Lake Como is one of the most beloved tourist destinations in the world, and it’s not hard to see why: crystal-clear waters reflecting majestic mountains, picturesque villages clinging to the shoreline, and a light that changes constantly throughout the day. Every year, millions of visitors choose to spend their holidays here, from romantic weekend getaways to longer stays filled with relaxation and adventure.
But where should you stay on Lake Como to truly experience the lake—without the noise of large hotels and with the freedom of feeling at home? More and more often, the answer lies in short-term rental apartments: authentic, comfortable solutions, often offering breathtaking views that no hotel room can match.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to choose the perfect apartment on Lake Como, with a special focus on the Lecco area and the eastern shore—still authentic, less crowded, and extraordinarily beautiful.
Why Choose an Apartment Instead of a Hotel
In recent years, the trend has been clear: travelers seeking an authentic and personalized experience increasingly prefer short-term rentals over traditional hotels. Lake Como is no exception. Here are the main reasons why:
- Freedom and flexibility: no fixed breakfast times, rigid check-ins, or set dinner hours. The apartment is yours—you set your own schedule.
- Private kitchen: being able to cook a meal with fresh products from a local market, perhaps paired with a bottle of regional wine, is an experience in itself.
- Space and comfort: a well-furnished apartment offers significantly more space than a standard hotel room, often at comparable or even lower prices—especially for groups or families.
- Exceptional views: many lakefront apartments feature terraces or balconies overlooking the water. Waking up to a view of the lake is an experience that alone makes the trip worthwhile.
- Authenticity: staying in a local apartment connects you to the real life of the place, far from the most crowded tourist paths.
The Best Areas to Stay on Lake Como
Lake Como is vast, and each shoreline has its own distinct character. Understanding the different areas will help you choose the ideal base for your stay.
Lecco and the Eastern Shore
Lecco is the main town on the eastern shore—a lively city that many international tourists still don’t fully know, and that’s exactly its strength. Less crowded than Como, authentic, and surrounded by mountains that plunge directly into the lake. It’s the ideal base for those who want hiking, water sports, and also an evening stroll along the waterfront with a gelato in hand.
If you’re looking for apartments on Lake Como in a strategic location—convenient for exploring both the Lecco branch and the villages of the central lake—Lecco is a perfect choice. From here, you can reach Varenna in about twenty minutes and Bellagio in around forty.
Varenna, Bellagio and the villages of the central lake
Varenna and Bellagio are perhaps the most iconic villages on Lake Como. Their pastel-colored houses, narrow alleys, and gardens sloping down to the water—this is where much of the lake’s romantic imagery comes to life. During peak season, they are very busy, so booking in advance is essential.
Como and the Western Shore
Como is the main gateway to the lake, with its Gothic cathedral, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s well connected to Milan by regional trains and convenient for those arriving by plane via Milan Malpensa Airport. The western shore is also home to Cernobbio, Tremezzo, and Menaggio—highly sought-after destinations among international travelers.
What to Look for in a Holiday Apartment on Lake Como
Not all apartments on the lake are the same. Here are the elements that truly make the difference:
- Verified lake view: distinguish between “lake view” (you can glimpse the lake from an angle) and “front lake view” (a terrace or windows directly facing the water). Read reviews carefully and pay close attention to photos.
- Reliable Wi-Fi connection: more and more people work remotely even while on holiday. Good Wi-Fi is no longer optional.
- Air conditioning or fans: summers on the lake can be hot and humid. Make sure the apartment stays cool.
- Parking: if you’re arriving by car, parking in lakeside villages can be a real challenge. Well-managed apartments often include a parking space or clearly indicate where to find one.
- Flexible check-in: if you arrive late or plan to leave early, a self check-in system (keybox or digital access) makes everything much easier.
By choosing an apartment managed by a professional local operator like Lecco Living Lake, you can be confident you’ll find all these features—along with an authentic welcome from people who live the lake every day.
Short-Term Rentals on Lake Como: Prices in 2026
Prices vary widely depending on the season, location, and type of accommodation. As a general guideline, for a one-bedroom apartment with a lake view, you can expect:
Low season (November–March): from €80 to €150 per night
Mid season (April, May, October): from €120 to €200 per night
High season (June–September): from €180 to €350 per night
April and May are the preferred months for those who want to enjoy the lake without the summer crowds: the weather is already pleasant, flowers are in full bloom, and the lakeside remains relatively शांत. It’s the ideal season for a romantic weekend or a relaxed family holiday.
Beyond the Apartment: Experiences and Services for Your Stay
A holiday on Lake Como is not just about where you stay—it’s about fully immersing yourself in the destination.
With Lecco Living Lake, you can also book experiences on the lake directly alongside your stay: from a taxi boat to explore the villages from the water to car rental for discovering the eastern shore with complete freedom.
If you’re arriving by plane, our airport transfers will take you directly to Lecco without any stress.
How to Book an Apartment on Lake Como
You can find apartments on the lake on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, but booking directly with a local operator offers several advantages: better prices (no OTA commissions), direct assistance before and during your stay, and personalized recommendations on what to do, where to eat, and how to get around.
Lecco Living Lake was created with exactly this goal: to offer authentic, carefully curated hospitality in selected apartments, located in one of the most beautiful and still underrated areas of Lake Como. If you’re considering turning your property on the lake into a source of income, discover how our short-term rental management service works.
Book Your Stay Now
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family holiday, or a peaceful retreat away from the city, Lake Como has the perfect apartment for you. Choose an authentic base, experience the lake like a local, and take home memories that last.
Explore our available apartments on Lake Como and, if you have any questions or would like personalized advice, get in touch — we’re always happy to help you plan the perfect holiday on the lake.