Map of Lake Como for First Timer’s (2026)

Welcome to Lake Como in Italy.

Use the map below for the most popular TOWNS, VILLAGES, botanical gardens, BEACHES, and landmarks!

Enjoy!

MAP OF LAKE COMO

Please take a look here for the interactive map view of Lake Como via My Maps on Google (you can save our map and use it later).

Use our map to locate key attractions, and find the best routes for scenic drives, walking tours, or even boating excursions.

The most popular towns on Lake Como

After exploring the Amalfi Coast, with vibrant towns such as Sorrento, it is time to go exploring towns on the map of Lake Como!

Argegno: Known for its charming cable car to Pigra, offering breathtaking views, an ancient Romanesque bridge, and the vibrant town square with cafes and restaurants.

Bellagio: Dubbed the “Pearl of Lake Como,” it is famed for its picturesque streets, stunning villas like Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni, and its strategic location at the junction of the lake’s three branches. An amazing activity in Bellagio is starting a gorgeous sunset cruise. Book your tour in advance to secure your spot.

Cernobbio: A luxurious town home to the illustrious Villa d’Este hotel, beautiful villas like Villa Erba and Villa Bernasconi, and a lovely lakeside promenade.

Colico: recognized for its strong winds, making it a popular spot for sailing and kitesurfing, the imposing Forte di Fuentes, and the Piona Abbey set in tranquil surroundings.

Como: The city is celebrated for its historic center, the Gothic Como Cathedral, the scenic lakefront, and the nearby hilltop village of Brunate with panoramic views. In Como, you can take a wine tasting tour at a local winery. Tasting the finest wines in the region with a local guide. 

Gravedona: Offers a blend of history and beauty with notable churches like Santa Maria del Tiglio, the lakeside promenade, and Palazzo Gallio.

Lecco: Known for its association with the novel “The Betrothed,” its picturesque waterfront, and the surrounding mountains offering excellent hiking opportunities.

Menaggio: Features a lovely lakeside promenade, a lively town square, and access to the Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club, one of the oldest in Europe.

Nesso: Famous for the striking Orrido di Nesso, a gorge with a waterfall and ancient Roman bridge, offering a picturesque and tranquil setting.

Tremezzina: Home to the exquisite Villa Carlotta with its art collections and botanical gardens, and the charming village of Lenno with its bay. The property is open daily except Mondays and Wednesdays, from 10AM to 6PM. It’s a popular activity, so we recommend booking your tickets in advance. 

Varenna: A traditional fishing village known for its colorful waterfront, the romantic walkway of Passeggiata degli Innamorati, and historic sites like Villa Monastero and Castello di Vezio.

In Varenna, we took a cooking class with Annamaria. It was an amazing experience; she explained the dishes well and it was easy to follow. The general vibe in the location was also lovely. This is an activity we generally include in our itineraries when traveling to a new country to learn more about the local dishes.

An important question when you want to visit all these beautiful Italian cities is where you should stay. Take a look at this blog post about the best places to stay in Lake Como.

👉 DID YOU KNOW: Lake Como is considered one of the most beautiful places in Europe by BornWild.

HOW TO GET THERE ? If you are coming from Sorrento, there are a few transport possibilities to reach Amalfi and Positano.

Top experiences in Lake Como you shouldn’t miss

Make the most of your trip with experiences that go beyond sightseeing. These tours add a personal touch to your Lake Como itinerary and they’re easy to book in advance so you don’t miss out.

1. Private boat tour with Prosecco

This private boat tour is one of the best ways to see Lake Como from the water, without the crowds. You’ll board a classic wooden boat in Cernobbio and cruise past villas like Villa d’Este, Villa Fontanelle, and Villa Pliniana.

The guide shares local insights, and there’s time built in for a swim stop. A chilled bottle of Prosecco is included, which makes it a fun option for couples looking for a scenic but relaxed activity.

Ideal for couples who want a relaxed, scenic experience without the crowds. Advanced booking is recommended, especially in summer.

Check your private boat tour availability here.

2. Cooking class in Varenna with a local chef

Join a small-group cooking class where you’ll make handmade pasta, tiramisu, and Italian specialities!

