Sometimes a trip to Lake Como means hours in the car and traffic, as you try to find your next favourite swim spot. Or you can take our word for it and check out one (or all) of these top 7 lakeside lidos. With everything you need at your fingertips, a lido ticks all your boxes for an easy, stress-free day swimming and relaxing by the lake. Best part? All of them are less than 2 hours away from Milan. We’ve rounded up the best lidos on Lake Como - which one will you visit first? 

Written by: Ché Maria Milani 

One of Italy’s most iconic lakes, Lake Como, is most people’s first thought when you mention ‘la dolce vita’ living. Swimming in refreshing waters, having a drink on an over-the-water terrace, and whizzing between villages in a private boat - Lake Como truly comes alive in the summer.

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s relaxing (less than 2 hours away from Milan), taking the time to unwind at a Lake Como lido in the summer with umbrellas and sunbeds is without a doubt a great option.

Luxury beach clubs dot its shores, with many in between fitting for an understated, chilled outing. And when the sun sets, these lidos light up and transform into the ultimate romantic aperitivo spot, or something a lot more festive with live DJ sets and a touch of glamour. 

We’ve put together what we consider to be the best lidos on Lake Como. May it inspire you to plan your next day trip from Milan. 

1. Lido Villa Olmo

   
   

Location: via Per Cernobbio, 2 22100

This lido is a historic swimming establishment situated within the beautiful grounds of Villa Olmo. Established in the 1930s, it’s been a favourite spot among locals and tourists alike for almost 100 years.

The villa itself was commissioned in 1782 by Marquis Innocenzo Odescalchi and completed in 1812.

It was taken over by the municipality of Como in 1924 and is now used for exhibitions, with the gardens open to the public.

Getting there: 

By car: From Milan, take the A9 towards Como. Exit at "Lago di Como" and follow signs to "Centro - Villa Olmo." 

By train: From Centrale FS station, take a train to Como San Giovanni. From there, you can either walk (about 18 minutes) or take a bus (lines 1, 6, or 11) to the lido.

This gorgeous lido offers 2 swimming pools, as well as access to the lake with its own private beach.

It’s spread out over 2 floors, and here’s what you’ll find, plus prices. As with most private swimming areas, a reduced afternoon price is available too.

On the ground floor, the ‘Beach Area’ faces the lake directly and costs €22 for an umbrella and 2 sunbeds. The ‘Privé Area’ is the first row on the private beach and costs €30 for an umbrella, 2 sunbeds and jacuzzi access (adults only, 18+).

The upper level features the ‘Terrace Area’ which overlooks both the lake and the swimming pools, and costs €22 for an umbrella and 2 sunbeds. The ‘Meadow Area’, also facing the lake and pools, costs €20 and includes an umbrella with 2 deckchairs.

For those looking for a simpler option, the ‘Entrance Only’ access costs €12 and includes entry to the upper level with use of a beach towel only.

Swimming caps are mandatory (they can be purchased there), and lockers (for a fee) and changing room facilities are available too.

And one of the most important things to note - there’s a beach bar! Serving a wide selection of all the cold and hot drinks you’d expect, plus a variety of simple snacks like salads, sandwiches and pizza. 

All in all, you have everything you need for a relaxing day tanning and swimming by the lake. 

2. Lido di Bellagio Beach Club

   
   

Location: via P. Carcano, 1 22021

This chic lido is nestled between the town of Bellagio and the well-known Villa Melzi. By day, it’s a stylish lakeside hangout spot for swimming and tanning and two nights a week, it morphs into a vibrant disco.

Open from June to September, two beach options are available. The ‘Box’ option costs €50 (includes 2 sunbeds, 1 umbrella and 2 towels) while the ‘Gazebo’ option comes in at €200 (includes 2 beds, a small table with 2 lounge sofas, 2 towels  and 2 small bottles of water - for 2-4 people)

Getting there:

By car: From Milan, take the SP583 coastal road toward Bellagio. Around 75 km and takes around 1.5 hours. Parking in Bellagio is limited, so you may want to consider parking in nearby towns like Varenna or Como and taking the ferry.

