With Lake Como set to host the next Chanel cruise show, the destination continues to galvanise the public. Romantic and poetic, this seaside resort is the epitome of Italy’s Dolce Vita. Discover its finest addresses, from hotels and villas to restaurants and historic monuments.
In the very north of Italy, a jewel has been attracting the world for decades. Lake Como, one of the deepest lakes in Europe, can be recognised by its inverted Y-shape, which begins at the town of Como in Lombardy. Backed by the foothills of the Alps, the lake is one of the most important in the country, with many picturesque villages such as Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo and Menaggio. Its villas are widely renowned, inspiring artists with their dreamlike gardens and period architecture. Boasting a picture-postcard landscape, Lake Como has been the location for a number of iconic film shoots, including Casino Royale, the second episode of Star Wars, Attack of the Clones and Ocean’s Twelve. But there have also been artistic events, such as fashion shows by Dior, Chanel and Elie Saab.
The most beautiful hotels on Lake Como
Iconic and sublime: that’s how you could describe the hotels on Lake Como.
One of the most emblematic hotels is undoubtedly the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, a five-star Palace from the Belle Epoque with its yellow façade, its swimming pool that seems to float on the lake and its majestic staircase lined with vermilion.
There’s also the Hotel Il Sereno, famous for its lush gardens, direct access to the lake, Michelin-starred restaurant and historic boat that lets you sail on the water. Romanticism guaranteed.
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Around Villa Roccabruna, the Mandarin Oriental, housed in a nineteenth-century building, boasts a modern, elegant atmosphere. A renowned spa and Michelin-starred restaurant complete this hotel, which also boasts a floating pool on the lake.
Villa Passalacqua was built in the 18th century. This historic manor house, home to Napoleon Bonaparte, Bellini and Winston Churchill, has been transformed into an intimate five-star hotel with 24 suites divided between the Villa, the neighbouring Palazzo and the Casa al Lago, complete with swimming pool and tennis court.
With its frescoes, terrazzo floors, wall ornaments and antique furniture, the 16th-century Villa Sola Cabiati transports us back in time.
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There’s also the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni and the Filario, two magnificent settings on the shores of the lake.
Finally, two other prestigious addresses are soon to open, boosting the ultra-luxury hotel offering in this region.
In 2026, the Ritz-Carlton Bellagio will welcome its first guests. A private pontoon, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, restaurants, a green park and meditation areas will be part of the hotel, driven by the sophistication of the brand.
The Six Senses Lake Como, due to open in 2028, will take up residence in the historic building of the former Grand Hotel Cadenabbia. The hotel will have 102 rooms and suites, a spa, a floating pool in addition to the existing one, and several culinary areas.
And while these hotels are well worth a visit, gastronomy is also king on Lake Como, as Italy is renowned for. Starred restaurants include Kitchen, Materia, Il Sereno Al Lago, Osteria Enoteca Cuntitt, Il Cantuccio, Trattoria Contemporanea and Sui Generis. Italian cuisine is revisited with elegance and the right flavours, all in a choice setting.
Places to visit
An Italian trip starts with a visit to Como. Take a stroll along the city walls and wander through the market and along the shores of the lake. The cathedral, the Piazza Duomo, the Villa dell’Olmo, the Casa del Fascio, the Basilica of San Fedele and the Volta temple museum are all worth a visit.
To get to Brunate, take the funicular that has been in service since 1894. The views are breathtaking!
In Bellagio, the Basilica of San Giacomo, Villa Serbelloni and the magnificent gardens of Villa Melzi are not to be missed.
In the village of Lecco, the Villa Manzoni, the Palazzo Belgiojoso, the Basilica of San Nicolo and the Viscontea Tower are all worth a visit. You’ll have to head to the tip to enjoy the mythical Villa Balbianello, an 18th-century Renaissance palace that has featured in films such as James Bond and Star Wars II. The beauty of the gardens is renowned the world over, and the view over Lake Como is incredible.
In Varenna, the Villa Monastero, the grandiose gardens of Villa Cipressi and the church of San Giovanni Battista stand alongside the charming, colourful houses facing the lake, which can also be found in the village of Menaggio. In Menaggio, we recommend visiting the two villas, Gaeta and Carlotta.
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Featured photo : © Villa Sola Cabiati
