Curator’s statement
Darlings, there is nowhere on earth quite like Lake Como. Grand Belle Époque villas rise straight from the water, bougainvillea spills over stone walls, and the light does something here I have never seen anywhere else, dancing across the lake as though it were performing just for you. It is a place that holds you completely from the very first moment, and one I return to again and again, both for myself and for the clients lucky enough to let me plan it for them.
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Where to stay in Lake Como, Italy
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Things to do in Lake Como, Italy
Where to shop
Azalea, Silk of Como, Bellagio: The boutique I would make a beeline for. Established in 1960 on Bellagio’s steep Salita Serbelloni, Azalea has built its reputation on limited-edition silk pieces designed and produced locally in the Como region, the kind of authentic craftsmanship that tends to matter more to my clients than a recognisable logo.
Nosetta: One of Lake Como’s most exciting modern luxury names. Their handbags are made in Italy, inspired by the lake itself, and still wonderfully under the radar, worn by the kind of stylish traveller who prefers quiet luxury to an obvious logo. I think of it as Como’s answer to Metier or DeMellier.
Nene, Bellagio: A favourite for anyone after independent Italian design rather than international labels. The boutique champions Made in Italy names and mixes established designers with emerging ones, a lovely way to bring something genuinely local home.
More experiences
A private pasta making class at your hotel or in Menaggio
Relaxing day at a beach club, lakeside moments, slow afternoon surrounded by mountain views.
Take the ferry between towns as driving can take long and be stressful.
Visit Villa Carlotta, a 17th century villa known for its botanical gardens, neoclassical art, and breathtaking lake views. A must for any garden lovers.
Explore the Greenway de Lago walking path. This stunning lakeside walking route passes through charming villages, historical sites, and hidden beaches. Perfect for a morning or late afternoon stroll.
And of course, the one experience you can’t miss: a private boat charter. Whether you choose a timeless Riva or a beautifully crafted Venetian wooden boat, there is simply no finer way to experience the lake. With your own captain at the helm, allow the day to unfold at an unhurried pace as you discover Como from its most enchanting perspective.
Places to eat & drink in Lake Como, Italy
Long, leisurely lunches
One of my favourites is Bar Giardino at the Royal Victoria in Varenna. Perfect after a morning wandering the village, its lakeside terrace is wonderfully relaxed and has some of the prettiest views in Varenna.
Whenever I stay at Passalacqua, I always make time for lunch on the terrace. Much of the produce comes straight from the hotel’s own kitchen garden, and the menus celebrate the very best seasonal ingredients.
Da Giacomo al Lago has become something of a Lake Como institution and is one I recommend time and time again. The seafood is exceptional, the setting couldn’t be more idyllic, and if you can arrive by boat, even better.
Another wonderful choice is La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi at Grand Hotel Tremezzo. Refined without ever feeling formal, it pairs magnificent lake views with elegant Italian cuisine inspired by one of Italy’s greatest culinary legends.
Aperitivo
One of my favourite rituals in Italy is aperitivo, and nowhere does it quite like Lake Como. An aperol spritz on the terrace at Hotel Vittoria as the sun begins to set is one of life’s simple pleasures. The views are spectacular, the atmosphere is wonderfully relaxed, and it is the perfect way to begin an evening.
For something a little livelier, I also love the terrace at Passalacqua. Watching the light change over the lake with a perfectly mixed Negroni or glass of Franciacorta in hand is pure Italian magic.
Dinner
For a truly elegant evening, it is hard to look beyond Villa d’Este. Dinner on the veranda is one of the great Lake Como experiences. Candlelight, impeccable Lombard cuisine, an exceptional wine list, and flawless service combine to create an evening that feels effortlessly glamorous.
Il Sereno al Lago offers something entirely different, yet equally memorable. Its striking contemporary design by Patricia Urquiola, provides the perfect backdrop for one of the lake’s finest dining experiences.
If you’re looking for somewhere with a more local feel, I always recommend Trattoria del Porto. Warm, welcoming, and full of character, it serves generous portions of authentic regional dishes and has exactly the sort of neighbourhood atmosphere that makes you want to linger over another bottle of wine.
For a special celebration or if you simply want an unforgettable meal, reserve a table at Ristorante Mistral at the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio. With its Michelin star, exquisite tasting menus, and spectacular setting overlooking the lake, it is one of Lake Como’s true culinary highlights.
Need to know
May–June is pure magic. The gardens are in bloom, the lake is still, and the hotels are at their most elegant. Late September is equally divine, warm, and golden with a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. July–August are lively, book well in advance. April can be unpredictable weather, and January through March, many restaurants and hotels close for the season
A car offers the most flexibility for exploring the smaller villages and hillside towns, though the lake’s famous ferries and hydrofoils are a scenic and practical way to move between Como, Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio without the winding, often congested roads. Private boat transfers are a favorite for those wanting a more elegant way to arrive at their villa or hotel.
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The Travel Collective
Stephanie Bloom
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