Al Porticciolo di Sant’Agostino leads with a 9.9 location score and sits right on Como’s historic harbor. For hilltop views without the car stress, Como Hills pairs a 9.7 Cleanliness with a massive pool. Both deliver very different Lake Como experiences, but each is a top-tier choice in its zone.
Forget the overpriced resort towns — where to stay in Lake Como often means basing yourself in central Como, where ferries, trains, and buzzy piazzas meet. This guide sorts 20 properties by neighborhood so you can pick the right vibe first.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties with 7000+ total verified guest reviews across Lake Como to compile this list, prioritizing properties with a 9.2/10 average guest score and cross-referencing amenities, cancellation policies, and real guest feedback for each.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best Location (Como Harbor): #4 Al Porticciolo di Sant’Agostino→ Rates
#11 In Centro Luxury Rooms→ Rates - Cleanest Stays: #5 IL MELOGRANO HOLIDAY→ Rates
#14 ManaraQuattro→ Rates - Budget & Pet-Friendly: #15 Studio71→ Rates
- Free Parking Included: #14 ManaraQuattro→ Rates
#17 Lora luxury suite 4→ Rates - Best Overall Luxury: #1 Hotel Villa Flori→ Rates
- Pool & Hillside Retreat: #2 Como Hills→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Hotel Villa Flori | (950+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Como Hills | (850+ Reviews) |
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| 3. 73 Boutique Hotel | (750+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Al Porticciolo di Sant’Agostino | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 5. IL MELOGRANO HOLIDAY COMO | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Marcello’s Como Lake | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Villa Scalabrini | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 8. L’Approdo di Sant’Agostino | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 9. B&B Casa Cantoniera | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Palazzo Albricci Peregrini | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 11. In Centro Luxury Rooms | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 12. La Vecia Curt | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 13. La Casa Sul Bosco | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 14. ManaraQuattro | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Studio71 | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Il Cortile Como | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Lora luxury suite 4 | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Maison de Raf | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Coloniola Lake House | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 20. DolceVita apartment | (50+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Where to Stay in Lake Como — Full Breakdown by Area
Como City Center (Historic Core & Harbor)
The heart of Como, with cobbled streets, the cathedral, and ferry docks. Best for first-timers and travelers who want everything walkable — restaurants, shopping, and lake access without needing a car. Hotels here score highest for location.
1. Hotel Villa Flori
The Vibe
This restored 19th-century villa sits on the lake’s western shore with a pool that actually overlooks the water. Staff score a near-perfect 9.6, and the breakfast buffet (continental + Italian) earns its “exceptional” tag. Location hits 9.6 — close enough to Como but quiet at night.
What You Actually Get
Four-star amenities include a restaurant, room service, private parking (rare for the area), airport shuttle, and family rooms. The pool is seasonal and heated, and the garden-facing rooms get direct lake views. Guests rave about front-desk manager Mattia for his local tips. Wi-Fi clocks in at 9.3 — solid for video calls. Downsides? The 25-minute walk to central Como means you’ll want the ferry for dinner trips.
Choose this if: You want lake-view swimming and a staff that remembers your name — the 9.6 staff score is the highest in this list.
3. 73 Boutique Hotel
The Vibe
Right in the thick of Como’s pedestrian zone — the location hits 9.8, and guests say it’s quiet despite the centrality. It’s a boutique setup with a bar and 24-hour front desk, aimed at couples and solo travelers who want to step out and be at the duomo in two minutes.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are compact but well-designed, with tea/coffee makers and soundproofing that works. Staff score 9.7 — guests consistently mention the friendly, helpful front desk. Breakfast is “wonderful” per Booking.com labels. One catch: the property sits in a traffic-restricted zone, so you’ll walk or taxi from parking. They have an agreement with Quarto Ponte Parking for discounted rates. Airport shuttle available.
Choose this if: You want to wake up, walk 60 seconds, and be at Como’s main sights without a map.
4. Al Porticciolo di Sant’Agostino
The Vibe
Perched on a tiny piazza overlooking the old port, this B&B has a location score of 9.9 — one of the highest in Como. It’s a family-run operation with four-star service standards. Guests praise the spacious, thoughtfully designed rooms and the exceptional hospitality from the owner Stefano.
