Best Towns to Stay in Lake Como

Lake Como draws visitors for its hills, gardens and quiet villages. Below is a step-by-step plan that takes you from picking a town to confirming every detail of your stay.

Table of Contents

• Step 1: Identify the Ideal Town
• Step 2: Arrange Transport to the Town
• Step 3: Choose Accommodation - Villino Rubini Example
• Step 4: Plan Activities and Local Experiences
• Step 5: Finalise Bookings and Travel Details
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Step 1: Identify the Ideal Town

The first decision is the town that matches your travel style. Families often prefer the easy-access hub of Como, while couples look for the romance of Varenna or the intimate feel of Tremezzo. Below is a quick reference that lines up transport options, typical accommodation type and the prevailing vibe for each town.

Notice that Como is the only town that lists four different ways to arrive, making it the most accessible choice for groups with children. If you value ease of travel above all, start your search there. If a quiet, villa-style retreat feels right, look at Varenna or Tremezzo. For a deeper comparison of each town’s character, see How to Choose Where to Stay in Lake Como.

Step 2: Arrange Transport to the Town

Once the town is set, lock in how you will get there. Trains run from Milan to Como in about an hour, and the central station connects to a bus network that reaches Brunate, Bellagio and Varenna. Ferries link many lakeside villages during the high season, while local buses provide a budget-friendly alternative for short hops.

For families traveling with children, the train-to-Como plus bus-to-town route avoids the need to coordinate multiple boat timetables. Solo travelers often enjoy the flexibility of a ferry that stops at several villages in one day.

Official transport schedules are published by the regional authority and can be verified on Wikipedia’s page on Como. Keep a printed copy of the timetable in case cellular service drops on the mountain roads.

Step 3: Choose Accommodation - Villino Rubini Example

With transport sorted, the next step is the place you will call home for the duration of the visit. Villino Rubini sits in Brunate, the hillside village above Lake Como. The estate was built in 1892 in the Art Nouveau style and has recently been restored, keeping original ceiling mouldings, wood floors and period details.

Ten rooms are spread across three buildings , the main Villa, a Dependance and an Orangerie , allowing up to nineteen guests. Each room has its own bathroom, and the property offers a heated pool, spa, sauna, gym and a studio for private sessions.

Breakfast is included, and a private shuttle runs to the historic Como-Brunate funicular that has operated since 1894. The estate can be booked as individual rooms, a full-property hire, or an experience-focused stay that includes curated activities.

For travelers who prefer a B&B feel with a personal touch, the Villino Rubini B&B page offers more details: Boutique B&B in Brunate, Lake Como | Villino Rubini.

Step 4: Plan Activities and Local Experiences

After you have a roof over your head, think about what you will do each day. Brunate gives easy access to hiking trails such as the Via dei Monti Lariani, a ridge walk that offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. The estate’s own garden can host outdoor dinners for up to one hundred guests, perfect for a celebration under the stars.

For a taste of local culture, the nearby town of Como hosts museums, a historic cathedral and a lively market that sells fresh produce and regional cheeses. If you are staying in Varenna or Tremezzo, the villa atmosphere blends well with water-based activities like kayaking or a sunset boat ride.

Details about the villa-type accommodation in Varenna are outlined on Wikipedia’s Varenna page, confirming the town’s reputation for intimate stays.

Key Takeaway: Pair the quiet of Brunate with a guided hike or a garden dinner for a truly relaxed Lake Como experience.

Step 5: Finalise Bookings and Travel Details

With town, transport, lodging and activities mapped out, it is time to lock in every reservation. Confirm train tickets early, especially in summer, because seats fill quickly. Request a written confirmation from Villino Rubini that includes the shuttle schedule, breakfast times and any special requests you have made.

Arrange travel insurance that covers mountain travel, and keep copies of all tickets, vouchers and the estate’s welcome packet on your phone and in printed form. A final check of weather forecasts for the hills above the lake helps you pack appropriate clothing for cooler evenings.

For timing advice, consult Best Time to Visit Lake Como: A Step-by-Step Guide to avoid the busiest weeks and enjoy milder temperatures.

Pro Tip: Ask Villino Rubini for a late checkout if your train departs after noon; the estate often accommodates flexible departures.

FAQ

Which town is the easiest for a family arriving by train?

Como is the easiest town for families arriving by train because it has a direct rail link from Milan and multiple bus routes that reach nearby villages.

Can I see Lake Como from Villino Rubini?

The estate is set above Lake Como but does not offer lake views from its rooms or terraces.

Is a private car needed to reach Brunate?

A private car is not required; the estate provides a shuttle to the historic funicular, and the funicular connects directly to Como’s train station.

What activities are available for solo travelers?

Solo travelers can join guided hikes on the Via dei Monti Lariani, attend a cooking workshop in the estate’s kitchen, or explore the museums and markets in Como.

How far in advance should I book Villino Rubini for a wedding?

For a wedding or large celebration, book the estate at least six months ahead to secure the garden space for up to one hundred outdoor guests.

Conclusion

Start with Como if you need the most transport options, then consider Villino Rubini in Brunate for a private, historic stay. Confirm your travel and lodging now, and you will have a smooth Lake Como experience.