Lake Como has a way of sneaking into your heart without much fuss. Sitting comfortably at the foot of the Alps, it offers stunning views that never get old, alongside a lifestyle that’s more about enjoying the moment than rushing around. The towns spread along the lake are small but full of character, where locals go about their day with a relaxed air. It’s no surprise the area has long been a magnet for wealthy internationals seeking a beautiful and discreet place to call home. Living by Lake Como means luxury on your doorstep wrapped up in picture-postcard surroundings.
Is Lake Como a good place to live?
For anyone looking to settle somewhere peaceful but with enough going on to keep boredom at bay, Lake Como strikes a solid balance. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find yourself lingering over a coffee or taking a stroll by the water as part of your daily routine. Lake Como is also recognised as being one of the most sought-after locations among wealthy buyers worldwide.
Lake Como is often admired for its stunning landscapes and relaxed atmosphere, but living here involves more than just picture-perfect views. The area offers a peaceful lifestyle, with small towns where everyday life moves at a gentler pace compared to bigger Italian cities. Many residents appreciate this calm, especially those seeking to escape the usual hustle and bustle. There’s a strong appeal for retirees or those after a slower pace.
Living on Lake Como: pros and cons
It's important to weigh up the good and bad before making a concrete decision as to whether to relocate. This is more important than even when it comes to a place like Lake Como, which can be easily seen through rose-tinted glasses.
Among the many advantages of living in Lake Como are:
- Access to breathtaking natural scenery and outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and lakeside walks.
- A calm and relaxed lifestyle away from the noise and rush of larger cities.
- A tight-knit community with charming towns offering authentic Italian culture and friendly locals.
The dreamy lakeside spot does come with its drawbacks:
- Winters can feel quite quiet, and some amenities reduce their hours outside the tourist season, which might take some getting used to.
- Public transport is available but limited, so having a car is often necessary for getting around efficiently.
- The community tends to be welcoming, though settling in fully may require some patience, particularly if you don’t speak Italian.
Is living in Lake Como expensive?
Living in Lake Como comes with costs that reflect its scenic appeal and popularity. Dining out in Como town typically sees a meal for two costing around €70, though it can stretch up to €120 in some places. A simple coffee will set you back about €2, while a beer usually goes for around €5. Basic utilities come in at roughly €230 per month, but this can vary quite a bit depending on the size of your home and lifestyle choices—having a pool, for example, will bump up that figure. Lecco offers slightly more affordable options for eating out and groceries, making daily expenses a bit easier on the wallet.
Property prices also differ across the region. In May 2025, property prices in the Como municipality averaged €2,698 per m². Houses for sale in Lecco were lower on average, at €2,172 per m². Menaggio stands out as pricier, with property costs around €4,044 per m².
Rental prices follow a similar pattern, with Como rental costs at about €17.1 per m² compared to Lecco’s more modest €11.0 per m².
Things to do around Lake Como
Lake Como isn’t just about taking in the views—there’s plenty to keep you busy no matter your interests. The mix of small towns and picturesque surroundings means you can find something to suit your mood, whether that’s a laid-back evening or a bit of adventure.
Live music in Lake Como
Music pops up in different corners around the lake, especially in the summer months. There are numerous music festivals, such as the LacMus International Music Festival and Nameless Festival. From cosy cafés in Como to open-air concerts in Bellagio, there’s often a chance to catch local bands or solo performers playing jazz, folk, or classical tunes. Teatro Sociale in Como offers a range of concerts, and Villa Erba in Cernobbio often runs open-air concerts and cultural events by the lakeside.
Restaurants by Lake Como
Eating out tends to focus on homegrown flavours. Many places serve fresh fish from the lake alongside seasonal produce, with hearty dishes like risotto and polenta featuring regularly. Around towns like Varenna and Menaggio, you’ll find everything from simple trattorias where locals gather to more upmarket spots with a view, all with that easygoing Italian charm.
For Michelin-starred dining nearby, the two-star La Brezza over the border in Switzerland is worth a visit, and Kitchen in Cernobbio offers a 'green' tasting menu, which is vegetarian.
Outdoor activities
Walking and cycling are firm favourites here, with plenty of trails winding through hills and along the water’s edge. It’s easy to find a quiet path or a spot to paddle on the lake when the weather allows. For a slower pace, visiting historic villas and gardens around the shore gives a glimpse into the area’s past without feeling like a tourist rush.
Como Lake Experience is an outdoor adventure company offering guided boat trips around the lake, including opportunities for swimming stops and exploring hidden coves. The Greenway del Lago di Como is a popular walking route passing through several lakeside villages, perfect for those who want a mix of gentle hiking and exploring local life.
Spot celebrities living in Lake Como
Lake Como has quietly become a favoured spot for a handful of well-known faces, drawn by its mix of privacy and stunning surroundings. George Clooney is perhaps the most famous resident, owning Villa Oleandra in the village of Laglio. Clooney is actively involved in the community, supporting local charities and even standing up against overdevelopment to help preserve the area’s character.
Other celebrities have also made the lake their retreat, with names like Madonna, Sir Richard Branson, Donatella Versace, and Sylvester Stallone among those attracted to the peacefulness and beauty that the area offers.
Best places to live in Lake Como
Deciding where to live around Lake Como comes down to what fits your day-to-day needs and personal taste. Larger towns like Como and Lecco offer more amenities and a livelier atmosphere, while smaller spots such as Bellagio and Menaggio appeal for their quiet charm and scenic surroundings. Lake Como is also graced by smaller, lesser-known towns.
You'll find a variety of housing, from luxury villas with infinity pools right on the lakefront, typical Italian cottages and even a Lake Como castle for around €9 million.
Crime in Lake Como
When it comes to safety, Lake Como generally ranks as a low-crime area. Petty theft can happen, especially in busy tourist spots during the high season, so keeping an eye on belongings is sensible. Violent crime is rare, and locals often describe the towns as peaceful and family-friendly. As with many popular destinations, exercising usual precautions after dark or in less crowded areas is advisable, but overall, Lake Como maintains a reputation as a safe place to live and visit.
Moving to Lake Como
Making the move to Lake Como involves more than just packing your bags and enjoying the views. For foreigners, it’s important to get a handle on the practical side early on. First off, learning some Italian goes a long way in helping you settle in.
Patience with local bureaucracy is key—registering for residency, sorting out permits, and handling utilities can be slow and sometimes confusing, so it pays to start these processes well before you arrive.
Housing options vary from modern apartments in towns like Como to traditional villas scattered along the lake. Many expats recommend renting first to get a feel for the area before committing to buying. The property market around Lake Como is strong and growing, with prices increasing from last year by 11.7%
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