182. Lake Como

What is Lake Como?

Lake Como is an upscale tourist destination that is loved by George Clooney and numerous other luminaries. It's basically a glacial lake at the foot of the Alps in the north of Italy - it is the country's third largest lake (after Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore) and the deepest in Europe outside Norway. It has an unusual shape, like an upside down Y, with towns and villa dotted all long its shoreline.

What is Lake Como like?

It's stunningly beautiful. The combination of mountains with clear, cold water make you feel rejuvenated, while the air of refined sophistication makes for a relaxing Italian experience. We stayed in Varenna, which is a beautiful little town that is worth a visit. We also visited Lecco, which is a bigger town with a supermarket and other amenities. The best way to visit Lake Como is probably to pick a base and then visit the various towns via boat or car or train.

Where is Lake Como?

An hour's train journey north of Milan, Italy.  

When did we go?

July 2024

How did we get there? 

We flew to Milan Malpensa, travelled by train to Milano Centrale (50 minutes) and then switched to a train to Varenna (just over an hour). 

Worth noting: 

Benito Mussolini was executed in a town on Lake Como in 1945.

Where was Lake Como in the 2015 edition of the Lonely Planet Ultimate Travel List?

It was a new addition for 2020.

Does Lake Como deserve its place on the 2020 Lonely Planet Ultimate Travel List?

Yes - it's beautiful with a unique character.


Lake Como Lonely Planet