What You Actually Get
Each room comes with tea/coffee facilities, and the building has an elevator (upper floors accessible). Breakfast is not included in the base rate — you can add it upon arrival. They offer airport shuttle service, and the staff score hits 9.8. Children 10+ are charged as adults. Pets allowed on request. The Como Lago Nord train station is just 150 meters away.
Choose this if: Location is your top priority and you prefer B&B intimacy over big-hotel facilities.
6. Marcello’s Como Lake
The Vibe
A fully private apartment in the dead center of Como, with a 9.8 location score. It’s ground-floor, so no stairs to haul luggage up. Guests consistently call it “clean, secure, and private.” The vibe is more self-catering than hotel — good for couples or small families who want independence.
What You Actually Get
The apartment includes free Wi-Fi (9.0), family-friendly setup, and airport shuttle coordination. There’s no breakfast service, but with a kitchenette and Como’s cafes steps away, that’s hardly a problem. Staff speak English and French. Note: payment is via bank transfer before arrival, and the apartment has a strict quiet-hrs policy. No pets allowed.
Choose this if: You want apartment privacy with a location that puts everything within a 2-block radius.
8. L’Approdo di Sant’Agostino
The Vibe
Sibling property to #4 (Al Porticciolo), but scoring even higher overall at 9.5. It’s on the same harbor piazza, with air-conditioned rooms and a 9.9 location. Guest reviews highlight Stefano’s family-run hospitality — he answers questions “quickly” and “finds solutions.” The Wi-Fi scores a perfect 10.0, rare for Lake Como.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are air-conditioned with tea/coffee — breakfast is available but not automatic. Family rooms available, and children 10+ are charged as adults. Airport shuttle on request. The property has a 9.6 score for comfort and value — meaning you get quality without premium pricing. Extra beds can be added.
Choose this if: You need reliable internet for work but still want to be on the water.
10. Palazzo Albricci Peregrini
The Vibe
A restored historic palazzo with a garden, shared lounge, and free bikes — yes, you can cycle Como’s lakeside paths. Location scores 9.6, cleanliness and comfort both hit 9.6. Guests rave about the warm welcome from the owner, who gives personalized shopping and dining tips.
What You Actually Get
The guesthouse offers a fitness center, restaurant, and airport shuttle. Rooms include tea/coffee makers. Note: children are not allowed here — it’s an adults-only retreat. English and French are spoken. Parking is available but not free, and the building has stairs (no elevator in some rooms). Wi-Fi is perfect 10.0.
Choose this if: You’re an adult couple wanting character, bikes, and a 10/10 Wi-Fi connection.
11. In Centro Luxury Rooms
The Vibe
A rare property with a 10.0 location score — you’re literally steps from everything. It’s a guesthouse setup, not a full hotel, with a thoughtful common area, free coffee/tea, and a tiny balcony that guests love. Staff score 9.9, cleanliness 9.8. It’s polished, modern, and quiet at night.
What You Actually Get
All rooms are on the first floor (no elevator), with family rooms available (max 3 people). The terrace is shared, and Wi-Fi is 9.5. No breakfast included, but cafes surround the building. The family room fits 2 adults + 1 child, not 4 — so plan accordingly. No pets.
Choose this if: You want to walk everywhere — ferries, restaurants, sights — and don’t care about hotel frills.
12. La Vecia Curt
The Vibe
A recently renovated apartment that feels fresh and modern. Location scores 9.9, cleanliness 9.6 — the owner is responsive and check-in is flexible. It’s a full apartment (kitchen included), aimed at travelers who want to cook some meals and settle in. Guests call it “super clean” with “excellent location.”
What You Actually Get
Full kitchen, Wi-Fi 10.0, family rooms, and a restaurant nearby. The apartment has air conditioning and autonomous heating — windows face an internal courtyard, keeping it quiet. No pets. Quiet hours are strictly 00:00-08:00, so this isn’t a party spot. English and Spanish spoken. Parking garages nearby (ask host for specifics).
Choose this if: You want a self-catering base in central Como without sacrificing cleanliness or quiet.
