The lake is the ideal destination for a relaxing break. The climate is favorable, the air is rich in oxygen, and the pace is far from the hectic lifestyle imposed by city living. Taking a break for even just a few hours, sipping a cocktail calmly while admiring the lakeside scenery, becomes a pleasant diversion and a way to recharge. Here are the 6 places chosen by Gambero Rosso for an aperitivo in Como with a lake view.
Where to have an aperitivo in Como with a lake view
Ceccato Garden Bar at the Palace Hotel
Overlooking the recently renovated lakeside promenade, Ceccato is a delightful meeting place open from noon to midnight (until 1 AM on weekends). During mild weather, there is a well-kept garden with a lake view, otherwise, you can sit in the cozy and well-furnished interior. The offerings range from light, casual lunch options to spirits and after-dinner drinks, along with a wide selection of well-made cocktails, both classic and innovative. If you want more than the usual aperitivo snacks, the menu offers simple and tasty dishes.
Ceccato Garden Bar del Palace Hotel – lungoLario Trieste, 16 – 031 2339517 – www.ceccatogardenbar.com
Giulietta al Lago
Also present in Lesa, Arona, and Desenzano del Garda, this year-round venue is right on the lakeshore, with convenient parking and an incredible view. You can enjoy it all day thanks to a large grassy beach equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, a restaurant, and a cocktail bar with background music, featuring ample space and many seating options. The drinks are well-crafted and accompanied by classic snacks. Due to high demand, reservations are essential.
Giulietta al Lago – viale Geno, 13 – 351 8853047 – www.giuliettaallago.it
Infinity Bar at Hotel Vista Palazzo Lago di Como
A refined, splendid 5-star luxury hotel that has fully embraced sustainability. Besides the Sottovoce restaurant, there's the Infinity Bar, perfect for a snack, a quick light lunch, a business meeting, an aperitivo, or an after-dinner drink. Whatever the occasion, the view from the terrace is spectacular. There’s a wide selection of cocktails for every taste and occasion, with plastic straws replaced by bamboo and metal ones. The selection of spirits is also notable, and there’s a focused offering of delicious bites.
Infinity Bar dell’Hotel Vista Palazzo Lago di Como – piazza Cavour, 24 – 031 5375241 – www.vistapalazzo.com
Lounge Bar at Hotel Villa Flori
The classic elegance and tranquil atmosphere of the Lounge Bar at Villa Flori, open from 12 PM to 12 AM, cater to a variety of needs, from a quick coffee to a light pause, from afternoon tea to a nightcap. However, the highlight is the aperitivo, enjoyed in relaxation with a unique lake view that makes everything feel special. The cocktail list ranges from timeless classics (Bellini, Martini, Spritz, Negroni) to signature creations, accompanied by quality savory bites, including options for vegetarians. There is also a substantial selection of spirits.
Lounge Bar dell’Hotel Villa Flori – via per Cernobbio, 12 – 031 33820 – www.hotelvillaflori.it
Terrazza 241 at Hilton Lake Como
Located on the sixth-floor rooftop of the hotel, this spot offers a unique city view and is open daily from 9 AM to 12 AM. The menu ranges from light, quick lunches to gourmet dinners, with the aperitivo served from 6 PM. Expertly crafted drinks (including non-alcoholic options), appetizing dishes presented with care, and pleasant background music accompany your stay, whether enjoyed in the spacious rooftop area or near the panoramic pool. Throughout the year, evenings and events are organized. Reservations are recommended.
Terrazza 241 dell’Hilton Lake Como – via Borgo Vico, 241 – 031 3382688 – www.terrazza241.it
Terrazza Olmo
Just outside the center, this venue is the creation of Vincenzo Dascanio, a well-known local entrepreneur. The magnificent location alone justifies a visit, but since its inception, the philosophy here has been to focus on quality. The cocktail bar, where the aperitivo is served from 4 PM, offers drinks and cocktails prepared by professionals, accompanied by numerous tasty snacks. If you wish, you can stay for pizza or dinner, taking advantage of a menu inspired by Puglia. The setting is charming and tasteful, and the terrace is magical. Reservations are recommended.
Terrazza Olmo – via per Cernobbio, 2 – 031 6125926 – www.terrazzaolmocomo.com
Women are the best sommeliers. Here are the scientific studies
Where to eat at a farm stay in Sicily: the best addresses in the Provinces of Trapani, Palermo, and Agrigento
Wine in cans, bottle-fermented, and alcohol free: the unstoppable change in Gen Z’s tastes
The great Bordeaux exodus of Chinese entrepreneurs: around fifty Châteaux up for sale
Dubai speaks Italian: a journey through the Emirate's best Italian restaurants
