Malgrate
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Latest page update: 8 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside town of Malgrate is situated in the Province of Lecco, on the shores of Lake Como. It has a population of around 4,000 residents and is located a distance of 56 kilometres north east of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Malgrate has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Lecco, Valmadrera and Abbadia Lariana. |
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Malgrate Overview
Malgrate, located in the Lombardy region, is a small town set on the eastern shore of Lake Como, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty, Malgrate is a popular destination for those seeking to relax and explore the natural landscapes of the area. The town’s historic charm, with its narrow streets, traditional buildings, and lakeside setting, makes it an ideal base for enjoying both tranquillity and adventure.
Malgrate is famous for its lakeside promenade, which offers leisurely walks with breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding hills. The town is also home to the Chiesa di San Carlo, a beautiful church that adds to its historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Malgrate offers a range of hiking and mountain biking trails that lead up into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The peaceful setting, combined with its natural beauty and lakeside charm, makes Malgrate a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Lake Como.
Malgrate is famous for its lakeside promenade, which offers leisurely walks with breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding hills. The town is also home to the Chiesa di San Carlo, a beautiful church that adds to its historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Malgrate offers a range of hiking and mountain biking trails that lead up into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The peaceful setting, combined with its natural beauty and lakeside charm, makes Malgrate a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Lake Como.
Top Things to Do in Malgrate
- Lakeside Promenade and Views of Lecco: Malgrate boasts a well-maintained promenade directly facing the city of Lecco, with wide pedestrian paths, landscaped gardens, and benches overlooking the lake. The promenade is ideal for walking or cycling, especially at sunset when the views across the water to the mountains and Lecco’s skyline are particularly striking.
- Chiesa Parrocchiale di Sant'Antonio Abate: This parish church is located near the historic core of the village and features a 17th-century structure with a tall bell tower. Inside are Baroque decorations, religious statues, and a richly painted ceiling, reflecting the importance of religious life in Malgrate’s history.
- Belvedere Parco Gaggio: Situated on a small rise behind the village, this park provides panoramic views over Lago di Como’s eastern branch. It’s a peaceful spot for walking, relaxing, or picnicking, with footpaths that lead through green spaces and connect to residential streets and quiet corners of the village.
- Watersports and Outdoor Activities: Malgrate’s wide lakefront offers access to canoeing, paddleboarding, and rowing, particularly in the calm waters near Lecco. Cycling routes pass through the town, linking with the Ciclabile dei Laghi and Adda River paths, while nearby trails lead into the hills for walking and light hiking.
- Day Trip to Lecco: Just across the bridge, Lecco offers a larger historic centre, cultural sites like the Basilica di San Nicolò, museums, and ferry connections to the rest of the lake. It’s easily reached on foot or by bike and provides a convenient urban complement to Malgrate’s more relaxed setting.
Comune di Malgrate
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Province: Lecco
Region: Lombardy Population: 4,188 (in 2024 - source) Size: 2 km² Elevation: 231 metres Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Lecco, Valmadrera, Abbadia Lariana, Mandello del Lario |
Where to Stay in Malgrate - My Recommended Accommodation
- Casa Sull’Albero Located in a quiet park setting overlooking the lake, this eco-friendly boutique hotel offers sleek, modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a wellness area, and a panoramic outdoor pool. Guests appreciate the tranquil surroundings, contemporary design, and views across the water to Lecco. €€€ (high-end)
- Clarion Collection Hotel Griso Lecco Situated just above the lakeside promenade, this hotel provides spacious rooms with balconies, many facing the lake and the mountains. Visitors enjoy the rooftop restaurant, private parking, and convenient location for walking to both Malgrate and central Lecco. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Promessi Sposi Positioned directly on the lakefront in the centre of Malgrate, this elegant hotel has been recently refurbished and offers stylish rooms, a wellness area, and a restaurant with lake-view dining. Guests value the high-quality service and immediate access to the lakeside path. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B Il Vicolo Set in a quiet corner of Malgrate’s historic area, this small bed and breakfast features charming rooms with exposed stonework, a garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests enjoy the warm hospitality and location just a few minutes’ walk from the lake. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamento Vista Lago Malgrate A self-catering flat near the waterfront, offering a balcony with lake views, a kitchen, and private parking. Visitors appreciate the comfort, space, and walking access to restaurants, shops, and ferry services across the lake. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat in Malgrate - My Recommended Restaurants
- Ristorante Da Giovannino: Located in the centre of Malgrate, this well-established restaurant serves a seasonal menu combining classic Italian dishes with modern influences. Highlights include homemade pasta, local lake fish, and an extensive wine list. The setting is refined but relaxed, making it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Covo Nord Ovest: Positioned along the Malgrate lakefront, Covo Nord Ovest offers scenic views of Lake Como and a menu centred on seafood. Diners can enjoy dishes such as grilled fish and seafood pasta from a panoramic terrace. The modern interior and lake views make it a popular choice. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria Era Ora: Also in Malgrate, this cosy osteria blends tradition with creativity. The menu features Italian staples with a modern touch, prepared using fresh local ingredients. The small dining room and friendly staff give it a welcoming and informal atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Griso Panorama Restaurant: Located within a hotel in Malgrate, this restaurant offers sweeping views over Lake Como from its large terrace. The kitchen serves a mixture of Italian and international cuisine with careful presentation. Its elegant dining room and impressive views make it ideal for special occasions. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Pizzeria San Gennaro: Found in Malgrate, this informal pizzeria is known for its wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas with a wide range of toppings. It’s a lively spot that caters well to families and groups. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Places close to Malgrate
- Lecco (approx. 5 km southeast of Malgrate): Situated at the southeastern tip of Lake Como, Lecco is a vibrant town offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Piani d'Erna, a mountain accessible by cable car that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The town also has a historic centre with charming streets and excellent lakeside views.
