When we travel to Italy in October we'll start in Milan, and then plan to go to Lake Como. My reading suggests that there are a number of options for staying and exploring (we are thinking of not renting a car, but talk us out of this if you think we need one)...rather taking the train from Milan. What towns would you recommend? And hotels, or should we look for an Air BnB or other accommodation? Oh, and restaurant recommendations are also welcome (and thanks).
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16821 posts
The midlake triangle: Varenna, Bellagio, Menaggio.
They are the most popular towns, and they get really busy, so wherever you find accommodations is good. They are all connected by ferry (just minutes from one another). No car needed if you stay at any of the 3.
Posted by
OP
5 posts
Thanks for this. I have heard that Varenna might be less upscale (a good thing) than Belaggio. Any sense of that, or is it more that all three areas have things to recommend them?
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16821 posts
All three towns are about the same... with accommodations from expensive to much more expensive, given the popularity of the area. Varenna is smaller, and getting super popular thanks to Instagram, so it might fill more quickly.
They are expensive, but still cheaper than San Francisco or New York, so I guess it's all relative.
Posted by
Los Angeles
5237 posts
You've read Rick's advice on the lakes right? He has quite a few thoughts on the matter.