Places to Stay

11 of the best Lake Como villas to rent

Our favourite villas and Airbnbs in and around Lake Como
Villa Peduzzi the best lake como villas
Petrina Tinslay

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Yes, Italy’s lakes are undoubtedly home to some of the most beautiful hotels in the world, but Lake Como's villas are often equally stunning. And if you’re planning a trip for a larger group, or simply looking for some peace on your travels, booking a villa is an ideal choice.

Whether you want classic Italian grandeur, or care more for a stunning view from the window, you’ll find somewhere to stay along every inch of the lake. From a romantic escape for two to a luxury villa that sleeps the whole family, these are our favourite Lake Como villas and Airbnbs, each one picked for its unique features and ideal location. For more options, see our pick of the best Lake Como hotels.

  • Torno Follow the narrow twisting road through the ancient quarry lining this bank of Lake Como and soon Villa Torno...
    Ramona Balaban

    Villa Torno

    Torno

    Follow the narrow twisting road through the ancient quarry lining this bank of Lake Como, and soon Villa Torno will come into view. The track is steep, but you’ll be rewarded with blissful peace and quiet, a front-row seat to the area’s ferocious sunsets, and a newly renovated bolthole to call your own for the weekend. With respect to the area’s stonemasonry roots, the villa’s original structure and materials have been maintained wherever possible, resulting in a careful balance of modern luxury and historical quirks. Befitting the stylish hosts (both fashion types, one a former model and the other with a CV boasting Versace and Jil Sander), the interiors are tasteful and refined, with huge windows adding grandeur and original wooden beams bringing the cosiness. In the basement, a sauna has been carved out of the rocks, and on the terrace, a new outdoor pool replete with jacuzzi jets invites you to take a few leisurely laps.

    Price: From around £2,154 per night, with a three-night minimum
    Sleeps: Six

    Book your stay: Airbnb

  • La Foleia

    Revislate

    In Latin, ‘foleia’ translates to ‘folly’, and the story behind this abode could be seen as a little bonkers – certainly ambitious, at least. The owners had a vision for this one-time thickly forested area: two villas, each with its own charms, facing each other across a lake. Yes, that meant pumping the lake themselves, not to mention clearing the trees, but the results are glorious. In this villa (see this listing for the other), floor-to-ceiling windows open directly out onto the lake and a view that’s nearly impossibly lovely. Inside is as chic as can be, with a grand fireplace, neoclassical frescoes and elegant statues adorning each stylish corner (there are eight to admire, thanks to the home’s unusual octagonal shape). If madness is a leisurely row across a glassy private lake, followed by a chef-prepared breakfast on the terrace and a dip in a heated pool, sign us up.

    Price: From around £711 per night
    Sleeps: Four

    Book your stay: Airbnb
  • Andrea Butti

    Suite Lorodellago Como

    Como

    A lot of luxury hotels and guesthouses have bathtubs in the bedroom. But this elegant Como suite goes one better. Step into the sleeping quarters – which have sweeping marble floors that carry through into the kitchen and ultra-serene bathroom, along with a gold king-sized four-poster bed – and you’ll find a jacuzzi instead. It’s unabashed luxury, dimly lit and sophisticated, where two can happily cocoon themselves away from the world after a day enjoying Como’s sights. There’s a quiet private terrace at the back for breakfasts al fresco, and a sauna, too.

    Price: From around £267 per night, with a two-night minimum
    Sleeps: Two

    Book your stay: Airbnb

  • Villa upon the lake

    Comabbio

    Located on the banks of Lake Monate, views don’t come much better than this. The conservatories are a highlight of this property, which sleeps up to 10 people in five different bedrooms. Interiors are simple and spacious, with antique furniture decorating the bedrooms and a modern kitchen for cooking up a pasta feast.

    It’s a tranquil option, with virtually no noise – however, this does mean that you’ll be needing a car if you’re planning to get around during your stay. For those keen to get onto the lake itself, there’s a boat mooring for guests to use.

    Sleeps: 10
    Price: From £448 a night, minimum five-night stay

    book your stay: plum guide

  • Villa Monti

    Varenna

    Picture yourself, sitting on the traditional liberty villa terrace, watching the sun rise over Lake Como. This gem of an apartment brings your dream to life, with its gorgeous outdoor space made for soaking in the surroundings. The apartment has access to a shared outdoor pool and stunning garden and is cosy enough for two or three people to feel at home. In terms of classic Italian views, it doesn't get much better.

    Sleeps: Three
    Price: From £290 a night, minimum two-night stay

    book your stay: airbnb

  • Pool villa

    Sala Comacina

    Picture yourself stepping into a pool overlooking Lake Como. Sounds perfect, right? This stunning villa lets you live the dream, with an infinity pool the length of the property ready to invite you in. Inside is a minimalist’s dream, with a large dining table overlooking the terrace, and a fully-equipped kitchen. Most of the five bedrooms have outdoor access and take advantage of the view with floor-to-ceiling windows. And, should you wish to leave the property, the restaurant Lido di Lenno nearby is one of the most sought-after tables in the area.

