Musso
Latest page update: 6 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside village of Musso is situated in the Province of Como, on the shores of Lake Como.
It has a population of around 900 residents and is located a distance of 95 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy. Musso has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Pianello del Lario, Dongo, Gravedona ed Uniti and Domaso. The recommended accommodation for Musso is the Tullio Hotel in Gravedona which is 5 kilometres away. |
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Musso Overview
Musso, located in the Lombardy region, is a picturesque village set on the northern shore of Lake Como, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional charm, Musso provides a tranquil retreat for visitors looking to explore both the natural beauty of the area and its rich history. The village’s narrow streets, historic buildings, and scenic lakeside location make it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and outdoor activities.
Musso is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding landscape. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a small church with historical significance, adding to its cultural charm. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Musso offers a variety of hiking trails that lead into the surrounding hills, providing panoramic views of the lake and the nearby mountains. With its serene setting and natural beauty, Musso is a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Lake Como and the Lombardy region.
Musso is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding landscape. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a small church with historical significance, adding to its cultural charm. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Musso offers a variety of hiking trails that lead into the surrounding hills, providing panoramic views of the lake and the nearby mountains. With its serene setting and natural beauty, Musso is a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Lake Como and the Lombardy region.
Top Things to Do in Musso
- Lakeside Promenade and Small Harbour: Musso has a quiet lakeside area with a small harbour, benches, and a pebble beach suitable for swimming and launching small boats. The promenade offers uninterrupted views across the northern part of Lake Como and is especially scenic at sunset. The area is peaceful, with a local rather than touristy feel.
- Chiesa di San Biagio: This parish church stands in the upper part of the village and dates back to the 17th century, with earlier foundations. Inside are marble altars, religious paintings, and a beautifully carved pulpit. The elevated location provides panoramic views over the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Remains of the Castle of Gian Giacomo Medici: On a rocky outcrop above the village lie the ruins of a 14th-century fortress once occupied by the local nobleman and military leader known as “Il Medeghino.” Though only fragments of walls remain, the site is accessible by foot and offers sweeping views of the lake and the Alto Lario region.
- Walking Paths and Nature Trails: Trails from Musso lead into the hills, connecting to neighbouring villages like Dongo and Pianello del Lario. These paths pass through forests, terraced fields, and quiet hamlets, offering a blend of nature and rural scenery with occasional viewpoints over the lake.
- Day Trip to Gravedona ed Uniti: Just a short drive away, Gravedona ed Uniti offers cultural landmarks such as Santa Maria del Tiglio, a lakeside promenade, and historical sites. It provides a more extensive range of services and makes for a convenient half-day excursion from the quieter setting of Musso.
Comune di Musso
Province: Como
Region: Lombardy Population: 945 (in 2024 - source) Size: 4 km² Elevation: 201 metres Highlights: Giardino del Merlo, Chiesa di San Biagio Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Pianello del Lario, Musso, Gravedona ed Uniti, Domaso |
My recommended accommodation options for Musso:
- Residence La Pianca Located on the hillside above Musso, this well-rated residence offers self-catering apartments with terraces overlooking the lake, an outdoor pool, and private parking. Guests appreciate the panoramic views, peaceful setting, and proximity to the centre of Musso and the lakeshore. €€€ (high-end)
- Casa Al Castello A holiday apartment set near the ruins of Musso’s medieval castle, featuring a furnished balcony with lake views, a modern kitchen, and a spacious living area. Visitors enjoy the unique location, historical atmosphere, and short walk to the waterfront. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamenti Sole & Lago These lakefront apartments offer direct access to the water, private outdoor seating areas, and full kitchens. Guests value the tranquil location, convenient parking, and easy reach of restaurants and ferry services in nearby towns. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Villa Rosalinda Situated between Musso and Dongo, just a few minutes’ walk from the lakeshore, this bed and breakfast offers a garden, terrace, and comfortable rooms with a homely feel. Visitors enjoy the generous breakfast, kind hosts, and quiet setting. €€ (mid-range)
- Casa Gialla Musso A self-catering apartment in the upper part of the village with views of the lake and mountains, offering a kitchen, terrace, and traditional interior. Guests appreciate the peaceful location, rustic charm, and easy access to hiking paths. €€ (mid-range)