- Civate (approx. 7 km northeast of Malgrate): A small town with a rich historical background, Civate is home to the Abbazia di San Pietro al Monte, a medieval abbey perched on a hill with remarkable frescoes and stunning views over the surrounding countryside and Lake Como.
- Varenna (approx. 20 km north of Malgrate): A charming town known for its narrow cobblestone streets, Villa Monastero with its beautiful lakeside gardens, and the Villa Cipressi, offering panoramic views of the lake. Varenna is an ideal place for strolling along the scenic lakeside promenade and enjoying the picturesque atmosphere.
- Ossuccio (approx. 25 km northwest of Malgrate): This village is home to the Sacro Monte di Ossuccio, a UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of 15 chapels dedicated to the Mysteries of the Rosary. It offers visitors both spiritual enrichment and spectacular views of Lake Como.
- Tremezzo (approx. 30 km northwest of Malgrate): A picturesque town on the western shore of Lake Como, Tremezzo is famous for Villa Carlotta, an 18th-century villa known for its lush gardens and impressive art collection. Visitors can also enjoy the lakeside promenade and the charming cafés and restaurants of the town.
How to get to Malgrate
By Rail: Malgrate does not have its own train station, but it is located directly across the lake from Lecco, which has a major railway station served by regular Trenord regional services. Lecco is well connected to Milan, with frequent trains taking approximately 40 minutes. From Lecco station, Malgrate can be reached on foot via a short walk across the Ponte Azzone Visconti bridge, or by local bus or taxi.
By Road: Malgrate is situated on the south-eastern tip of Lake Como, directly opposite Lecco. It is approximately 50 kilometres north of Milan and 1 kilometre west of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour via the SS36 dual carriageway. From Lecco, it’s just a 5-minute drive or a 15-minute walk. Public parking is available near the lakefront and throughout the town.
By Ferry: Malgrate is not currently served by Navigazione Laghi ferry services. However, it is located very close to Lecco, which acts as a southern ferry terminal for passenger boats operating on the eastern side of Lake Como. From Lecco, services run to destinations including Abbadia Lariana, Mandello del Lario, and further north toward Bellano and Colico. For wider ferry connections, visitors can travel north along the lake to join central lake services in towns such as Varenna and Bellagio.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Malgrate is situated on the south-eastern tip of Lake Como, directly opposite Lecco. It is approximately 50 kilometres north of Milan and 1 kilometre west of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour via the SS36 dual carriageway. From Lecco, it’s just a 5-minute drive or a 15-minute walk. Public parking is available near the lakefront and throughout the town.
By Ferry: Malgrate is not currently served by Navigazione Laghi ferry services. However, it is located very close to Lecco, which acts as a southern ferry terminal for passenger boats operating on the eastern side of Lake Como. From Lecco, services run to destinations including Abbadia Lariana, Mandello del Lario, and further north toward Bellano and Colico. For wider ferry connections, visitors can travel north along the lake to join central lake services in towns such as Varenna and Bellagio.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Located approximately 55 kilometres south of Malgrate, the drive takes around 1 hour. Travellers can also take a bus or taxi to Milan Centrale station, followed by a regional train to Lecco and a short onward journey to Malgrate.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated around 40 kilometres south-east of Malgrate, the drive takes approximately 50 minutes. Public transport options include a bus to Bergamo station, a train to Lecco, and a walk or short taxi ride to Malgrate.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Roughly 90 kilometres south-west of Malgrate, the journey by car takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The Malpensa Express runs to Milan Centrale, with connecting regional trains to Lecco and easy access to Malgrate.
