The TOP 5 Lake Como Hotels to visit this year

Few destinations in Europe evoke the same cinematic beauty and timeless charm as Lake Como. With its glacial waters, pastel-hued villages, and verdant hills rising steeply from the shoreline, this Italian jewel continues to capture the hearts of discerning travellers year after year. But while the views are universally spectacular, the experience of Lake Como is often defined by where you choose to stay – whether that’s a centuries-old palazzo or a sleek, design-forward retreat.

In 2026, these five standout hotels showcase the full spectrum of what Lake Como has to offer, from historic grandeur to contemporary serenity. Each one brings something entirely unique to the table, blending location, style, and soul into a memorable lakeside escape.

GRAND HOTEL TREMEZZO

Perched on the western shore of Lake Como with panoramic views across to Bellagio, Grand Hotel Tremezzo is one of Italy’s most iconic properties. Dating back to 1910, the hotel has long been a symbol of Belle Époque opulence, with its distinctive orange façade, lush private park, and direct access to the lake via a floating pool. Situated next to Villa Carlotta’s famed botanical gardens, it offers guests a historic vantage point steeped in aristocratic legacy and lakeside charm.

Inside, the 90 rooms and suites exude timeless elegance, with silk-covered walls, Art Nouveau detailing, and lake-view balconies that frame postcard-worthy scenes. The estate features three swimming pools, a lavish lakeside spa, a private beach club, and an array of fine dining options, including the Michelin-starred La Terrazza. Every element, from floral arrangements to butler service, reflects the property’s commitment to gracious, old-world hospitality.

PASSALACQUA

A more recent but no less dazzling addition to Lake Como’s luxury hotel scene, Passalacqua occupies an 18th-century villa just outside Moltrasio. Immersed in terraced gardens and olive groves, the estate was once home to composer Vincenzo Bellini and now welcomes guests into a restored palazzo that feels both regal and intimate. Its elevated hillside setting offers panoramic lake views and a secluded, romantic atmosphere unmatched in scale and elegance.

Rather than follow a standard template, each of the 24 suites channels its own personality – adorned with original frescoes, curated antiques, and handcrafted linens. Outdoor cinema nights, a hidden amphitheatre, garden yoga, and a subterranean spa offer a rare mix of seclusion and spectacle. Whether you’re reading under a lemon tree or arriving by boat to a candlelit dinner, Passalacqua invites you into a real life fairytale.

The Lake Como EDITION

Just opened this March, The Lake Como EDITION introduces a fresh, contemporary perspective to the shores of Lake Como. Set within a reimagined lakeside property, the hotel brings EDITION’s signature blend of modern design and understated luxury to one of Italy’s most iconic destinations. Clean architectural lines, layered interiors, and a strong connection to the water create a setting that feels both current and quietly refined.

Rooms and suites are designed with a minimalist approach, combining natural materials, soft tones, and expansive windows that frame the lake and surrounding mountains. Social spaces sit at the centre of the experience, with a waterfront pool, design-led dining venues, and curated lounges that transition seamlessly from day to evening. As one of the newest openings on the lake, The Lake Como EDITION offers a more contemporary way to experience the destination.

VILLA D’ESTE

MANDARIN ORIENTAL LAKE COMO