Onno
Latest page update: 8 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside location of Onno is situated within the Province of Lecco and lies on the shores of Lake Como. Onno is officially a part of the comune of Oliveto Lario.
It has a Lake Como ferry port, also called Onno. Nearby places of interest include Vassena, Bellagio, Giardini di Villa Melzi and Valmadrera. Recommended accommodation is the Hotel Du Lac. |
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Onno Overview
Onno, located in the Lombardy region, is a small, tranquil village situated 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, Onno provides a serene retreat for visitors looking to enjoy the natural surroundings of the area. The village’s narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and lakeside location make it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Onno is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the nearby hills. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni, a small church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Onno offers a variety of hiking trails that lead up into the surrounding hills, providing panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. The village’s combination of natural beauty, tranquillity, and lakeside charm makes it a perfect base for exploring the eastern shores of Lake Como.
Onno is famous for its lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como and the nearby hills. The village is home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni, a small church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Onno offers a variety of hiking trails that lead up into the surrounding hills, providing panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. The village’s combination of natural beauty, tranquillity, and lakeside charm makes it a perfect base for exploring the eastern shores of Lake Como.
Top Things to Do in Onno
- Lakeside Area and Pebble Beach: Onno, a small hamlet on the eastern shore of Lake Como, is known for its public pebble beach and clear, shallow waters. The lakeside is popular in summer for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics, with scenic views across the central basin of the lake and a quiet, local atmosphere.
- Historic Centre and Village Lanes: The old part of Onno features narrow stone-paved streets, traditional houses, and vaulted passageways that reflect its origins as a fishing village. The architecture is modest but authentic, with a strong sense of place and very little commercial development.
- Chiesa di San Pietro Martire: This small parish church is the focal point of religious life in the hamlet. It has a simple façade and a bell tower that rises above the rooftops. Inside are altars and devotional artworks typical of rural Lombard churches.
- Walking and Cycling along the SP583: Onno is located along the Strada Provinciale 583, a scenic lakeside road that is also popular with cyclists and walkers. From here, it’s possible to walk or cycle north to Limonta and Bellagio, or south to Mandello del Lario, passing quiet coves and forested stretches along the way.
- Day Trip to Bellagio: Just 15 minutes away by car or bus, Bellagio offers historic villas, gardens, and a wider range of shops and restaurants. Its proximity allows visitors staying in Onno to enjoy the peace of a small village with easy access to one of Lake Como’s most iconic towns.
Onno - frazione di Oliveto Lario
Comune: Oliveto Lario
Province: Lecco Region: Lombardy Elevation: 214 metres Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Vassena, Bellagio, Giardini di Villa Melzi, Valmadrera |
Where to Stay in Onno - My Recommended Accommodation
- B&B Spiaggia Bianca Located directly on the lakeside in Onno, this bed and breakfast offers rooms with lake-view balconies, a private beach area, and breakfast served on the terrace. Guests appreciate the unbeatable location by the water and the tranquil setting in the village. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamento Il Ciliegio A self-catering apartment in the centre of Onno, just a few steps from the lake. It features a well-equipped kitchen, a living area, and a terrace. Visitors enjoy the flexibility, local atmosphere, and proximity to the small harbour and lakeside cafés. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Il Nibbio Situated in nearby Magreglio, about 10 minutes’ drive from Onno, this small hotel offers simple rooms and a friendly environment close to the mountains and cycling routes. Guests value the peaceful hillside setting and short drive to both Lake Como and Bellagio. € (budget)
- Agriturismo Madonna dei Ceppi Located above Onno, this family-run farmhouse provides rustic rooms and apartments surrounded by woodland, with views over the lake. Visitors enjoy the traditional food, relaxed rural setting, and walking trails nearby. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa Giovanna A private holiday home near the lakefront in Onno, offering two bedrooms, a garden, and lake views. Guests appreciate the space, location within the village, and easy access to swimming spots and ferry connections. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat in Onno - My Recommended Restaurants
- Ristorante Al Batel: Located in the centre of Onno, this lakeside restaurant specialises in traditional Italian dishes with a strong focus on fresh lake fish. Guests can dine with direct views over Lake Como, enjoying dishes such as lavarello fillet and seafood pasta. The friendly service and relaxed setting make it a favourite for lunch or dinner by the water. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Onnolulu: Also in Onno, Onnolulu combines a casual dining experience with a varied menu that includes Italian classics and international options. The atmosphere is lively and informal, with outdoor seating available near the lake. It’s particularly popular during the warmer months. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Breva: Situated in Onno, La Breva serves a menu rooted in local tradition, with an emphasis on lake fish and regional recipes. The restaurant’s simple, welcoming interior and focus on fresh ingredients create a dependable option for those seeking authentic dishes in a quiet setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Grigna: Located in Mandello del Lario (approximately 5 km from Onno), this family-run trattoria offers classic Lombard cuisine in a rustic setting. The menu includes homemade pasta, stews, and seasonal specialities, all served in a cosy dining room with a traditional feel. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Giardinetto: Found in Mandello del Lario (about 6 km from Onno), Il Giardinetto presents refined Italian dishes with modern presentation. The restaurant is well regarded for its careful service, curated wine list, and beautifully plated mains, making it ideal for a special evening out. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
Onno Gallery
Places close to Onno
- Oliveto Lario (Onno is a frazione of Oliveto Lario): This municipality encompasses several picturesque villages along the eastern shore of Lake Como. In Onno, visitors can explore the Church of Sant'Anna, dating back to the 11th century, featuring 14th-century frescoes.
