Dongo
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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 Dongo
Dongo has a modest hotel offering, with most accommodation centred around the lakeside and the marina. The best-established options focus on comfort, access to the waterfront and convenient proximity to the northern shore’s walking and cycling routes.
Hotel Regina in nearby Gravedona ed Uniti is a well-regarded lakeside choice, appreciated for its panoramic views, pool and consistently positive guest feedback (€€€). Also in Gravedona ed Uniti, Tullio Hotel offers modern facilities, a peaceful lakefront setting and strong reviews for comfort and relaxation (€€€). For a practical alternative within easy reach, Hotel Risi in Colico provides comfortable rooms, welcoming hospitality and convenient access to both the waterfront and local services (€€€).
Hotel Regina in nearby Gravedona ed Uniti is a well-regarded lakeside choice, appreciated for its panoramic views, pool and consistently positive guest feedback (€€€). Also in Gravedona ed Uniti, Tullio Hotel offers modern facilities, a peaceful lakefront setting and strong reviews for comfort and relaxation (€€€). For a practical alternative within easy reach, Hotel Risi in Colico provides comfortable rooms, welcoming hospitality and convenient access to both the waterfront and local services (€€€).
Where is
Where is Dongo?
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The lakeside town of Dongo is situated in the Province of Como, on the shores of Lake Como. It has a population of around 3,000 residents and is located a distance of 97 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy
Dongo has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Domaso, Pianello del Lario and Gravedona ed Uniti. |
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Comune di Dongo
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Province: Como
Region: Lombardy Population: 3,172 (in 2024 - source) Size: 8 km² Elevation: 208 metres Highlights: Dongo Marina, Museo Fino della Guerra Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Domaso, Pianello del Lario, Gravedona ed Uniti |
What People Ask About Dongo
Is Dongo worth visiting?
What is Dongo known for?
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Can you take a ferry to Dongo?
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Discover
Discover Dongo
Dongo is a town on the north-western shore of Lake Como, in the province of Como. Set at the mouth of the Albano Valley, it combines a historic lakeside centre with a backdrop of mountains that rise steeply behind the town. Its position on the road between Gravedona and Cremia makes it part of the northern network of settlements around the lake.
The town is known for the Palazzo Manzi, which houses the civic museum documenting events of the Second World War, when Dongo played a role in the final stages of the conflict. The Church of Santa Maria in Martinico and the Parish Church of San Gottardo are other notable landmarks. The waterfront includes a harbour and promenade, while the Albano Valley provides access to walking trails and alpine landscapes. Road and ferry links connect Dongo with nearby centres and with destinations across the lake such as Bellano.
The town is known for the Palazzo Manzi, which houses the civic museum documenting events of the Second World War, when Dongo played a role in the final stages of the conflict. The Church of Santa Maria in Martinico and the Parish Church of San Gottardo are other notable landmarks. The waterfront includes a harbour and promenade, while the Albano Valley provides access to walking trails and alpine landscapes. Road and ferry links connect Dongo with nearby centres and with destinations across the lake such as Bellano.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Dongo
- Piazza Paracchini and Lakeside Promenade: The main square in Dongo opens directly onto the lake, with views of the northern shoreline and surrounding mountains. The promenade features a marina, shaded walkways, and several cafés, making it a welcoming and social area for both residents and visitors. It’s also a key stop on the ferry route around the upper lake.
- Palazzo Manzi and Museo della Fine della Guerra: Housed in the 18th-century town hall, this museum documents the events surrounding the end of the Second World War in Italy. Dongo was where Benito Mussolini was captured in 1945, and the museum explores this history with photographs, documents, and personal accounts.
- Chiesa di Santa Maria di Loreto: Located in the centre of town, this church dates to the 17th century and features a Baroque interior with frescoes, stucco decorations, and side chapels. It is one of several religious buildings in Dongo and plays an important role in the town’s spiritual and cultural life.
- Water Sports and Lakeside Activities: Dongo has a broad lakefront ideal for windsurfing, sailing, and swimming, with a long pebble beach and rental facilities nearby. Its position on the breezier upper section of the lake makes it particularly suitable for water sports, with several schools and clubs based in the area.
- Day Trip to Piona Abbey: Across the lake, accessible by boat or road via Colico, Abbazia di Piona is a Romanesque monastery set on a quiet peninsula. Surrounded by olive groves and gardens, it offers panoramic views, a peaceful atmosphere, and a chance to explore well-preserved medieval architecture.
