Colonno
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside village of Colonno is situated in the Province of Como, on the shores of Lake Como. It has a population of around 500 residents and is located a distance of 72 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Colonno has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Sala Comacina, Argegno and Villa del Balbianello. |
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What People Ask About Colonno
Is Colonno worth visiting?
What is Colonno known for?
How do you get to Colonno?
Can you take the ferry to Colonno?
When is the best time to visit Colonno?
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Discover Colonno
Colonno, located in the Lombardy region, is a small, picturesque village situated on the western shore of Lake Como, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional charm, Colonno provides a tranquil retreat for those looking to experience the beauty of the lake while enjoying a quieter pace of life. The village’s narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and stunning lakeside views make it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.
Colonno is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the stunning vistas of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a quaint church with historical significance, adding to the area’s cultural charm. For outdoor enthusiasts, Colonno offers a range of hiking trails that lead through the hills and forests, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding area. With its serene setting, natural beauty, and proximity to other towns along Lake Como, Colonno is a perfect base for exploring the lake’s many attractions.
Colonno is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the stunning vistas of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a quaint church with historical significance, adding to the area’s cultural charm. For outdoor enthusiasts, Colonno offers a range of hiking trails that lead through the hills and forests, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding area. With its serene setting, natural beauty, and proximity to other towns along Lake Como, Colonno is a perfect base for exploring the lake’s many attractions.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Colonno
- Historic Village Centre: Colonno is a compact lakeside village with narrow alleys, arched stone passageways, and traditional houses clustered along the slope. The historic centre retains a medieval layout, and many of the buildings have decorative stonework, balconies, and flower-filled courtyards that reflect the area's architectural heritage.
- Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo: Located in the heart of the village, this church dates back to the Romanesque period and features later Baroque additions. Inside are frescoes, carved altars, and religious artworks that span several centuries. The church remains a focal point for local festivities and religious events.
- Greenway del Lago di Como: Colonno is the starting point for the Greenway, a scenic walking path that stretches for around 10 km along the western shore of Lake Como. The route passes through several historic villages, offering changing views of the lake, gardens, villas, and churches. It is clearly marked and popular with both locals and visitors.
- Lakeside Path and Small Harbour: Though limited in size, the village’s lakefront area includes a small harbour, boat moorings, and access to quiet spots for sitting or fishing. The views across the lake are uninterrupted, and the atmosphere remains peaceful, especially outside peak summer months.
- Day Trip to Lenno and Villa del Balbianello: Just a short walk or drive away, Lenno offers cafés, shops, and access to Villa del Balbianello, one of the most famous villas on Lake Como. The villa’s gardens and historic interiors are open to the public and reached either on foot or by boat from Lenno’s lakefront.
Colonno Tours and Activities
Comune di Colonno
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Province: Como
Region: Lombardy Population: 434 (in 2024 - source) Size: 6 km² Elevation: 215 metres Highlights: Greenway Lake Como walking trail Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Sala Comacina, Argegno, Villa del Balbianello, Lenno |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Colonno
- Casa Panorama Located on the hillside in Colonno, this self-catering apartment offers a large terrace with panoramic views over Lake Como, two bedrooms, a full kitchen, and private parking. Guests appreciate the quiet setting, spacious layout, and access to the Greenway del Lago walking route. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamento La Terrazza sul Lago A modern holiday flat near the centre of Colonno, featuring a private terrace with lake views, contemporary furnishings, and a fully equipped kitchen. Visitors enjoy the comfort, proximity to the waterfront, and easy access to Argegno and Lenno. €€ (mid-range)
- Casa Orchidea Situated in the upper part of the village, this charming apartment offers a balcony, garden access, and mountain views. Guests value the peaceful atmosphere, short walk to the lakeshore, and convenient location along the western shore. €€ (mid-range)
- Residence Letizia Although technically located in Lenno, just a few minutes’ drive north of Colonno, this lakeside residence features well-equipped apartments, a pool, and secure parking. It’s ideal for those wanting more amenities while staying close to Colonno. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B Garzola Set in the hills above Lenno, a short drive from Colonno, this family-run B&B offers simple, clean rooms, lake views, and easy access to local hiking trails and Villa del Balbianello. Visitors enjoy the welcoming hosts and scenic setting. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Colonno