Then enjoy the meal with wine in a cozy veranda or kitchen. This class is hosted by locals and adds something memorable to your stay in Varenna.

Perfect for: a relaxing, hands-on break between sightseeing days.

Book your Italian cooking class here.

Villas & botanical gardens

Gardens of Villa Melzi D’Eril: Renowned for their English-style gardens with a variety of exotic plants and sculptures set along the lake’s shore.

Gardens of Villa Serbelloni: Offers panoramic views of Lake Como from its elevated position, surrounded by a vast park with winding paths.

Villa Bernasconi (Cernobbio): Known for its Art Nouveau architecture and beautifully maintained gardens.

Villa Erba (Cernobbio): A large historical estate that hosts exhibitions and events, set within extensive gardens.

Villa Pizzo (Cernobbio): Features a long lakeside promenade within its gardens, leading to a striking waterfront villa.

Hotel Villa d’Este (Cernobbio): A luxury hotel set in a former Renaissance villa, known for its exquisite gardens and opulent decor.

Villa Olmo (Como): A neoclassical villa hosting art exhibitions, surrounded by a large and historically significant botanical garden.

Villa del Grumello (Como): Offers a serene escape with its botanical garden that showcases a variety of plant species and overlooks the lake.

Villa Balbianello (Tremezzina): Known for its elaborate terraced gardens and the villa’s dramatic location on a wooded promontory. Book your tour in advance to secure your spot.

Villa Balbiano (Tremezzina): Distinguished by its luxurious interiors and meticulously landscaped gardens facing the lake.

Villa Carlotta (Tremezzina): Celebrated for its art collections housed within the villa and its extensive botanical gardens.

Villa Monastero (Varenna): A former monastery turned museum with a long, narrow botanical garden that stretches along the lakeshore. You can get a combi ticket with your ferry to Villa Monastero.

Gardens of Villa Cipressi (Varenna): Stepped gardens descending towards the lake, offering stunning vistas and a variety of flora.

Beaches

Abbadia Lariana – Parco di Chiesa Rotta: Known for its natural beauty and tranquility, offering a peaceful retreat.

Argegno – Lido di Argegno: Features a pool and access to the lake, making it popular for both swimming and sunbathing.

Lido di Bellagio: Offers a stylish setting with a beach club vibe, attracting a chic crowd.

San Giovanni public beach: Appreciated for its serene environment and beautiful views, ideal for a quiet day by the lake.

Bellano – Lido di Bellano: Known for its modern facilities and water sports options, catering to active visitors.

Bellano – Public beach: Offers a more laid-back atmosphere, perfect for families and casual beach-goers.

Cernobbio – Lido di Cernobbio: Features elegant surroundings and a pool, appealing to those looking for luxury by the lake.

Colico – Lido di Colico: Popular for its wide range of amenities and vibrant atmosphere, suitable for all ages.

Colico – Villa Osio public beach: Appreciated for its quieter setting and natural surroundings.

Colico – La Breva public beach: Known for the “Breva” wind, making it a favorite spot for windsurfers.

Colico – Piona public beach: Offers stunning views of the Piona Abbey and a more secluded environment.

Como – Lido Villa Olmo: Located near the historic Villa Olmo, this lido combines cultural experiences with lakeside leisure.

Como – Giulietta al Lago: Known for its romantic setting and fine dining options, perfect for couples.

Dervio – Public beach: Appeals to those looking for unspoiled landscapes and a quieter beach experience.

Dongo – Public beach: Offers a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful lake vistas, ideal for a peaceful day out.

Serenella Beach in Gravedona is celebrated for its peaceful ambiance and beautiful natural surroundings.

Mor Lake Como and the Public beach in Griante are known for their stunning views of the lake against the backdrop of the mountains.

Lido Orsa Maggiore in Lecco offers a variety of recreational facilities, making it a popular choice for families and sports enthusiasts.

Salice public beach in Lezzeno is appreciated for its secluded and tranquil setting.

The public beach in Lierna is renowned for its clear waters and picturesque scenery.

Lido di Mandello in Mandello del Lario combines beach relaxation with cultural attractions, given its proximity to the Moto Guzzi Museum.

