Varenna & rive est (Bellano)

Where to Stay in Varenna & East Shore (Bellano) : Complete Guide

On the east shore of Lake Como, Varenna and Bellano display discreet and luminous charm. The colourful façades of houses rise along turquoise waters while cypresses and olive trees caress the hills. The lake shimmers under the changing sky, offering deep blue reflections. Paved alleys lead to secret gardens and historic villas. Silence is punctuated by the lapping of waves and birdsong. Here, time slows, inviting contemplation and aimless strolls between lake and mountains.

Safety score: 9/10midCouples on honeymoonHiking enthusiastsFamilies seeking calmPhotography enthusiasts

Pros

  • Exceptional lake landscapes
  • Romantic and peaceful atmosphere
  • Historic gardens and villas
  • Refined local gastronomy
  • Easy train access

Cons

  • Limited road traffic
  • Fewer evening entertainments
  • Rare parking in summer

The 5 best hotels in Varenna & rive est (Bellano)

Pace attraverso gli occhi - Vue d'ensemble
1

Pace attraverso gli occhi

9.753 reviews
Top pick

Situated in the sestiere of Varenna and the east shore at Bellano, Pace attraverso gli occhi offers a simple setting focused on views of Lake Como. The establishment allows pets and has an outdoor terrace. Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas. Its position and rate make it a practical option for discovering the eastern shore.

InternetAnimaux domestiques admisConnexion Wi-Fi gratuiteTerrasse
From ~219EUR / night
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LUCY'S HOUSE - Vue d'ensemble
2

LUCY'S HOUSE

9.6113 reviews
Excellent

Lucy's House is located in the sestiere of Varenna and east shore at Bellano. This house offers independent accommodation with private parking included. Free Wi-Fi ensures good connectivity during the stay. Its standing and location make it a suitable choice for comfortable stays by the lake.

Parking privéParking gratuitConnexion Wi-Fi gratuite
From ~382EUR / night
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Foresteria Lago di Como - Vue d'ensemble
3

Foresteria Lago di Como

9.6515 reviews
Recommended

Foresteria Lago di Como is situated in the sestiere of Varenna and east shore at Bellano. The establishment offers private parking on site and free Wi-Fi. Its position and services make it a reliable address for extended stays. Comfort and discretion characterise this accommodation.

Parking privéParking sur placeConnexion Wi-Fi gratuite
From ~552EUR / night
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Daniel House - Lake and ferry terminal 1 minute walk, in the heart of Bellano - Vue d'ensemble
4

Daniel House - Lake and ferry terminal 1 minute walk, in the heart of Bellano

9.562 reviews

Daniel House is situated in the sestiere of Varenna and east shore at Bellano, a one-minute walk from the ferry terminal. The establishment offers an airport shuttle and parking. Free Wi-Fi covers all areas. Its proximity to transport makes it a practical base for exploring the lake.

Navette aéroportParkingWi-Fi disponible partoutConnexion Wi-Fi gratuite
From ~443EUR / night
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Near Villa Monastero and Castello di Vezio - Vue d'ensemble
5

Near Villa Monastero and Castello di Vezio

9.4204 reviews

This accommodation is situated in the sestiere of Varenna and east shore at Bellano, near Villa Monastero and Castello di Vezio. It offers free private parking and free Wi-Fi. Its location allows easy access to the main sites of the eastern shore. Comfort and central position characterise this establishment.

Wi-Fi disponible partoutParking privéParking gratuitConnexion Wi-Fi gratuite
From ~550EUR / night
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Complete guide

Ambiance & Landscapes

The east shore of Lake Como reveals a peaceful and refined atmosphere. Varenna seduces with its brightly coloured houses descending to the water, narrow stairways and shaded little squares. Bellano, more authentic, retains its character as a fishing village with lively quays in the morning. Mountains rise abruptly behind the dwellings, creating a striking contrast between calm water and wooded peaks. Sunsets bathe the landscape in golden and pink hues, while villa gardens offer striking views over the lake and neighbouring villages. The air is mild, scented by flowers and maritime pines.

