Careno
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside location of Careno is situated in the Province of Lecco, on the shores of Lake Como. It's a part of the Comune of Nesso and is located a distance of 65 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Limonta has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Torno, Blevio, Lezzeno, Como, and Bellagio. |
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What People Ask About Careno
Is Careno worth visiting?
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Discover Careno
Careno, located in the Lombardy region, is a small, picturesque village situated on the eastern shore of Lake Como, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional charm, Careno provides a serene setting for visitors seeking a relaxing retreat by the lake. The village’s narrow streets, historic buildings, and scenic waterfront make it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Careno is famous for its lakeside setting, where visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding hills. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a small church with historic significance, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Careno provides hiking trails that lead into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the mountains. With its peaceful atmosphere, natural beauty, and proximity to other towns along the lake, Careno is an ideal base for exploring the wonders of Lake Como.
Careno is famous for its lakeside setting, where visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding hills. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a small church with historic significance, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Careno provides hiking trails that lead into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the mountains. With its peaceful atmosphere, natural beauty, and proximity to other towns along the lake, Careno is an ideal base for exploring the wonders of Lake Como.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Careno
- Lakeside Setting and Steep Access: Careno is a small hamlet located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, between Nesso and Pognana Lario. The village can only be reached on foot via steep paths from the main road above or by boat, preserving its quiet and isolated character. Its position directly on the lake makes it especially scenic and peaceful.
- Chiesa di San Martino: This Romanesque church sits just above the lake and dates back to the 12th century. It features a bell tower with mullioned windows and a simple interior with medieval elements. The churchyard overlooks the water and provides a tranquil spot with uninterrupted views across Lake Como.
- Stone Houses and Village Lanes: Careno’s compact centre is made up of tightly clustered stone buildings, narrow cobbled walkways, and covered passages. It retains the feel of a fishing village from centuries past, with very little modern development. The limited access helps preserve its authentic and unspoiled character.
- Small Beach and Swimming Area: A short walk from the centre leads to a small pebbled beach that is popular with swimmers and kayakers in summer. The beach is public and often quiet, offering clear water and a more private experience compared to the busier beaches of larger towns.
- Day Trip to Nesso: Just a few minutes away by car or boat, Nesso offers a dramatic gorge, waterfalls, and a medieval bridge known as the Ponte della Civera. It provides a contrast to Careno’s simplicity and makes for an ideal short excursion to explore more of the lake’s natural and historic highlights.
Careno Tours and Activities
Careno - frazione di Nesso
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Careno
- Essentia Guest House Located in Molina, just above Careno and part of Nesso, this boutique guest house offers beautifully styled rooms with panoramic lake views, a peaceful garden, and breakfast made with local produce. Guests value the tranquil hillside location and walking access to Careno via scenic trails. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B La Vista Positioned in the hills above Careno, this bed and breakfast provides simple, comfortable rooms with lake-facing balconies, homemade breakfast, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Visitors enjoy the views, personal service, and proximity to the quieter eastern shore. €€ (mid-range)
- Casa Careno A private holiday apartment located within the hamlet itself, offering direct access to the lakeshore, a terrace with lake views, and a fully equipped kitchen. Guests appreciate the quiet, traffic-free setting and the authentic character of the village. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamento Nesso Vista Lago Situated just north of Careno in Nesso, this modern apartment features a large balcony with uninterrupted lake views, stylish furnishings, and private parking. It's a good base for exploring the eastern shore by car or ferry. €€ (mid-range)
- Il Belvedere sul Lago A hillside apartment above Careno offering panoramic lake views, an outdoor terrace, and traditional stone architecture. Visitors enjoy the setting, ideal for walkers, and the charm of staying in a less touristy part of Lake Como. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Careno
- Trattoria del Porto: Located in Careno, this family-run trattoria offers traditional Italian cuisine with a focus on lake fish. The menu features dishes like polenta with salted fish and risotto with perch. The waterfront terrace provides picturesque views of Lake Como. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Crotto dei Pescatori: Situated in Lezzeno (approximately 8 km from Careno), this lakeside restaurant specializes in fresh fish dishes. Guests can enjoy specialties like fish pâté with almond sauce and various fish risottos while seated by the water's edge. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Gatto Nero: Located in Cernobbio (about 10 km from Careno), this restaurant offers panoramic views of Lake Como. The menu includes a variety of Italian dishes, and the outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying the scenery. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- La Fagurida: Found in Tremezzo (approximately 12 km from Careno), this family-run trattoria serves traditional Lombard cuisine. Dishes include grilled meats, roasted rabbit, and various pasta options, all made with locally sourced ingredients. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Crotto Isidoro: Situated in Dongo (about 15 km from Careno), this historic restaurant offers traditional dishes like polenta with various meats and grilled meats, all in a rustic setting with panoramic lake views. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Careno Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Careno
- Nesso (approx. 5 km south of Careno): A small, charming village on the western shore of Lake Como, Nesso is known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the picturesque Cascata di Nesso, a waterfall that cascades down to the lake, or enjoy the lakeside views while wandering through the village’s narrow streets. The town’s quiet nature makes it an ideal spot for relaxation.
- Ossuccio (approx. 10 km southwest of Careno): Located on the western shore of Lake Como, Ossuccio is a tranquil village that offers beautiful views of the lake and the Isola Comacina. Key attractions include the historic Sacro Monte di Ossuccio, a UNESCO World Heritage site with religious chapels, and the scenic lakeside walk. The village is also home to charming cafes and local restaurants.
- Tremezzo (approx. 10 km south of Careno): Famous for its historic Villa Carlotta and its lush gardens, Tremezzo offers visitors an elegant setting on the shores of Lake Como. The town features a lovely promenade, perfect for strolling along the lake, and several beautiful villas. Visitors can also explore nearby hiking trails for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
- Lenno (approx. 15 km southwest of Careno): A charming village known for the iconic Villa del Balbianello, Lenno offers breathtaking views of Lake Como. Visitors can enjoy the lakeside promenade, explore the villa’s beautiful gardens, or take a boat trip to Isola Comacina. The town is also home to several lovely beaches and local eateries.
- Como (approx. 25 km southeast of Careno): A city rich in history and culture, Como is known for its impressive Cattedrale di Como, the historic Tempio Voltiano, and the scenic Piazza Cavour. Visitors can take a funicular to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake, explore the charming town centre, or enjoy a boat trip around Lake Como to visit other nearby towns.
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Careno
By Rail: Careno does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is Como San Giovanni, located approximately 15 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 Careno by bus, taxi, or ferry.
By Road: Careno is approximately 60 kilometres north of Milan and about 15 kilometres northeast of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SP583 road along the eastern shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 25 minutes via the SP583 road. The roads along the lake can be narrow and winding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports:
Lake Como Ferries: Careno is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Careno offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Careno to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, with tickets costing between €6 and €9. Ferries operate several times per day, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: Careno is approximately 60 kilometres north of Milan and about 15 kilometres northeast of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SP583 road along the eastern shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 25 minutes via the SP583 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 70 kilometres southwest of Careno, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A36 and A9 motorways, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SP583 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 Careno.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 85 kilometres south of Careno, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SP583 road. Public transport options from Linate Airport to Careno involve taking a bus to Milan Centrale station, then a train to Como San Giovanni, followed by a bus, taxi, or ferry to Careno.
Lake Como Ferries: Careno is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Careno offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Careno to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, with tickets costing between €6 and €9. Ferries operate several times per day, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
