Nesso
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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 Nesso
Nesso has only a limited number of hotel-style options, with most accommodation made up of small lakeside residences and B&Bs clustered near the gorge and waterfront. For established full-service hotels with stronger facilities and a higher volume of guest reviews, neighbouring towns on the central stretch of Lake Como provide the most reliable choices.
In Bellagio, Hotel Belvedere offers elegant terraces, panoramic lake views and consistently strong guest satisfaction, making it one of the most highly regarded options in the central lake area (€€€€). Also in Bellagio, Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni delivers a prestigious lakeside experience with historic grandeur, refined interiors and extensive facilities (€€€€). For a well-reviewed alternative nearby, Grand Hotel Tremezzo in Tremezzo combines polished service, landscaped grounds and a prime waterfront setting, standing out as one of Lake Como’s iconic luxury hotels (€€€€).
In Bellagio, Hotel Belvedere offers elegant terraces, panoramic lake views and consistently strong guest satisfaction, making it one of the most highly regarded options in the central lake area (€€€€). Also in Bellagio, Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni delivers a prestigious lakeside experience with historic grandeur, refined interiors and extensive facilities (€€€€). For a well-reviewed alternative nearby, Grand Hotel Tremezzo in Tremezzo combines polished service, landscaped grounds and a prime waterfront setting, standing out as one of Lake Como’s iconic luxury hotels (€€€€).
Where is
Where is Nesso?
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The lakeside town of Nesso is situated in the Province of Como, on the shores of Lake Como. It has a population of around 1,200 residents and is located a distance of 69 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Nesso has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Careno, Lezzeno, Faggeto Lario, Torno and San Giovanni. |
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Comune di Nesso
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Province: Como
Region: Lombardy Population: 1,137 (in 2024 - source) Size: 15 km² Elevation: 199 metres Highlights: Orrido di Nesso Roman bridge, waterfall Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Careno, Lezzeno, Faggeto Lario, Torno, San Giovanni |
What People Ask About Nesso
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Discover
Discover Nesso
Nesso is a village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, in the province of Como. Built on steep slopes where the Nosè Valley and the Tuf Valley meet, it is characterised by narrow streets, stairways, and houses descending towards the lakeside. Its dramatic setting is defined by the Orrido di Nesso, a gorge with waterfalls that cut through the centre of the village before reaching the lake.
The Romanesque Church of SS. Pietro e Paolo and the medieval stone bridge over the gorge are among the main landmarks. Walking paths climb from the lakeside into the Triangolo Lariano, linking with mountain routes towards Monte San Primo. Road connections run north to Lezzeno and south to Carate Urio, while ferries provide access to destinations across the lake including Cernobbio and Bellagio.
The Romanesque Church of SS. Pietro e Paolo and the medieval stone bridge over the gorge are among the main landmarks. Walking paths climb from the lakeside into the Triangolo Lariano, linking with mountain routes towards Monte San Primo. Road connections run north to Lezzeno and south to Carate Urio, while ferries provide access to destinations across the lake including Cernobbio and Bellagio.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Nesso
- Orrido di Nesso: This dramatic natural gorge is the defining feature of Nesso, where the Tuf and Nosée streams plunge down the cliffs into Lake Como. A stone staircase leads to the base of the gorge, where water cascades under the medieval Ponte della Civera, one of the village’s most photographed spots. The sound and sight of the waterfall are central to the village’s character.
- Ponte della Civera: This stone bridge spans the gorge at the point where it meets the lake and dates back to medieval times. It connects the two sides of the village and offers one of the best views of the waterfall and surrounding stone buildings. The bridge is a key historic feature and a popular place for photos.
- Village Lanes and Stone Houses: Nesso’s historic centre is a maze of narrow alleyways, steep staircases, and traditional stone dwellings built into the hillside. The layout reflects the village’s medieval origins, and walking through the old streets reveals small chapels, fountains, and glimpses of the lake between buildings.
- Walking Trails to Zelbio and Pian del Tivano: Above the village, trails climb through forested hills to reach the upland plateau of Pian del Tivano and nearby mountain hamlets like Zelbio. These routes offer panoramic views over Lake Como and are suitable for hikers looking to explore the less-developed eastern shore.
- Day Trip to Bellagio: Located just across the lake and reachable by ferry from nearby villages, Bellagio offers gardens, villas, and a lively centre with restaurants and shops. The contrast between Bellagio’s elegance and Nesso’s rugged, natural setting makes for a rewarding day out.
