A Historic Town Along Lake Como Offers A Unique Italian Alps Experience With Cute Shops

Tucked away where the Adda River meets Lake Como, the charming town of Colico is a unique experience and offers a glimpse into life in the Italian Alps. Steeped in history with medieval architecture like Forte Montecchio Nord, centuries old churches, and adorable shops, there's a huge variety of things to experience here no matter what kind of getaway you're looking for. The town itself is framed by stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains, and its combination of natural beauty and historic charm makes it a truly perfect destination for those looking for more than just a typical lakeside stay during their visit to Italy.

The town of Colico sits just over an hour's drive away from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). It is also easily accessible by public transport, taking less than three hours by a combination of bus and train. On arrival, the perfect way to introduce yourself to the town is through a peaceful walk along the lakefront promenade. It's an ideal spot for soaking in the alpine atmosphere, relaxing by the waterfront, and snapping some truly gorgeous photos.

Colico is renowned for its many cute shops, local markets and artisan boutiques. It's a true favourite amongst those who love shopping on vacation. Whether you're hunting for some handcrafted leather goods, looking to buy some delicious chocolate, or hoping to treat yourself to some unique Italian fashion, Colico has it all. If you visit on a Friday morning between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. the town's local markets are open with vendors selling fresh local produce, a range of great Italian cheeses, and various other regional specialties.

It's a great idea to grab some delicious local treats from the markets and enjoy them at a lakeside picnic, but true foodies will want to explore the authentic local dining scene. Be sure not to miss out on a visit to one of Colico's lakeside cafes or trattorias, where dishes often feature fresh lake fish and iconic pastas. Dining here provides a truly authentic taste of the Lombardy region with Blue River Colico and Portovino being two spots that should be at the top of your list.

There are plenty of great day trip options to nearby towns and attractions surrounding Lake Como that you can also enjoy during your visit. Although Bellagio is a popular town on Lake Como that some say is overrated, it's still worth a visit. Also worth a day trip is Brunate, a lesser-known rustic Italian village that sits perched above the lake.

For those in search of outdoor activities, there's plenty to see and do here in Colico. With various water sports to enjoy on the lake, plenty of hiking trails, and various picturesque cycling routes, it can be difficult to know where to start. Kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding are all popular activities out on Lake Como, while the nearby Sentiero del Viandante Trail offers breathtaking hikes along the eastern shore. When visit during the winter season, Colico's proximity to the Alps makes it a great base for enjoying winter sports, and this is one of the reasons Lake Como is the unexpected winter wonderland destination of your dreams.

That said, the best time to visit the town is between late spring and early fall when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are fully accessible. Temperatures at this time of year typically fall somewhere between 60 and 80 Fahrenheit. It's a good idea to pack sunblock, swimwear, and comfortable walking shoes to enjoy both the lake and the town's quaint beaches. Colico also boasts plenty of gorgeous places to stay, with a range of stunning bed and breakfasts, charming boutique hotels, and scenic lakeside apartments. One highly recommended spot is Hotel Risi where rooms start at around $70 per night for a single bed, or $120 for a twin or double.