Milanese locals often make a weekend trip to Lake Como, seeking a break from city life. I followed their lead, wanting to experience the lake authentically, avoiding the overly curated tourist traps. My journey led me to discover some truly special spots that capture the essence of this stunning Italian destination.
Lake Como’s Natural Beauty
The lake itself is a marvel, surrounded by mountains that meet the water in a dramatic, rolling landscape. Even on a misty morning, the lake has a unique charm, shifting through a spectrum of colors from soft grays to brilliant blues. It’s easy to see why it has been a draw for centuries.
The sheer scale and topography of Lake Como create a magnetic pull. The water’s surface is incredibly still, reflecting the sky and surrounding peaks. You can feel a sense of calm looking out over the immense expanse, with the mountains rising sharply from its edges.
Its beauty is undeniable, but the growing popularity means some areas can feel a bit too staged. My goal was to find those quieter corners and authentic experiences, much like the Milanese seem to find them.
Dining Like a Local
One of the best ways to experience Lake Como is through its food. Even Italians sometimes want a break from traditional heavy dishes. For a different flavor, I explored restaurants that offer unique twists.
Japanese-Italian Fusion
At the Mandarin Oriental, I found L˜ARIA, a unique Japanese-Italian fusion restaurant. Chef Massimiliano Blasone uses the region’s best seasonal ingredients in his dishes, many of which are perfect for sharing. The setting is contemporary, with a greenhouse feel, and the terrace offers beautiful lake views framed by citrus trees and potted plants.
After dinner, a walk through the fragrant gardens is highly recommended. In the summer, the poolside NAMI Café provides a more casual option with fresh, healthy Asian plates in a stylish, yacht-like setting.
Classic Lakeside Dining
Ristorante Crotto dei Platani is a long-time favorite among Italians. It sits right on the water, with terraces that feel like a classic scene from a bygone era. The tables are set with white tablecloths, and the railings are adorned with greenery.
The focus here is on locally sourced ingredients, resulting in deeply flavorful dishes. I enjoyed the black truffle pasta and the tender char fillet. The wine list is excellent, with selections from an ancient cellar below. It’s an ideal spot to arrive by boat on a sunny day.
Antidote to Hype
Trattoria del Glicine offers a more relaxed atmosphere, providing a welcome contrast to the more frequented spots. With its wrought iron chairs and wisteria-draped terrace, it feels like a true escape. Inside, the wood-paneled rooms lead out to a terrace with stunning views.
The food is classic and perfectly executed, with dishes like octopus and beef fillet. Italians gather here for long lunches at communal tables or for intimate candle-lit dinners. The dining experience is sophisticated but never overly theatrical.
Neighborhood Gem
In the historic center of Como town, Bistrot Muralto is a warm and inviting spot that glows at night. By day, it’s perfect for coffee and sampling dishes from their ever-changing seasonal menu. It has a nostalgic feel, with chef Davide Grosso putting a gourmet spin on old nonna-style recipes.
It is a place where you can truly feel like a local, enjoying simple yet delicious food. The focus on locality makes it feel genuinely special.
Grand Dame Experience
Villa D’Este is almost synonymous with Lake Como, offering a truly grand and traditional experience. The Restaurant Veranda within the villa provides a taste of Belle Epoque luxury, with impeccable silver service and theatrical presentations of dishes like Crêpes Suzettes.
The tasting menus are elaborate, but there’s also a comforting a la carte option, often featuring generous amounts of truffle or caviar. The classic pasta dishes are rich, but the fish options are a highlight. The terrace here is the place to be when the weather is good, surrounded by sparkling views and glamorous people.
Mountain Views and Old School Recipes
Il Gatto Nero is famously a favorite of George Clooney and is located high in the hills overlooking the lake. This mountain hut offers an old-school menu that showcases regional produce and traditional recipes with a refined touch. The views are mesmerizing during the day, but the ambiance truly comes alive at night, with candlelit tables and hearty pasta dishes.
