Colico
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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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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What People Ask About Colico
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Discover Colico
Colico is a town located on the northern tip of Lake Como in Lombardy, around 40 kilometres from Lecco. Positioned at the mouth of the Adda River, Colico enjoys a stunning view of the lake and the surrounding mountains, with the towering peaks of the Alps rising to the north. The town is known for its natural beauty and tranquil lakeside setting, making it a popular destination for those looking to experience both the serene atmosphere of the lake and the rugged landscape of the surrounding mountains.
One of Colico’s key attractions is its historic Fort Montecchio Nord, which dates back to the early 20th century and offers panoramic views of the town and the lake. The town is also home to several picturesque beaches, perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the views. For outdoor enthusiasts, Colico provides numerous opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports, with access to nearby trails and the lake for sailing and windsurfing.
Nearby, the town of Dervio to the south offers a quieter lakeside setting, while the village of Varenna, just a short distance to the west, is famous for its romantic atmosphere and beautiful gardens. To the east, the town of Lecco provides more cultural landmarks and dining options. Colico’s location, combined with its outdoor offerings and close proximity to other Lake Como towns, makes it a great spot for exploring the northern part of the lake and its surrounding landscapes.
One of Colico’s key attractions is its historic Fort Montecchio Nord, which dates back to the early 20th century and offers panoramic views of the town and the lake. The town is also home to several picturesque beaches, perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the views. For outdoor enthusiasts, Colico provides numerous opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports, with access to nearby trails and the lake for sailing and windsurfing.
Nearby, the town of Dervio to the south offers a quieter lakeside setting, while the village of Varenna, just a short distance to the west, is famous for its romantic atmosphere and beautiful gardens. To the east, the town of Lecco provides more cultural landmarks and dining options. Colico’s location, combined with its outdoor offerings and close proximity to other Lake Como towns, makes it a great spot for exploring the northern part of the lake and its surrounding landscapes.
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.
Colico Tours and Activities
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 |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Colico
- Seven Park Hotel Located directly on the lakefront near Colico’s centre, this modern hotel offers bright rooms, two outdoor pools, a wellness centre, and a large garden. Guests appreciate the lakeside setting, walking distance to the beach and harbour, and views of Monte Legnone. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Risi Situated on the lakeside promenade, just a short walk from the train station and main square, this family-run hotel features comfortable rooms, many with lake views, and an on-site restaurant. Visitors enjoy the central location, friendly service, and easy access to ferries and local shops. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa Quattro Stagioni Set in a quiet area close to Colico’s centre and lake, this 19th-century villa offers elegant rooms with period furnishings and a garden. Guests value the unique character, relaxed atmosphere, and walking distance to restaurants and the beach. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B Casa del Viandante Located on the outskirts of Colico near the Sentiero del Viandante walking trail, this bed and breakfast offers clean, comfortable rooms and a generous breakfast. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, proximity to hiking routes, and warm hospitality. €€ (mid-range)
- Villadina Farm Positioned in the countryside a few minutes from the lake, this agriturismo offers apartments in a rural setting with mountain views, gardens, and space for families. Guests appreciate the quiet location, friendly hosts, and easy access to both Colico town and nature trails. €€ (mid-range)
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.
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.
