Carate Urio
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Carate Urio
Carate Urio has a small but appealing hotel offering, with accommodation focused on its elegant stretch of shoreline on the western side of Lake Como. The most established options earn strong feedback for comfort, lake views and convenient access to the ferry and the lakeside road.
Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como is the standout choice in the area, offering refined luxury, landscaped gardens, a lakeside pool and polished five-star service in a grand historic setting (€€€€). Hotel Orso Bruno provides a well-reviewed alternative in the village, appreciated for its friendly atmosphere, comfortable rooms and a convenient position close to the lakefront and ferry dock (€€€). For those seeking a nearby option with a long reputation for excellence, Villa d’Este in Cernobbio delivers world-class hospitality, extensive grounds and a landmark setting, making it one of the most celebrated hotels on Lake Como (€€€€).
Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como is the standout choice in the area, offering refined luxury, landscaped gardens, a lakeside pool and polished five-star service in a grand historic setting (€€€€). Hotel Orso Bruno provides a well-reviewed alternative in the village, appreciated for its friendly atmosphere, comfortable rooms and a convenient position close to the lakefront and ferry dock (€€€). For those seeking a nearby option with a long reputation for excellence, Villa d’Este in Cernobbio delivers world-class hospitality, extensive grounds and a landmark setting, making it one of the most celebrated hotels on Lake Como (€€€€).
Where is
Where is Carate Urio?
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The lakeside town of Carate Urio is situated in the Province of Como, on the shores of Lake Como. It has a population of around 1,100 residents and is located a distance of 61 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Carate Urio has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Moltrasio, Laglio, Cernobbio, Como and Brienno. |
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Comune di Carate Urio
What People Ask About Carate Urio
Is Carate Urio worth visiting?
What is there to see in Carate Urio?
How do you get to Carate Urio?
Can you walk along the lake in Carate Urio?
When is the best time to visit Carate Urio?
Related links
Discover
Discover Carate Urio
Carate Urio is a town on the western shore of Lake Como, in the province of Como. Formed from two historic settlements, it extends along the narrow lakeside and into the steep slopes above. The village retains a medieval character, with stone houses, archways, and stairways leading between the waterfront and hillside terraces. Its position midway between Como and Argegno places it on one of the main routes along the lake.
The Parish Church of SS. Quirico e Giulitta is the central landmark, accompanied by smaller chapels scattered through the hamlets. Villas such as Villa Passalacqua and Villa Pizzo, although privately owned, highlight the area’s historic appeal to wealthy residents. The lakeside offers small harbours and views towards Blevio and the eastern shore, while ferry and road connections link Carate Urio with nearby towns including Cernobbio and Brienno.
The Parish Church of SS. Quirico e Giulitta is the central landmark, accompanied by smaller chapels scattered through the hamlets. Villas such as Villa Passalacqua and Villa Pizzo, although privately owned, highlight the area’s historic appeal to wealthy residents. The lakeside offers small harbours and views towards Blevio and the eastern shore, while ferry and road connections link Carate Urio with nearby towns including Cernobbio and Brienno.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Carate Urio
- Lakefront and Historic Architecture: The village of Carate Urio stretches along the western shore of Lake Como, with traditional stone houses, narrow alleys, and lakeside walkways. Many buildings face directly onto the water, giving the village a close relationship with the lake. Historic villas and period houses reflect its long-standing appeal as a holiday destination.
- Chiesa di Santa Marta: Located close to the lake, this 17th-century church is known for its elegant façade and bell tower. Inside, visitors can find altarpieces, stucco decorations, and religious artworks typical of the Baroque period. It continues to serve the local community and adds cultural interest to the lakeside setting.
- Villa Oleandra and Historic Villas: Carate Urio is home to several historic lakeside villas, many of which are private residences. Villa Oleandra, famously owned by George Clooney, is one of the most well-known. Though not open to the public, the villas can be admired from the water or from paths along the lake.
- Walking Paths and Scenic Views: The hills above the village offer a network of walking trails leading to hamlets, forests, and viewpoints over Lake Como. These routes provide a peaceful contrast to the busy lakefront and are suitable for visitors looking to explore the area on foot.
- Day Trip to Como: Located just a 20-minute drive or ferry ride south, Como offers museums, shopping, historic sites such as the cathedral, and the funicular to Brunate. Its proximity makes it a convenient cultural and urban excursion from the quieter surroundings of Carate Urio.
