An A-List destination, with an A-List price tag, but there are ways to soak up the beautiful scenery of Lake Como without spending a small fortune.
The lake has several small towns which can be reached with varying difficulty by car and boat. For a short trip I’d recommend sticking to Varenna and Menaggio, both beautiful lake side towns and accessible.
In Menaggio stay in the beautiful and excellently located, Hotel Garni Corona. An American 3 star hotel, but I’d say a European 4 star for the price.
The best way to see the small towns and the lake is to hike round it, beware of just setting off and wandering along the main road which links the towns, it’s busy with fast Italian drivers. Head to the tourist information in Menaggio, ask for a walking guide for The Greenway between Colonno and Grainte.
This beautiful hike up into the hills takes around 3 hours and takes you through the villages of Lenno and Tremezzo.
Finally, take time to visit Villa Carlotta, one of the most stunning properties on the lake complete with botanical gardens made possible due to the unique climate on Lake Como. Check out their website for events, as throughout the year they run music festivals, galleries and other exhibitions and you might be in luck.
For traditional Italian aperitivo (wine/prosecco/beer with nibbles; olives, nuts, bread, cheeses, meats!) head to Enoteca Re Di Quadri on via Calvi in Menaggio.
There you have it, in 3 minutes, enjoy!
Three Minute City 