Sttaying 3 days 2 nights with car at Lake Como - ideas on the best town/hotel to have as a base?
There is an elegant old Italian villa with a wonderful ambiance and beautiful gardens that has been turned into a hotel named Villa Cipressi. Enjoyed our stay and would stay there again in a heart beat.
Rick’s book 2016 edition says Varenna. I have been researching this and the city of Como looks nice too.
When are you visiting?
We will be visiting Lake Como for the first time in mid May. Staying at the Michaelangelo B & B in Varenna. Second to last stop on a month long trip starting in Lviv, and ending in Milan, none of which will be by car.
Oops! Forgot to add that the hotel is in Varenna.
Hotel Belvedere in Bellagio at the top of the hill has parking, a rarity. Gorgeous lake and mountain views and an easy walk into the town for dinner, to shop or catch a ferry. Check for parking at any hotel you are considering. Out of four trips to Bellagio, we only had a car once , at the Belvedere.
The city of Como is at the southern end of the lake, has a nice medieval quarter but is a large city, 85,000 population. History of silk mills and industry. Mid section Lake Como has more beautiful scenery, Bellagio, Mennagio, Cadenabbia, Varenna.
Hotel du Lac and Albergo Milano are excellent choices in Varenna.
I like the idea of Bellagio, but Varenna is just one step closer (no car ferry to get you to Bellagio) if that matters at all.
I wasn't thrilled with Como and I can't put my finger on it. But Varenna is just delightful to sit on the lake side at one of the restaurants OR just on a bench and enjoy the sunset with a glass of wine.
We stay in Bellagio and park our car for the entire time we are there using the ferry system to get around to the other villages.
We are staying 2 nights in Varenna at the end of May. Most hotels are already booked. We found an Airbnb property.
I stayed at the Royal Victoria in Varenna last year. Very nice. Splurge for a lake front room if you can. The view is worth it and you get a balcony.
Not sure about parking as I didn't have a car.