The best hotels in Lake Como
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Few can resist the distinctive magic that radiants from Italy's grandest lake. Virgil called Como “the greatest lake”, and Pliny the Younger had a villa here where he said the porch was “always like spring.” Once home to the gilded palaces of princes, bishops and painters, it is now the playground of the world's rich (the fictional Roy family from Succession tells you everything you need to know) and famous (George Clooney has owned a villa here for over 20 years). Many of the historic villas lining the lake remain private abodes, while those that have been converted into hotels are revered as some of the grandest in the world.
How we choose the best hotels in Lake Como
Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveller journalist who knows the destination and has stayed at that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider both luxury properties and boutique and lesser-known boltholes that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We’re always looking for beautiful design, a great location and warm service – as well as serious sustainability credentials. We update this list regularly as new hotels open and existing ones evolve.
What area of Lake Como is the best to stay in?
Lake Como is undoubtedly best visited by road, with many of the hotels on this list proving worthy stops on your itinerary, whether for a stay or for a long leisurely lunch. The top addresses tend to be gathered towards the south western end of the lake, near the town of Como itself. In terms of other towns to visit nearby, Bellagio in the middle and Varena on the eastern side, are beloved highlights.
From unassuming family-run stays to glossy recent arrivals, this is our edit of the best hotels in Lake Como, all reviewed by an expert on the Condé Nast Traveller team. For a private stay, see our pick of the best villas in Lake Como.