It is a place that feels incredibly authentic and deeply rooted in the region’s culinary history, offering a beautiful contrast to the lakeside glitz.
Informal Lakeside Spot
On a Brienno terrace carved into ancient walls, you’ll find a relaxed lido and restaurant. The atmosphere is informal, with menus that adapt throughout the day. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a long lunch, then relax on a sun lounger and take a dip in the lake.
The prices are surprisingly reasonable given the incredible views of the lake and mountains. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of lakeside living.
Modern Design and Lakeside Luxury
For those who appreciate contemporary design, Il Sereno is a standout. Perched on the eastern shore, its architecture is a beautiful blend of local materials like timber and stone, referencing the colors and textures of the lake and mountains.
The design is sleek and minimalist, with stunning interiors by Patricia Urquiola. The rooms offer breathtaking lake views, and the attention to detail is remarkable. The floating pool is a unique architectural feature that seems to merge with the lake itself.
Innovative Cuisine
Within Il Sereno, the restaurant Al Lago offers inventive menus by Raffaele Lenzi. The focus is on local ingredients, combined in intriguing ways that allow the natural flavors to shine. Breakfast here, with views of the water, is a delightful way to start the day.
You can also enjoy the spa treatments or take a Riva yacht out on the lake. The hotel’s library and lounge area are perfect for a relaxed afternoon with a Negroni.
Quiet Elegance
Villa Lario, on the eastern shore in Pognana Lario, embodies quiet luxury. It feels like a private, homelike villa, with spacious suites spread across the main building and a renovated 19th-century palazzo. The terraced gardens and cliff-top pool offer stunning vistas.
The restaurant at Villa Lario, with food by Davide Maci, focuses on elevated classic Como dishes. There’s a refreshing emphasis on vegetables, with excellent gluten-free options. Carnivores are also well catered for, and a more casual poolside menu is available.
My experience at Villa Lario felt incredibly personal and refined. The integration of Italianate antiquity with modern design creates a unique and sophisticated atmosphere. Evenings at the bar, with views of the lake, are particularly memorable, serving creative cocktails.
Where to stay for privacy
Consider a suite in Il Palazzo at Villa Lario for truly special views across the water, especially at night. The sound of the water against the old foundations is incredibly soothing.
Experiencing the Lake
Renting a boat is a must for exploring Lake Como and seeing it from a different perspective. Many hotels offer boat rentals, and some even provide them without requiring a license. If you don’t have friends with boats, companies like Como Classic Boats offer stylish Riva-style vessels for rent or guided tours.
Boat tours are a fantastic way to grasp the scale of the lake and see the famous villas and grand terraces up close. It allows you to navigate at your own pace and stop wherever catches your eye.
Hiking the Lake’s Trails
Beyond the water, the hiking routes around Lake Como are just as appealing. Trails like the Palmenwald to the Cascata loop and The Greenway del Lago di Como wind through ancient villages, past waterfalls and through lush forests. These routes often lead to mountain huts (refugio) where traditional recipes are still served.
The combination of physical activity, stunning scenery, and delicious food and wine makes for a perfect day out. For a gentler walk, the cobbled path from Varenna to Vezio Castle passes old monasteries and chapels.
Best hikes to consider
The Greenway del Lago di Como offers a delightful journey through charming villages and stunning landscapes. It’s accessible and provides a wonderful overview of the western shore.
Shopping for Treasures
Como town hosts a lively flea and antiques market, Mercato Mercerie, from Tuesday to Saturday. You can find anything from antique doorknobs to exquisite silks, reflecting the region’s artisanal history. It’s a great place to hunt for unique souvenirs.
After browsing, I recommend stopping at a local coffee shop like Bistro Muralto or Panino Buono. Talea also offers artisanal wares and is a nice spot to linger for a brunch, if you book ahead. These markets are a wonderful glimpse into local life and history.
Lake Como offers a rich experience, blending breathtaking natural beauty with refined culture and cuisine. Whether you seek grand estates or quiet trattorias, you can find your own perfect slice of the Dolce Vita.