Lecco sits at the southeastern arm of Lake Como, beneath the jagged peaks of the Grigne mountains. It's a working town rather than a tourist resort, which means lower prices, better supermarkets, and a local atmosphere that the western shore's celebrity-magnet villages don't offer. Alessandro Manzoni set his novel The Betrothed here, and the town commemorates him with a modest museum and plaques. We'd recommend Lecco for villa guests who want a Lake Como base that's practical, well-connected, and surrounded by serious hiking terrain, even if the waterfront isn't as polished as Bellagio or Varenna.
Why Stay in Lecco
- Mountain access: The Grigne mountains behind Lecco offer some of the best hiking in Lombardy. The Piani d'Erna cable car (from Lecco suburb) takes you to 1,300m for walks and views.
- Train connections: Lecco's station connects to Milan (40 minutes) and the eastern shore towns. Practical for car-free days.
- Working-town prices: Restaurants, groceries, and villas are noticeably cheaper than the western shore.
- Less scenic waterfront: The lakefront is pleasant but the town's industrial heritage shows in places. It's not as photogenic as the western shore villages.
Things to Do in Lecco
Take the Piani d'Erna cable car for mountain walks and views across the lake. Several trails of varying difficulty start from the top. The views of the Resegone ridge are imposing.
Walk the lakefront promenade to the Ponte Azzone Visconti, a medieval bridge with 11 arches. The Basilica of San Nicolò has a tall bell tower visible from across the lake.
Ferry or drive to Bellagio (30 minutes by car around the lake, or ferry from Lecco pier). Varenna (20 minutes by train or ferry) has the Villa Monastero gardens and a calmer lakeside atmosphere. Bergamo (30 minutes by train) has one of Italy's best-preserved medieval upper towns. Milan (40 minutes by train) is an easy day trip for the Duomo, the Last Supper, and shopping.