- Bellagio (approx. 5 km north of Onno): Known as the "Pearl of Lake Como," Bellagio offers charming cobblestone streets, elegant villas, and stunning lakeside views. Key attractions include Villa Melzi d'Eril, celebrated for its expansive gardens, and the historic Villa Serbelloni, now serving as a conference center.
- Ossuccio (approx. 10 km northwest of Onno): Home to the Sacro Monte di Ossuccio, a UNESCO World Heritage site comprising 15 chapels dedicated to the Mysteries of the Rosary. The site offers a profound spiritual experience coupled with panoramic views of the lake.
- Lecco (approx. 25 km southeast of Onno): 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 vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
- Como (approx. 40 km south of Onno): The city of Como boasts a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Highlights include the neoclassical Villa Olmo, celebrated for its architectural elegance and expansive lakeside gardens, and the Como Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance design.
How to get to Onno
By Rail: Onno does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Valmadrera, about 12 kilometres away by road, or Lecco, which offers a wider range of regional services and is located around 15 kilometres south of Onno. From Lecco, regular Trenord trains connect to Milan in approximately 40 minutes. Onno can be reached from Lecco by car, taxi, or local bus services, though connections are limited and services may vary depending on the season.
By Road: Onno is located on the eastern shore of Lake Como within the municipality of Oliveto Lario. It is approximately 60 kilometres north of Milan and 15 kilometres north of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS36 and the SP583 scenic lakeside road. From Lecco, the journey takes around 25 minutes. Roads in and around Onno are narrow and winding, but there are small public parking areas near the lake.
By Ferry: Onno is not served by regular Navigazione Laghi ferry services. The nearest active ferry terminal is in Bellagio, located around 10 kilometres to the north by road. From Bellagio, there are frequent ferry connections to Varenna, Menaggio, and other towns across the central part of the lake. While Onno is accessible by private boat, public ferry connections are not available directly from the village.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Onno is located on the eastern shore of Lake Como within the municipality of Oliveto Lario. It is approximately 60 kilometres north of Milan and 15 kilometres north of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS36 and the SP583 scenic lakeside road. From Lecco, the journey takes around 25 minutes. Roads in and around Onno are narrow and winding, but there are small public parking areas near the lake.
By Ferry: Onno is not served by regular Navigazione Laghi ferry services. The nearest active ferry terminal is in Bellagio, located around 10 kilometres to the north by road. From Bellagio, there are frequent ferry connections to Varenna, Menaggio, and other towns across the central part of the lake. While Onno is accessible by private boat, public ferry connections are not available directly from the village.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Located about 70 kilometres south of Onno, the drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Travellers can also reach Onno by taking a train to Lecco via Milan Centrale, followed by a bus or taxi to the village.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated approximately 60 kilometres south-east of Onno, the drive takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Public transport options include a bus to Bergamo station, a train to Lecco, and then onward travel to Onno.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Roughly 100 kilometres south-west of Onno, the drive takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. The Malpensa Express connects to Milan Centrale, where travellers can continue by train to Lecco and transfer to Onno by road.