The dreamy, mysterious Lake Como is one of Europe’s most coveted travel destinations. Set amidst the picturesque Alpine foothills of northern Italy, it is famed for its dazzling natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Como is also home to a soul-stirring hotel scene, with accommodations ranging from cozy boutique villas to grand architectural wonders. From my many years exploring beautiful Lake Como, I have handpicked my favorite cool and unusual hotels in the region…



Il Sereno Lago di Como
Il Serano became one of my favorite places with its stunning wood, stone, and glass interiors. While visiting, I found myself immersed in breathtaking views. This luxury boutique exuded serenity, whether I was sipping a cocktail poolside, indulging in the spa, or savoring Michelin-starred dishes.
The colors of the lake came to life in gentle palettes of greens, blues, and taupe, harmonizing beautifully with Travertino marble and contemporary furnishings. The lakeside infinity pool, a standout feature, captivated me. The underwater music and mood lighting created a blissful ambiance that added to the overall charm.
During my stay, I tried the hotel’s all-wood Riva motorboat, zipping around the lake, and adding another enjoyment layer to my experience. Il Serano indeed left an indelible mark on my memory.
The lakeside infinity pool, with underwater music and stunning views, became one of my favorite spots during my stay.
Pros
Breathtaking Lake Como view
Lakeside infinity pool
Michelin-starred restaurant
Motorboating facility on-site
Cons
Not for the budget-friendly crowd
No paper napkins in rooms
Gym available on reservations only
Le Stanze del Lago Suites & Pool
Established in 2009 as the city’s inaugural aparthotel, this unique spot boasts five distinct apartments, each intricately designed with a focus on minimalism, functionality, and sophistication.
One of my favorite places was the charming balconies adorned with wicker chairs, beckoning me to unwind amidst the soothing sounds of nature. I loved the versatility offered by the beautiful pool, invigorating yoga sessions, and convenient e-bike rentals, seamlessly blending fitness with leisure against the captivating backdrop of the glistening lake.
The exceptional breakfast, featuring delectable homemade pastries, was a delightful experience on the patio surrounded by lush plants. The abundance of indoor and outdoor communal spaces further provided inviting spots to immerse myself in the region’s rhythms.
The charming balconies provided a tranquil space amidst nature’s sounds, perfect for unwinding.
Pros
Refined sleek design
E-bike rentals
Outdoor plant-fringe patio
Quaint sun terrace
Cons
Seasonal outdoor pool
No elevators
Transparent glass panel in the shower
Casa Sull’Albero
Nestled in lush greenery, Casa Sull’Albero became one of my favorite places, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. Light poured through expansive glass walls, illuminating the wooden furnishings that created a cozy atmosphere.
While visiting this eco-friendly haven, I marveled at how it whisked me away from the tourist crowds. The two glass and timber buildings seamlessly blended with the landscape, and the relaxed vibe immediately captivated me upon arrival.
The wooden floors exuded warmth during my stay, and the state-of-the-art fitness space beckoned. The on-site spa area provided a perfect retreat, complemented by a charming pool. I love this place for offering the option to rent an e-bike, allowing me to explore the picturesque surroundings effortlessly.
Renting an e-bike allowed effortless exploration of the picturesque surroundings from this eco-friendly haven.
Pros
Lush garden or river view
Stylish design and 24-hour eclectic bar
Glass-walled rooms
Sauna and Turkish bath
Cons
Seasonal pool
No kettles in rooms
Small rooms
MUSA Lago di Como
Nestled along the picturesque waterfront, MUSA became one of my favorite places, just opposite the enchanting Isola Comacina, the only island on the lake. Two culinary maestros helm this sophisticated boutique, where my love for exquisite cuisine found its match.
While visiting, the refined dining haven, Roteo, became my sanctuary. The chefs’ mastery transformed each dish into a culinary masterpiece. Earthy tones and natural textiles adorned the hotel, with fawn and taupe blending seamlessly with the latte-colored oakwood floors, creating a harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape.
During my stay, my room became a haven of tranquility. I loved the tripod floor lamps, sleek black oak wardrobes, and captivating artwork that set the perfect tone. An iPad, a complimentary minibar, and an elegant bathroom featuring a refreshing monsoon shower added to the charm of my experience at this idyllic retreat.
The refined dining experience at Roteo and the sophisticated room ambiance made my stay memorable.
Pros
Zen-like atmosphere
Dining along the river
Adventurous boat tours
Scenic outdoor pool
Cons
No rooms have twin beds
Room services end at 10 pm
Breakfast is not included
Hotel Griso Collection
One of my favorite places is this hotel which can rejuvenate your soul. While visiting, I found myself surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Lecco branch of Lake Como, with the majestic Italian Alps as a stunning backdrop.
