Valmadrera
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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 Valmadrera
Valmadrera has a limited number of established hotels, with most accommodation in the area consisting of smaller lakeside residences and B&Bs. For full-service hotels with stronger facilities and a higher volume of guest reviews, neighbouring towns on the Lecco branch of Lake Como provide the most reliable choices.
In Malgrate, Hotel Griso Collection is one of the best-reviewed options, offering panoramic lake views, modern rooms and professional service, making it a popular base close to Lecco (€€€). In Varenna, Hotel Royal Victoria provides an elegant lakeside stay with historic character, refined interiors and consistently strong guest satisfaction (€€€€). Also in Varenna, Hotel Villa Cipressi offers terraced gardens, lake views and a polished atmosphere, appealing to guests seeking a scenic and memorable setting (€€€€).
In Malgrate, Hotel Griso Collection is one of the best-reviewed options, offering panoramic lake views, modern rooms and professional service, making it a popular base close to Lecco (€€€). In Varenna, Hotel Royal Victoria provides an elegant lakeside stay with historic character, refined interiors and consistently strong guest satisfaction (€€€€). Also in Varenna, Hotel Villa Cipressi offers terraced gardens, lake views and a polished atmosphere, appealing to guests seeking a scenic and memorable setting (€€€€).
Where is
Where is Valmadrera?
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The lakeside town of Valmadrera is situated in the Province of Lecco, on the shores of Lake Como. It has a population of around 11,000 residents and is located a distance of 56 kilometres north of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.
Valmadrera has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Lecco, Abbadia Lariana and Mandello del Lario. |
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Comune di Valmadrera
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Province: Lecco
Region: Lombardy Population: 11,311 (in 2024 - source) Size: 13 km² Elevation: 237 metres Travel facilities: ferry port, train station Close by: Lecco, Abbadia Lariana, Mandello del Lario, Onno |
What People Ask About Valmadrera
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Discover
Discover Valmadrera
Valmadrera is located just west of Lecco, at the point where the southern branch of Lake Como meets the lower slopes of the Grigna range. The town extends from the lakeside into the foothills, with a mix of residential streets and historic buildings set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Its position provides wide views across the water towards Malgrate and the surrounding peaks.
Among its landmarks are the Church of San Giorgio and a number of historic villas that reflect the town’s past importance as a lakeside settlement. The area is also a starting point for walks into Monte Moregallo and the network of trails leading deeper into the Grigna mountains. Well connected by road to Lecco and further south to Milan, Valmadrera is also close to routes leading north into the Valtellina Valley, making it a convenient base for exploring both lake and mountain landscapes.
Among its landmarks are the Church of San Giorgio and a number of historic villas that reflect the town’s past importance as a lakeside settlement. The area is also a starting point for walks into Monte Moregallo and the network of trails leading deeper into the Grigna mountains. Well connected by road to Lecco and further south to Milan, Valmadrera is also close to routes leading north into the Valtellina Valley, making it a convenient base for exploring both lake and mountain landscapes.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Valmadrera
- Lakeside Area and Parè Beach: Valmadrera stretches along the eastern shore of the south-western branch of Lake Como and features Parè Beach, a popular spot for swimming, windsurfing, and picnics. The beach has a grassy area and panoramic views across the lake towards Malgrate and Lecco, making it a favourite with locals in the warmer months.
- Chiesa di San Giorgio: This historic church is located in the upper part of Valmadrera and dates to the medieval period. It features Romanesque elements, including a simple stone façade and bell tower, and contains interior frescoes and religious artworks that reflect the town’s longstanding traditions.
- Santuario della Madonna di San Martino: Perched in the hills above the town, this sanctuary is reached by a well-marked hiking path and rewards visitors with wide views over Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The small church is a site of local pilgrimage and provides a peaceful setting for walkers and nature lovers.
- Hiking Trails to Monte Moregallo and San Tomaso: Valmadrera is a base for outdoor activities, with well-maintained trails leading up to Monte Moregallo and the pastoral area of San Tomaso, known for its panoramic views and small chapel. These routes are popular with hikers and mountain bikers seeking scenic routes above the lake.
- Day Trip to Lecco: Just a few minutes away by car or bike, Lecco offers cultural attractions, shopping, and ferry links to other towns on Lake Como. Its museums, lakeside promenade, and historic centre provide a rich contrast to the more rural, outdoor-focused setting of Valmadrera.
Tours and Activities
Valmadrera Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Valmadrera
- Villa Giulia – Al Terrazzo: Located in Valmadrera, this refined restaurant offers a high-quality menu of Italian cuisine with a contemporary approach. Guests can dine on a panoramic terrace overlooking Lake Como, enjoying dishes such as seafood pasta, risotto, and delicately prepared meat mains. It’s a popular venue for special occasions thanks to the view and service. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria Le Bocce: Also in Valmadrera, Osteria Le Bocce serves traditional Italian and Lombard fare in a warm and informal atmosphere. The menu includes homemade pasta, grilled meats, and daily specials based on local ingredients. It’s well suited for relaxed meals with family or friends. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Bar Luna Trattoria Pizzeria: Situated in Valmadrera, this casual restaurant combines a pizzeria and trattoria with a wide selection of pizzas, pasta dishes, and mains. With generous portions and a family-friendly environment, it’s a convenient spot for everyday dining. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Filanda Ristorante: Found in Valmadrera, La Filanda offers a balanced menu of Italian classics, including fish, meat, and vegetarian dishes. The dining room is modern and comfortable, and the kitchen places an emphasis on fresh, well-prepared ingredients. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Basiliko Restaurant-Bar: Also in Valmadrera, Basiliko is located within the Tennis Club 88 complex and serves a variety of Italian dishes in a relaxed, sporty setting. It’s ideal for a casual lunch or dinner, especially during events or active days at the club. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Valmadrera Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Valmadrera
- Lecco (approx. 5 km southeast of Valmadrera): Situated at the southeastern tip of Lake Como, Lecco offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town has a lively atmosphere with historic landmarks such as the Piazza XX Settembre and Lecco Cathedral, as well as hiking opportunities in the surrounding hills.
