Abbadia Lariana
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Latest page update: 7 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside town of Abbadia Lariana is situated on the south-eastern spur of Lake Como in the northern region of Lombardy.
An official comune of the Lecco Province, it has a population of around 3,000. It covers a geographical area of 17 square kilometres and stands at an elevation of 204 metres above sea level. The town has its own ferry port and train station. |
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The main focus of the town is Lake Como with a series of lakeside parks, walking routes and beaches. The most popular beach is simply called Spiaggia di Abbadia Lariana which occupies the same area as the Parco di Chiesa Rotta, the "Park of the Broken Church".
Nearby places of interest include the neighbouring lakeside towns of Mandello del Lario and Lecco with the latter being home to the recommended accommodation: the NH Lecco Pontevecchio.
Nearby places of interest include the neighbouring lakeside towns of Mandello del Lario and Lecco with the latter being home to the recommended accommodation: the NH Lecco Pontevecchio.
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Abbadia Lariana Overview
Abbadia Lariana, located in the Lombardy region, is a picturesque town situated on the eastern shore of Lake Como, surrounded by stunning mountains and lush greenery. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty, Abbadia Lariana offers visitors a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. The town’s traditional character, with its historic buildings and lakeside setting, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Abbadia Lariana is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks while taking in the magnificent views of Lake Como and the nearby hills. The town is home to the Chiesa di San Lorenzo, a small church with historical significance, and the Museo del Ciclismo (Museum of Cycling), which celebrates the town’s connection to the sport. For outdoor enthusiasts, Abbadia Lariana offers a variety of hiking and cycling trails, including routes that lead into the surrounding mountains and offer panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding area. The town’s combination of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and lakeside charm makes it a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Lake Como.
Abbadia Lariana is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks while taking in the magnificent views of Lake Como and the nearby hills. The town is home to the Chiesa di San Lorenzo, a small church with historical significance, and the Museo del Ciclismo (Museum of Cycling), which celebrates the town’s connection to the sport. For outdoor enthusiasts, Abbadia Lariana offers a variety of hiking and cycling trails, including routes that lead into the surrounding mountains and offer panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding area. The town’s combination of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and lakeside charm makes it a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Lake Como.
Top Things to Do in Abbadia Lariana
- Lakeside Promenade and Beach: Abbadia Lariana features a wide lakeside promenade with open views across the eastern branch of Lake Como. The shoreline includes a large public beach with grass and pebble areas, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The promenade is connected by walking and cycling paths that extend towards Lecco.
- Civico Museo Setificio Monti: Housed in a former silk mill, this museum documents the region’s silk production history, once central to the local economy. Visitors can see restored machinery, weaving looms, and exhibits explaining the industrial heritage of the area, all within the original 19th-century factory setting.
- Chiesa di San Lorenzo: The parish church sits in the upper part of the village and dates back to the medieval period, with later Baroque modifications. Its simple exterior contrasts with a richly decorated interior, which includes frescoes, wooden carvings, and marble altars.
- Sentiero del Viandante: This historic walking trail passes through Abbadia Lariana, offering a scenic hiking route along the eastern shore of Lake Como. From the village, the path leads to viewpoints, forested areas, and traditional hamlets, making it ideal for walkers seeking natural and cultural sights.
- Day Trip to Lecco: Just 10 minutes away by car or train, Lecco offers a larger historic centre, cultural sites such as the Basilica di San Nicolò, and a lakeside promenade with ferry connections. Its close proximity makes it an easy and worthwhile extension to a visit to Abbadia Lariana.
Comune di Abbadia Lariana
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Province: Lecco
Region: Lombardy Population: 3,192 (in 2024 - source) Size: 17 km² Elevation: 204 metres Highlights: Spiaggia di Abbadia Lariana, Parco di Chiesa Rotta Travel facilities: ferry port, train station Close by: Mandello del Lario, Lierna, Lecco, Valmadrera, Onno |
Where to stay in Abbadia Lariana - My Recommended Accommodation
- Park Hotel Abbadia Located directly on the lakefront with access to a pebble beach, this hotel offers bright, comfortable rooms—many with balconies and lake views—and an on-site restaurant. Guests appreciate the setting near the Sentiero del Viandante trail and the short walk to the centre of Abbadia Lariana. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Leonardo da Vinci Positioned near the town centre and within walking distance of the lake, this hotel provides spacious rooms, free parking, and a terrace with mountain views. Visitors enjoy the friendly service, convenient location, and easy access to both the train station and lakeside. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Contrada Lunga Set in the historic heart of Abbadia Lariana, just a few minutes from the lake, this bed and breakfast offers cosy rooms in a traditional stone house and breakfast with local products. Guests value the authentic atmosphere and warm hospitality. €€ (mid-range)
- Camping Spiaggia Located right on the lake, this campsite also offers mobile homes and bungalows with lake access and mountain views. Visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, direct access to the water, and easy walking distance to the train station and restaurants. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamento La Meridiana A self-catering flat near the lakeside and town centre, featuring a fully equipped kitchen, private terrace, and parking. Guests appreciate the independence, spacious interior, and proximity to local shops and beaches. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat in Abbadia Lariana - My Recommended Restaurants
- Il Vicolo: Located in the centre of Abbadia Lariana, Il Vicolo serves a mix of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes. The restaurant features a dining room set in a stone-vaulted space and a small garden for outdoor meals in summer. The menu includes lake fish, pasta, and seasonal options. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Da Piero: Also in Abbadia Lariana, this well-established restaurant offers seafood and Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Dishes focus on fresh ingredients and simple, classic preparation, with options such as grilled fish and seafood pasta. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Babà du Lac: Found near the lakefront in Abbadia Lariana, Babà du Lac combines Neapolitan-style pizza with a range of Italian seafood and meat dishes. With views over Lake Como and a casual atmosphere, it’s a popular choice for lunch or dinner. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Giardinetto: Situated in Mandello del Lario (approximately 1.5 km from Abbadia Lariana), Il Giardinetto offers modern Italian cuisine with refined presentation. The menu changes with the seasons and includes both seafood and meat dishes, served in an elegant, well-finished interior. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Ristorante Al Verde: Located in Mandello del Lario (around 2.5 km from Abbadia Lariana), Al Verde is known for its rustic setting and traditional Lombard dishes, including polenta, stews, and homemade desserts. The restaurant is tucked into a wooded hillside and offers a quiet, rural atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Abbadia Lariana Gallery
Places Close to Abbadia Lariana
- Lecco (approx. 10 km south of Abbadia Lariana): A vibrant town at the southeastern tip of Lake Como, Lecco is known for its scenic beauty and historical charm. Visitors can explore the Piazza XX Settembre, stroll along the lakeside promenade, or take a cable car up to Piani d'Erna for panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. The town offers a mix of outdoor activities, culture, and stunning landscapes.
