Colico​

Latest page update: 6 March 2025
By Dion Protani
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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Colico • Lake Como • Lombardy
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.​
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Forte Montecchio: Visit Forte Montecchio, a historic military fort located on a hill overlooking Colico. It is one of the best-preserved fortresses from World War I in Italy and offers guided tours.
  • Piona Abbey: Explore the Abbazia di Piona, a beautiful Cistercian monastery located near Colico. It offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
  • Water Sports: Colico is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and kayaking on Lake Como.
  • Nature Walks: The surrounding mountains and hills provide excellent opportunities for hiking and nature walks, with trails leading to panoramic viewpoints.
  • Lake Como Beaches: Relax on the sandy beaches along Lake Como's shore, enjoying the serene beauty of the lake and the Alps in the background.
  • Local Cuisine: Savour the traditional Lombard and Italian cuisine in Colico's restaurants and trattorias. Taste regional specialties and fresh fish dishes from the lake.
  • Waterfront Promenade: Take a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade, lined with charming cafes and offering beautiful views of Lake Como.
Comune di Colico
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​

Recommended accommodation: Hotel ​Risi

Colico​​  Gallery

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