Lake Como and Lake Lugano are two of the most picturesque lakes in Northern Italy, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. As a lakes touring enthusiast, it can be challenging to decide which one to visit. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key differences and similarities between these two stunning destinations to help you make an informed decision.
Similarities Between Lake Como and Lake Lugano
- Language: Both lakes are surrounded by areas where Italian is the primary language spoken by the locals.
- Cuisine: The cuisine in the towns and villages around both Lake Como and Lake Lugano is predominantly Italian, featuring delicious pizza, pasta, and other regional specialties.
- Water Quality: Both lakes boast crystal-clear, turquoise-colored waters that are a delight to behold, especially when the sun hits the surface at the right angle.
- Shoreline: Both lakes are dotted with numerous towns and villages along their shorelines, some well-known and tourist-friendly, while others are more remote and off the beaten path.
- Climate: The climate around both Lake Como and Lake Lugano is mild, with average summer temperatures reaching around 25°C (77°F) for Lake Como and 27°C (81°F) for Lake Lugano.
- Scenic Views: Regardless of which lake you visit, you’ll be treated to stunning scenic views from various vantage points around the lakes.
- Boat Trips: Both Lake Como and Lake Lugano offer boat trips, allowing you to explore the lakes and visit specific destinations or simply enjoy a leisurely cruise.
Differences Between Lake Como and Lake Lugano
- Size: Lake Lugano is smaller, covering approximately 66 square kilometers (25 square miles), while Lake Como is larger, covering around 145 square kilometers (56 square miles).
- Location: Lake Lugano is split between Switzerland (40%) and Italy (60%), whereas Lake Como is fully located in Northern Italy.
- Surroundings: Lake Lugano is surrounded by local hills, including Monte Bre and Monte San Salvatore, while Lake Como is surrounded by the majestic Alps.
- Popularity: Lake Como is more popular with international tourists, influenced by its association with famous people and films, making it busier during peak season.
- Currency: Lake Lugano uses Swiss Francs, while Lake Como uses Euros.
Personal Experiences
As a lakes touring enthusiast, I’ve had the opportunity to visit both Lake Como and Lake Lugano. Here are my personal experiences with each:
Lake Lugano
I found Lake Lugano to be a peaceful and picturesque destination, with a more upscale and tranquil atmosphere compared to Lake Como. The villages along the shoreline, such as Gandria and Morcote, are charming and easily accessible by boat. The lake’s cleanliness and the surrounding hills create a serene and relaxing environment.
Lake Como
In contrast, Lake Como is a more bustling and popular destination, especially during the summer months. However, this doesn’t detract from its beauty. The mid-lake area, including the towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, is particularly stunning, with their charming streets, historic buildings, and breathtaking views.
Recommendations
Based on my experiences and the key differences between the two lakes, I would make the following recommendations:
- Lake Como: Recommended for its scenic views, charming towns, and variety of activities. It’s also more conveniently located, being closer to Milan and the Swiss Alps.
- Lake Lugano: Recommended for those seeking a more peaceful and upscale atmosphere, but it may be more expensive than Lake Como.
Practical Information
Accessing both Lake Como and Lake Lugano is relatively straightforward. You can reach them by car or train, with various transportation options available. For Lake Como, you can take a train from Milan to Varenna and then a ferry to Bellagio. Both lakes offer a range of accommodation options, including hotels and Airbnb rentals.