- Varenna (approx. 15 km north of Abbadia Lariana): A picturesque town on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Varenna is famous for its charming streets, colourful houses, and lakeside views. Visitors can visit the beautiful Villa Monastero, with its gardens and museum, or hike up to the Castello di Vezio for magnificent views of the lake. The town’s tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a perfect destination for a relaxing visit.
- Mandello del Lario (approx. 5 km northwest of Abbadia Lariana): Known for its connection to the famous Moto Guzzi motorcycle brand, Mandello del Lario is a small lakeside town offering beautiful views of Lake Como. Visitors can explore the Museo Moto Guzzi, walk along the lakeside, or take a boat trip to enjoy the surrounding scenery. The town offers a mix of cultural history and natural beauty.
- Olginate (approx. 10 km east of Abbadia Lariana): A peaceful town located near the southern tip of Lake Garlate, Olginate offers beautiful lakeside views and a relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, explore the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, or take in the natural beauty of the surrounding hills. The town is perfect for those looking for a quiet spot to unwind.
- Como (approx. 40 km southwest of Abbadia Lariana): A historic city at the southern end of Lake Como, Como is full of cultural landmarks and vibrant energy. Visitors can explore the Cattedrale di Como, visit the Tempio Voltiano, or take the funicular up to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake and mountains. The city also offers plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.
How to get to Abbadia Lariana
By Rail: Abbadia Lariana has its own train station on the Lecco–Colico railway line, with regular regional services operated by Trenord. Trains run frequently between Lecco and Colico, with some continuing to Sondrio and Tirano. The journey from Lecco takes about 10 minutes, while travel time from Milan is approximately 1 hour, with a change at Lecco. The station is situated close to the lakefront and the centre of town, making it easy to reach on foot.
By Road: Abbadia Lariana is located around 55 kilometres north of Milan and 6 kilometres north of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour via the SS36 dual carriageway, which passes through Lecco and continues along the eastern shore of Lake Como. The journey from Lecco takes less than 10 minutes. Free and paid parking areas are available in the town, including near the lake and train station.
By Ferry: Abbadia Lariana is not served directly by Lake Como’s main ferry services. The nearest ferry terminals are located in Lecco, which is connected by car and train, and Mandello del Lario, just 2 kilometres to the north. From these points, travellers can join regular Navigazione Laghi services to other towns on the eastern and central parts of the lake, such as Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio. Vehicle and passenger ferries operate more frequently between the mid-lake towns, accessible from Varenna.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Abbadia Lariana is located around 55 kilometres north of Milan and 6 kilometres north of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour via the SS36 dual carriageway, which passes through Lecco and continues along the eastern shore of Lake Como. The journey from Lecco takes less than 10 minutes. Free and paid parking areas are available in the town, including near the lake and train station.
By Ferry: Abbadia Lariana is not served directly by Lake Como’s main ferry services. The nearest ferry terminals are located in Lecco, which is connected by car and train, and Mandello del Lario, just 2 kilometres to the north. From these points, travellers can join regular Navigazione Laghi services to other towns on the eastern and central parts of the lake, such as Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio. Vehicle and passenger ferries operate more frequently between the mid-lake towns, accessible from Varenna.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Located approximately 65 kilometres south of Abbadia Lariana, the drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Travellers can also take a bus or taxi to Milan Centrale station, followed by a train to Lecco and a short onward journey to Abbadia Lariana.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated around 55 kilometres south-east of Abbadia Lariana, the drive takes roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes. Public transport options include a bus to Bergamo train station, then a train to Lecco and a connection to Abbadia Lariana.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): About 90 kilometres south-west of Abbadia Lariana, the drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Travellers can also take the Malpensa Express to Milan Centrale, then continue by train to Lecco and Abbadia Lariana.