    Sleeps: 12
    Price: From £1,705 a night, minimum three-night stay

    book your stay: plum guide

  • Apartment in the town

    Bellagio

    You can have the best of both worlds with this Airbnb option; a town centre apartment upon the lake. The small, one-bedroom option is located on a whimsical street in Bellagio, surrounded by shops and restaurants, while the lake is just a few minutes walk away. There’s a boat stop nearby, so you can easily explore the lake, making this an ideal place for those who don’t wish to hire a car on their trip. Inside, the apartment is fun and colourful in the living area, but calm and collected in the bedroom.

    Sleeps: Four
    Price: From £129 a night, minimum two-night stay

    book your stay: airbnb

  • Fashion villa

    Laglio

    Owned by an Italian fashion designer (although exactly who is a secret), this 19th-century villa is a must for stylish types. Everything from the calming interiors to the stunning terrace and outdoor pool is aesthetically pleasing, and settling down by the fish pond is a perfect way to spend the afternoon. With enough room for eight guests, it’s a great place to grab a bunch of friends or family and live the dream, if only for a little while.

    Sleeps: Eight
    Price: From £1,734 a night, minimum seven-night stay

    book your stay: airbnb

  • Stylish villa

    Menaggio

    If a style is at the forefront of your mind when booking a stay, this bold villa might take your fancy. The shared building, which has a stunning outdoor pool, is gorgeous on the outside, but quirky inside. Expect bold artwork, colourful velvet sofas and a general maximalist vibe that’s refreshingly different to a lot of what’s on offer nearby. With three living rooms, four bedrooms, a dining room and a large kitchen, this makes for a memorable getaway if you’re travelling with a bunch of friends.

    Sleeps: Eight
    Price: From £860 a night, minimum five-night stay

    book your stay: airbnb

  • Former ice house

    Como

    Those who favour unique stays will be taken by this former ice house, which has been transformed into an apartment but maintains all of its bare brick charms. The split-level property has a mezzanine complete with curved furniture to complement the circular home, while the bedroom area is cosy and welcoming. Located within the town of Como, you can reach the lakeside in minutes – from there, you’ll be able to catch a boat or ferry and explore the surrounding towns.

    Sleeps: Up to four
    Price: From £138 a night, minimum two-night stay

    book your stay: plum guide

  • Romantic room on the lake

    Nesso

    If some time away with your partner is just what you need, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more romantic location than this lakeside apartment in the village of Nesso. The view is, of course, the knockout, but the finishing touches make this stay extra special: from the antique stove for chillier nights to the roll-top bath. With a stunning 200-metre waterfall and the landmark Civera Bridge on your doorstep, it’s hard to imagine a more romantic setting.

    Sleeps: Two
    Price: From £363 a night, minimum two-night stay

    book your stay: plum guide

  • Mountain villa

    Givenna

    If views are your main priority, you might appreciate being up in the mountains, where you can get a slightly better view of the lake from a distance – plus a cooler breeze on sweltering summer nights. This private villa comes with its pool, sauna and hot tub, plus six bedrooms, living room, kitchen and dining room. The highlight, though, is the perfect location. The lakeside offers views along its entire length while the other side of the property faces a cedar forest and garden terrace. What could be more relaxing?

    Sleeps: 12-13
    Price: From £1,336 a night

    book your stay: welcome beyond
  • Petrina Tinslay

    Luxury lake villa

    Pigra

    If you’re looking to really splash out, Villa Peduzzi has everything you could want from a lakeside villa; total privacy, mind-blowing views and luxury features. The villa itself was built in the early 20th century, and while interiors are now thoroughly modern, some features – such as ceiling frescoes – still remain. While the interiors are luxurious and spacious, the main feature here is the infinity pool and terrace, which has a 180-degree view of Lake Como. Surely there's no better place to enjoy a sunset dinner?

    Sleeps: 14-16
    Price: From £5,406 a night

    book your stay: welcome beyond

  • Garden villa among the olive groves

    Lenno

    This classic Italian stone villa is set along the riverbank, with direct access to the water via its own private gate. The large gardens make this property feel particularly spacious, and the nearby olive groves only add to the romance of the place. Interiors are a mixture of traditional and fun; think vaulted ceilings with dark wooden beams among brightly-painted walls. As with the exterior, there’s plenty of space – three bedrooms, two bathrooms and huge kitchen and living areas make this an ideal choice for families.

    Sleeps: Six
    Price: From £816 a night

    book your stay: onefinestay
TopicsEuropeItalyItalian LakesVillasHouses To Rent