Where to stay in Como: best areas, accommodation and practical tips

Why stay in Como

Como is the gateway to Italy's most scenic lake, but it is also a historic city with a charming medieval centre, Terragni's rationalist architecture and a textile tradition that makes it unique. Compared to Bellagio or Varenna, staying in Como city offers services, connections and more accessible prices, with the lake within walking distance.

Best areas to stay

Walled historic centre

The centre of Como is enclosed within Roman and medieval walls, with the Duomo, the Broletto and Via Vittorio Emanuele as the main axis. B&Bs in historic palazzi, boutique hotels converted from disused silk factories and the convenience of having everything on foot: from the lakefront to restaurants.

Ideal for: couples, cultural travellers, those arriving by train
Average price: €90-200 per night

Lakefront and funicular area

From the Volta Temple to the funicular to Brunate, the lakefront is Como's most scenic boulevard. Period liberty hotels with lakeside gardens, mountain views and direct access to the ferries. Elegant area but not cheap.

Ideal for: honeymoons, luxury travellers, those wanting lake views
Average price: €150-400 per night

First basin villages (Cernobbio, Blevio, Torno)

5-15 minutes from Como, these lakeside villages offer a more intimate and authentic atmosphere. Cernobbio has historic villas converted into hotels, Torno is a hidden gem with a small harbour and trattorias. Ferry and bus connect to the centre.

Ideal for: those seeking tranquillity with views, romantic stays
Average price: €80-180 per night

Lora and Camerlata area (western outskirts)

More residential neighbourhoods with free parking and supermarkets. 3-star hotels and family B&Bs, convenient for those arriving by car from the motorway who want to explore the lake with flexibility.

Ideal for: families with cars, budget travellers, longer stays
Average price: €55-110 per night

Types of accommodation

Liberty hotels and historic villas

Como has a hotel tradition dating back to the 19th-century Grand Tour. Liberty villas on the lakefront offer discreet luxury with terraced gardens, pools and private jetties.

B&Bs and guesthouses

In the historic centre and on the hill towards Brunate, intimate B&Bs with panoramic terraces and breakfasts featuring local products. Many are in elevated positions with spectacular views.

Lake-view apartments

The best option for families or stays of 4+ nights. Apartments with lake-facing balconies in the first basin combine independence and panorama.

Hillside farm stays

On the hills between Como and Brianza, restored farmhouses with honey and cheese production. Absolute peace 15 minutes from the city centre.

Tips to save money

March-May and October-November: beautiful lakes, prices 30-40% lower than summer
Staying in Como city costs 20-30% less than Bellagio or Varenna
Navigation boats are economical (€2-5 per trip): no need to stay in every village
The Como-Brunate funicular (€7 return) offers extraordinary views: choose a B&B in Brunate for panoramas at hillside prices
Weekends and public holidays fill hotels: midweek is much more affordable