Como

Lake Como offers miles of beautiful shoreline dotted with pretty villages and towns, but Como is the beautiful, prosperous regional centre. Como’s old town, with the remnants of its 12th Century walls, is a wonderful place for an evening amble. It’s also where you’ll find many of the main attractions, best cafes to stop and watch the world go by in, and some of the best places to stay in Como.

If your idea of the best places to stay in Como involves lake views, then have a look up the hills as well, where there are some lovely B&Bs perched overlooking the lake.

Como is a lot older than it looks: much of it was destroyed and rebuilt in the 12th Century, but there’s been a city here for a lot longer. The Gothic Duomo, the beautiful clover-like Basilica di San Fedele with its three naves and three apses, and some of the churches survived the destruction by the Milanese, but many of the villas, piazzas and palazzos were built later on the back of the city’s wealth as a centre of the silk trade. And it’s certainly worth seeking out some of the grander villas, the Villa Olmo for example, is a wonderful neoclassical landmark right by the water with wonderful gardens. It’s also worth visiting the silk museum, the Museo della Seta.

And of course you’re probably here to for the lake! And all the remarkable towns and villages huddling on its shores, the spectacular wooded hills and miles and miles of picturesque walking tracks around it. Explore on foot, by boat, by car or public transport. Sail, uncover history or beauty, pit yourself against the nearby mountains or just relax by the water’s edge. This is a truly remarkable region.

Just don't forget how busy this will be during the peak summer months. So if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Como in July or August, get organised and book well ahead!

For Como’s Old Town

• The Convento Sant’Antonio B&B has been beautifully converted from an old monastery, into a three suite B&B. The decor is period, with some nice antiques, though there are smart, modern bathrooms. Perfectly positioned just steps from the Duomo.

For lake views

• La Canarina B&B is a charming bed and breakfast in the heart of Como with just two simple, airy bedrooms overlooking a beautiful private garden just 200metres from the lake. The decor is classical, with wooden floorboards and antique wrought iron beds.
• The B&B Vista Lago is a quiet B&B just up the hill from Como. As the name suggests, the lake views are panoramic, and especially enjoyable when viewed from your own private sun terrace. There are just three rooms in the B&B, and it’s ideal for a romantic break. No children.

The best value places to stay in Como

• The Como Luxury Rooms are just two modern bedrooms in an ideal base in the heart of Como’s old town. Simplicity and comfort for around £80 per night.

Still not sure which is the best place to stay in Como for you?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Como,
• expand your search to include the best hotels with a view on Lake Como,
• the best budget Lake Como hotels,
• or Lake Como’s best B&Bs,
• or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.