Tours and Activities
Nesso Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Nesso
- Trattoria del Porto: Located in Nesso, this lakeside trattoria offers traditional Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh lake fish. Dishes such as missoltino with polenta and homemade pasta are popular choices. The small terrace overlooking the water provides a pleasant setting for a relaxed meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Trattoria Da Eugenio: Situated in Nesso, this informal restaurant is known for its wood-fired pizzas, grilled meats, and simple pasta dishes. The terrace offers panoramic views of Lake Como, and the welcoming staff make it a popular choice for locals. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Bar Alimentari Verigáa: Also located in Nesso, this café and shop offers sandwiches, snacks, and light meals. It's a convenient spot for a quick bite or coffee while exploring the village or before heading to the nearby Orrido di Nesso. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Crotto del Misto: Located in Lezzeno (approximately 5 km from Nesso), this long-established restaurant offers traditional Larian and Lombard dishes, with a focus on lake fish and local meats. The lakeside terrace offers scenic views, and the atmosphere is well-suited to special occasions. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria San Giacomo: Found in Bellagio (about 15 km from Nesso), this traditional trattoria serves regional dishes in a rustic stone building. The menu features options like risotto, lake fish, and homemade desserts. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Nesso Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Nesso
- Torno (approx. 5 km south of Nesso): A small, tranquil village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Torno is known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views. Visitors can explore the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista, stroll through the narrow, winding streets, or enjoy a relaxing walk along the lakeside promenade with stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and lake.
- Moltrasio (approx. 5 km southeast of Nesso): Located on the western shore of Lake Como, Moltrasio is a picturesque village known for its elegant villas and serene lakeside setting. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake, relax at local cafes, or explore the charming streets. The area also offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the lake and nearby mountains.
- Cernobbio (approx. 10 km southeast of Nesso): A town known for its luxury Villa d'Este and scenic lakeside views, Cernobbio offers a relaxing atmosphere with lakeside promenades and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Lake Como, take a boat trip around the lake, or explore the town's elegant shops and historic buildings. The nearby hills also provide ample opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Argegno (approx. 10 km northwest of Nesso): A quaint village located on the western shore of Lake Como, Argegno offers a peaceful retreat with a picturesque lakeside setting. Visitors can take a cable car up to Pigra, a hilltop village that offers spectacular panoramic views of the lake. The town also has charming streets, cafes, and local shops, making it a great spot for a leisurely day out.
- Como (approx. 15 km southeast of Nesso): The city of Como, located at the southern tip of Lake Como, is full of historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Cattedrale di Como, visit the Tempio Voltiano, or take a funicular ride to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The city is also a great base for exploring the surrounding villages and towns along the lake.
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 Nesso
By Rail: Nesso does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is Como San Giovanni, located approximately 15 kilometres to the south-west. Trenitalia and Trenord operate frequent services from Milan to Como San Giovanni, with journey times of about 40 minutes. From Como, travellers can reach Nesso by bus, taxi, or ferry.
By Road: Nesso is approximately 65 kilometres north of Milan and about 15 kilometres north-east of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Centro, and then following the SP583 road along the eastern shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 30 minutes via the SP583 road. The roads along the lake can be narrow and winding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports:
Lake Como Ferries: Nesso is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Nesso offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Nesso to Como takes approximately 50 minutes, with tickets costing between €5 and €8. Ferries operate every four hours, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: Nesso is approximately 65 kilometres north of Milan and about 15 kilometres north-east of Como. Driving from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Centro, and then following the SP583 road along the eastern shore of Lake Como. From Como, the journey is approximately 30 minutes via the SP583 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 75 kilometres south-west of Nesso, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via the A36 and A9 motorways, exiting at Como Centro, and then following the SP583 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 Nesso.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 85 kilometres south of Nesso, the drive takes approximately 2 hours via the A9 motorway, exiting at Como Centro, and then following the SP583 road. Public transport options from Linate Airport to Nesso involve taking a bus to Milan Centrale station, then a train to Como San Giovanni, followed by a bus, taxi, or ferry to Nesso.
Lake Como Ferries: Nesso is served by ferry services on Lake Como, providing a scenic and convenient means of transportation to various lakeside towns. The ferry terminal in Nesso offers regular services to destinations such as Como and Bellagio. The journey from Nesso to Como takes approximately 50 minutes, with tickets costing between €5 and €8. Ferries operate every four hours, but schedules and routes vary seasonally. It is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
Private Transfers
Nesso Private Transfers
A private transfer is the most convenient way to travel to or from Nesso, providing a direct service without the need to arrange ferry connections or drive the winding lakeside roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.
From Nesso, the nearest hub is Como city centre, which can be reached in about 30 minutes (approx. 15 kilometres). Milan Malpensa Airport is around 1 hour 10 minutes away (approx. 70 kilometres), while Milan Linate Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 25 minutes (approx. 80 kilometres). A transfer to Milan city centre usually takes around 1 hour 20 minutes (approx. 70 kilometres). For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 50 minutes away (approx. 40 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 Nesso, the nearest hub is Como city centre, which can be reached in about 30 minutes (approx. 15 kilometres). Milan Malpensa Airport is around 1 hour 10 minutes away (approx. 70 kilometres), while Milan Linate Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 25 minutes (approx. 80 kilometres). A transfer to Milan city centre usually takes around 1 hour 20 minutes (approx. 70 kilometres). For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 50 minutes away (approx. 40 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.
