The Insider's Guide to Lake Como
Summary: Our Guide to Lake Como: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities
Welcome to Lake Como! If you're planning to move to Lake Como, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Lake Como has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Lake Como.
Lake Como, located in the Lombardy region of Italy, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque towns, and historical sites, there is no shortage of attractions to explore in this beautiful area. One of the most famous sites in Lake Como is the town of Bellagio, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Lake." This charming town is home to beautiful villas, lush gardens, and narrow, cobbled streets lined with shops and cafes. Villa Melzi, a neoclassical villa with beautiful gardens, is a must-visit in Bellagio.
Another popular town in Lake Como is Varenna, a picturesque fishing village with colorful houses and a romantic lakeside promenade. The main attraction in Varenna is Villa Monastero, a historic villa with beautiful gardens and a museum. The town of Como, located at the southern tip of the lake, is known for its impressive cathedral, the Como Cathedral, and the ancient city walls that surround the historic center. The funicular railway in Como takes visitors up to the village of Brunate, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
For those interested in history and architecture, a visit to Villa del Balbianello is a must. This stunning villa, located on the western shore of the lake, has been featured in several films, including Star Wars and James Bond. The villa is open to the public and offers guided tours of its beautiful gardens and interiors. Another historic site worth visiting is the Castello di Vezio, a medieval castle perched on a hill overlooking Varenna. The castle offers panoramic views of the lake and hosts falconry displays during the summer months.
The restaurant and nightlife scene in Lake Como is diverse and caters to a variety of tastes. One of the most popular restaurants in the area is Ristorante La Terrazza, located in the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. This elegant restaurant offers stunning views of the lake and serves traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Another popular dining option is Il Gatto Nero, a hillside restaurant in Cernobbio with panoramic views and a menu featuring local specialties.
For a more casual dining experience, visitors can head to Pizzeria Balognett in Tremezzo, which serves delicious wood-fired pizzas and offers a relaxed atmosphere. The nightlife in Lake Como is relatively low-key, with most visitors enjoying evening strolls along the lakeside promenades or sipping cocktails at hotel bars. One popular spot for a night out is Bar Il Molo in Varenna, which offers live music and a lively atmosphere right by the lake.
Recreational activities in Lake Como are centered around the lake and the surrounding mountains. Boating is a popular pastime, with many visitors renting boats or taking guided tours to explore the lake's beautiful shoreline and hidden coves. Companies like Nautic Planet and Como Classic Boats offer boat rentals and tours. For those who prefer to stay on land, hiking and cycling are popular activities, with numerous trails offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside. The Greenway del Lago di Como is a popular walking and cycling path that stretches for 10 kilometers along the western shore of the lake.
Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding at various locations around the lake. The northern part of the lake, particularly the town of Domaso, is known for its excellent windsurfing conditions. Companies like Tabo Surf Center and Como Kite School offer equipment rentals and lessons for those looking to try out these exciting water sports. For a more relaxing experience, visitors can take a dip in the lake at one of the many public beaches or lidos, such as Lido di Bellagio or Lido di Menaggio.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Lake Como: Making the Most of Life and Connections
"Expats in Lake Como, often join various clubs and activities to meet people and immerse themselves in the local culture. These include language exchange clubs, where they can practice their Italian and help locals with English. They may also join cooking classes to learn about Italian cuisine, or wine tasting clubs to explore the region's rich wine culture.Outdoor activities are also popular among expats in Lake Como. They may join hiking or cycling groups to explore the beautiful landscapes of the region, or sailing clubs to enjoy the lake's waters. Golf clubs are also popular, with several courses in the area offering stunning views of the lake and mountains.Expats may also get involved in local community events and festivals, which are a great way to meet locals and other expats. These can range from music and film festivals to local food and wine events. Volunteering is another great way to meet people and give back to the community, with opportunities in areas like environmental conservation, education, and social services.In addition to these activities, expats often meet people through their work or their children's schools. They may also meet people through local expat groups or online forums, which can provide valuable advice and support for newcomers to the area. Finally, simply exploring the local cafes, restaurants, and markets can be a great way to meet people and get a feel for the local culture. Lake Como is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, so expats often find it easy to strike up conversations and make new friends," said one expat living in Lake Como.
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"Life for expats and digital nomads in Lake Como is often described as idyllic and relaxed. The stunning natural beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains provides a tranquil setting for work and leisure. The region is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious Italian cuisine, offering plenty of opportunities for cultural exploration.The local community is welcoming and friendly, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home. Italian is the main language spoken, but English is also widely understood, especially in tourist areas. Expats and digital nomads often find themselves immersed in the local culture, learning the language, and participating in local traditions and festivals.The cost of living can be high, especially in the more touristy areas, but there are also more affordable options in the smaller towns around the lake. The infrastructure is good, with reliable internet, making it suitable for remote work. Public transportation is efficient and the area is well-connected to other parts of Italy and Europe, making travel easy.The climate is mild, with warm summers and cool winters, perfect for outdoor activities. From hiking in the mountains to boating on the lake, there's always something to do. The slower pace of life allows for a good work-life balance, with plenty of time to enjoy the stunning scenery and laid-back lifestyle.Despite being a popular tourist destination, Lake Como maintains a peaceful, authentic atmosphere. The combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a friendly community makes it a popular choice for expats and digital nomads looking for a unique living experience," commented an expat living in Lake Como.
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Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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Italian For A WhileBecome ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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