The Best Villas to Book in Lake Como, From a Fashion Designer's Stylish Home to a Romantic Apartment for Two
Yes, Italy’s lakes are undoubtedly home to some of the most beautiful hotels in the world, but Lake Como's villas are often equally stunning. And if you’re planning a trip for a larger group, or simply looking for some peace on your travels, booking a villa is an ideal choice.
Whether you want classic Italian grandeur, or care more for a stunning view from the window, you’ll find somewhere to stay along every inch of the lake. From a romantic escape for two to a luxury villa that sleeps the whole family, these are our favorite Lake Como villas and Airbnbs, each one picked for its unique features and ideal location.
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Villa upon the lake
Comabbio
Located on the banks of Lake Monate, views don’t come much better than this. The conservatories are a highlight of this property, which sleeps up to 10 people in five different bedrooms. Interiors are simple and spacious, with antique furniture decorating the bedrooms and a modern kitchen for cooking up a pasta feast. It’s a tranquil option, with virtually no noise—however, this does mean that you’ll be needing a car if you’re planning to get around during your stay. For those keen to get onto the lake itself, there’s a boat mooring for guests to use.
Sleeps: 10
Price: From $563 a night, minimum five-night stay
Pool villa
Sala Comacina
Picture yourself stepping into a pool overlooking Lake Como. Sounds perfect, right? This stunning villa lets you live the dream, with an infinity pool the length of the property ready to invite you in. Inside is a minimalist’s dream, with a large dining table overlooking the terrace, and a fully-equipped kitchen. Most of the five bedrooms have outdoor access and take advantage of the view with floor-to-ceiling windows. And, should you wish to leave the property, the restaurant Lido di Lenno nearby is one of the most sought-after tables in the area.
Sleeps: 12
Price: From $2,142 a night, minimum three-night stay
Courtesy AirbnbVilla Monti
Varenna
Picture yourself, sitting on the traditional liberty villa terrace, watching the sun rise over Lake Como. This gem of an apartment brings your dream to life, with its gorgeous outdoor space made for soaking in the surroundings. The apartment has access to a shared outdoor pool and stunning garden and is cozy enough for two or three people to feel at home. In terms of classic Italian views, it doesn't get much better.
Sleeps: Three
Price: From $450 a night, minimum two-night stay
Apartment in the town
Bellagio
You can have the best of both worlds with this Airbnb option; a town center apartment upon the lake. The small, one-bedroom option is located on a whimsical street in Bellagio, surrounded by shops and restaurants, while the lake is just a few minutes walk away. There’s a boat stop nearby, so you can easily explore the lake, making this an ideal place for those who don’t wish to rent a car on their trip. Inside, the apartment is fun and colorful in the living area, but calm and collected in the bedroom.
Sleeps: Four
Price: From $204 a night, minimum two-night stay
Fashion villa
Laglio
Owned by an Italian fashion designer (although exactly who is a secret), this 19th-century villa is a must for stylish types. Everything from the calming interiors to the stunning terrace and outdoor pool is aesthetically pleasing, and settling down by the fish pond is a perfect way to spend the afternoon. With enough room for eight guests, it’s a great place to grab a bunch of friends or family and live the dream, if only for a little while.
Sleeps: Eight
Price: From $2,222 a night, minimum seven-night stay
Stylish villa
Menaggio
If style is at the forefront of your mind when booking a stay, this bold villa is for you. The shared building—which has a stunning outdoor pool—is gorgeous on the outside, but quirky inside. Expect bold artwork, colorful velvet sofas, and a general maximalist vibe that’s refreshingly different to a lot of what’s offered nearby. With three living rooms, four bedrooms, a dining room, and a large kitchen, this makes for a memorable getaway if you’re traveling with a bunch of friends.
Sleeps: Eight
Price: From $1,207 a night, minimum five-night stay
Former ice house
Como
Those who favor unique stays will be taken by this former ice house, which has been transformed into an apartment but maintains all of its bare brick charms. The split-level property has a mezzanine complete with curved furniture to complement the circular home, while the bedroom area is cozy and welcoming. Located within the town of Como, you can reach the lakeside in minutes–from there, you’ll be able to catch a boat or ferry and explore the surrounding towns.
Sleeps: Up to four
Price: From $173 a night, minimum two-night stay
Romantic room on the lake
Nesso
If some time away with your partner is just what you need, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more romantic location than this lakeside apartment in the village of Nesso. The view is, of course, the knockout, but the finishing touches make this stay extra special: from the antique stove for chillier nights to the roll-top bath. With a stunning waterfall and the landmark Civera Bridge on your doorstep, it’s hard to imagine a more romantic setting.
Sleeps: Two
Price: From $456 a night, minimum two-night stay
Courtesy Welcome BeyondMountain villa
Givenna
If views are your main priority, you might appreciate being up in the mountains, where you can get a slightly better view of the lake from a distance—plus a cooler breeze on sweltering summer nights. This private villa comes with a pool, sauna, and hot tub, plus six bedrooms, living room, kitchen, and dining room. The highlight, though, is the perfect location. The lakeside offers views along its entire length while the other side of the property faces a cedar forest and garden terrace. What could be more relaxing?
Sleeps: 12-13
Price: From $1,678 a night
Petrina TinslayLuxury lake villa
Pigra
If you’re looking to splurge on a truly special place, Villa Peduzzi has everything you could want from a lakeside villa: total privacy, mind-blowing views, and luxury features. The villa itself was built in the early 20th century, and while interiors are now thoroughly modern, some features—such as ceiling frescoes—still remain. While the interiors are luxurious and spacious, the main feature here is the infinity pool and terrace, which has a 180-degree view of Lake Como. Surely there's no better place to enjoy a sunset dinner?
Sleeps: 14-16
Price: From $6,791 a night
Garden villa among the olive groves
Lenno
This classic Italian stone villa is set along the riverbank, with direct access to the water via its own private gate. The large gardens make this property feel particularly spacious, and the nearby olive groves only add to the romance of it. Interiors are a mixture of traditional and fun; think vaulted ceilings with dark wooden beams among brightly-painted walls. As with the exterior, there’s plenty of space—three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a huge kitchen, and living areas make this an ideal choice for families.
Sleeps: Six
Price: From $1,050 a nightThis article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.
