Colico
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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 Colico
Colico has a solid hotel offering, supported by its position at the northern end of Lake Como with easy access to the lake, mountains and transport links. The best-reviewed options combine comfort, reliable facilities and convenient proximity to the waterfront, the harbour and the nearby outdoor activities.
Hotel Risi is one of the most established choices in Colico, appreciated for its lakeside setting, comfortable rooms and welcoming service, with consistently positive feedback for both location and hospitality (€€€). Seven Park Hotel offers a broader range of facilities, including pools, a spa and spacious outdoor areas, making it a popular option for guests seeking relaxation and wellness (€€€€). Hotel Villa Colico provides a smaller, well-regarded alternative near the centre, valued for its friendly atmosphere, convenient setting and dependable standards of comfort (€€).
Hotel Risi is one of the most established choices in Colico, appreciated for its lakeside setting, comfortable rooms and welcoming service, with consistently positive feedback for both location and hospitality (€€€). Seven Park Hotel offers a broader range of facilities, including pools, a spa and spacious outdoor areas, making it a popular option for guests seeking relaxation and wellness (€€€€). Hotel Villa Colico provides a smaller, well-regarded alternative near the centre, valued for its friendly atmosphere, convenient setting and dependable standards of comfort (€€).
Where is
Where is Colico?
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The lakeside town of Colico is situated in the Province of Lecco, on the shores of Lake Como. It has a population of around 7,800 residents and is located a distance of 100 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Nearby places of interest include Moltrasio, Carate Urio, Como, Torno and Montorfano. |
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Comune di Colico
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Province: Lecco
Region: Lombardy Population: 8,170 (in 2024 - source) Size: 35 km² Elevation: 218 metres Travel facilities: ferry port, train station Close by: Abbazia di Piona, Dorio, Dervio, Bellano, Gera Lario |
What People Ask About Colico
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Discover Colico
Colico is positioned at the northern end of Lake Como, framed by mountains and wide stretches of water that open out towards the Grigna range and the Valtellina Valley. The town has a relaxed lakeside setting with long promenades, a marina, and views that link the lake to the Alpine foothills. Its setting makes it a natural point of arrival for those travelling between the lake and the higher passes into Switzerland.
The town is characterised by a mix of history and nature, with landmarks such as the Forte Montecchio Nord, one of Italy’s best-preserved First World War forts, and the hilltop Abbey of Piona overlooking the water. While Colico is well connected by train and road, making it straightforward to reach from Milan, it also acts as a junction for nearby towns such as Lecco and Chiavenna, giving visitors plenty of options for exploring the surrounding region.
The town is characterised by a mix of history and nature, with landmarks such as the Forte Montecchio Nord, one of Italy’s best-preserved First World War forts, and the hilltop Abbey of Piona overlooking the water. While Colico is well connected by train and road, making it straightforward to reach from Milan, it also acts as a junction for nearby towns such as Lecco and Chiavenna, giving visitors plenty of options for exploring the surrounding region.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Colico
- Lakeside Promenade and Piazza Garibaldi: Colico features a spacious lakeside promenade lined with palm trees, restaurants, and wide open views across the northern end of Lake Como. The nearby Piazza Garibaldi serves as the town’s social hub, with cafés and markets set against the backdrop of the Alps and the lake.
- Forte Montecchio Nord: Built during the First World War, this well-preserved military fort offers guided tours through underground tunnels, artillery platforms, and barracks. Its strategic location provides panoramic views of the lake and Valtellina Valley, and the site is of particular interest to history enthusiasts.
- Abbazia di Piona: Located on the nearby Olgiasca peninsula, this Romanesque abbey overlooks the lake and is surrounded by olive groves and gardens. It is still inhabited by monks and open to visitors, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to explore medieval architecture and cloisters.
- Water Sports and Outdoor Activities: Colico is one of the best places on Lake Como for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing due to the consistent breezes in the northern basin. There are also hiking and biking trails in the surrounding hills and towards Monte Legnone, the highest peak by the lake.
- Day Trip to Domaso: Just a short drive or ferry ride away, Domaso offers a lively beach scene, historical alleys, and excellent conditions for water sports. It’s a good complement to Colico, particularly for those looking to explore more of the northern lakeshore or continue enjoying lake-based activities.
