Lake Como — Traveler Guide
History comes alive in these extraordinary properties. Each hotel occupies a building with genuine heritage significance — whether a former palace, a converted monastery, an art-deco landmark, or a centuries-old townhouse — sensitively restored with contemporary comforts.
Quick Answer
History comes alive in these extraordinary properties. Each hotel occupies a building with genuine heritage significance — whether a former palace, a converted monastery, an art-deco landmark, or a centuries-old townhouse — sensitively restored with contemporary comforts.
6 hotels reviewed · Price range: $$$, $, $$$$, $$ · Last updated March 2026
About This Guide
Lake Como offers exceptional options for travellers seeking historic hotels, and we've curated the very best. Each property has been selected for its outstanding facilities, prime location, and the quality of experience it delivers. Leading our list, Hotel Filario excels with its exceptional attention to detail and commitment to the historic experience. Albergo Silvio offers a compelling alternative with its unique approach and distinctive character. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Lake Como or returning for another stay, these hotels represent the gold standard for historic accommodation in the city. Each has been independently evaluated for quality, location, and value.
Insider Tips
Book directly with the hotel for the best rate guarantee and potential upgrades.
Read recent guest reviews for the most up-to-date assessment of facilities.
Consider visiting during shoulder season for better rates and fewer crowds.
Ask the concierge for local recommendations — they know Lake Como better than any guidebook.
Our Picks
6 hotels · Updated February 2026
Cremia
A small, contemporary design hotel on the quieter northern lake shore, with an infinity pool overlooking the water, minimal Scandinavian-influenced interiors, and an exceptionally good restaurant. The antithesis of the classic lake grandeur — calm, modern, and genuinely restorative.
Bellagio
A family-run lakeside albergo 2km from Bellagio with a private dock, a celebrated fish restaurant supplied daily by the family's own fishing boat, and simple, immaculate rooms at budget-friendly prices. The most authentic fisherman's accommodation on the lake.
Torno
A boldly contemporary design hotel on the eastern Como arm designed by Patricia Urquiola, with glass-and-steel cantilevered over the water, minimal luxury interiors, and an infinity lap pool. The most architecturally significant hotel on the lake and an extraordinary contrast to the villa tradition.
Varenna
A small, family-run hotel on the Varenna waterfront with a terrace restaurant hovering literally over the lake surface, offering some of the most coveted lunch tables on Como and rooms of unpretentious comfort at below-average prices for the quality.
Moltrasio
Named one of the world's best hotels, Passalacqua is an 18th-century villa on a private lakeside estate above Moltrasio — 24 rooms and a private beach, with Bellini's grand piano in the salon and a kitchen garden supplying a genuinely exceptional restaurant. The most intimate and perfect small luxury hotel on the lake.
Cernobbio
The most legendary hotel in Italy — a 16th-century cardinal's villa set in 25 acres of Baroque terraced gardens on the western shore, with a floating outdoor pool on the lake, 10 restaurants, and a spa in a former Turkish bath. Opened as a hotel in 1873 and has lost none of its imperial grandeur.
Keep Exploring
Common Questions
Yes — the best historic hotels preserve architectural character while offering thoroughly modern amenities including high-speed WiFi, premium bedding, and contemporary bathrooms.
Room sizes vary. Some heritage properties have grand suites, while others feature cozier rooms with unique architectural details. Room dimensions are usually listed in the booking description.
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Prices and availability change daily. Lock in the best rate by booking early — most of our top picks offer free cancellation.
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