Moltrasio
|
Latest page update: 26 May 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The lakeside town of Moltrasio is situated in the Province of Como, on the shores of Lake Como. It has a population of around 1,600 residents and is located a distance of 58 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Moltrasio has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Cernobbio, Carate Urio, Como, Laglio and Blevio. |
|
What People Ask About Moltrasio
Is Moltrasio worth visiting?
What is there to see in Moltrasio?
How do you get to Moltrasio?
Can you take a ferry to Moltrasio?
When is the best time to visit Moltrasio?
Related links
Discover
Discover Moltrasio
Moltrasio, located in the Lombardy region, is a quaint village situated on the western shore of Lake Como, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its serene atmosphere and traditional charm, Moltrasio provides a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking both relaxation and exploration. The village’s narrow streets, historic buildings, and scenic lakeside setting make it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Moltrasio is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water’s edge, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding hills. The village is also home to the Chiesa di San Martino, a small church with historical significance. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore a variety of hiking trails that lead up into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and nearby mountains. The peaceful environment, combined with its lakeside charm and proximity to other towns on Lake Como, makes Moltrasio an excellent base for exploring the region’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
Moltrasio is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water’s edge, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding hills. The village is also home to the Chiesa di San Martino, a small church with historical significance. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore a variety of hiking trails that lead up into the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the lake and nearby mountains. The peaceful environment, combined with its lakeside charm and proximity to other towns on Lake Como, makes Moltrasio an excellent base for exploring the region’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Moltrasio
- Lakeside Walkways and Historic Centre: Moltrasio stretches from the lakefront up the hillside, with narrow lanes, stone staircases, and old houses built into the slope. The waterfront includes small piers and a peaceful promenade, while the upper part of the village offers elevated views across Lake Como and access to traditional courtyards and gardens.
- Chiesa di San Martino: This parish church sits in a panoramic position above the village and features a striking bell tower. Inside are frescoes, marble altars, and a Baroque organ, reflecting centuries of religious and artistic tradition. The church square offers some of the best lake views in Moltrasio.
- Villa Passalacqua: One of the most prominent villas on Lake Como, this 18th-century estate was once the residence of composer Vincenzo Bellini. While privately owned and not generally open to the public, its elegant façade and lakeside gardens can be admired from the water or nearby walking paths.
- Walking Trails to Monte Bisbino: From Moltrasio, paths wind uphill through chestnut woods and olive groves toward Monte Bisbino, a peak offering panoramic views of Lake Como and the Swiss Alps. These trails are ideal for walkers seeking a peaceful route with natural beauty and scenic rest stops.
- Day Trip to Cernobbio: Just a few minutes away, Cernobbio offers a wider range of shops, restaurants, and sights such as Villa Erba and Villa d’Este. Its elegant lakeside setting complements Moltrasio’s quieter charm and makes it a convenient cultural and culinary excursion.
Moltrasio Tours and Activities
Comune di Moltrasio
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Moltrasio
- Grand Hotel Imperiale Resort & SPA Located right on the lakefront in the centre of Moltrasio, this historic four-star hotel offers elegant rooms, a lakeside swimming pool, spa facilities, tennis courts, and a fine-dining restaurant. Guests appreciate the refined atmosphere, direct lake access, and short drive to Como. €€€€ (luxury)
- Comoholidays Moltrasio A collection of self-catering apartments situated in different parts of the village, offering modern interiors, balconies or terraces, and lake or garden views. Visitors enjoy the flexibility, good value, and proximity to local shops, restaurants, and the ferry pier. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa La Molina Set on the hillside above Moltrasio, this restored villa offers apartments with panoramic lake views, a garden, and parking. Guests value the peaceful setting, stylish interiors, and scenic walking paths leading down to the lake. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B Relais Villa Nina Positioned just above the lakeshore and close to the centre, this charming bed and breakfast offers classic rooms with period furnishings, lake views, and a garden. Visitors enjoy the friendly hosts, authentic atmosphere, and short distance to the ferry stop. €€€ (high-end)
- Antica Molina Located in the upper part of Moltrasio in a quiet historic hamlet, this simple guesthouse features rustic-style rooms and a traditional restaurant serving local dishes. Guests appreciate the peaceful surroundings, traditional food, and short walk to scenic trails and viewpoints. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Moltrasio
