the 9-to-5 nomad's guide to solo travel
WHERE TO STAY
top neighborhoods for solo travelers & first-time visitors
SEARCH TOP HOTELS & HOSTELS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
BELLAGIO
Say hello to the "Pearl of Lake Como," or as we like to call it, Bellagio – where charm meets chic in the most dreamy of settings. Picture yourself strolling along its narrow cobblestone streets, surrounded by historic gems and lush greenery. Bellagio's historic center is a maze of Instagram-worthy lanes, dotted with cute boutiques, hip cafes, and tantalizing dining spots.
COMO TOWN
Como Town takes the crown as the largest town on Lake Como. Stroll through its historic center, where each cobblestone street tells a tale, lined with architectural wonders from medieval to Renaissance. You can't miss Piazza del Duomo, where the stunning Como Cathedral reigns supreme. As the sun sets, the waterfront transforms into a buzzing blend of history and nightlife.
WHERE TO PLAY
Top nightlife Hotspots, Beach Clubs & Bars
Main Nightlife District: Como Town
CLUB LIDO DI BELLAGIO
Location: Bellagio
About: Beachclub
VINTAGE JAZZ
Location: Gumbet
About: Wine Bar with speakeasy-style venue & a jazz soundtrack.
ARNOLDS PUB SINCE 1980
Location: Como Town
About: Laid back pub & live music
TERRAZZA 241
Location: Yalakavik
About: Rooftop Bar
EST EST EST ART & MUSIC CLUB
Location: Como Town
About: Eclectic, cozy haunt with late hours & an artful vibe
HEMINGWAY
Location: Como Town
About: Elevated cocktails in an intimate environment & outdoor seating
what to do
top attractions, day trips & adventures
Villa del Balbianello
This 16th-century villa is one of the most iconic landmarks on Lake Como. Perched on a small peninsula jutting out into the lake, the villa has been featured in several films, including James Bond's "Casino Royale" and Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones".
spend the day in Varenna
A charming and colorful town located on the eastern shore of the lake, Varenna is known for its beautiful promenade, historic center, and botanical gardens. For a bit of history, you can visit Castello di Vezio, a medieval castle perched on a hill above Varenna. The castle offers stunning panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.
spend the day
in como town
While the lakeside towns are the main attraction, don't miss the charm of Como city itself. The historic center offers a variety of interesting sights, including the Como Cathedral, the Broletto (a former town hall), and the Volta Temple, a museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, who invented the electric battery.
villa carlotta
A must-see for any visitor to Lake Como, Villa Carlotta is a beautiful lakeside villa located in Tremezzina. The villa itself is a neoclassical masterpiece, but the real highlight is the sprawling botanical gardens, filled with a variety of plants, flowers, and sculptures.
off the beaten path
hidden gems beyond the popular tourist attractions
BERNINA EXPRESS TRAIN
The Bernina Express is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery. The route winds its way through mountains, valleys, over bridges and viaducts, and through pristine alpine meadows. You'll witness glaciers, forests, waterfalls, and charming villages along the way. Como city and Varenna have train stations with connections to Tirano, where you can pick up the Bernina Express.
isola comacina
Isola Comacina, the only island on Lake Como, offers a unique experience that combines historical exploration, natural beauty, and a peaceful atmosphere. The island was once a thriving settlement, and you can still see the remains of Roman and early medieval buildings, including churches and houses. The island is small and can be explored on foot in a short amount of time.
day trip to Lugano switzerland
Located just 45 drive from Como, Lugano boasts beautiful lakeside scenery, historic architecture, and a reputation for delicious chocolate. It is a charming and walkable city nestled on the shores of glacial Lake Lugano, surrounded by the foothills of the Lugano Prealps. The picturesque lakeside promenade, Lungolago, is a great place to start your exploration
ST. Moritz
If you're looking for a touch of luxury and winter sports, St. Moritz is a popular ski resort destination within reach from Lake Como. In the summer months, enjoy hiking, biking, and stunning Alpine scenery. St. Moritz, known as the "Top of the World," is a chic and luxurious resort town in the Swiss Alps, and is roughly a 2-2.5 hour drive from Como.