By train + bus: From Milano Centrale, take a train to Como San Giovanni (about 40 minutes). From there, catch the C30 bus to Bellagio (1 hour and 10 minutes).

By train + ferry: Alternatively, take a train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino (about 1 hour), then walk to the ferry terminal and catch a ferry to Bellagio (15 minutes).

If you’re someone who plans ahead, you can book right here. If the evening options appeal to you more, you can get more info about the Tuesday and Saturday evening sessions here. Perfect for enjoying warm summer evenings under the stars on the water's edge.

3. Lido di Cernobbio

   
   

Location: Piazza Risorgimento, 5 22012 

This one is a personal favourite of Katia, founder of MWN, and we can see why! With an Olympic-sized swimming pool, kids pool, a café and restaurant offering street food during the day and à la carte dining for lunch and dinner, plus a lounge bar and activities like yoga - it’s got a lot going for it. 

Cernobbio itself, for many decades, has been a popular destination for famous figures, including artists, writers, and celebrities. We don’t know if they ever graced the lido with their presence, but we don’t blame them for seeking out the inspiration and relaxation that this town offers. 

Getting there:

By car: From Milan, take the A9 towards Como, then follow signs to Cernobbio. The drive is approximately 80 km and takes around 1.5 hours. Parking is limited in Cernobbio, so consider using public transport or arriving early in peak season.

By train + bus: From Milano Centrale, take a train to Como San Giovanni (about 40 minutes). From there, catch a local bus to Cernobbio (10 minutes).

By train + ferry: Alternatively, take a train from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni (about 40 minutes), then walk to the Como ferry terminal and take a ferry to Cernobbio (around 10 minutes). This scenic option is especially enjoyable on sunny days.

Renting sunbeds etc is incredibly affordable, with a variety of options: a single sunbed, gazebo (single or double options available), or even a VIP area. For all the pricing options, follow the links and happy booking!

4. Lido di Faggeto

   
   

Location: Piazza Cesare Scotti, 5

Just 10 kilometres from Como heading east, this cute lido offers an amazing little beach that’s great for swimming - no pool needed! It’s also known as MiAmiLaryo and is located in Faggeto Lario, a quaint village on the way towards Bellagio.

This is one of the more understated options on Lake Como. With a laidback atmosphere, it’s perfect for more intimate hangouts with close friends or a loved one. Prices for sunbeds and umbrellas vary - as usual, depending on where they are on the beach or the terrace. For more details, go here.

If you’re a dog owner, they’re allowed in the bar area on a leash, but not on the beach, unfortunately. This is to ensure maximum comfort for those on the beach, as there’s no pool to which to escape. 

An interesting thing to note is their plastic-free initiative. Glass water bottles, no disposable crockery and cutlery used, and most fascinating of all, pasta straws. Imagine one of those in your drink!

Getting there:

By car: Take the A9 and SS340 road. Around 80km, so you can expect to travel for 1.5 hours, traffic permitting.

By train & ferry: Take a train from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni (about 40 minutes), then a ferry to Faggeto Lario (approximately 30 minutes).

By bus: Take the train to Como and then take a bus to Faggeto Lario (about 30 minutes).

 5. Olivedo Lido

Location: via al Lido, 4 23828 

Also known as Lido di Varenna, Olivedo is situated on the eastern shore in Perledo, just a short distance from the picturesque village of Varenna. Nearby is the charming, historical Olivedo Hotel (run by the same family for four generations) and the lido falls under the same management, just a few steps away on the water's edge.

Naturally, the lido has evolved over time and is now often a first choice for dog-owners. Yes, you can expect a dog-friendly beach quite aptly named ‘Bau Bau Beach’. A bar and restaurant form part of the lakeside experience, and with their private dock, there’s even the option of arriving in true Lake Como style in a chartered boat.

