The Taste of Local: Five Aperitivo Places in Lake Como

Sit back, relax, and sip an Aperol Spritz (or two!)

For many, the best thing about the Italian way of life has to be the ‘aperitivo’ culture. With many bars offering ‘happy hour’ to attract customers, it can be very difficult to decide where to drink! From rooftop bars with 360-degree panoramic views, to small and cosy family-run establishments, you will be spoiled for choice.

Read on to find out more about top 5 places for aperitivo in Lake Como.

Terrazza 241, Hilton Lake Como

Terrazza 241 is located on the rooftop of the Hilton Lake Como, offering guests a 360-degree panoramic view of Como. Boasting an enchanting atmosphere set against the magnificent backdrop of rolling mountains and the crystal-blue shores of the iconic lake below, Terrazza 241 serves as the perfect venue for unforgettable moments, be it an informal lunch, romantic rendezvous, or important business meeting.

The rooftop bar showcases a modern glasshouse with a contemporary design and expansive windows that accentuate the breathtaking panoramic scenery, ideal for year-round enjoyment. Enriching the newly styled interior are lavish furnishings, including plush sofas, snug armchairs, and tasteful decor pieces throughout, all complemented by a backdrop of lush, flourishing plants.

Terrazza 241’s extensive cocktail list is complemented by tasty finger food – offerings from their ‘Bites’ menu.

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Vineria Vitani, Como

Nestled in the heart of Como, Vineria Vitani is a haven for wine enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary experience. With over 11,000 bottles on display, it’s a visual spectacle and an irresistible invitation to indulge your palate.

Here, you can navigate through thousands of bottles, embarking on a passionate tour of various producers and wineries guided by knowledgeable curators who share the rich history of this magnificent collection.
Beyond a wine shop, Vineria Vitani offers wine tastings in a lavish Como setting, ensuring a top-tier experience. Gather your friends for an unforgettable evening, savouring precious wines paired with delectable snacks.

Da Luciano, Laglio

Da Luciano is a family-managed bottega located on Laglio’s waterfront, serving local and authentic Italian cuisine. The staff are charming and helpful – there is no doubt that you’ll be treated like one of the family.

In the summer, Da Luciano offered a successful new service called “Da Luciano on the Boat”, where diners could order and collect a food hamper containing a selection of dishes from Da Luciano’s menu.

At Da Luciano’s, there is a strong emphasis on celebrating the local produce of the region: in addition to serving Aperol Spritz, you can find a selection of local beers and wines from AquaDulza brewery (Tremezzo) and Cantine Angelinetta (Domaso). Highlights from the menu include the mixed board of local meats and cheeses, and the meatballs – which are described as “a real must”! Unfortunately, Da Luciano’s does not accept reservations – be sure to arrive early if you’d like a table facing the lake!

Villa Làrio, Pognana Lario

For travellers in search of the finest places for aperitivo on Lake Como, Villa Làrio is a wonderfully understated discovery. Located away from the busier waterfronts of the better-known towns, it offers a calmer, more refined setting where an early evening drink can be enjoyed at a beautifully unhurried pace.

Perched above Lake Como with sweeping views across the water, Villa Làrio is the sort of place where aperitivo is as about atmosphere. As the light softens towards evening, Pognana Lario is known for its particularly glorious sunsets, with the mountains slowly glowing in shades of gold and rose. In such surroundings, a chilled Spritz, a glass of local wine, or a perfectly mixed Negroni feels especially well placed, accompanied by elegant homemade bites prepared by the chef.

The terrace is the true attraction. Quiet, scenic, and wonderfully relaxed, it offers the kind of setting many visitors hope to find on Lake Como but often miss in the busiest hotspots. Drinks are served with refined small plates and seasonal nibbles, making it an ideal pause before dinner or a destination in its own right for a leisurely evening by the lake.

If your idea of the perfect Lake Como aperitivo includes elegance, scenery, and a touch of tranquillity, Villa Làrio is a splendid choice. Arrive before sunset and settle into a front-row table, where the shifting light across the lake and the fading glow on the mountains create a scene of unmistakable Italian elegance.

Lo Scalo Bar, Cremia

Lo Scalo Bar, located in Cremia and guided by Andrea Paci and his team of young enthusiasts, has become a must-visit spot for aperitivo in Lake Como. On the terrace, overlooking the former boat dock of Cremia, everything is reimagined, including the classic Spritz. It’s a unique experience to be savoured in the shade of the ancient plane tree while taking in the untamed, precious beauty of Lake Como, which takes on an even wilder allure here.

Here, simplicity transcends into sophistication. It’s a backdrop of rare beauty for an unforgettable cocktail experience. At Scalo Bar, you’re not just sipping a drink but immersing yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the very essence of Lake Como’s charm.

Lake Como is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable aperitivo experience. Whether you’re looking for Lake Como bars with a lively atmosphere or a Lake Como aperitivo with a view, this stunning location offers something for everyone.