Lake Como might be famous for its celebrity villas and glamorous towns, but I’ve found that the eastern shore offers something even more valuable: authenticity. When I first visited Lecco, I was struck by how different it felt from the tourist-heavy western side of the lake. Unlike its more famous neighbors, Lecco gives visitors a genuine taste of northern Italian life alongside the same stunning alpine scenery that makes Lake Como world-famous.
The natural beauty surrounding Lecco took my breath away. Crystal-clear waters reflect the impressive mountains that rise dramatically from the shoreline. Walking along the lakefront promenade at sunset, I noticed how the golden light bathes everything in a warm glow that feels almost magical. The tranquility here is a welcome change from busier Italian destinations.
What I love most about Lecco is how it balances scenic beauty with everyday Italian culture. Local cafés serve perfect espresso to regulars who chat in rapid Italian. Small shops sell regional specialties rather than souvenirs. In Lecco, you don’t just see Italy—you experience it. The serene atmosphere lets you slow down and appreciate simple pleasures like a perfect risotto or a leisurely evening passeggiata along the lake.
Unveiling Lecco: A Hidden Treasure on Lake Como
Many travelers flock to the western shore of Lake Como, but the eastern side offers a more authentic Italian experience. Lecco, nestled between dramatic mountains and crystal-clear waters, remains one of Lombardy’s best-kept secrets.
The Historical Tapestry of Lecco
I discovered that Lecco’s history stretches back centuries, giving the city a rich cultural fabric that’s evident at every turn. The Basilica of San Nicolò stands as the town’s most iconic landmark, with its imposing bell tower offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Walking through Lecco’s historic center, I was charmed by the elegant Palazzo Belgiojoso, an 18th-century villa that now houses the city’s civic museums. The building showcases the region’s artistic and natural history through fascinating exhibits.
What struck me most about Lecco was how deeply literature is woven into its identity. The town served as the setting for Alessandro Manzoni’s famous novel “The Betrothed,” and literary references can be found throughout the streets and squares.
Lecco’s Scenic Beauty and Lush Greenery
The natural splendor surrounding Lecco truly took my breath away. The eastern shore of Lake Como offers spectacular mountain backdrops, with peaks that seem to rise directly from the water’s edge.
I spent hours exploring the waterfront promenade, watching boats glide across the lake’s surface while the surrounding mountains reflected in the crystal-clear waters. The views here rival anything I’ve seen elsewhere in Italy, yet without the crowds.
Lecco’s surrounding hills offer excellent hiking opportunities. I followed trails through lush greenery to lookout points that provided panoramic vistas of the entire lake region. The Piani d’Erna cable car took me up to breathtaking heights in just minutes.
The botanical gardens and parks scattered throughout the province showcase the diverse flora of Lombardy. These green spaces provide peaceful refuges where I could simply sit and absorb the natural beauty all around.
Outdoor Adventures: From Peaks to Promenades
Lecco’s stunning geography creates a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities spanning from mountainous heights to peaceful lakeside paths.
Thrills on Land: Hiking, Cycling, and Climbing
I’ve found that Lecco’s mountainous backdrop offers some of the most rewarding outdoor experiences in northern Italy. The imposing Grigna massif provides challenging trails for hikers of all levels, with panoramic views that make every step worthwhile. When I visited last summer, I took a “nice short walk in the forest” as locals suggested, and discovered breathtaking vistas of Lake Como from above.
For cycling enthusiasts, the winding roads around Lecco present both technical challenges and scenic rewards. I recommend renting a mountain bike to explore the foothills of Resegone, whose distinctive serrated profile dominates the eastern skyline.
Rock climbing here is exceptional too. The limestone cliffs attract climbers from across Europe, with routes ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-level challenges. Many local outfitters offer guided experiences if you’re new to the sport.
Waterborne Excitement: Sailing, Kayaking, and More
The “deep blue waters” of Lake Como provide the perfect setting for water-based adventures. I spent a memorable morning kayaking along the eastern shoreline, exploring hidden coves and getting a unique perspective of the colorful waterfront buildings.
Sailing is particularly popular during summer months, with the afternoon winds creating ideal conditions. Several sailing schools in Lecco offer single-day lessons if you’re just looking to try it out.
For something more relaxed, I highly recommend walking the lakeside promenade at sunset. This well-maintained path stretches along much of Lecco’s waterfront, offering stunning views of the mountains reflecting in the crystal-clear lake.
Water sports options abound too – from stand-up paddleboarding to windsurfing. Most equipment can be rented hourly from vendors along the shore, making it easy to try different activities during your stay.
Culinary Delights: Tasting Lecco’s Local Cuisine
The food scene in Lecco offers some of the most authentic flavors you’ll find around Lake Como. The local cuisine combines mountain traditions with lakeside influences, creating dishes that tell the story of this unique region.
