Hotels in Como

Como: Where Serene Waters Embrace Majestic Peaks

Nestled at the foot of the Italian Alps, Como, Lombardy, is a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The jewel of Lake Como, this enchanting city boasts picturesque lakeside promenades, ornate gardens, and charming historic monuments. Explore the vibrant heart of Como, where trendy cafes and boutiques thrive alongside centuries-old architecture. With breathtaking views from surrounding mountains and luxurious resorts dotting the landscape, it's the perfect romantic getaway or inspiring destination for nature lovers. Just a stone's throw from Lugano, Switzerland, Como invites travelers to indulge in its serene charm and timeless elegance. For the best hotel rates in Como and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Como

Some of the best places to stay in Como are Milan Centre, Central Station and Centro Storico. Milan Centre, Central Station, and Centro Storico are fantastic for travelers due to their vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and proximity to attractions. Milan Centre offers luxury hotels and lively nightlife, Central Station is convenient for transportation, and Centro Storico immerses you in Milan's heritage. Accommodations range from upscale hotels with swimming pools to charming boutique options. For first-time visitors, Centro Storico is ideal, as it’s close to iconic sites and offers a quintessential Milanese experience. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Como:

1. Milan CentreOpens in a new window: Milan Centre is a vibrant area rich in culture, making it a fantastic base for exploring the city's iconic landmarks like Piazza del Duomo and the Cathedral of Milan. This area is known for its artistic influence and bustling city life, ideal for both business and leisure travelers. In Milan Centre, you can find luxurious options like Bulgari Hotel MilanoOpens in a new window, which features distinctive decor and business amenities, perfect for corporate guests. Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa MilanOpens in a new window, a family-friendly luxury hotel, offers a great location and amenities for children. Another excellent choice is Style HotelOpens in a new window, known for its Art Deco style and business facilities, catering to both families and business travelers.
2. Central StationOpens in a new window: Central Station is a culturally rich area known for its accessibility and proximity to major attractions like the Cathedral of Milan. This area is perfect for city explorers and business travelers alike. Excelsior Hotel Gallia, a Luxury Collection Hotel, MilanOpens in a new window offers extensive business amenities, making it suitable for corporate guests, while Palazzo CornaliaOpens in a new window provides a comfortable stay in the city center. Additionally, ME Milan - Il DucaOpens in a new window is ideal for families, offering business facilities and child-friendly amenities.
3. Centro StoricoOpens in a new window: Centro Storico is the historic heart of Milan, boasting stunning architecture and significant cultural sites, including the famous Cathedral of Milan. This area is perfect for those who appreciate history and vibrant city life. D'esteOpens in a new window is a stylish 4-star hotel that caters to business and shopping enthusiasts, featuring excellent meeting facilities. For pet owners, iH Hotels Milano BocconiOpens in a new window is a welcoming option with pet-friendly amenities. Finally, Hotel Arco RomanaOpens in a new window offers a budget-friendly stay with essential amenities and easy access to the city's attractions.

Things to do in Como for first time

Three days in Como offer a perfect blend of stunning lakes, majestic mountains, and serene parks. Travelers can enjoy leisurely boating, scenic walks along the waterfront, and invigorating hikes in lush forests, all while soaking in breathtaking views that make this destination truly unforgettable. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Como:

• Day 1: Begin your journey in Como with a visit to the stunning Villa Erba, a beautiful historic villa surrounded by lush gardens and scenic views of Lake Como. After soaking in the charm of the villa, head to the Volta Lighthouse. Climb to the top for panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Conclude your day at the Church of San Fermo della Battaglia, known for its fascinating architecture and tranquil atmosphere, making it a peaceful spot to reflect on your day's adventures.
• Day 2: Your second day starts at the enchanting Villa del Balbianello, perched on the western shore of Lake Como. Explore its exquisite gardens and rich history, often featured in films. Afterward, relax at Perlana Beach, a lovely spot to unwind by the shores of the lake. Spend your afternoon at Villa Carlotta, where art and nature come together beautifully. Don't miss the stunning botanical gardens and the museum showcasing art from the 19th century.
• Day 3: Kick off with a stroll through Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Como, where you can admire the impressive cathedral. Next, visit the San Vincenzo Basilica, a hidden gem with stunning interiors and a serene atmosphere. To wrap up your trip, head to Laghetto di Giussano, a picturesque lake perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic, allowing you to reflect on the stunning sights and experiences of your Como adventure.

5 tips to find a great Como hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Como is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure better prices. A budget-friendly stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the main attractions, which include the stunning lake and picturesque mountains. Exploring Como offers great value for money, making it an ideal destination for those looking to travel on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Como, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches, with good availability in the area. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, allowing you to stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions. This way, you're more likely to snag a great deal and enjoy your stay in Como without breaking the bank.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Como.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Como usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transport options like boats, buses, taxis, and bicycles to explore the area while keeping your expenses more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Como and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Como

Here are some top-rated dishes in Como, Lombardy, Italy:

• Risotto alla Milanese: This creamy rice dish is a Lombard classic, distinguished by its golden hue from saffron. Traditionally prepared with Arborio rice, it’s cooked slowly in broth, creating a rich, velvety texture. Often enjoyed as a comforting main course, it embodies the essence of Italian culinary tradition, showcasing the region's love for quality ingredients and meticulous preparation.
• Osso Buco: A celebrated dish of braised veal shanks, Osso Buco is slow-cooked with vegetables, white wine, and broth until tender. Its name translates to bone with a hole, referring to the marrow-filled bone at the center, which adds depth to the dish. Typically served with gremolata, it’s a hearty meal that reflects the communal dining culture of Lombardy.
• Polenta: This versatile dish made from cornmeal is a staple in Northern Italian cuisine. Polenta can be served soft or allowed to set and then sliced, often accompanying meats or stews. Its humble origins make it a beloved comfort food, perfect for sharing while enjoying the warmth of Italian hospitality.

Best time to go to Como

Como experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.0°F (2.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.7°F (22.6°C). November is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Como, August to October are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, February, March, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.