The guestrooms became my haven during my stay, each adorned with a private terrace that became my sunbathing spot overlooking the glistening lake. From delightful breakfasts to delectable dinners, I experienced the rich tastes and traditions of the region.
A highlight for me was the rooftop solarium and pool, where I spent hours comfortably reclining on a sun chair. Sipping a meticulously crafted beverage, I marveled at the enchanting panoramas that unfolded before me. I love this place for offering such a perfect blend of serenity and indulgence.
The private terrace overlooking Lake Como became my serene spot for relaxation and sunbathing.
Pros
Magnificent Lake Como view
Rooftop solarium and pool
Panoramic launch bar
5-minutes walk to Como’s shore
Cons
No coffee makers in rooms
Car parking is a little compact
No outdoor dining
Filario Hotel & Residences
Five miles south of Bellagio, I found Filario—a lakefront design haven. One of my favorite places, its sleek glass and stone structure and stylish interiors in earthy tones created a refreshing contrast to the traditional lake hotels.
While visiting, the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows captivated me, offering breathtaking lake views. I love this feature; it truly maximizes the beauty of the surroundings.
Exploring the hotel, black and white photos of silk threads on the walls transported me into Como’s rich silk-making history. In the communal lounge, the luxurious decor radiated warmth and intimacy, making my stay even more special.
While staying at this picturesque spot, the open-fronted kitchen showcased the majestic lakefront. I experienced a culinary journey spanning northern to southern contemporary Italian cuisine, adding to the overall charm of Filario.
The floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking lake views made my stay truly remarkable.
Pros
Sleek monochromatic decor
Breathtaking lake view
Scenic infinity pool
Direct access to a private beach
Cons
No iron in rooms
Limited diner menu
No on-site bar
Hotel Belvedere
Staying at Hotel Belvedere was a delight. Perched on a hill above Bellagio, this 19th-century gem offered breathtaking views from tiered gardens. The family-friendly atmosphere and the grand swimming pool and spa made it one of my favorite places.
Relaxing by the pool, I found wicker baskets filled with books—a thoughtful touch. Homemade pastries added a sweet note to my stay every afternoon in the cozy library. Exploring the area on a rented bike, I joined a vineyard tour, immersing myself in the local charm.
My room, adorned with oak wood floors and walnut headboards, felt classic yet modern. Tailor-made wooden pieces added a unique touch. The panoramic balcony provided a stunning backdrop. Hotel Belvedere truly exceeded expectations, creating cherished memories.
The tiered gardens, grand swimming pool, and spa created a serene family-friendly atmosphere.
Pros
Breathtaking river view
Private boat tours
Innovative spa
Restaurant with panoramic terrace
Cons
Not all rooms have balconies
Small bathrooms
The spa is a bit expensive
Grand Hotel Imperiale Resort & SPA
Grand Hotel Imperiale in Moltrasio is one of my favorite places. While visiting, I experienced a paradisiacal setting at the foot of the charming town. The enchanting lakefront swimming pool and the eclectic restaurant with breathtaking vistas and gourmet dishes left me in awe.
Staying at the main building, I discovered a sprinkle of original Art Nouveau features. The tiled floors, handcrafted lamps, and floral motifs on the ceilings transported me to another era. The lounge, adorned with white marble floors, cozy rugs, and paintings in mellow hues, beautifully complemented its traditional roots.
Entering my room, I was greeted by dim wall lighting, classic-style furnishings, and an intimate ambiance. The view opened up to a peaceful garden. However, the most esteemed accommodations were the newly renovated lakefront villas, adding to the overall charm of this unforgettable experience.
The original Art Nouveau features and the newly renovated lakefront villas added to the hotel’s intimate ambiance.
Pros
Intimate romantic ambiance
Breathtaking riverfront dining
On-site tennis court
Hydromassage and hammam
Cons
No iron in rooms
No sun terrace with suites
Hilton Lake Como
One of my favorite places, nestled on the western fringes of Lake Como, is a bright and stylish hotel housed in a former textile mill. The warm tones of brown, grey, and blue seamlessly blend with the natural colors of the surrounding landscape.
While visiting, I took a peaceful stroll along the beautiful lakefront promenade to reach the historical center. Surprisingly, the hotel is strategically placed in the heart of nature, offering a serene escape.
Upon entering, I found myself in the Glass Cube, an enchanting all-glass lounge adorned with leafy plants, creating an immersive outdoor atmosphere. The rooms and common areas are thoughtfully arranged around a charming interior courtyard, providing a delightful ambiance. To add to the charm, there’s a rooftop terrace featuring an open-air swimming pool, where I spent an enchanting afternoon in relaxation.