Things to See and Do

Do not miss Villa Monastero in Varenna with its spectacular botanical gardens and terraces overlooking the lake. Stroll through the historic centre with its paved alleys and visit the church of San Giorgio. In Bellano, explore the Orrido, a spectacular gorge carved by the river. Take a cruise to Bellagio or Menaggio. Hiking trails lead to Castello di Vezio for panoramic views. Swimming enthusiasts will appreciate pebble beaches near Varenna and clear waters for light diving.

Where to Eat and Drink

Varenna restaurants offer local specialities such as risotto with lake-caught perch fillet, tagliatelle with porcini and revisited tiramisu. Enjoy regional wines such as Valtellina or a fresh prosecco by the water. In Bellano, trattorias serve simple and tasty dishes : polenta concia, local cheeses and grilled fish. Terraces offer striking views while savouring a coffee or homemade limoncello aperitif.

Transport & Access

Varenna is accessible by train from Milan in about an hour, with a well-served central station. Ferries connect Varenna to Bellagio, Menaggio and other lake villages every hour in season. The road along the east shore is winding but offers fine panoramas. Parking is available near the port, though limited in high season. Local buses easily reach Bellano. Electric bike hire is ideal for exploring coastal roads freely.

Who Is It For?

This sector suits couples seeking romance, with private gardens and waterside dinners. Families appreciate easy walks and water activities. Hikers will find numerous trails towards the hills. History and architecture enthusiasts will enjoy the villas and ancient churches. Travellers seeking calm away from the mass crowds of the west shore will find their happiness here.

Other neighborhoods in Lake Como

Côme & Cernobbio (ville, sud-ouest)

Couples on honeymoonHistory and architecture enthusiastsFamilies

On the southern shores of Lake Como, the Como and Cernobbio area presents a refined scene where turquoise waters meet the pastel façades of nineteenth-century villas. Cernobbio, nestled at the foot of wooded hills, offers an elegant contrast with the urban energy of Como. The lush gardens of Villa d'Este reflect in the lake while Lombard mountains shape the distant horizon. Strollers and sailboats glide across the waters, creating an atmosphere that is both peaceful and sophisticated. This corner of the lake invites contemplation between historic heritage and Mediterranean nature.

Bellagio (la perle du lac)

Couples on honeymoonHistoric garden enthusiastsLuxury-seeking travellers

Bellagio, the pearl of the lake, rises like a jewel at the tip of Lake Como. Its paved alleys wind between ochre villa façades and lush gardens that plunge into turquoise waters. Cypresses stand proudly facing mountains framing the horizon, while ferries glide lazily between shores. The atmosphere evokes timeless elegance where time seems suspended between water reflections and golden light. This enchanting village invites contemplation and refined discoveries.

Menaggio, Tremezzo & Lenno (rive ouest)

Couples on honeymoonGarden and villa enthusiastsFamilies seeking calm

On the west shore of Lake Como, Menaggio, Tremezzo and Lenno compose an elegant scene where turquoise waters meet verdant hills. Patrician villas with terraced gardens reflect in the lake, while cypresses and olive trees border paved alleys. The atmosphere oscillates between aristocratic tranquillity and Mediterranean softness, ideal for travellers seeking timeless beauty and landscapes worthy of the finest postcards.

Lecco & branche sud-est

Couples on honeymoonHiking enthusiastsFamilies with children

Discover the south-east branch of Lake Como, where Lecco unfolds at the foot of steep mountains. The calm waters reflect alpine peaks and ancient villas line the peaceful shores. Far from the crowds, this area reveals authentic villages, dense forests and trails winding towards stunning panoramas. The atmosphere is serene, bathed in soft light and fresh breezes from the summits. Perfect for travellers seeking untouched natural beauty, it combines discreet charm with majestic views that invite contemplation and gentle adventure.

Haut lac (Gravedona & Nord)

KitesurfersCouples on honeymoonHiking lovers

North of Lake Como, the Upper Lake reveals a wilder and more authentic landscape. Between Gravedona and surrounding villages, turquoise waters meet the first Alpine foothills. Regular breezes stir the sails of windsurfers while olive trees and cypresses border peaceful shores. Mountains reflect in the lake from dawn, creating changing scenes according to the seasons. This more discreet corner appeals through its calm, away from central lake crowds. Winding little roads reveal hidden coves and Romanesque churches that tell local history. The atmosphere is both invigorating and serene, ideal for those seeking an authentic lake experience.