Lake Como, a destination synonymous with elegance and stunning natural beauty, has long captivated travelers. While many associate it with exclusive retreats and the glitz of celebrity visitors, there’s a side to this Italian jewel that offers a more grounded, authentic experience, particularly for those seeking to escape the most crowded spots.
Discovering the quieter side of Como
The allure of Lake Como isn’t just about the waterfront mansions or the private yachts gliding across its waters. For decades, this picturesque region has been a magnet for those seeking both tranquility and a touch of glamour. Think of the stories of Hollywood stars finding refuge here in the 1960s, or historical figures like Winston Churchill sketching the scenery. Even Verdi found inspiration along these very banks.
Today, the lake still reflects its luxurious past and present, with sightings of the world’s elite being commonplace during the summer months. However, the true magic for many lies beyond the exclusive enclaves. The 30-mile-long lake is dotted with culturally rich towns that offer a delightful alternative to the throngs found in more famous locales. These places provide a chance to connect with nature and experience the local rhythm of life.
Lecco A Local’s Lakeside Escape
Just south of the more renowned town of Varenna, you’ll find Lecco, a town cherished by Italians for its authentic Lake Como experience. It has a decidedly smaller feel, and its compact center is easily explored on foot. You can stroll from the train station to the ferry terminal in about ten minutes, making it incredibly accessible.
Don’t let its relaxed atmosphere fool you; Lecco is brimming with shops, bakeries, and restaurants to explore. You’ll find familiar European brands alongside charming independent boutiques and bookshops. What’s noticeably absent are the ubiquitous souvenir stands often found in highly touristed areas. Instead, you get a genuine sense of local life.
Like any true Italian town, Lecco boasts lovely piazzas. Piazza Garibaldi is a wonderful spot to savor an espresso and a pastry while listening to a street musician. Later, you can wander along the beautifully maintained lakefront promenade, its bike lanes and flowerbeds perfect for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss grabbing a generous scoop of gelato from Capo Horn Gelateria Artigianale for a sweet treat.
For a more extensive dining experience, head towards Piazza Septembre. Here, you’ll discover a lively atmosphere with alfresco dining options at restaurants like Bottega del Maiale and L’EK Bistrot, and Cardamomo Persian Palace. The area often features live music, just a couple of streets back from the lake.
The views from the Lecco waterfront are simply breathtaking. You’ll be treated to panoramas of surrounding mountains like Monte Rosa, Monviso, and Adamello. It’s a common and endearing sight to see local families and couples enjoying picnics on the shoreline as the sun begins to set, painting the sky with color.
Life in Lecco unfolds at a more leisurely pace. You can easily spend hours simply enjoying a glass of local wine, perhaps a Sforzato di Valtellina or a Franciacorta, and watching the world go by in the main square of Palazzo delle Paure. For even more stunning lake and mountain vistas, take a walk up to the Lungolago di Como viewpoint, where you can also find remnants of medieval ruins.
While Bellagio and Como might offer a greater quantity of accommodation, including larger hotel chains, Lecco presents excellent opportunities for affordable luxury. Places like Hotel Griso and Hotel Villa Cipresi provide comfortable stays without the premium prices often associated with the lake’s hotspots.
Outdoor Adventures Around Lecco
The landscapes surrounding Lecco are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake itself, coupled with the towering mountains, provides endless opportunities for hiking and climbing. The Nibbio crag, popular with rock climbers, is just a short drive away.
For hikers, challenging routes like Magnodeno Mountain and Monte Barro await. If you’re seeking a more tranquil experience, the Sentiero delle Pozze, or Path of the Pools, offers a unique journey where you can dip into natural pools scattered along the trail. It’s an almost magical experience, especially for the children.
A hike to Piani d’Erna or Monte Resegone is a fantastic way to build up an appetite for the region’s delicious and reasonably priced local cuisine. Imagine indulging in pizzoccheri alla Valtellinese, creamy polenta dishes, or a rich, unctuous risotto after a rewarding day on the mountain. The hearty flavors are perfectly suited to the alpine environment.
