Ciao, I’m Celia, your travel advisor in Italy! I'm a professional travel writer and itinerary designer. I share my local insights and knowledge with travelers looking to go beyond the ordinary. Ask a question or request a custom travel itinerary. Contact me.

The chimes of church bells rang, waking me up. Five, six, seven…it was eight o’clock in the morning.  I peeled back the curtains and opened the window, revealing a view of shimmering waters stretching far towards the distant, snowcapped peaks of the Alps.

LAKE COMO TOURS

The first time I came here was for a romantic getaway from the bustling bedlam of Milan. My suitor at the time, was trying to impress me. I was captivated. The first thing I thought was how wonderful it would be to rent a villa on Lake Como and stay here for an entire month.

Needless to say, he succeeded in winning me over. We are now married and happily living here on Lake Como.

Get away from the cities and live like a local

After visiting the museums and shopping galleries of Milan, Venice, and Florence, be sure to take some peaceful time for yourself on Lake Como. Every angle of Italy has its history and picturesque qualities but Lake Como is unique. The atmosphere and tranquility of the small villages has been eloquently preserved.

Some of the towns and villages you may want to look at are:

Colico

Colico is known as kite surfer paradise. Found on the upper eastern shore, it’s the perfect getaway for the water sport enthusiast. Lakeside beach gardens offer shady spots where you can put your blanket down and have a lakeside picnic.

Nearby you will find: water sports and hiking, the Fuentes fortress, and the Piona Abbey

Mezzegra

Photo: Iain Cameron/Flikr

LAKE COMO TOURS

Mezzegra is a village, found on the western branch of Lake Como. Noted in the history books as the site where Benito Mussolini and his lover, Claretta Petacci were captured by the partisans. Mezzegra offers remarkable views and landscapes.

Nearby you will find: the Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Balbianello.

Lierna

Photo: Celia Abernethy

Lierna is one of Lake Como’s best kept secrets. Found on the lower eastern shore, it’s a tiny village 15 km north of the city of Lecco. Perfect for the traveler who wants to stay out of the busy touristy areas. The town has a few restaurants, all of very high quality. It’s quiet and charming and the train and ferry connections will allow you to easily visit the local landmarks.

Nearby you will find: Mandello del Lario and the Moto Guzzi musuem, L’orido di Bellano waterfall and nature park, Villa Monastero and Varenna.

Getting there:

Nearby airports are Milan Linate, Malpensa or Bergamo Orio al Serio.
To get to Lierna and Colico: Trains run from Milan Central Station to Lierna and Colico. By car you can drive the SS36.
To get to Mezzegra: Trains run from Milan Central Station to Como and then take the C10 bus. By car you can drive the SS340.

If you want to get away from the busy towns and cities, I highly recommend a visit to Lake Como. You will return home relaxed with delightful, romantic memories.

Looking for help planning travel to Milan & Lake Como?
Ciao, I’m Celia, your travel advisor in Italy! Ask a question or request a custom travel itinerary. I am also available as an assistant and translator for business, shopping and events. Contact me.

LUXURY TOURS OF LAKE COMO