My recommended restaurants in Musso and the local area:
- Trattoria Il Pontile: Located in Musso, Trattoria Il Pontile offers a homely atmosphere with traditional Italian dishes. The menu features local specialities, including lake fish such as allis shad, large carp, and bleak. Diners can enjoy meals with views of Lake Como. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante dell'Agriturismo Labbio: Situated in the hills above Musso, this agriturismo provides a farm-to-table dining experience. The restaurant serves dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the regional cuisine. The setting offers a rustic and authentic atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria del Bumbardin: Located in Dongo (approximately 2 km from Musso), this osteria is known for its traditional Italian cuisine. The menu includes homemade pasta and local meat dishes. The warm and rustic setting enhances the dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Brenta: Found in Germasino (about 3 km from Musso), La Brenta offers Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, specialising in seafood. The restaurant is noted for its cosy setting and quality dishes. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante La Baia: Situated in Cremia (approximately 5 km from Musso), 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)
Close to Musso
- Dongo (approx. 5 km south of Musso): A small, peaceful town on the northern shore of Lake Como, Dongo is known for its serene atmosphere and historical sites. Visitors can explore the Chiesa di Santa Maria del Tiglio, a fine example of Romanesque architecture, or enjoy a lakeside walk with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The town’s quiet nature makes it an ideal destination for relaxation and scenic exploration.
- Gravedona ed Uniti (approx. 10 km southeast of Musso): Set on the shores of Lake Como, Gravedona ed Uniti offers a rich history and beautiful landscapes. The Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie and Castello di Gravedona are highlights, providing insights into the town's past. The area is also popular for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and boat trips on the lake, with numerous trails and scenic spots to enjoy.
- Colico (approx. 15 km south of Musso): Located at the northern tip of Lake Como, Colico is a lively town surrounded by mountains and lakes. Visitors can explore the Fort Montecchio, a military fortress that provides fantastic views, or relax on the town’s beaches. The area offers great opportunities for water sports, such as windsurfing and sailing, as well as cycling and hiking in the surrounding hills.
- Tremezzo (approx. 25 km southwest of Musso): A picturesque town on the western shore of Lake Como, Tremezzo is known for the beautiful Villa Carlotta, which features stunning gardens and an impressive art collection. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade, enjoy the views, or visit nearby villas and gardens. The town’s relaxing atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a great spot for sightseeing and enjoying nature.
- Lenno (approx. 15 km southwest of Musso): Located on the western shore of Lake Como, Lenno is home to the famous Villa del Balbianello, a historic villa surrounded by beautiful gardens and offering breathtaking views of the lake. Visitors can explore the villa, take a boat trip to Isola Comacina, or relax by the lakefront, enjoying the peaceful setting and stunning scenery.
How to get to Musso
By Rail: Musso does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is Colico, located approximately 15 kilometres to the north-east. Trenord operates regular services from Milan to Colico, with journey times of about 1 hour and 40 minutes. From Colico, travellers can reach Musso by bus or taxi.
By Road: Musso is approximately 95 kilometres north of Milan and about 45 kilometres north-east of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 2 hours 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 and 15 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: Musso is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Musso offers services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Musso to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes, with tickets costing between €12 and €18. Ferries operate multiple times daily, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: Musso is approximately 95 kilometres north of Milan and about 45 kilometres north-east of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 2 hours 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 and 15 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 110 kilometres south-west of Musso, 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 Musso.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 120 kilometres south of Musso, 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 Musso involve taking a bus to Milan Centrale station, then a train to Colico, followed by a bus or taxi to Musso.
Lake Como Ferries: Musso is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Musso offers services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Musso to Como takes approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes, with tickets costing between €12 and €18. Ferries operate multiple times daily, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.