Lake Como, Italy, is known for luxury and glamour. Despite its celebrity visitors and part-time residents, pricey boutiques, and luxury boats, it is possible to visit on a budget. It may not be the cheapest destination, but there are ways to experience luxury for less at Lake Como.
Where I stayed
We stayed at the hotel Aurum – Como Luxury Suites, located right in the center of Old Town. The location is extremely convenient and, being directly opposite the Como Cathedral, has an amazing view.
The boutique hotel has a quirky style, with colorful lights, patterns, unique decorations, and, at least in my room, a window between the shower and the main area. I enjoyed all of this quirkiness, although I could have done without the window for privacy. There is no lobby, only a front desk staff person on the second floor, so make sure you have your emailed entrance instructions at the ready. I had to ask a store salesperson for directions, only to find we had already walked past the front door twice. Be aware that it is kind of hidden in plain sight.
Visiting towns on Lake Como
Take the ferry, bus, a car, or a private boat to the small towns on the lake. Here are a few of them and what you’ll find there:
- Bellagio‘s town center is a good stop for shopping, whether it’s souvenirs, fashion, or art. You can also visit the Gardens of Villa Melzi, but cannot enter the villa itself. Villa Serbelloni’s park covers almost all of Bellagio and features amazing views and natural scenery. Guided tour tickets are required.
- Tremezzina, right across from Bellagio, is known for its grand villas and charming hamlets (Tremezzo, Lenno, and Ossuccio). Villas include Villa Carlotta, Villa del Balbianello, Villa Sola Cabiati, and more. Villa del Balbianello is one of the most known because scenes from Star Wars: Episode 2- Attack of the Clones and Casino Royale were filmed there.
- Menaggio features Villa Mylius-Vigoni, a 19th century residence, and has a lovely lakeside promenade. Villa Gaeta, considered one of the most beautiful villas and also a filming location for Casino Royale, is located just north of Menaggio.
- Nesso is known for its picturesque waterfall directly behind a stone bridge where people like to jump into the water. The town is peaceful and scenic with its historic stone-paved alleyways.
- Cernobbio also has multiple villas, including Villa Bernasconi (the only villa in Cernobbio open to the public), Villa Erba, and Villa Pizzo. Il Giardino della Valle is a botanical garden open year-round.
Take a boat ride
A boat ride is a great way to not only take a swim, but to see all the villas along the lakefront and the vast mountains surrounding the lake.
The boat tour we chartered was led by a college student from Como who gives boat tours during the summer. As a local, she had knowledge of the area and what to see or do. She offered us prosecco, took us past some of the villas, and gave us facts about them. Then, we stopped at a spot she said was good for swimming. The water was cool and felt so refreshing in the heat.
If a private boat ride is out of your budget, you can go with a group of your own friends to split the cost, book a small group boat ride with other travelers, or ride the ferry to whichever towns you choose.
Eat and drink
As you’d expect, there are plenty of delicious food and drink options. The first restaurant we went to was directly outside our hotel in front of the Como Cathedral- Ristorante da Pietro. We went there out of convenience, but it turned out to be good enough that we wanted to go back on another day. I had the classic Aperol Spritz and a seafood gnocchi that was incredible.
We also tried a cocktail bar and restaurant called Ceccato Garden Bar. The cocktails were tasty and unique and the food was perfect for a light lunch.
Of course, there are even more dining options in each town along Lake Como. Try Il Gatto Nero in Cernobbio for an upscale experience overlooking the lake.
Shopping
As expected, you’ll find many pricey fashion boutiques at Lake Como. If you’re on a budget, look for the Coin department store, which has a Mango store and other clothing, beauty, and home shopping. This is where I bought a dress and swim cover-up to hold me over until my lost luggage was finally returned to me. There are also smaller shops in the many lakeside towns with handmade items and souvenir.
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If you liked this, check these out:
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Marbella, Spain: A Gem of the Costa del Sol
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