Savor the Flavors: Polenta Taragna and Missoltini
When I visited Lecco, I discovered that polenta isn’t just a side dish here—it’s a star. Polenta Taragna, a rich version made with buckwheat flour and melted cheese, appears on most menus. This hearty dish originated in the mountains of Lombardy and pairs perfectly with local meats.
The lake provides its own specialties too. Missoltini, sun-dried shad fish from Lake Como, offers an incredible taste of local tradition. These preserved fish are typically served with polenta and have a distinct, savory flavor that locals adore.
Game meats like rabbit and wild boar feature prominently in winter dishes. During my visit, I found that many restaurants change their menus seasonally to highlight the freshest local ingredients.
Authentic Italian Dining Experiences
Lecco’s dining scene strikes a perfect balance between tradition and atmosphere. Family-run trattorias serve generations-old recipes in warm, welcoming settings away from tourist crowds.
For the best dining experience, I recommend venturing slightly inland from the lakefront. The restaurants tucked into narrow streets often serve more authentic food at better prices than those with prime lake views.
Wine tasting is another must-do culinary experience. Bellagio, just across the lake, offers excellent wine tastings featuring regional varieties. The lakeside setting makes the experience even more memorable.
Many restaurants source ingredients directly from local farms and the lake itself. Freshwater fish, dairy products from mountain pastures, and seasonal produce create a true farm-to-table experience that showcases Lombardy’s agricultural bounty.
Cultural Richness and Literary Legacy
Lecco’s cultural scene is deeply interwoven with its literary history and artistic heritage. The city embraces its past while showcasing an array of cultural treasures that give visitors authentic insights into Italian traditions.
Alessandro Manzoni’s Influence and Villa Manzoni
Walking through Lecco, I constantly feel the presence of Alessandro Manzoni, Italy’s celebrated novelist who immortalized these landscapes in his masterpiece “I Promessi Sposi” (The Betrothed). This 19th-century novel put Lecco on the literary map and continues to shape the city’s identity.
Villa Manzoni, the author’s former residence, now houses a fascinating museum dedicated to his life and work. I was captivated by the period furnishings and personal artifacts that offer glimpses into Manzoni’s creative process.
The literary connection runs deep here. Many locals proudly reference passages from the novel that describe their hometown. During my visit, I discovered several walking tours that follow the footsteps of the novel’s characters through Lecco’s streets and surrounding villages.
Exploring Lecco’s Iconic Monuments and Museums
Lecco’s cultural offerings extend well beyond its literary fame. The Palazzo delle Paure hosts impressive art exhibitions featuring both contemporary and historical works. Its collection of 19th and 20th-century paintings particularly highlights the region’s artistic evolution.
The Moto Guzzi Museum in nearby Mandello del Lario was a surprising highlight of my exploration. This shrine to Italy’s oldest motorcycle manufacturer showcases vintage models and racing trophies that tell the story of Italian engineering excellence.
The medieval Torre Viscontea (Visconti Tower) stands as a reminder of Lecco’s strategic importance throughout history. I climbed to its top for panoramic views that helped me understand why the Province of Lecco has inspired so many artists and writers.
Local festivals celebrate everything from traditional music to regional cuisine. I was lucky to attend a small cultural event where artisans demonstrated centuries-old crafts unique to this region of Lombardy.
Beyond Lecco: Discovering the Charms of Lake Como
Lake Como stretches far beyond Lecco, offering charming villages and breathtaking landscapes that captivate visitors. When I ventured away from Lecco, I discovered hidden gems that showcase the diverse beauty of this iconic Italian destination.
Neighboring Gems: Bellagio, Varenna, and Further Afield
Bellagio sits majestically at the junction where Lake Como splits into two branches. Often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” I found its narrow cobblestone streets and elegant villas absolutely enchanting. The colorful waterfront promenade makes for perfect afternoon strolls.
Varenna captured my heart with its romantic waterfront walkway known as “Lovers’ Lane.” Villa Monastero here features spectacular gardens that cascade down to the lakeshore. The view from here across the water to Bellagio is one of the most photographed in all of Italy.
Further along the lake, Tremezzo hosts the magnificent Villa Carlotta with its botanical gardens and art collection. Menaggio and Cernobbio offer their own unique charms with beautiful lakeside promenades and historic centers.
Tranquil Retreats: Abbadia Lariana and Mandello del Lario
Just a short journey from Lecco, I discovered Abbadia Lariana. It’s a peaceful village with a beautiful beach and the fascinating Silk Museum. This museum reveals the area’s industrial heritage.
Mandello del Lario charmed me with its authentic Italian atmosphere and relative lack of tourists. This town is home to the famous Moto Guzzi motorcycle museum. Mandello also combines industrial heritage with natural beauty. The waterfront promenade offers stunning views across to the western shore.
I spent a peaceful afternoon exploring Mandello’s historic center. The scenic mountains rise dramatically behind the town, creating perfect opportunities for hiking and photography.
Nature lovers can follow the Adda River from Lecco. This provides beautiful walks with peaceful scenery away from the more touristed areas of the lake.
