Colico, a charming town at the northern tip of Lake Como, is the perfect blend of history, nature, and Italian charm. From its picturesque harbour and lakeside promenade to the ancient forts, there's plenty to explore. Nature lovers will enjoy hiking trails with breathtaking views, while beach lovers can relax at spots like Piona Bay. Colico has something for everyone!

How to Get to Colico, Lake Como 🚗🚆

Colico is well-connected by both train and car, making it easy to reach from major cities like Milan or Como. If you’re traveling by train, you can take a direct route from Milan to Colico. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, offering beautiful views along the way. If you're driving, the town is easily accessible via SS36 from Lecco or Como.

What to Do in Colico📝

1. Explore the Beautiful Lakefront 🚶‍♂️🌅

One of the main attractions in Colico is its breathtaking lakefront promenade. Take a leisurely walk along the shore and soak in the stunning views.

2. Visit the Forte di Montecchio Nord 🏰

Step back in time with a visit to the Forte di Montecchio Nord, a historical fort built during the late 19th century. Explore its well-preserved architecture, including the gun turrets and underground passages, and learn about its fascinating military history. From the fort, you'll also get panoramic views of the lake and the Alps.

3. Explore Colico’s Historic Town Center 🏘️🍝

Wander through Colico’s old town centre, where you’ll find narrow streets, charming shops, and inviting cafés. The town is full of traditional Italian charm, with local restaurants serving delicious Italian cuisine. Don’t forget to try the local wine and enjoy a leisurely meal in one of the many restaurants along the lakeside.

Caffè al Lago 🥐☀️

With its sunny terrace overlooking the lake, Caffè al Lago is a perfect place to relax and enjoy a coffee break . It’s a great place to stop before or after a walk along the lakefront promenade.

What to Try:

Latte Macchiato

Focaccia and Pastries

Il Caffè di Colico 🍩☕️

A charming little café located in the heart of Colico, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere for a morning coffee or an afternoon treat. Whether you’re grabbing a quick cup to go or sitting down to enjoy this café serves high-quality Italian coffee and delicious local pastries.

What to Try:

Espresso or Macchiato

Freshly baked Brioche

Lido di Colico Café 🍹🏖️

For a more lively setting, head to the Lido di Colico, a lakeside beach club and café offering refreshing drinks and casual bites in a stylish atmosphere. The perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or a cocktail while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

What to Try:

Iced Coffee or Cold Brew

Light snacks and appetisers

Bar Gelateria Pasticceria La Baita 🍦🍰

If you’re looking for a café with a dessert focus, La Baita is a fantastic option. This popular spot combines the best of a gelateria, pasticceria, and coffee bar, making it the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy artisanal ice cream, freshly baked pastries, and, of course, a rich Italian coffee.

What to Try:

Delicious Gelato

Tiramisu or Cakes

Traditional Caffè Macchiato

4. Visit the Abbazia di Piona 🏞️⛪

A short drive from Colico, the Abbazia di Piona (Piona Abbey) is a must-see for history and architecture lovers. This medieval abbey, dating back to the 12th century, is situated on a hill overlooking the lake. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a great place for reflection. The abbey’s gardens are also a peaceful retreat, where you can enjoy the tranquility of Lake Como.

5. Hiking and Outdoor Activities 🥾🌳

Colico is surrounded by lush landscapes and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of hiking trails and bike paths that lead you through the hills, offering stunning views of the lake and mountains. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, there are routes suitable for all levels.

Popular Hiking Trails in Colico 🏞️

Sentiero del Viandante (Path of the Wayfarer) 🛤️🌄

One of the most famous hiking routes around Lake Como , a scenic trail that stretches along the eastern shore of the lake. Starting from Colico, this historic trail passes through quaint villages, lush forests, and offers panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The path is well-marked and suitable for all levels of hikers. It’s got plenty of picturesque stops along the way.

• Perfect for a half-day hike

Val di Porlezza 🌲🏞️

The Val di Porlezza trail offers a beautiful journey through the valley of Porlezza, which is near Colico. This trail is a great choice for those who enjoy walking in nature. It winds through dense forests, meadows, and alongside stream-filled valleys. The trail is not overly difficult, making it suitable for beginners and families. Along the way, you’ll encounter the peaceful atmosphere of the valley, perfect for nature lovers seeking a quiet escape.

Monte Croce ⛰️🌿

Monte Croce offers an easier, family-friendly hike with amazing views of Lake Como and the surrounding valleys. The route begins from Colico and takes you up to the summit of Monte Croce. As you hike, you’ll pass through forests, open meadows, and scenic viewpoints. The summit provides panoramic views of the northern part of Lake Como and its beautiful surrounding landscapes, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a less strenuous hike but still want to enjoy stunning scenery.

Something extra:

💦Piona Bay (known locally as Baia di Piona) is a picturesque and peaceful corner located near the charming town of Colico. This serene bay, tucked away along the lake's eastern shore, offers you a beautiful escape from the more tourist-heavy areas around the lake.

How to Get to Piona Bay 🚗🚶‍♂️

• By Car: The bay is just a 10-minute drive from the center of Colico. Follow Via Piona and take the winding road to the bay.

• By Foot: If you’re in Colico or nearby, you can walk to Piona Bay. The walk takes around 30 minutes and is a pleasant way to explore the local scenery.

• By Boat: Some boat tours around Lake Como pass near Piona Bay, offering a lovely way to approach the bay by water.

🌅Sunset over Piona Bay: As the sun sets behind the mountains, Piona Bay transforms into a golden paradise. It really is stunning!