Lecco by boat, villas and medieval villages

Lecco is not just about the lake. It is a town full of culture: from novel settings to the historical monuments of the city center. Discover it all!

Here we are on the banks of the Eastern branch of Lake Lario, which is actually Lake Como's real name. It is not only “Como’s” lake after all, otherwise Lecco’s citizens may get annoyed.

A boat on Lake Como [Anna Masciardi]

An Engaging Itinerary
It is here in Lecco, “between two unbroken chains of mountains”, that Alessandro Manzoni set “I Promessi Sposi” [The Betrothed], probably one of the best-known book in Italian literature. For this genre’s lovers, the Province of Lecco offers the Manzoni’s itinerary, which goes through the most important places of Manzoni’s life (first of all his own home, Casa Manzoni) and those places that inspired his characters (Lucia's House, which is today a typical restaurant). The city of Lecco, very much proud of its legacy, offers a review of these places and tells about them in a narrative atmosphere, leading the tourist inside the city and inside the story itself.

In the Heart of Lecco
Its name sounds intimidating, as it surely was when it actually operated at the beginning of the ‘900s. The Palace of Fears, back then the headquarter of Finance, Land Registry and Customs, is today anything but obscure. From 2012, it has been an artistic hub hosting temporary art exhibitions and also a permanent one. On its third floor, mountain lovers can enjoy the "Osservatorio alpinistico" [Observatory of the Alps]. The Palace is situated in the very city centre, suggestive and rich in arts and history. From the statue of Antonio Stoppani, one of the Italian pioneers of geology, to Mario Cermenati’s monument, founder of the civic museums of Lecco, up to the buildings belonging to the Visconti’s family. All of that mirrored in the lake and framed by the mountains.

The Taste of Luxury

Medieval village of Varenna [Wikimedia Commons]

To entirely enjoy the city and its landscapes, you cannot miss a romantic boat tour on Lake Como. Why don't you forget about organised groups and hire a private yacht? However, remember to check the navigation timetable, as it may vary according to the time of the year. Precious villages and places along the banks are even more fascinating when seen from the water.

Among them, you cannot miss Varenna. A super elegant medieval village, with a fortress and several villas in which you can stay. To complete a luxurious and relaxing scene, you must try the Larian cuisine in the best restaurants of Varenna, classic but refined.

Polizia Stradale - Moto Guzzi V7 700, 1971 [Wikimedia Commons]

Guzzi Days
If I say Mandello del Lario, bikers will answer: Moto Guzzi. This little village on the lake's bank attracts people due to the Moto Guzzi Museum. In September, bikers gather from all over the world for the Guzzi Days: an annual event full of activities, entertaining thousands of "guzzisti". You can seize the occasion to take a tour around Lake Como. Riding a motorcycle, of course.

Enjoy your stay!