The Glass Cube lounge with leafy plants provided an enchanting outdoor atmosphere, setting the tone for a relaxing stay.
Pros
Soft minimal decor
Private beach area
Rooftop infinity pool
Rooftop restaurant and bar
Finnish bath and hammam
Cons
Parking is extra
Bar closes early
Only one washbasin in the double room
Villa Lario Resort Mandello
Perched on a cliffside, one of my favorite places, the infinity pool and stunning garden terrace provided scintillating lake views. While visiting this graceful Como hideaway, I fell in love with the flood of natural light. I can’t forget experiencing one of the most majestic sunsets ever.
Using a lift carved into the rockface added a touch of adventure, connecting the hotel’s two levels. While staying on the lake level, I discovered a bar and lounge area that seamlessly blended traditional and contemporary styles, featuring a glass extension that beautifully brought the outside in.
The hotel’s charm lies in its secluded and stylish ambiance, serving as a discreet reminder of the region’s slow pace of life. This is more evident than in the cedar tree-shaded terraced garden, which I explored and appreciated during my visit.
The infinity pool and stunning garden terrace provided scintillating lake views, perfect for witnessing majestic sunsets.
Pros
Uber-chic ambiance
Private beach area
Sun terrace with lake view
A personal dock
Cons
The outdoor pool is not heated
No spa
Some noise from outside
Aurum – Como Luxury Suites
One of my favorite places to stay is Aurum, a building with a rich history and contemporary design at the city’s heart. My suite was a delight, boasting a unique, opulent style seamlessly blending with original sixteenth-century details.
During my stay, I indulged in a Turkish bath, a refreshing waterfall shower, and a private balcony offering a captivating view of the Cathedral. The design’s fusion of stone and glass perfectly embodied modern elegance, complemented by traditional decor and vibrant colors.
The room’s ambiance was elevated by soothing tones and captivating wall-sized art, creating a blissful boutique theme that permeated the entire property. The soft wooden hues and carefully curated natural elements added a bespoke charm to my experience. I love this place’s perfect blend of history, contemporary luxury, and artistic ambiance.
Indulging in a Turkish bath and a private balcony with a captivating view of the Cathedral made my stay exquisite.
Pros
Artfully decorated interior
Lake-view terrace
Steam room in luxury suites
Close to famous attractions
Cons
Balconies are small
No closets in rooms
No on-site breakfast
Charming Bellagio Boutique Hotel
Nestled just 700 meters from Bellagio’s historic center, this boutique hotel became one of my favorite places. The tranquil garden, the inviting turquoise pool, and the serene spa immediately caught my attention.
The spa became a haven of relaxation and harmony for my partner and me during my stay. Its ambiance, adorned with a soothing blend of lights, colors, and sounds, provided a truly rejuvenating experience.
Our chosen accommodation was a spacious apartment that felt like a home away from home. Not only was it equipped with cutting-edge amenities and boutique decor, but its standout feature was the beautiful balcony. We started our day there each morning, captivated by the breathtaking sunrise.
The tranquil garden, turquoise pool, and serene spa offered a haven of relaxation and harmony.
Pros
Cozy ambiance
Garden and lake views
Tranquil pool
12-minute walk to the ferry terminal
Cons
No elevators
No handrails on stairs
Some rooms are small
Borgo Le Terrazze
Borgo Le Terrazze blends tradition and modernity seamlessly. While visiting, I fell in love with its incredible hillside location south of Bellagio.
The breathtaking landscape unfolded before me as I drove over the hill and descended onto the property. Snow-capped mountains and endless blue waters stretched in every direction, leaving me in awe.
The elegant pairing of gentle shades—blue, brown, and green—with the lake’s colors was captivating. The garden areas, shaded by azaleas and olive trees, added to the enchanting atmosphere.
I took advantage of the complimentary shuttle to Bellagio’s center during my stay, appreciating its convenience. The stunning swimming pool became a focal point, providing me with an unforgettable experience of serenity.
The stunning swimming pool provided an unforgettable experience of serenity amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Pros
Romantic atmosphere
Lush Mediterranean garden
Balconies and terraces for views
Tranquil outdoor pool
Cons
No bathrobes
No grab bar in the shower
No fitness center
B&B Villa Costanza
Tucked away in a heavenly nook by the lake, B&B Villa Costanza became one of my favorite places—a verdant haven seamlessly blending into the rural beauty.
The rooms, each named after precious stones, captivated me with their distinctive charm, adorned with sophistication and allure. Frescoes and chic decor adorned the spaces, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance.
During my stay, I found myself particularly drawn to the luxury of the living room. Its enchanting veranda and grand French doors to the park quickly became my go-to spot. Here, I reveled in the breathtaking spectacle of a sunset casting its vibrant hues over the tranquil lake.