Lerai public beach in Menaggio provides a spacious area for sunbathing and swimming with views of the lake.

Careno public beach in Nesso stands out for its charming village backdrop and clear waters.

Oliveto Lario, including Onnolulu, Oliveto, Onno, and Vassena beaches, are known for their diverse offerings, from family-friendly shores to quiet retreats amidst nature.

Quarzano Public Beach in Pognana Lario: Known for its secluded and serene environment, offering a quiet retreat.

Public Beach in San Siro: Appreciated for its unspoiled natural setting and clear waters, ideal for a peaceful day by the lake.

Lido di Lenno in Tremezzina: Famous for its stylish beach club and nighttime entertainment, attracting a lively crowd.

Ossuccio Public Beach in Tremezzina: Offers stunning views of Isola Comacina and a relaxed atmosphere.

Parco Teresio Olivelli in Tremezzina: Noted for its beautifully landscaped gardens and beach area, providing a picturesque setting.

Lido di Varenna in Varenna: A popular spot for its convenient access, sunbathing facilities, and scenic views.

Bau Bau Beach in Varenna: Known as a pet-friendly beach, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake with their furry friends.

Where to stay around Lake Como

Finding the perfect place to stay in Lake Como can feel difficult, especially for first-time visitors.

As a couple, we always found it important to stay somewhere calm, walkable, and with a view.

After visiting the lake multiple times, these are the stays we’d recommend based on vibes, views, and value:

Luxury option

Grand Hotel Tremezzo  is the top luxury choice for couples looking to splurge.

Overlooking Bellagio from the western shore, it combines five-star service with facilities that elevate your stay from three pools (including a floating one on the lake) to a spa, tennis courts, and private beach club.

Rooms are classic but spacious, and the lake-view balconies are genuinely impressive. Dining is a highlight here, with multiple restaurants and a terrace that makes for a romantic dinner spot. It’s also a short walk from Villa Carlotta, making it ideal if you’re sightseeing on foot.

Location: Tremezzina (Central Lake)

 
Vibe: Classic 5-star elegance with lakefront views.

Why couples love it:

• Floating pool on the lake, plus 2 additional pools and private beach club

• Multiple dining options, including romantic dinners on the terrace overlooking Bellagio

• Full-service spa, gym, and tennis courts

• Rooms feature balconies or terraces with panoramic lake views

• Easy access to Villa Carlotta (5 min walk) and ferry stop

Tip: Book the Lake View Prestige Room for unbeatable views and breakfast on your balcony.

Book your stay here

Mid-budget

Hotel du Lac in Varenna is one of the best-positioned lakefront properties on the eastern shore.

It’s a quiet, couple-friendly hotel located directly beside the water, with most rooms offering uninterrupted views across the lake to Bellagio.

It’s less polished than Grand Hotel Tremezzo (for that price, it is definitely normal for it to be more polished), but clean, charming, and within walking distance of Villa Monastero, ferry terminals, and the old town’s restaurants.

This is where we stayed on our last trip, and the lakeside breakfast terrace was one of our favorite memories.

Location: Varenna (East shore)

Vibe: Romantic, low-key hotel right on the water.

Why couples love it:

• Direct lakefront location with terrace views of Bellagio and the central lake

• Rooms are simple but clean, with private balconies in most lake-view options

• Steps from the ferry dock, 10-min walk to Villa Monastero and botanical gardens

• Surrounded by quiet streets, perfect for evening strolls

Tip: Book a Superior Lake View room, the sunsets are UNFORGETABLE.

Book your stay here

Best budget

Hotel Olivedo, just a few minutes’ walk from Hotel du Lac, offers excellent value.

Set in a 19th-century yellow villa right by the Varenna ferry dock, it’s quirky but comfortable, with traditionally decorated rooms and surprisingly large bathrooms for the price point!

Some rooms have balconies with full lake views, and the homemade breakfasts served in the morning are delicious and well-reviewed. There’s no elevator, so be prepared to carry your luggage upstairs, but the location makes it a practical base for exploring other towns by ferry.

Book your stay here