Holiday in Lake Como

What makes Lake Como special as a destination?

Lake Como, shaped like an inverted Y, has been a retreat for the wealthy and creative since ancient times. The steep shores, lined with magnificent villas featuring botanical gardens, Mediterranean vegetation, and snow-capped Alps in the background, create one of Europe's most romantic settings. George Clooney made the lake famous with his Villa Oleandra in Laglio, but Lake Como has fascinated travelers for centuries. Bellagio, the "Pearl of the Lake," is beautifully situated at the fork of the two lake arms: cobblestone stairs, blooming terraces, and Villa Melzi with its Japanese gardens make it a postcard motif. Varenna on the eastern shore impresses with Villa Monastero and the hiking trail to Castello di Vezio. Villa Carlotta near Tremezzo houses Canova's sculptures and one of Italy's most beautiful botanical gardens. Como itself, the silk city on the southwestern arm, surprises with a Gothic-Baroque cathedral, the funicular to Brunate (the "Balcony of the Alps"), and a lively lakeside promenade. The cuisine combines Lombard tradition with lake specialties: Missoltini (dried Agone fish), risotto with perch, and Polenta Uncia. Tip: A boat trip with the historic ferry line shows the most beautiful villas from the water — the best viewpoint.