- Civate (approx. 7 km north of Valmadrera): A small town known for its historical sites, including the Abbazia di San Pietro al Monte, a medieval abbey with remarkable frescoes and stunning views over the lake. Civate also offers scenic hiking paths and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
- Malgrate (approx. 3 km east of Valmadrera): A picturesque town with beautiful views of Lake Como. Malgrate offers a peaceful lakeside promenade, perfect for relaxing walks, as well as charming narrow streets and small cafes to explore.
- Pescate (approx. 6 km south of Valmadrera): A small town located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Pescate offers quiet lakeside views and access to outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. The town is also home to the Chiesa di San Giorgio, a historic church with stunning views over the lake.
- Lecco’s Piani d'Erna (approx. 10 km southeast of Valmadrera): While not a town, Piani d'Erna is a popular area for hiking and skiing. The mountain is accessible by cable car from Lecco and offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding region, making it a great place for outdoor activities.
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 Valmadrera
By Rail: Valmadrera has its own train station, Valmadrera Station, located on a minor branch line with limited regional services. For more frequent connections, travellers should use Lecco station, just 3 kilometres away. Lecco offers regular Trenord trains to Milan, with journey times of approximately 40 minutes, and services north towards Colico and Sondrio. Valmadrera can be reached from Lecco by local bus or taxi, and the walk takes around 30–40 minutes.
By Road: Valmadrera lies at the south-eastern tip of Lake Como, just west of Lecco. It is about 50 kilometres north of Milan and only 3 kilometres from the centre of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour via the SS36 dual carriageway, exiting at Lecco and continuing on the SP583 lakeside road. From Lecco, the drive takes less than 10 minutes. Public parking is available in the town, including near the lake and residential areas.
By Ferry: Valmadrera is not currently served by Navigazione Laghi ferry services. The closest ferry terminal is in Lecco, where passenger boats operate seasonally to towns along the eastern shore of Lake Como, including Abbadia Lariana, Mandello del Lario, and Bellano. For more extensive ferry routes, including crossings to Bellagio and Menaggio, visitors can travel north to Varenna, approximately 20 kilometres away.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Valmadrera lies at the south-eastern tip of Lake Como, just west of Lecco. It is about 50 kilometres north of Milan and only 3 kilometres from the centre of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes about 1 hour via the SS36 dual carriageway, exiting at Lecco and continuing on the SP583 lakeside road. From Lecco, the drive takes less than 10 minutes. Public parking is available in the town, including near the lake and residential areas.
By Ferry: Valmadrera is not currently served by Navigazione Laghi ferry services. The closest ferry terminal is in Lecco, where passenger boats operate seasonally to towns along the eastern shore of Lake Como, including Abbadia Lariana, Mandello del Lario, and Bellano. For more extensive ferry routes, including crossings to Bellagio and Menaggio, visitors can travel north to Varenna, approximately 20 kilometres away.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Located about 55 kilometres south of Valmadrera, the drive takes around 1 hour. Travellers can also reach Valmadrera by taking a train from Milan Centrale to Lecco, followed by a short bus or taxi journey.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated approximately 40 kilometres south-east of Valmadrera, the drive takes around 50 minutes. Public transport options include a bus to Bergamo station, a train to Lecco, and onward travel to Valmadrera.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Roughly 90 kilometres south-west of Valmadrera, the journey by car takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The Malpensa Express train runs to Milan Centrale, with onward connections to Lecco and local transport to Valmadrera.
Private Transfers
Valmadrera Private Transfers
A private transfer is the easiest way to travel to or from Valmadrera, giving you a direct connection without the need to rely on buses or drive the busy roads around Lake Como yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.
From Valmadrera, the nearest hub is Lecco city centre, which can be reached in about 10 minutes, a distance of 4 km. Milan Linate Airport is roughly 1 hour away at 60 km, while Milan Malpensa Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 20 minutes, covering 80 km. A transfer to Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport usually takes 50 minutes with a journey of 45 km. For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 1 hour 15 minutes away, a distance of 70 km.
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 Valmadrera, the nearest hub is Lecco city centre, which can be reached in about 10 minutes, a distance of 4 km. Milan Linate Airport is roughly 1 hour away at 60 km, while Milan Malpensa Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 20 minutes, covering 80 km. A transfer to Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport usually takes 50 minutes with a journey of 45 km. For those travelling into Switzerland, Lugano is about 1 hour 15 minutes away, a distance of 70 km.
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.