Where to Stay in Lecco
Budget-Friendly Comfort
For a more economical yet comfortable stay, Lecco Hostel & Rooms is an excellent choice. It boasts bright, modern common areas and offers a mix of private rooms and dormitory beds, all just about a kilometer from the main train station. The hostel also features a lovely garden, a spacious lounge perfect for unwinding, co-working spaces, and an on-site restaurant.
Lakefront Charm
When it comes to holiday homes and apartments, Lecco has many wonderful options. Casa al Lago stands out for its prime location directly on the lakefront. This compact, one-bedroom apartment offers a balcony with an unparalleled view across Lake Como, situated right opposite the ferry terminal in the heart of town. Waking up to that view would be unforgettable.
A View to Remember
If waking up to the beautiful Lungolago di Lecco viewpoint is a priority, consider HLL Hotel Lungolago Lecco. Attached to the popular Tabula Rosa restaurant, this hotel offers a location mere steps from the lakefront promenade and boasts gorgeous balcony views. It’s undoubtedly one of the premier places to stay for the ultimate Lecco experience.
Getting to and Around Lake Como
Flights to Northern Italy
The most convenient way to reach Lake Como is by flying into either Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) or Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY). Major airlines operate flights from various locations, with a flight time of under two hours from many European departure points. This flexibility makes planning your trip straightforward.
Train Journeys to Lecco
From Milan Malpensa Airport, you can take a train to Milan city center, which takes around 45 minutes. If you land at Bergamo, a short 17-minute bus ride will take you to Bergamo station. From either Milan or Bergamo, a direct train to Lecco is available, typically taking about 40 minutes. There are frequent services, with over 50 trains a day from Milan and around 29 from Bergamo, ensuring you can travel at your convenience.
Navigating the Lake Region
For exploring around the lake, the train network is efficient. There are numerous daily trains connecting Varenna and Lecco, making it easy to hop between towns. Ferries also operate between Lecco and Bellagio, offering a scenic way to travel, though schedules can vary depending on the day.
Lecco’s train station is a central hub, providing direct and frequent lines to Varenna, just north of the town, and to both Bergamo and Milan. These connections are perfect for day trips or for making your way back to the airport. Train tickets to Milan are quite affordable, costing around €5 each way, and you can be in the bustling heart of the city within an hour.
Experiencing Life on the Lake
A Day Trip with the Family
One of our favorite days involved a short train ride to Varenna. Lily, at seven, was fascinated by the colorful buildings cascading down the hillside, and Ethan, our four-year-old, was thrilled by the ferry ride across to Bellagio. Even though we’d chosen Lecco for its quieter atmosphere, a brief visit to Bellagio offers a glimpse of the more famous side of the lake. We enjoyed a leisurely lunch and managed to find a playground where the kids could burn off some energy before heading back to our peaceful base in Lecco. It was a perfect balance.
Culinary Delights
The food in this region is a major highlight. Beyond the classic pasta dishes, look for regional specialties. Pizzoccheri, a hearty buckwheat pasta dish from the Valtellina region, is a must-try, often layered with cheese, potatoes, and cabbage. Creamy polenta served with rich stews, like wild boar or game, is another deeply satisfying option that’s perfect after a day of exploring. And of course, the risottos here are exceptionally well-made, often featuring local ingredients like mushrooms or lake fish.
Capturing Memories
I always bring my journal and camera on trips like these. The light on Lake Como, especially in the late afternoon, is truly magical. The way it reflects off the water and illuminates the mountains creates a painterly effect. I found myself spending a lot of time simply sitting by the shore in Lecco, sketching the scenery or jotting down observations. It’s these quiet moments, surrounded by such profound beauty, that become the most cherished memories of a trip, especially when I see the wonder on my children’s faces.
Planning for 2026
Visiting Lake Como in 2026 offers the same charm and beauty as always. While some of the very popular spots will remain busy, focusing on towns like Lecco allows for a more authentic and relaxed experience. The infrastructure for travel, including trains and ferries, is well-established and continues to be reliable, making it easy to plan your itinerary. The regional cuisine and natural landscapes are timeless, promising a rewarding visit any time of year.
Lake Como is a destination that offers layers of discovery. Whether you’re drawn to its historical elegance or the simple pleasure of a lakeside promenade, you’ll find moments of genuine connection and beauty. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, breathe in the scenery, and create memories that last a lifetime.