Lake Como has been attracting visitors since Roman times. The lake is shaped like an upside-down Y, cutting into the pre-Alpine foothills of northern Lombardy, with steep wooded slopes, elegant Liberty villas, small ferry-connected villages and views that seem almost too beautiful to be real.
How to Get There
From Milan, Como is easily accessible by train. The journey from Milano Cadorna to Como Nord Lago takes about 40 minutes; from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni takes approximately 35 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day.
Where to Stay
Ostello Bello Como is located directly on the lake, with a terrace overlooking the water and the mountains. Members of the +BELLO Club enjoy exclusive discounts on every stay.
What to Do in Como Town
The Duomo di Como is an extraordinary hybrid of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Take the funicular up to Brunate, a small hillside village with spectacular views over the lake and the Alps.
Exploring the Lake by Ferry
The ferry network on Lake Como is one of the best ways to experience the lake. Unmissable stops include Bellagio (the most picturesque village), Varenna (quieter, equally beautiful) and Menaggio (a good base for mountain hiking).
Food and Drink
Try missoltino (sun-dried lake fish), risotto, polenta and brasato al vino rosso. For lunch by the water, look for restaurants serving lake perch — lightly fried and served with polenta.
Day Trips from Como
Villa del Balbianello in Lenno and Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo are two of the most impressive villas on the lake. Lugano in Switzerland is just 30 minutes away by train. Before you visit, make sure you have signed up for the +BELLO Club — the easiest way to save on every Ostello Bello stay.
