Santa Maria Rezzonico
Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside location of Santa Maria Rezzonico is situated in the Province of Como, on the shores of Lake Como. It's a part of the Comune of San Siro and is located a distance of 90 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Santa Maria Rezzonico has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Menaggio, Pianello del Lario and Musso. |
What People Ask About Santa Maria Rezzonico
Is Santa Maria Rezzonico worth visiting?
Yes, Santa Maria Rezzonico is a quiet lakeside village on the western shore of Lake Como, known for its medieval castle ruins, stone houses, and small beaches.
What can you see in Santa Maria Rezzonico?
The village features the remains of Rezzonico Castle, a historic lakeside church, narrow stone alleys, and a small harbour. The beach areas are popular for swimming in summer.
How do you get to Santa Maria Rezzonico?
Santa Maria Rezzonico is on the SP72 road, about 5 km south of Dongo and 7 km north of Menaggio. It can be reached by car or local bus from towns along the western shore.
Can you swim in Santa Maria Rezzonico?
Yes, there are small public beaches along the lakefront where swimming is allowed. The water is clear, and the beaches are usually less crowded than in larger towns.
When is the best time to visit Santa Maria Rezzonico?
The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is good for walking, swimming, and exploring the lakeside paths and village landmarks.
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Discover
Discover Santa Maria Rezzonico
Santa Maria Rezzonico, located in the Lombardy region, is a small, charming village set on the western shore of Lake Como. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful lakeside setting, Santa Maria Rezzonico offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The village’s traditional character, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, provides a peaceful environment for visitors looking to enjoy both relaxation and exploration.
Santa Maria Rezzonico is famous for its Castello di Rezzonico, a historic castle overlooking the lake, which is now a museum showcasing the area’s history and culture. The village is also home to the Chiesa di Santa Maria Rezzonico, a quaint church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, the village offers a range of hiking and cycling trails that wind through the surrounding hills, offering breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding landscape. The combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and its serene lakeside location makes Santa Maria Rezzonico a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Lake Como.
Santa Maria Rezzonico is famous for its Castello di Rezzonico, a historic castle overlooking the lake, which is now a museum showcasing the area’s history and culture. The village is also home to the Chiesa di Santa Maria Rezzonico, a quaint church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, the village offers a range of hiking and cycling trails that wind through the surrounding hills, offering breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding landscape. The combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and its serene lakeside location makes Santa Maria Rezzonico a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Lake Como.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Santa Maria Rezzonico
- Lakeside Promenade and Beach: Santa Maria Rezzonico features a scenic lakeside promenade with a small pebble beach, stone jetty, and clear views across the central part of Lake Como. The waterfront is quiet and rarely crowded, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing by the lake with views of the surrounding mountains.
- Castello di Rezzonico: This 14th-century castle is perched above the village and remains one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications on the lake. Though privately owned and not generally open to visitors, its tall tower, stone walls, and striking silhouette can be admired from the surrounding paths and lakeshore.
- Chiesa di Santa Maria: The parish church stands close to the water and dates back to the 17th century. It features a simple façade and an interior with religious paintings, carved altars, and decorative stucco work. The church is still active and plays a central role in the village’s religious and cultural life.
- Old Village Centre and Cobbled Streets: The historic centre is a cluster of stone houses, narrow alleys, and vaulted passages that descend towards the lake. Much of the medieval street plan remains intact, and the village’s rustic charm offers a strong contrast to the more developed towns further south on the lake.
- Day Trip to Menaggio: Just 15 minutes away by car or bus, Menaggio offers ferry connections, lakeside restaurants, and access to hiking trails. It provides a broader range of services while still maintaining a relaxed lakeside feel, making it a convenient and enjoyable nearby excursion.
