Does anyone know of some nice (moderately priced - $200/night or so) hotels in Lake Como or Lake Maggiore? There are 6 of us (all adults) and we're looking to stay there for 2 nights in May. Which area is "better." Anything we should definitely see or avoid? It will be our first trip there. Thanks!

Both lakes have their fans.

For Lake Como, most people here would recommend staying in the mid-lake area (Varenna/Bellagio/Menaggio), especially for a short trip. Your budget is doable there, but your choices will be a bit limited in Bellagio and Varenna, less so in Menaggio.

My favorite, the Hotel Florence in Bellagio (www.hotelflorencebellagio.it), squeaks in at 140 euros (about $210) for a non-view room. My other favorite, the Hotel du Lac in Varenna (www.albergodulac.com), would be just out of your budget at its lowest rate of 160 euros (about $240). Your best bet (IMO) are apartments at Residence La Limonera in Bellagio (www.residencelalimonera.com) at 100 euros for a studio sleeping 2. No breakfast included, so you'll have to factor in doing that on your own either in the apartment(s) or in town. There are larger apartments for up to 4 people, but that means 2 on a sofa bed.

"Definitely see" on Lake Como? Depends on your interests. There are villas, gardens, some hiking, a falconry located in castle ruins, shopping (obviously), a few churches.

We enjoyed the Albergo Milano in Varenna. IIRC it was around 200.
but I booked it a full year ahead
so I think (unless you are very lucky) you won't get in for this May.

Lake Como is just gorgeous - everywhere.

Hi g,

Several years ago we stayed on Islo dei Pescatori, one of the Borromean islands just off Stresa at Maggorie. Hotel Verbano was lovely, incredible views, great restaurant. He had a lovely room facing the lake with a huge terrace. I don't know if the hotel will be in your price range these days with all the financial changes....

We really enjoyed visiting the other islands, Isola Bella and it's palazzo and gardens, also Isola Madre and it's botanical gardens, boating up to Villa Taranto for more botanical gardens.

We stayed 2 night and would have loved a third to travel up to the Swizz end of the lake.

I visited Lake Como as a day trip from Milan, but didn't get to see much due to rain and low clouds and limited time. Varrena was charming, Bellagio very touristy but with nice views.

Buon viaggio!

Thanks so much for your help and suggestions!

You might also take a look at the Hotel Bella Vista in Menaggio.

We liked this one:

http://www.il-perlo.com/404.htm