Vassena
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The lakeside location of Vassena is situated within the Province of Lecco and lies on the shores of Lake Como. Vassena is officially a part of the comune of Oliveto Lario.
Vassena has a Lake Como ferry port, while nearby places of interest include Onno, Bellagio, the Giardini di Villa Melzi and Valmadrera. Recommended accommodation is the Hotel Du Lac. |
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What People Ask About Vassena
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Discover Vassena
Vassena, located in the Lombardy region, is a small village set along the eastern shore of Lake Como, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty, Vassena provides a tranquil escape, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the natural surroundings and serenity of the area. The village’s traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and lakeside location contribute to its charm and character.
Vassena 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 also home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni, a historic church with significant cultural value. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Vassena offers several hiking trails that lead up into the surrounding hills, providing panoramic views of the lake and the mountains. With its tranquil setting, natural beauty, and historic charm, Vassena is an excellent base for exploring the eastern shores of Lake Como.
Vassena 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 also home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni, a historic church with significant cultural value. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Vassena offers several hiking trails that lead up into the surrounding hills, providing panoramic views of the lake and the mountains. With its tranquil setting, natural beauty, and historic charm, Vassena is an excellent base for exploring the eastern shores of Lake Como.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Vassena
- Lakeside Area and Small Harbour: Vassena is a tranquil lakeside hamlet on the eastern shore of Lake Como, with a small harbour, pebble beach, and public green space beside the water. The views across the lake towards Tremezzina are particularly scenic, and the calm waters make it a pleasant spot for swimming and kayaking.
- Chiesa di San Nazaro e Celso: This small parish church is located near the centre of the village and features a simple façade with a tall bell tower. Inside are altars, devotional artworks, and signs of centuries of local religious activity. The church remains central to community life and religious festivities.
- Traditional Village Lanes and Courtyards: Vassena retains its traditional layout, with narrow alleys, stone houses, and shaded courtyards typical of Lake Como’s historic hamlets. The village is quiet and residential, offering a relaxed and authentic feel, far from the busier tourist areas of the lake.
- Walking Paths to Limonta and Bellagio: Vassena lies along the scenic SP583 lakeside road and is connected to neighbouring hamlets like Limonta by walking paths. Trails into the hills behind the village offer views over the lake and access to quiet wooded areas, ideal for light hiking and nature walks.
- Day Trip to Bellagio: Just 10 minutes away by car, Bellagio offers famous gardens, villas, and a range of shops and restaurants. Its proximity makes it an easy excursion from Vassena, allowing visitors to enjoy the cultural highlights of one of Lake Como’s most iconic towns while staying in a quieter setting.
Vassena Tours and Activities
Vassena - frazione di Oliveto Lario
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Comune: Oliveto Lario
Province: Lecco Region: Lombardy Elevation: 208 metres Travel facilities: ferry port Close by: Onno, Bellagio, Giardini di Villa Melzi, Valmadrera |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Vassena
- Villa Lario Resort Mandello Located just outside Vassena in Mandello del Lario, this luxurious lakeside villa offers elegant suites, a lakeside terrace, and a swimming platform with direct access to the water. Guests appreciate the refined service, panoramic views, and beautifully maintained gardens. €€€€ (luxury)
- B&B Le Ortensie Situated in the heart of Vassena and a short walk from the lakefront, this charming bed and breakfast features cosy rooms with traditional furnishings and a garden terrace. Visitors enjoy the warm hospitality, homemade breakfast, and quiet village atmosphere. €€ (mid-range)
- Appartamento Vassena Lago di Como A private holiday flat offering lake views, a balcony, and a well-equipped kitchen. Guests value the self-catering option, peaceful location, and walking distance to the lakeshore and nearby cafés. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa Giani Located on the hills above Vassena, this guesthouse in a restored villa provides rustic-style rooms, lake views, and access to walking paths through the woods. Visitors enjoy the quiet setting, historic character, and panoramic surroundings. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Crotto di Somana Situated about 10 minutes’ drive from Vassena, in the hills near Mandello del Lario, this farmhouse offers rooms and apartments, local cuisine, and views over Lake Como. Guests appreciate the natural setting, traditional food, and connection to hiking routes. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Vassena