Getting there:

By car: From Milan, take the A4 towards Lecco, then continue on the SS36 towards Sondrio. Exit at Varenna and follow signs through the village to Perledo and Via al Lido. The drive is around 80 km and typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Parking is available near the lido, but it can fill up quickly during high season.

By train: From Milano Centrale, take a train toward Sondrio and get off at Varenna-Esino-Perledo (about 1 hour). From the station, it’s a 10–12 minute walk downhill to the lake and Olivedo Lido.

By train + ferry: For a more scenic route, take the train to Varenna as above, then walk to the nearby ferry dock and catch a ferry across the lake. It's a beautiful way to explore the area once you're there.

At the time of writing, lido prices couldn’t be found as the site is ‘under construction’. 

6. Lido di Lenno

Location: via Comoedia, 19

As they say on their website, there’s nothing better than sun, sand, a sunchair and a good lunch on the lake’s shore.

And we wouldn’t disagree.

This lido, located in Tremazzina, is nestled in the Gulf of Venus and offers a sandy beach for catching the sun and swimming, as well as a beach bar, lounge, and a restaurant.

The lounge area, with its plush cushions and carefully designed decor, adds that touch of elegance without being pretentious. The restaurant’s menu comprises fresh salads, seafood, grilled meats, and sophisticated à la carte options. Think traditional Italian, but with a modern twist.

They’re quite proud of their cocktails and their extensive wine list - over 800 labels! Talk about being spoilt for choice. 

Sunbed rentals start from €45 and go up to €75 depending on whether you want a single or a double, whether it's in the first row or not, all with beach towels included.

For an exact breakdown of prices, check it out here.

All sunbed options are served with lunch off the Beach Menu (excluding drinks). 

As the temperatures cool and the sun starts to set, this lido transforms into a romantic, candle-lit haven for those looking to savour evening lakeside views. 

Getting there:

By Car: Around 1.5 hours via A9 and SS340.

By Train: Take a train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino (about 1 hour), then a ferry to Lenno (15–20 minutes).

By Bus: From Milan, take a bus to Como, then transfer to a C10 bus heading to Lenno.You can book right here to start planning your next ideal day by the lake. 

7. Victoria Beach

Location: via Roma, 11 22017 

Menaggio has been a popular tourist destination since the 18th century, with grand hotels and luxury villas built to cater to many a visitor. And nowadays it’s no different.

With its picturesque houses on the lake and promenade along the water’s edge for easy ambling (one of the longest in the area, actually), it’s one of the iconic Como villages to explore before settling down in a sunbed or going for a refreshing swim. 

One thing that will strike you about Victoria Beach is the sense of spaciousness! An ample sandy beach, two gorgeous infinity pools (with their own pool bar), and additional sunbeds around the pools.

The decor is simple yet refined - a touch of true elegance that can be expected from the R Collection Hotels Group managing this stunning lido.

As you can imagine, prices here are slightly higher than most lidos, but it’s truly worth it for the experience of what Lake Como became famous for - the lakeside sensation of ‘la dolce vita’.

Getting there:

By car: Approximately 85 km (1.5 hours). Take the A9 towards Como, then follow signs to Menaggio via the SS340 road. Parking is available near the beach club within the Grand Hotel.

By train: From Milano Centrale, take a train to Varenna-Esino (about 1 hour).Then take a ferry from Varenna to Menaggio (approximately 15 minutes). From Menaggio ferry terminal, it's a short walk to Victoria Beach.

Whether you’re after a laidback, lazy day by the lake, or the full ‘dolce vita’ experience with cocktails in hand and a view to match, these Lake Como lidos have you covered. And the best part? Each one offers its own unique vibe, so you won’t be short of options.

The next time the Milan heat gets a bit too much, or you're simply craving a day of swim, sun and serenity, you know where to go. Lake Como’s lidos are just a short trip away. Which one will you try first?

Mark your calendars - On July 12th is a special event between MWN, Beyond Yoga Studio and a hush-hush lido in Varenna. A magical Lake Day is in the making... pre registration will open soon!

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