15 Towns to Visit on Lake Como

Even in a country filled with delights, Lake Como sits at the top of many wish lists for travelers visiting Italy. A popular retreat for aristocrats and the wealthy going back to Roman times, this Y-shaped lake continues to exert a powerful pull on imaginations thanks to the historic villas, stunning gardens, sleepy villages, and Belle Époque–era resorts lining its shores, not to mention the jaw-dropping views of the Alps. But not every visit here is identical, as there are numerous lakeside towns to choose from, each offering its own splendors. Accordingly, we’ve handpicked the 15 best towns on Lake Como, whether you want to mingle with the summer crowds or escape them altogether. —Michael Alan Connelly