- Locanda La Tirlindana: Situated in the picturesque village of Sala Comacina, just a short walk (approximately 1 km) from Colonno, Locanda La Tirlindana offers traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features homemade pasta, fresh lake fish, and their signature lemon butter ravioli. The lakeside terrace provides stunning views of Lake Como and Isola Comacina. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Lido di Sala Comacina: Located adjacent to Locanda La Tirlindana in Sala Comacina, this casual dining spot offers pizzas, sandwiches, and refreshing beverages. The outdoor seating area allows guests to enjoy meals with a view of the lake. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria San Giacomo: Found in Sala Comacina, approximately 1 km from Colonno, Trattoria San Giacomo specializes in lake fish dishes and traditional Italian fare. The outdoor seating area offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Villa Clementina Restaurant: Located within the Villa Clementina boutique hotel in Colonno, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The menu combines traditional Italian flavours with contemporary techniques. Guests can dine indoors or on the outdoor terrace overlooking the lake. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Crotto del Sergente: Situated in Lezzeno (approximately 8 km from Colonno), 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)
Photo Gallery
Colonno Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Colonno
- Torno (approx. 5 km northeast of Colonno): A quiet village perched on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Torno offers stunning lake views and a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the lakefront, visit the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista, or explore the charming streets of the village, perfect for those looking to experience authentic lakeside life.
- Argegno (approx. 5 km south of Colonno): A small but picturesque town on the western shore of Lake Como, Argegno is known for its beautiful setting and historical charm. Visitors can take the cable car to Pigra, a hilltop village that offers panoramic views of the lake, or explore the narrow streets lined with traditional houses. The lakeside promenade is ideal for a relaxing walk with beautiful scenery.
- Lenno (approx. 10 km southwest of Colonno): Located on the western shore of Lake Como, Lenno is home to the famous Villa del Balbianello, a stunning lakeside villa surrounded by beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the villa, take a boat trip to Isola Comacina, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere by the lake. The town is also known for its charming piazzas and lakeside cafes.
- Cernobbio (approx. 10 km southeast of Colonno): A lovely town known for its grand villas and scenic views, Cernobbio is home to the luxurious Villa d'Este, a world-renowned hotel. The town offers a lakeside promenade, quaint streets to explore, and several dining options with beautiful views of Lake Como. It’s an ideal place for a relaxed day, with easy access to hiking paths and other nearby attractions.
- Como (approx. 20 km southeast of Colonno): A city full of history, Como is famous for its Cattedrale di Como and its beautiful Piazza Cavour, which faces the lake. Visitors can take the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, or explore the local markets and boutiques. The city serves as a gateway to the other lakeside villages, making it a great base for further exploration.
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Colonno
By Rail: Colonno does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is Como San Giovanni, located approximately 20 kilometres to the south-east. Trenitalia and Trenord operate frequent services from Milan to Como San Giovanni, with journey times of about 40 minutes. From Como, travellers can reach Colonno by bus or taxi.
By Road: Colonno is approximately 70 kilometres north of Milan and about 20 kilometres north-east of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340 road along the western shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 30 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: Colonno is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Colonno offers services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Colonno to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, with tickets costing between €6 and €9. Ferries operate once daily, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: Colonno is approximately 70 kilometres north of Milan and about 20 kilometres north-east of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340 road along the western shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 30 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 80 kilometres south-west of Colonno, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A36 and A9 motorways, exiting at Lago di Como, 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 or taxi to Colonno.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 95 kilometres south of Colonno, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340 road. Public transport options from Linate Airport to Colonno involve taking a bus to Milan Centrale station, then a train to Como San Giovanni, followed by a bus or taxi to Colonno.
Lake Como Ferries: Colonno is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Colonno offers services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Colonno to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, with tickets costing between €6 and €9. Ferries operate once daily, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