- Vassena Café: Located in the centre of Vassena, this café-restaurant offers light Italian meals, snacks, and coffee in a lakeside setting. With outdoor seating overlooking Lake Como, it’s a pleasant spot for a relaxed lunch or aperitivo. The service is friendly and the atmosphere casual. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Al Molo 5 Restaurant: Also in Vassena, Al Molo 5 provides a refined dining experience with an elegant menu of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Dishes are carefully presented and made with fresh ingredients, ideal for a romantic evening or special occasion. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- La Breva: Situated in Onno (approximately 2 km from Vassena), La Breva focuses on lake fish and traditional Italian dishes. The interior is simple and cosy, and the kitchen prepares classic recipes with fresh local ingredients. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Magrej: Located in Oliveto Lario (about 3 km from Vassena), this restaurant serves Italian staples including grilled meats, pasta dishes, and pizza. It has a spacious interior and is suitable for families or small groups looking for a relaxed meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Galli & Gufi: Found in Bellagio (approximately 7 km from Vassena), Galli & Gufi offers a modern take on Italian cuisine in a stylish setting. The restaurant is known for its creative approach to traditional dishes and is a good choice for a more upscale dining experience. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
Photo Gallery
Vassena Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Vassena
- 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. Visitors can explore the Piani d'Erna, a mountain accessible by cable car that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The town also features a historic centre with charming streets and excellent lakeside views.
- 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. The town provides a quieter atmosphere compared to some of the larger lakeside towns.
- 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.
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Vassena
By Rail: Vassena does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Valmadrera, approximately 15 kilometres to the south by road, although services there are limited. A more convenient option is Lecco station, which offers frequent Trenord regional services to and from Milan, with a journey time of around 40 minutes. From Lecco, Vassena can be reached by local bus or taxi, travelling along the scenic SP583 lakeside road.
By Road: Vassena is located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, within the municipality of Oliveto Lario. It lies approximately 65 kilometres north of Milan and 20 kilometres north of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS36 and SP583 roads. From Lecco, the drive takes about 30 minutes. Parking in Vassena is limited but available near the lakefront and in small designated areas within the village.
By Ferry: Vassena is not served directly by Navigazione Laghi ferry services. The nearest ferry terminal is in Bellagio, located around 7 kilometres to the north. From Bellagio, frequent passenger boats operate to mid-lake destinations such as Varenna and Menaggio, with vehicle ferry services available to Cadenabbia. Visitors to Vassena can travel to Bellagio by car, taxi, or local bus to access the wider ferry network.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Vassena is located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, within the municipality of Oliveto Lario. It lies approximately 65 kilometres north of Milan and 20 kilometres north of Lecco. The drive from Milan takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS36 and SP583 roads. From Lecco, the drive takes about 30 minutes. Parking in Vassena is limited but available near the lakefront and in small designated areas within the village.
By Ferry: Vassena is not served directly by Navigazione Laghi ferry services. The nearest ferry terminal is in Bellagio, located around 7 kilometres to the north. From Bellagio, frequent passenger boats operate to mid-lake destinations such as Varenna and Menaggio, with vehicle ferry services available to Cadenabbia. Visitors to Vassena can travel to Bellagio by car, taxi, or local bus to access the wider ferry network.
Nearest International Airports:
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Located about 75 kilometres south of Vassena, the drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Travellers can also take a train from Milan Centrale to Lecco, then continue by bus or taxi to Vassena.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated approximately 65 kilometres south-east of Vassena, the drive takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Public transport options include a bus to Bergamo station, a train to Lecco, and onward road travel to Vassena.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Malpensa): Roughly 100 kilometres south-west of Vassena, the drive takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. The Malpensa Express runs to Milan Centrale, with connecting trains to Lecco and bus or taxi options to reach Vassena.
