Tucked away in the Italian Alps, Lake Como is a haven for food and wine lovers, where every meal is an experience to be savored. The lake’s shores are dotted with charming villages, each offering a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage—freshwater fish, handmade pastas, and aged cheeses paired with exceptional local wines.
Whether you’re indulging in lake-caught perch risotto at a trattoria, sampling Nebbiolo wines from the nearby Valtellina Valley, or browsing vibrant markets filled with artisanal delights, every bite and sip tells a story of tradition and terroir. Here’s how to explore the best food and wine this iconic region has to offer.
Where to Stay
Villa Lario
A 19th-century villa offering an intimate lakeside escape. Its 18 suites feature private terraces and panoramic views, while the on-site restaurant focuses on seasonal Italian cuisine, perfect for lakeside dining under the stars.
Passalacqua
Once home to composer Vincenzo Bellini, this historic 18th-century villa is set amid shaded gardens and citrus groves. Guests can unwind by the lakeside pool or enjoy traditional Italian meals crafted from local ingredients in a serene, intimate setting.
Villa Balbiano
A 16th-century palazzo with untouched frescoes, crystal chandeliers, and antique furnishings. The private pier and boathouse offer effortless access to the lake, while the meticulously maintained gardens provide a tranquil place for an afternoon aperitivo.
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
A neoclassical landmark at the tip of Bellagio, offering lakefront gardens, a pool, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Guests can enjoy a peaceful escape with panoramic views and historic charm, just steps from the village’s charming streets.
Dining & Food
Elegant Dining with a Sense of Place
- Villa Lario – A refined menu showcasing the best of Italy’s seasonal produce.
- Materia (Cernobbio) – A Michelin-starred restaurant, reinventing Lombard dishes with creativity.
- Àbitat (San Fermo della Battaglia) – A modern take on sustainable cooking, with open-fire techniques and foraged ingredients.
Traditional and Time-Honored Favorites
- Ristorante alle Darsene di Loppia (Bellagio) – A picturesque lakeside setting serving fresh fish and handmade pasta.
- Trattoria San Biagio – A cozy spot for hearty polenta, alpine cheeses, and other Lombard classics.
- Crotto Valdurino – A historic tavern built into a cave, specialising in risotto with perch and local specialties.
Aperitivo and Sweet Stops
- Harry’s Bar (Cernobbio) – A classic aperitivo spot with lake views.
- Pasticceria Poletti (Cernobbio) – A local institution for espresso, croissants, and pastries.
Wine Tasting
Lake Como is home to some of Northern Italy’s most distinctive wines. The region’s cool air, mineral-rich soil, and deep-rooted winemaking traditions create bold, expressive flavours that capture the land’s essence.
Gigi e Cristina Winery (Cernobbio)
Nestled in the hills above Cernobbio, Gigi e Cristina Winery exemplifies the dedication of small-scale winemakers. Their vines, grown on steep, terraced slopes, embody heroic viticulture—winemaking in extreme terrains. Limited production and deep respect for the land make their wines rare and deeply expressive. Guests can enjoy an intimate tasting while overlooking Lake Como’s shimmering waters.
Valtellina’s Nebbiolo Wines
Just beyond Como, Valtellina is one of Italy’s hidden wine treasures. Here, Nebbiolo—known locally as Chiavennasca—thrives on steep mountain terraces, demanding meticulous hand-harvesting. At Nino Negri, one of the region’s oldest wineries, visitors explore underground cellars where Nebbiolo matures into elegant, alpine-fresh wines. Their standout, Sfursat, is made using an ancient drying technique for intensified flavor.
Arpepe
Another must-visit is Arpepe, a family-run winery committed to traditional methods. Their Nebbiolo, aged for over a decade, develops rich red fruit and earthy minerality. With a welcoming atmosphere, Arpepe invites guests to savor wines while learning the stories behind them.
Other Activities
Exploring by Boat
The best way to experience Lake Como is from the water. Glide past:
- Villa del Balbianello – A stunning lakefront villa with terraced gardens and breathtaking views.
- Villa Carlotta – A 17th-century residence with botanical gardens and fine art collections.
- Comacina Island – A tiny island with a legendary restaurant, Locanda dell’Isola Comacina, known for its traditional set menu.
Seaplane Adventures
For a new perspective, book a seaplane flight over the lake and surrounding Alps. As you glide above the water, you’ll witness storybook villages, lush hills, and winding shorelines. Taking off and landing on the lake adds a thrilling touch to this breathtaking experience.
Get in touch today with Eduardo or India to start planning your Lake Como adventure.
Eduardo Nuñez
Director of Sales
India Egard
Travel & Culture Expert
[email protected]
+34 638 684 316
+47 21 68 75 60