- La Veranda: Situated in the centre of Moltrasio, this family-run restaurant offers traditional Italian cuisine with an emphasis on lake fish and seafood. The dining room transforms into a veranda during the summer months, providing a pleasant atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria La Moltrasina: Located in Moltrasio, this trattoria serves classic Italian dishes, including homemade pasta and local specialities. The rustic setting and friendly service make it a popular choice among both locals and visitors. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Imperialino: Also in Moltrasio, this elegant restaurant offers gourmet cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The lakeside setting provides stunning views, making it ideal for special occasions. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Ristorante Trattoria del Fagiano: Situated in Moltrasio, this trattoria offers traditional Italian dishes in a cosy environment. The menu features a variety of pasta and meat dishes, all prepared with fresh ingredients. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Il Sereno Al Lago: Located in Torno (approximately 5 km from Moltrasio), this restaurant offers creative cuisine in a refined lakeside setting. The menu features innovative dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Price guide: €€€€ (Very expensive)
Photo Gallery
Moltrasio Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Moltrasio
- Torno (approx. 5 km southeast of Moltrasio): A peaceful village set on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Torno offers a serene atmosphere and stunning views of the lake. Visitors can explore the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista, a historic church with a lovely setting, or take a relaxing walk along the lakeside promenade, which offers scenic views of both the lake and the surrounding mountains.
- Cernobbio (approx. 5 km south of Moltrasio): Known for its grand villas, including the luxurious Villa d'Este, Cernobbio is a town that exudes sophistication. Visitors can enjoy the lakeside promenade, explore the charming streets lined with cafes and shops, or take a boat ride on Lake Como for spectacular views of the town and the surrounding mountains. The town also has a number of scenic walking trails for those looking to explore further.
- Como (approx. 8 km southeast of Moltrasio): The city of Como is known for its rich history and cultural landmarks, including the Cattedrale di Como and the Tempio Voltiano. Visitors can stroll through the town centre, relax by the lakeside, or take the funicular to Brunate, which offers panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding region. The city serves as a hub for exploring other towns around the lake.
- Argegno (approx. 10 km northwest of Moltrasio): A charming village located on the western shore of Lake Como, Argegno is known for its picturesque lakeside setting and the cable car to Pigra, a hilltop village offering stunning views of the lake. Visitors can explore the town’s quaint streets, relax at the lakeside cafes, or take part in outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports.
- Lenno (approx. 15 km southwest of Moltrasio): Situated on the western shore of Lake Como, Lenno is famous for Villa del Balbianello, a stunning lakeside villa with beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the villa, enjoy a boat trip to Isola Comacina, or simply relax by the lake. The town offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for a relaxing day out by the water.
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Moltrasio
By Rail: Moltrasio does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is Como San Giovanni, located approximately 9 kilometres to the south. Trenitalia and Trenord operate frequent services from Milan to Como San Giovanni, with journey times of about 40 minutes. From Como, travellers can reach Moltrasio by bus, taxi, or ferry.
By Road: Moltrasio is approximately 60 kilometres north of Milan and about 9 kilometres north of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SS340 road along the western shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 20 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: Moltrasio is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Moltrasio offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Moltrasio to Como takes approximately 28 minutes, with tickets costing between €3 and €6. Ferries operate hourly, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: Moltrasio is approximately 60 kilometres north of Milan and about 9 kilometres north of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SS340 road along the western shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 20 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 65 kilometres south-west of Moltrasio, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A36 and A9 motorways, exiting at Como Nord, 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, taxi, or ferry to Moltrasio.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 80 kilometres south of Moltrasio, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Nord, and then following the SS340 road. Public transport options from Linate Airport to Moltrasio involve taking a bus to Milan Centrale station, then a train to Como San Giovanni, followed by a bus, taxi, or ferry to Moltrasio.
Lake Como Ferries: Moltrasio is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Moltrasio offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Moltrasio to Como takes approximately 28 minutes, with tickets costing between €3 and €6. Ferries operate hourly, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