The luxury of the living room’s enchanting veranda and grand French doors created a refined and elegant ambiance.
Pros
Minimal elegant decor
Serene sun terrace
Delicious tempting breakfast
4.5 km from Como
Cons
Costly drinks
Narrow roads around the hotel
Located on a steep hill
Hotel Lago
Hotel Lago quickly became one of my favorite places, thanks to its innovative façade and expansive outdoor space offering breathtaking lake views.
While visiting, I couldn’t help but appreciate the seamless blend of outdoor majesty and interior sophistication. The design thoughtfully highlighted the panoramic views, creating an atmosphere of elegance. The suites, adorned with finishes inspired by nature, were bright, spacious, and incredibly relaxing.
I loved the restaurant’s luxurious ambiance while staying at this remarkable place. Surrendering to the slow rhythms of the region, I indulged in a menu featuring carefully selected ingredients based on their seasonality.
Exploring the surroundings, I discovered hiking trails that added an adventurous touch to my experience. The hotel’s convenient on-site arrangements also allowed me to easily organize boat tours and rentals, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to my stay.
The innovative façade and expansive outdoor space offered breathtaking views of the lake, blending elegance and nature.
Pros
Cute and soothing decor
Revitalising sauna
On-site boat tours and rentals
Panoramic lake views
Cons
Parking is extra
Some outside road noise
No complimentary drinking water
DBH – Boutique Hotel Lake Como
Opposite the Como Cathedral, I found a haven where a recent renovation beautifully blended local artisan creativity with modern design. It became one of my favorite places, instantly making me feel at home surrounded by exquisite furnishings and fabrics. The 14 rooms and five suites exuded comfort, combining boutique flair with luxurious marble finishes that appealed to my discerning taste for elegance and charm.
While staying at DBH, I relished starting my days with a lavish breakfast showcasing the finest local produce. The brightly quaint environment added a delightful touch, setting the perfect tone for exploring the hotel’s winding streets.
Pros
Cozy refined ambiance
Little beautiful courtyard
5-minute walk to the lake
Cons
No windows in room
No on-site bar
All Hotels In Lake Como Compared
In the table below, we have compared the top 16 cool and unusual hotels in Lake Como. You can sort them based on factors such as price per night, distance from attractions, and restaurants nearby:
Hotel Name Location Price Range (per night) Fitness Facilities Distance to Attractions (km) Nearby Restaurants
Il Sereno Lago di Como Via Torrazza $4077-$10294 No 6 3
Le Stanze del Lago Suites & Pool 10 Via Francesco Crispi $218-$274 No 1.2 3
Casa Sull'Albero Viale Penati 5-7 $231-$338 No 17 3
MUSA Lago di Como 4 Via Sesto Puricelli $1522-$1902 No 7 3
Hotel Griso Collection Viale Italia $243-$595 No 18 3
Filario Hotel & Residences Strada Provinciale 583 $2725-$2912 No 10 3
Hotel Belvedere Via Valassina 31 $1077-$1740 No 5 3
Grand Hotel Imperiale Resort & SPA Via Regina Vecchia 24-26 $1167-$2772 Yes 5 3
Hilton Lake Como Via Borgo Vico 241 $635-$2403 No 2.8 3
Villa Lario Resort Mandello Via Statale $541-$1193 No 9 3
Aurum - Como Luxury Suites 9 Piazza del Duomo $258-$425 No 1.3 3
Charming Bellagio Boutique Hotel Via Crotto 2 - Località Pescallo $230-$289 No 5 3
Borgo Le Terrazze Via Panoramica 3 $424-$527 No 17 3
B&B Villa Costanza 86 Via Enrico Caronti $434-$759 No 3.9 3
Hotel Lago Via Cesare Poggi 20 $706-$858 No 6 3
DBH – Boutique Hotel Lake Como Via Maestri Comacini 2 $888-$1637 No 1.3 3
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Scott Balaam – writer and photographer
Scott started his travelling life back in 1999, when he headed off on a solo jaunt to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia with just a backpack, a camera and a spirit for adventure. After that, the travel bug bit hard and now he is always seeking to head off somewhere new. Over the years he has lived in Italy, Qatar, Australia, Ireland, UK and the USA but his spiritual home will always be Rome as this is the city which most satisfies his unrelenting thirst for culture, good food and great football. In his spare time Scott loves nothing better than to be behind the camera and also runs his own blog and Instagram page. He also counts Melbourne, the rest of Italy, Amsterdam, USA, Athens, Cape Town and Tel Aviv among his favourite places. Find Scott on Linkedin, Instagram, or Twitter.
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