Como Hills & Suburban Retreats (Quiet, Pool, Parking)
Situated up the hill from the city center, this zone suits families, remote workers, and anyone with a car. Properties here have pools, parking, and garden space — you trade walk-to-everything for peace and space. The trade-off is real: location scores are lower (7.8–8.3), but cleanliness and facilities often hit 9.7.
2. Como Hills
The Vibe
A sprawling hillside hotel with a seasonal outdoor pool, two restaurants, and a fitness center. It’s a 5-minute drive from central Como but feels worlds away. The facilities score 9.7 — the best of any hotel on this list. Rooms have tea/coffee makers and mountain or pool views.
What You Actually Get
Private parking for 100 cars — a huge plus. The pool is large and rarely crowded. The breakfast is labeled “wonderful” and includes gluten-free options. Staff are warm and helpful. The catch is location: 8.3 is decent but you’ll need a car or taxi for the center. Pets are allowed (small dogs, €25/night). Children 5+ are charged as adults. Wi-Fi is 9.4.
Choose this if: You have a car and want resort-style amenities — pool, restaurant, fitness — with easy hilltop access.
5. IL MELOGRANO HOLIDAY COMO
The Vibe
A guesthouse that’s basically spotless — cleanliness scores 9.8, facilities 9.7, comfort 9.7. It’s set in a quiet residential pocket with a garden and terrace. Hosts are praised for being “very helpful.” The rooms are modern, air-conditioned, and have mountain or inner courtyard views.
What You Actually Get
Private parking on-site is a major bonus (rare in Como). Wi-Fi is 8.0 — adequate but not blazing. Tea/coffee in rooms. The guesthouse is air-conditioned throughout. Children over 6 are welcome. No pets. The location score of 8.7 reflects the quiet residential setting — you’re a 15-minute walk or quick bus from the center. Guests call it “big, clean, and modern.”
Choose this if: Cleanliness is your #1 non-negotiable — this scores 9.8, one of the highest in this guide.
7. Villa Scalabrini
The Vibe
A budget-friendly guesthouse with a garden and shared lounge. The main draw? Free parking on the street — a lifesaver in Como. It’s a solid “Very Good” 8.2, with staff scoring 8.9. Guests love the “ambiance” and the warm welcome from host Daniela. The quiet street view rooms are a plus.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with tea/coffee, private bathroom, and some have kitchenettes (check the room type). Late check-in (after 8 PM) costs €50 extra — arrive early. The free parking is roadside, not a private spot, but it’s 24/7 available. No pets. Children 13+ are charged as adults. Location is 8.1 — a 10-min bus ride to the center.
Choose this if: You’re on a tight budget and driving — free parking and low rates beat anything central.
9. B&B Casa Cantoniera
The Vibe
A hilltop B&B with an outdoor pool, garden, and massive rooms. Staff score 9.6 — owner Paolo is famously helpful (he once drove a guest to catch a bus). The pool is seasonal and surrounded by greenery. Breakfast is “wonderful” and included.
What You Actually Get
Family rooms available, with garden views. The entrance involves 20 steps from the garden — not wheelchair accessible. Parking is available but limited. Check-in is strict: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM only. Late arrival needs confirmation. English, French, and Italian spoken. No pets. The location score of 7.8 reflects the hilltop setting — you’ll need a bus or car for the center.
Choose this if: You want a generous B&B with a pool and don’t mind the hilltop commute.
13. La Casa Sul Bosco
The Vibe
A 3-star apartment with a garden and free private parking on-site. It’s basic but functional — the 7.3 rating reflects its age and location (6.6 — far from the lake). Staff are nice (8.7), and guests appreciate the quiet garden. It’s best for drivers who just need a bed near Como.
What You Actually Get
Free parking is the star here — private and on-site. The apartment has a garden and is near Baradello Castle (8-min walk). Wi-Fi is 7.5. No pets. Children 18+ are charged as adults. Check-in is flexible until 11:30 PM. The 2 km distance from San Giovanni station means you’ll want a car or taxi.
Choose this if: You need a cheap base with guaranteed parking and don’t mind being far from the lake.
16. Il Cortile Como Single & Double Room
The Vibe
A small B&B with a 9.0 rating, run by an incredibly hospitable host (staff 9.8). Guests call it “amazing” and note the room is “super clean” with comfy beds. There’s a garden and terrace, and free on-site parking. Breakfast isn’t included, but snacks are provided.