Tours and Activities
Dongo Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Dongo
- Osteria del Bumbardin: Located in Dongo, this osteria offers traditional Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features dishes such as homemade pasta, fresh lake fish, and local meats. The warm and rustic atmosphere provides an authentic dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Albergo Ristorante Dongo: Situated in Dongo, this establishment combines accommodation with a restaurant serving Italian and pizza dishes. Guests can enjoy a variety of pizzas, pasta, and seafood options. The casual setting is ideal for families and groups. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Pizzeria La Lampara: Also in Dongo, La Lampara offers a selection of Italian dishes, with a focus on pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven. The menu includes various pasta dishes and seafood options. The friendly service and cosy environment make it a popular choice among locals and visitors. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Fattoria: Located in Gravedona ed Uniti (approximately 3 km from Dongo), La Fattoria is known for its Italian cuisine and pizza offerings. The menu includes a variety of pizzas and traditional Italian dishes. The rustic setting and outdoor seating area create a charming dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante La Baia: Situated in Cremia (about 8 km from Dongo), Ristorante La Baia offers Italian and seafood dishes. The menu features fresh lake fish and homemade pasta. The lakeside terrace provides a picturesque setting for dining. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Dongo Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Dongo
- Gravedona ed Uniti (approx. 5 km northwest of Dongo): Situated on the northern shore of Lake Como, Gravedona ed Uniti offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks. The Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie is a highlight, with its beautiful frescoes. The town also has a lovely lakeside promenade, great for walking and relaxing while enjoying the view, along with opportunities for hiking in the surrounding hills.
- Domaso (approx. 5 km southwest of Dongo): A charming town on the northern shores of Lake Como, Domaso is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning views of the lake and mountains. The town is a popular spot for outdoor activities, particularly water sports like windsurfing and sailing. Visitors can explore the town’s narrow streets, enjoy the beaches, or take a relaxing boat ride on the lake.
- Colico (approx. 10 km south of Dongo): Located at the northern tip of Lake Como, Colico offers visitors beautiful lakeside views and a variety of outdoor activities. The Fort Montecchio, an old military fortress, provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. The town also has several beaches where visitors can swim, relax, or take part in water sports, and there are plenty of scenic hiking trails in the area.
- Tremezzo (approx. 25 km south of Dongo): Tremezzo is a picturesque lakeside town famous for Villa Carlotta, known for its stunning gardens and fine art collections. Visitors can stroll through the lakeside parks, enjoy a boat tour, or visit the nearby Parco Municipale. The town also offers scenic dining options with views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
- Menaggio (approx. 20 km southeast of Dongo): Situated on the western shore of Lake Como, Menaggio is a lively town with a beautiful promenade and plenty of cafes and restaurants. The town offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the town or take a ferry to other towns along the lake. The Piazza Garibaldi is the heart of the town, where visitors can relax and watch the world go by.
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 Dongo
By Rail: Dongo does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is Colico, located approximately 15 kilometres to the northeast. Trenord operates regular services from Milan to Colico, with journey times of about 1 hour and 40 minutes. From Colico, travellers can reach Dongo by bus or taxi.
By Road: Dongo is approximately 90 kilometres north of Milan and about 40 kilometres northeast of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 45 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 1 hour 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: Dongo is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Dongo offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Dongo to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 16 minutes, with tickets costing between €11 and €17. Ferries operate four times a day, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: Dongo is approximately 90 kilometres north of Milan and about 40 kilometres northeast of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 45 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 1 hour 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 100 kilometres southwest of Dongo, the drive takes approximately 2 hours 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 Colico, followed by a bus or taxi to Dongo.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 110 kilometres south of Dongo, the drive takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Lago di Como, and then following the SS340 road. Public transport options from Linate Airport to Dongo involve taking a bus to Milan Centrale station, then a train to Colico, followed by a bus or taxi to Dongo.
Lake Como Ferries: Dongo is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Dongo offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Dongo to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 16 minutes, with tickets costing between €11 and €17. Ferries operate four times a day, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
Private Transfers
Dongo Private Transfers
A private transfer is the most straightforward way to travel to or from Dongo, providing a direct service without the need to arrange ferries or drive the narrow roads along Lake Como yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.
From Dongo, the nearest hub is Como city centre, which can be reached in about 1 hour 15 minutes (approx. 55 kilometres). Milan Malpensa Airport is around 1 hour 45 minutes away (approx. 100 kilometres), while Milan Linate Airport can be reached in about 2 hours (approx. 125 kilometres). A transfer to Milan city centre usually takes around 1 hour 50 minutes (approx. 100 kilometres). For those heading into Switzerland, Lugano is about 1 hour away (approx. 55 kilometres).
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 Dongo, the nearest hub is Como city centre, which can be reached in about 1 hour 15 minutes (approx. 55 kilometres). Milan Malpensa Airport is around 1 hour 45 minutes away (approx. 100 kilometres), while Milan Linate Airport can be reached in about 2 hours (approx. 125 kilometres). A transfer to Milan city centre usually takes around 1 hour 50 minutes (approx. 100 kilometres). For those heading into Switzerland, Lugano is about 1 hour away (approx. 55 kilometres).
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.
