, you can find a public beach/lido or isolated alcoves ideal for sunbathing. Some spots around the lake are natural areas to splash around in and some are manmade. Wherever you end up though, there are lots of ways to enjoy the water.

Shopping

Bargain buys

To pick up some holiday bargains, head to one of the many weekly markets that take place in towns and villages around the lake. You’ll find a mixture of imported and local products, including artisan crafts, clothing and leather goods. The town of Lenno holds one of the largest markets each week, while the evening craft market in Menaggio makes for a lovely evening stroll and great atmosphere.

Mid-range buys

Larger towns like Menaggio and Bellagio are filled with small boutiques and independent shops stocking everything from clothing, souvenirs and local produce. In Menaggio, head to Coccio for a variety of gifts, Murano glass and silk scarves, which make great presents and holiday reminders. Smaller villages have limited shops stocking traditional Italian products and some souvenirs.

Designer buys

If you’re looking to splash the cash during your holiday, take a trip to the fashion capital of Europe – Milan. Designers such as Prada, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana line the streets and are enough to satisfy any fashionista’s desires. A little closer to the lake, Como town in the south has a variety of shops offering many international brands. Mendrisio, 40km to the east of Lake Como also has a collection of designer brands to treat yourself.

Nightlife

Laid-back evenings

Lake Como’s collection of charming, traditional villages along the shores are perfect for taking an evening stroll and enjoying a relaxed drink. Larger towns such as Bellagio and Menaggio have lovely lakeside promenades lined with several bars and restaurants. Cadennabbia and Tremezzo are quiet communities, perfect for a short stroll along the narrow cobbled streets or along the lakeshore.

Lively evenings

Throughout the summer months, many festivals and celebrations take place around Lake Como. Larger events such as the Bellagio festival in August and regular firework displays attracts many visitors to the shores. For more regular lively entertainment, head to the lakefront bars and lidos. Beach parties and live music will have you dancing away, and opera recitals offer a cultural twist.