What You Actually Get
Single and double rooms with garden views. Check-in is strict (6-9 PM), and late arrival costs €25 extra. No children or pets allowed. Location score is 8.4 — it’s 5 km from the central station, so a car or bus is essential. Wi-Fi is 9.0. The garden is well-kept and peaceful.
Choose this if: You want a quiet, affordable garden stay with free parking and don’t mind a fixed check-in window.
Check Tonight’s Price for Il Cortile Como Single & Double Room in apartment NO →
Residential Como & Self-Catering Apartments (Space, Kitchens, Parking)
These properties sit in Como’s residential zones — you get more space, full kitchens, and often free parking. Best for families, long-stay travelers, and anyone who wants to cook. Most are recently renovated apartments with high cleanliness scores.
14. ManaraQuattro – apartament in Como near the center with free parking
The Vibe
A recently renovated apartment that scores 9.7 overall — the highest in this guide alongside #17, #19, and #20. Cleanliness hits 9.9, and guests say it’s “perfect, two bedrooms with two bathrooms, a kitchen and washing machine.” Free private parking on-site seals the deal for drivers.
What You Actually Get
The apartment has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a washing machine. It’s family-friendly (children 11+ charged as adults). Check-in is 3-7 PM — a bit tight. The location score is 9.4 — walkable to the center. No pets. A stay tax and €2 stamp duty are required before arrival. Quiet hours apply.
Choose this if: You’re a family or group needing two bathrooms, a kitchen, and guaranteed parking.
Check Tonight’s Price for ManaraQuattro – apartament in Como near the center with free parking →
15. Studio71
The Vibe
A compact 33 m² studio apartment that’s pet-friendly (free!) and has mountain views from the kitchen window. Wi-Fi scores 10.0 with 58 Mbps speed — great for streaming. Guests mention proximity to bus stops, a 24/7 shop, and easy self-check-in. It’s basic but functional.
What You Actually Get
Full kitchen, mountain view, and fast Wi-Fi. No children allowed — it’s adults-only and pet-friendly only. Check-in is flexible until 10 PM. Location is 7.6 — you’ll take bus #1 (stop 50 meters away) to reach Como center in 10 minutes. The apartment is near a 24/7 convenience store.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a pet, need fast internet, and want a self-contained studio on a budget.
17. Lora luxury suite 4, free private parking, self check-in
The Vibe
A “luxury suite” (more like a high-end apartment) with self check-in — perfect for late arrivals. Cleanliness is 9.9, facilities 9.8. Guests rave about the owner sending a video guide from the main road to the house. Free private parking included.
What You Actually Get
Full apartment with free parking and self check-in via code. Wi-Fi is 8.8 — solid. Location is 8.6 — 2.6 miles from Como Borghi station, so you’ll want a car. No pets. Children welcome (check age policies). The apartment is in a residential zone — quiet at night.
Choose this if: You’re arriving late, driving, and want a spotless, hassle-free check-in experience.
Check Tonight’s Price for Lora luxury suite 4, free private parking, self check-in →
18. Maison de Raf
The Vibe
A spacious apartment with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, hosting up to 6 people. Owner Luca is praised for being “very helpful and friendly” — he even helped guests with luggage. Facilities score 9.8. Pets are allowed for free, making it a top pick for pet owners.
What You Actually Get
The apartment has air conditioning in all rooms, two bedrooms (one double, one twin), two bathrooms, and a living room. Location scores 9.6 — walkable to the center. No parking on-site (street parking nearby). English and Italian spoken. Children 14+ charged as adults. The property has a terrace.
Choose this if: You’re a group or family with a pet who needs two bathrooms and a central location.
19. Coloniola Lake House
The Vibe
A newly renovated apartment with a perfect 10.0 staff score. Guests describe it as “enormous, absolutely clean” — it exceeds expectations. Free private parking on-site. The host is communicative and flexible with luggage storage. Cleanliness hits 9.9, comfort 9.9.
What You Actually Get
The apartment is large with a kitchen, private parking, and a terrace. Wi-Fi is 8.3. Location is 9.9 — walking distance to Broletto and Volta Temple. Note: no iron is available. Check-in is 2:30-7 PM. No pets. Children 13+ charged as adults. The property has strict quiet hours (12 AM–8 AM).