Santa Maria Rezzonico Tours and Activities
Santa Maria Rezzonico - frazione di San Siro
Comune: San Siro
Province: Como Region: Lombardy Elevation: 220 metres Highlights: Castello di Rezzonico, Spiaggia Santa Maria Rezzonico Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Menaggio, Pianello del Lario, Musso, Gravedona ed Uniti |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Santa Maria Rezzonico
- Agriturismo Ca' del Lago Located in the hills above Santa Maria Rezzonico, this family-run agriturismo offers rustic rooms and apartments, a panoramic terrace, and local cuisine made with homegrown produce. Guests appreciate the peaceful rural setting, lake views, and access to walking trails. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa Camilla Positioned close to the lakeshore in the centre of Santa Maria Rezzonico, this historic villa offers self-catering apartments with traditional furnishings, garden access, and views over Lake Como. Visitors enjoy the charm of the building, proximity to the beach, and relaxed atmosphere. €€€ (high-end)
- Residenza Borgo Antico A group of apartments located just above the lakeside road, offering terraces, lake views, and well-equipped kitchens. Guests value the quiet surroundings, private parking, and convenient location for exploring the western shore. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamento Vista Lago Rezzonico A private holiday flat offering a lake-view balcony, modern kitchen, and comfortable furnishings, just a short walk from the waterfront. Guests appreciate the clean, well-maintained space and easy access to the local beach and historic centre. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Gli Ulivi Set in a hillside hamlet near Santa Maria Rezzonico, this bed and breakfast features cosy rooms with wooden beams, lake views, and breakfast served on the terrace. Visitors enjoy the friendly service, quiet location, and panoramic outlook over Lake Como. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Santa Maria Rezzonico
- Ristorante Lauro: Located in the historic centre of Santa Maria Rezzonico, Ristorante Lauro is a family-run restaurant set in a 16th-century stone building. The menu includes regional specialities such as lake fish, risottos, and homemade pasta. The cosy interior and quiet surroundings make it a pleasant choice for lunch or dinner. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Sole: Situated in San Siro (approximately 1 km from Santa Maria Rezzonico), Ristorante Sole is a lakeside restaurant offering local dishes including perch fillets, trout, and seasonal pastas. The relaxed setting and helpful service make it a popular spot in the area. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Pizzeria dei Platani: Found in Menaggio (about 7 km from Santa Maria Rezzonico), this trattoria offers a casual dining experience with wood-fired pizzas and traditional Italian pasta dishes. It’s a reliable choice for a relaxed meal with friends or family. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Locanda San Martino: Located in San Martino, a hamlet in the hills above San Siro (approximately 5 km from Santa Maria Rezzonico), this locanda offers Italian cuisine with vegetarian and vegan options. The elevated position provides lovely views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Crotto Buba: Situated in Acquaseria (around 3.5 km from Santa Maria Rezzonico), Crotto Buba is a rustic-style restaurant serving local dishes like polenta with stewed meats and fresh fish. The informal setting and generous portions make it a good choice for hearty meals. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Santa Maria Rezzonico Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Santa Maria Rezzonico
- Cernobbio (approx. 15 km southeast of Santa Maria Rezzonico): A charming town located on the southern shore of Lake Como, Cernobbio is famous for its elegant Villa d'Este, which is now a luxury hotel surrounded by beautiful gardens. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoy views of the lake and surrounding mountains, or explore the town’s quaint streets filled with cafes and shops.
- Tremezzo (approx. 20 km southeast of Santa Maria Rezzonico): Tremezzo is a picturesque town on the western shore of Lake Como, known for its stunning Villa Carlotta, which features magnificent gardens and an art collection. Visitors can enjoy scenic lakeside walks, visit the nearby Parco Municipale, or take a boat ride to explore the beautiful surroundings. The town’s relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for sightseeing and relaxation.
- Menaggio (approx. 25 km southeast of Santa Maria Rezzonico): Situated on the western shore of Lake Como, Menaggio is a vibrant town with a beautiful lakeside promenade and a charming town centre. Visitors can explore the local shops and cafes, take a boat trip across the lake to discover other towns, or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or water sports in the surrounding hills.
- Lenno (approx. 15 km south of Santa Maria Rezzonico): A tranquil town on the western shore of Lake Como, Lenno is home to the iconic Villa del Balbianello, a historic villa surrounded by lush gardens. Visitors can explore the villa, take a boat trip to Isola Comacina, or enjoy the peaceful lakeside setting with scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The town also offers a range of cafes and restaurants to enjoy.
- Como (approx. 30 km southeast of Santa Maria Rezzonico): Como is a vibrant city at the southern tip of Lake Como, offering a wealth of cultural landmarks such as the Cattedrale di Como and the Tempio Voltiano. Visitors can explore the lively town centre, take a funicular ride to Brunate for spectacular views of the lake, or enjoy a relaxing day by the lakefront. Como is also a great base for exploring other towns around 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 Santa Maria Rezzonico
By Rail: Santa Maria Rezzonico does not have its own railway station. The nearest major station is Colico, located approximately 20 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 Santa Maria Rezzonico by bus or taxi.
By Road: Santa Maria Rezzonico is approximately 90 kilometres north of Milan and about 40 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 10 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: Santa Maria Rezzonico has a ferry terminal offering services to various destinations around Lake Como. The ferry service connects Santa Maria Rezzonico with towns such as Como, Bellagio, and Varenna. For example, ferries from Como to Dervio depart once daily, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours. Schedules and routes vary seasonally, so it is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.
By Road: Santa Maria Rezzonico is approximately 90 kilometres north of Milan and about 40 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 10 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 105 kilometres south-west of Santa Maria Rezzonico, 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 Santa Maria Rezzonico.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated around 115 kilometres south of Santa Maria Rezzonico, 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 Santa Maria Rezzonico involve taking a bus to Milan Centrale station, then a train to Colico, followed by a bus or taxi to Santa Maria Rezzonico.
Lake Como Ferries: Santa Maria Rezzonico has a ferry terminal offering services to various destinations around Lake Como. The ferry service connects Santa Maria Rezzonico with towns such as Como, Bellagio, and Varenna. For example, ferries from Como to Dervio depart once daily, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours. Schedules and routes vary seasonally, so it is advisable to check the current timetables and plan journeys accordingly.