Tours and Activities
Carate Urio Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Carate Urio
- Acquadolce: Situated directly on the shores of Lake Como in Carate Urio, Acquadolce offers a picturesque setting with panoramic views. The menu features refined signature cuisine, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine in a veranda-terrace surrounded by a centuries-old garden, providing a serene lakeside experience. Price guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Una Finestra sul Lago: Located in Carate Urio, this restaurant offers a glass-and-steel pavilion with stunning views of Lake Como. The menu includes gourmet pizzas and a selection of Italian dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list. The stylish interior and outdoor seating provide a pleasant dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Crotto del Sergente: Situated in Lezzeno (approximately 10 km from Carate Urio), this restaurant offers traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Chef Bruno Camera emphasizes authentic flavours and local ingredients, providing a unique culinary experience. Price guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Lido di Moltrasio: Located in Moltrasio (approximately 4 km from Carate Urio), Lido di Moltrasio offers Italian cuisine in a lakeside setting. The outdoor seating area provides beautiful views of Lake Como, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Sereno al Lago: Found in Como (approximately 8 km from Carate Urio), this restaurant offers contemporary Italian cuisine with views of Lake Como. The menu features innovative dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Price guide: €€€€ (Special occasion)
Photo Gallery
Carate Urio Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Carate Urio
- Torno (approx. 5 km south of Carate Urio): A peaceful village set on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Torno offers beautiful lakeside views and a quiet, charming atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista, stroll through the narrow streets, or take in the serene surroundings at the lakeside promenade. The village is perfect for those seeking tranquillity and stunning views of the lake.
- Moltrasio (approx. 10 km south of Carate Urio): Situated on the western shore of Lake Como, Moltrasio is known for its elegant villas and scenic landscapes. Visitors can take a relaxing walk along the lakeside, enjoy the views of the surrounding hills, or explore the local cafes and shops. The town offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for unwinding by the lake.
- Laglio (approx. 5 km north of Carate Urio): A small, picturesque village, Laglio is famous for its peaceful setting and for being the residence of Hollywood actor George Clooney. The village is known for its charming streets and the beautiful lakeside views it offers. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the water or explore the local Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista.
- Argegno (approx. 10 km northwest of Carate Urio): A charming town on the western shore of Lake Como, Argegno is known for its lakeside beauty and historical architecture. Visitors can take the cable car to Pigra, a hilltop village offering panoramic views of the lake and mountains. The town also features quaint cafes, shops, and a lovely lakeside promenade.
- Como (approx. 15 km southeast of Carate Urio): The city of Como, located at the southern tip of Lake Como, is full of cultural and historical attractions. Visitors can explore the Cattedrale di Como, take a funicular to Brunate for spectacular views of the lake, or enjoy the town’s vibrant shopping scene. Como is a perfect base for exploring the lake and surrounding areas.
Lake Como Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Varenna
2. Como
3. Bellagio
4. Menaggio
5. Tremezzo
6. Lenno
7. Argegno
8. Cernobbio
9. Bellano
10. Colico
👉 Explore the Top 10 Towns on Lake Como
1. Varenna
2. Como
3. Bellagio
4. Menaggio
5. Tremezzo
6. Lenno
7. Argegno
8. Cernobbio
9. Bellano
10. Colico
👉 Explore the Top 10 Towns on Lake Como
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Carate Urio
By Rail: Carate Urio does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is Como San Giovanni, located approximately 10 kilometres to the south. Trenitalia and Trenord operate frequent services from Milan to Como San Giovanni, with journey times of about 40 minutes. From Como, travellers can reach Carate Urio by bus, taxi, or ferry.
By Road: Carate Urio is approximately 60 kilometres north of Milan and about 10 kilometres north of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SS340 road along the western shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 20 minutes via the SS340 road. The roads along the lake can be narrow and winding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports:
Lake Como Ferries: Carate Urio is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Carate Urio offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Carate Urio to Como takes approximately 28 minutes, with tickets costing between €4 and €6. Ferries operate multiple times daily, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: Carate Urio is approximately 60 kilometres north of Milan and about 10 kilometres north of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SS340 road along the western shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 20 minutes via the SS340 road. The roads along the lake can be narrow and winding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Located about 65 kilometres southwest of Carate Urio, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A36 and A9 motorways, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SS340 road. From the airport, travellers can take the Malpensa Express train to Milan Cadorna station, then a train to Como San Giovanni, followed by a bus, taxi, or ferry to Carate Urio.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 80 kilometres south of Carate Urio, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SS340 road. Public transport options from Linate Airport to Carate Urio involve taking a bus to Milan Centrale station, then a train to Como San Giovanni, followed by a bus, taxi, or ferry to Carate Urio.
Lake Como Ferries: Carate Urio is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Carate Urio offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Carate Urio to Como takes approximately 28 minutes, with tickets costing between €4 and €6. Ferries operate multiple times daily, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
Private Transfers
Carate Urio Private Transfers
A private transfer is the most convenient way to travel to or from Carate Urio, offering a direct service without the need to rely on ferries or navigate the narrow lakeside roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a comfortable and reliable journey.
From Carate Urio, the nearest hub is Como city centre, which can be reached in about 20 minutes (approx. 10 kilometres). Milan Malpensa Airport is around 55 minutes away (approx. 60 kilometres), while Milan Linate Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 15 minutes (approx. 75 kilometres). A transfer to Milan city centre usually takes around 1 hour 10 minutes (approx. 65 kilometres). For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 45 minutes away (approx. 35 kilometres).
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Carate Urio, the nearest hub is Como city centre, which can be reached in about 20 minutes (approx. 10 kilometres). Milan Malpensa Airport is around 55 minutes away (approx. 60 kilometres), while Milan Linate Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 15 minutes (approx. 75 kilometres). A transfer to Milan city centre usually takes around 1 hour 10 minutes (approx. 65 kilometres). For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 45 minutes away (approx. 35 kilometres).
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