Choose this if: You value exceptional host service and want a huge, spotless apartment with parking near the center.
20. DolceVita apartment
The Vibe
The highest-scoring property in this guide — 9.8 overall. A recently renovated villa with a garden, full kitchen, and washing machine. Guests call it “newly renovated, modern, and well-equipped” with “great value.” Host Auron is “very helpful and supportive.” Cleanliness scores 9.9.
What You Actually Get
The entire 86 m² villa is yours — full kitchen, air conditioning, garden view, and free private parking. It sleeps families comfortably. Wi-Fi is 7.5 (adequate but not the fastest). Location is 9.7 — near Chiasso station, a short drive to Como center. No pets. Children welcome. Check-in is 4:30-10 PM. The property has a garden and is in a quiet residential area.
Choose this if: You want the highest-rated property in this guide, with a private garden and full villa amenities.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#11 In Centro Luxury Rooms
Perfect 10.0 location, 9.9 staff, and 9.8 cleanliness — it’s the most complete package in central Como.
💰 Best Value
#14 ManaraQuattro
9.7 overall rating, 9.9 cleanliness, two bathrooms, full kitchen, and free parking — unbeatable for the price.
Check Tonight’s Price for ManaraQuattro – apartament in Como near the center with free parking →
🏖️ Best for Lake Life
#4 Al Porticciolo di Sant’Agostino
9.9 location on the harbor, family-run warmth, and a 9.8 staff score — pure Lake Como atmosphere.
How We Ranked These Lake Como Hotels
This guide is built from 20 properties across Como city, analyzed against 7000+ verified guest reviews. We prioritized guest experience scores, location authenticity, and real-world feedback over star ratings or marketing claims.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value — the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Proximity to Como’s ferry terminals, train stations, and the historic center — properties outside walking distance needed compensating perks (parking, pool, kitchen)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Lake Como hotels?
Some yes. Como Hills accepts small dogs for €25/night. Studio71 and Maison de Raf allow pets at no extra charge. 73 Boutique Hotel and In Centro Luxury Rooms allow pets on request (fees may apply). Always confirm directly before booking — policies vary and some properties specify size or weight limits.
Which hotels offer free cancellation?
Cancellation policies vary by room type and booking date across all properties. Generally, apartments like ManaraQuattro, Lora luxury suite 4, and Coloniola Lake House offer flexible or free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before check-in. Always check the specific conditions on your booking confirmation — some offer non-refundable rates at a discount.
What’s the best time to visit Lake Como?
May through September is peak season — expect warm weather, full ferry schedules, and crowded piazzas. April and October offer milder weather and fewer crowds, with many hotels offering lower rates. Winter (November-March) is quiet, some hotels close, but you’ll find the best deals. For swimming, July and August are best — Como Hills’ pool and Hotel Villa Flori’s lake-view pool are seasonal.
How do I get from Milan airports to Lake Como?
Milan Malpensa (MXP) is the closest at 35 km — take the Malpensa Express train to Milan Centrale, then a regional train to Como San Giovanni (total ~1 hour). Alternatively, many hotels offer private airport shuttles (Hotel Villa Flori, Como Hills, 73 Boutique Hotel all provide this service for a fee). Linate and Bergamo airports are also options with train connections via Milan.
What’s the most walkable area in Lake Como?
Como’s historic center — around Piazza Cavour, the cathedral, and the ferry terminal — is the most walkable. Properties like 73 Boutique Hotel (location 9.8), In Centro Luxury Rooms (10.0), and Al Porticciolo di Sant’Agostino (9.9) put you steps from restaurants, shops, and ferries to Bellagio and Varenna. Hillside properties (Como Hills, IL MELOGRANO) require a bus or car.
Which hotels have on-site parking?
Several properties offer free parking: Villa Scalabrini (free roadside), ManaraQuattro (free private), Lora luxury suite 4 (free private), Coloniola Lake House (free private), and DolceVita apartment (free private). Como Hills has private parking for 100 cars (fee applies). Hotel Villa Flori also has private parking. Always confirm availability and size limits — some spaces fit only small cars.