Tours and Activities
Colico Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Colico
- Locanda Capolago: Situated in the centre of Colico, Locanda Capolago offers refined Italian cuisine with a strong focus on presentation and seasonal ingredients. The menu features dishes such as seafood risotto and slow-cooked meat mains, served in an elegant, modern setting with attentive service. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- La Briciola Osteria Moderna: Found in central Colico, this contemporary osteria serves creative interpretations of Italian classics. The menu changes frequently and includes seafood, pasta, and vegetarian options. The sleek interior and high-quality cooking have made it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Pizzeria Portovino: Located near the lakeside promenade in Colico, Portovino offers wood-fired pizzas, pasta dishes, and a broad drinks menu featuring local wines and cocktails. The atmosphere is relaxed and lively, ideal for informal meals and evening gatherings. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- El Mercante: Also in Colico, El Mercante provides a varied menu of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, including fresh fish, pasta, and meat-based mains. With its warm service and generous portions, it’s well-suited to family dining or small groups. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria Del Nibbio: Located in Dorio (approximately 5 km from Colico), this rustic osteria specialises in traditional Lombard dishes such as polenta with braised meats, cold cuts, and homemade desserts. The countryside location and authentic food offer a more rural dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Colico Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Colico
- Domaso (approx. 5 km south of Colico): A peaceful lakeside village, Domaso is popular for its water sports, particularly windsurfing and sailing. Visitors can enjoy relaxing by the lake, take a stroll along the lakeside promenade, or explore the narrow streets of the town. The surrounding mountains provide scenic views and excellent opportunities for hiking, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Gravedona ed Uniti (approx. 10 km southwest of Colico): Located on the northern shores of Lake Como, Gravedona ed Uniti is known for its historical landmarks, including the Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie and Castello di Gravedona. The town also offers a beautiful lakeside promenade, perfect for leisurely walks, and the surrounding area is ideal for hiking and cycling. Gravedona’s tranquil atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.
- Tremezzo (approx. 25 km south of Colico): Tremezzo is renowned for the Villa Carlotta, famous for its stunning botanical gardens and impressive art collections. Visitors can enjoy scenic lakeside walks, explore nearby parks, or take a boat trip on Lake Como to enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. Tremezzo is a charming town offering both natural beauty and historical interest.
- Menaggio (approx. 20 km south of Colico): A lively town on the western shore of Lake Como, Menaggio offers a beautiful lakeside promenade and a bustling town centre. Visitors can enjoy the town's charming cafes, take a boat trip across the lake, or explore nearby hiking trails. The town is a popular base for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and water sports, and provides stunning views of the lake and mountains.
- Lenno (approx. 15 km southwest of Colico): A tranquil town on the western shore of Lake Como, Lenno is home to the famous Villa del Balbianello, which has been used as a filming location in various movies. Visitors can tour the villa and gardens, enjoy the lakeside setting, or take a boat ride to Isola Comacina, a small island in the lake. The town’s serene atmosphere and stunning surroundings make it a peaceful spot to relax and explore.
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 Colico
By Rail: Colico has its own train station located on both the Lecco–Colico and Colico–Tirano railway lines. It is well connected by regional trains operated by Trenord, with direct services to Lecco, Milan, Sondrio, and Tirano. The journey to Lecco takes about 1 hour, while trains to Milan take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. The station is located close to the centre of Colico and within easy walking distance of the lakefront and marina.
By Road: Colico is situated at the northern end of Lake Como, approximately 95 kilometres north of Milan and 45 kilometres north of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes via the SS36 dual carriageway, which runs directly to the town. From Lecco, the drive takes just under 1 hour. Public car parks are available near the town centre and lake area.
By Ferry: Colico is part of the Navigazione Laghi ferry network and serves as the northernmost stop on the lake. Passenger boats operate between Colico and various towns along the eastern shore, including Piona, Dervio, Bellano, and Varenna. Services are more frequent in the spring and summer months. Although there are no car ferries from Colico, passengers can connect to vehicle ferry services by continuing to Varenna or Menaggio.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Colico is situated at the northern end of Lake Como, approximately 95 kilometres north of Milan and 45 kilometres north of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes via the SS36 dual carriageway, which runs directly to the town. From Lecco, the drive takes just under 1 hour. Public car parks are available near the town centre and lake area.
By Ferry: Colico is part of the Navigazione Laghi ferry network and serves as the northernmost stop on the lake. Passenger boats operate between Colico and various towns along the eastern shore, including Piona, Dervio, Bellano, and Varenna. Services are more frequent in the spring and summer months. Although there are no car ferries from Colico, passengers can connect to vehicle ferry services by continuing to Varenna or Menaggio.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Located about 80 kilometres south-east of Colico, the drive takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Public transport options include a bus to Bergamo station, a train to Lecco, and a connecting train to Colico.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Approximately 95 kilometres south of Colico, the drive takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Travellers can also take a bus or taxi to Milan Centrale station, then continue by train via Lecco to Colico.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Situated around 115 kilometres south-west of Colico, the drive takes roughly 2 hours. The Malpensa Express train runs to Milan Centrale, with onward connections to Lecco and Colico by regional train.
Private Transfers
Colico Private Transfers
A private transfer is the most convenient way to travel to or from Colico, giving you a direct journey without the need to organise ferries or drive the long lakeside roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and reliable service.
From Colico, the nearest hub is Lecco city centre, which can be reached in about 45 minutes, a distance of 38 km. Milan Linate Airport is roughly 1 hour 30 minutes away at 95 km, while Milan Malpensa Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 50 minutes, covering 115 km. A transfer to Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport usually takes 1 hour 20 minutes with a journey of 80 km. For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 1 hour away, a distance of 55 km.
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 Colico, the nearest hub is Lecco city centre, which can be reached in about 45 minutes, a distance of 38 km. Milan Linate Airport is roughly 1 hour 30 minutes away at 95 km, while Milan Malpensa Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 50 minutes, covering 115 km. A transfer to Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport usually takes 1 hour 20 minutes with a journey of 80 km. For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 1 hour away, a distance of 55 km.
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.
