Rent a Motorhome in Como and Discover the Italian Lakes

Discover Como: The Jewel of the Italian Lakes

Welcome to Como, the city that lends its name to one of the most famous and beautiful lakes in the world. When you decide to rent a motorhome in Como, you're not just getting a vehicle; you're unlocking a gateway to an alpine and Mediterranean paradise. Nestled at the southwestern tip of the Y-shaped Lake Como, where the mountains meet the water, this city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s the perfect starting point for your Italian adventure.

Geography and Location: Como is located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Milan. Its strategic position at the southern end of the lake, framed by the foothills of the Alps, has made it a sought-after destination for centuries. The city itself is a blend of lakeside promenades and a historic walled town. Having a campervan gives you the unique advantage of exploring both the city's charm and the rugged landscapes that surround it. Imagine waking up to lake views before heading into the mountains – a dream that becomes reality when you rent a camper in Como.

History and Culture: Como's history is rich and palpable. The area was settled by Celtic tribes before becoming part of the Roman Empire under Julius Caesar, who recognized its strategic importance. The historic center, or 'Città Murata', is still partially enclosed by its 12th-century defensive walls. For centuries, Como was a powerhouse in the silk industry, a legacy that continues to this day and has shaped the city's elegant character. As you wander through its streets, you'll encounter a seamless blend of Romanesque churches, Gothic cathedrals, and rationalist architecture from the 20th century. With a population of around 85,000, Como feels both vibrant and intimate. Famous figures like Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger were born here, as was Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery – a pioneer of power, just as you'll be a pioneer of the open road!

Climate and Best Time to Travel: Como enjoys a humid subtropical climate with a touch of Mediterranean flair. Summers (June-August) are warm and sunny, perfect for swimming and lakeside activities, but also the busiest time of year. Winters (December-February) are cool and damp, with occasional snowfall in the surrounding mountains, offering a more tranquil experience. The best time to rent a camper in Como is during the shoulder seasons: April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, the spring flowers or autumn colors create stunning scenery, and the tourist crowds have thinned out. This makes it easier to find parking for your motorhome and enjoy the attractions without the long queues. For those seeking an off-road experience, considering a 4x4 camper mieten Como allows for exploration of higher altitudes and more remote trails, especially rewarding in the vibrant colors of spring and fall. Planning your trip around these seasons ensures you get the most out of your motorhome holiday, combining comfortable travel conditions with the full splendor of the Lake Como region. No matter when you choose to visit, to rent a motorhome Como is your ticket to an unforgettable journey through one of Italy's most iconic landscapes.

Sights and Activities In and Around Como

Once you rent a motorhome in Como, a world of captivating sights and activities opens up to you. Your mobile base allows you to explore the rich tapestry of culture, history, and nature at your own leisure. Park your camper and dive into the heart of Como and its breathtaking surroundings.

Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como): You cannot miss this magnificent structure in the heart of the old town. A stunning example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, its construction spanned nearly four centuries. Take time to admire the intricate facade, the beautiful tapestries, and the statues of Pliny the Elder and Younger at the main entrance.

Funicular to Brunate: For the best panoramic views of the city and the lake, take the funicular up to the village of Brunate. Known as the 'balcony of the Alps,' the viewpoint here is simply spectacular. From the top, you can embark on various hiking trails. Having your camper means you can spend the day hiking and return to a comfortable home on wheels.

Villa Olmo: A short walk or drive along the lakefront from the city center will bring you to this stunning neoclassical villa. Its beautifully manicured gardens are open to the public and offer a tranquil escape with gorgeous lake views. The villa itself hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.

Tempio Voltiano (Volta Temple): This neoclassical temple on the lakefront is a museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, Como's most famous son and the inventor of the electric battery. It's a fascinating stop for anyone interested in science and history.

Centro Storico (Old Town): The best way to experience Como is to get lost in the charming cobblestone streets of its walled old town. Discover hidden courtyards, boutique shops, and delightful cafes. The freedom you have when you rent a camper in Como means you can explore these streets without worrying about hotel check-out times.

Lakeside Promenade and Water Activities: Stroll along the Lungolago Mafalda di Savoia, enjoy a gelato, and watch the boats glide by. For a different perspective, take a boat trip to the famous lakeside towns of Bellagio and Varenna. Or, for the more adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the shoreline up close. An RV trip allows you to easily transport your own sports gear. With a 4x4 camper mieten Como, you can even access more remote launching spots along the lake that are off the beaten path.

Unforgettable Camper Tours Starting from Como

When you rent a motorhome Como, the city is just the beginning. The real magic lies in the journeys you can take. Here are a couple of tour suggestions to ignite your wanderlust.

🛶 The Classic Lake Como Triangle (3-4 Days)

🏔️ An Alpine Escape to Switzerland (4-5 Days)

Returning Your Campervan Clean in Como

After an amazing trip, part of the process when you rent a motorhome in Como is returning it in the same clean condition you received it. This can be tricky with a large vehicle. Standard car washes often have height restrictions that won't accommodate a campervan or motorhome. Driving into one could cause significant damage.

You need to find a washing facility designed for larger vehicles like trucks (camion) or buses. These stations have the necessary height clearance and equipment to handle your camper safely. Here are a few options in and around Como where you can get your motorhome washed before returning it:

1. Lavaggio Self-Service Lario Tir
This is a self-service wash designed specifically for large vehicles. It provides the high-pressure wands and platforms needed to reach the top of your motorhome. A great option for a thorough, hands-on clean.
Address: Via al Monte, 1, 22079 Villa Guardia CO, Italy

2. Autolavaggio F.lli Fazzari
While not exclusively for trucks, this facility is known to handle larger vehicles and vans. It's always best to call ahead or check the height clearance upon arrival, but they offer both automated and manual washing services.
Address: Via Varesina, 140, 22100 Como CO, Italy

3. Grandate Truck Wash (Conceptual Location)
In industrial areas near major motorways, like the A9 near Grandate, you will often find truck stops ('Autoporto') that include large-vehicle washing facilities. These are a reliable bet for finding the right equipment.
Location Tip: Search on Google Maps for "autolavaggio camion" or "lavaggio TIR" near your return depot to find the most convenient option. Planning this stop before you return your vehicle will ensure a smooth and stress-free end to your fantastic camper holiday.

Arriving in Como for Your Camper Adventure

Your adventure to rent a camper in Como begins with your journey to Italy. For international travelers, the primary gateway to Como is Milan, which is served by three major international airports. Here’s how you can get here from your home country.

Flying to Milan:
The three main airports are Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN), and Milan Bergamo (BGY). Malpensa is the largest intercontinental hub.

• From the UK & Ireland: You have numerous direct flight options. Airlines like British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair offer frequent services from London (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted), Manchester, Edinburgh, and Dublin directly to one of the Milan airports. The flight is short, usually around 2 hours.


• From the USA & Canada: Direct flights to Milan Malpensa (MXP) are available from major hubs like New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), and Toronto (YYZ) on airlines such as Emirates, Delta, and Air Canada. From other cities like Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD), San Francisco (SFO), or Vancouver (YVR), you'll typically have a convenient one-stop connection through a major European or US hub.


• From Australia & New Zealand: Your journey will involve at least one layover. Common and efficient routes are with airlines like Emirates (via Dubai), Qatar Airways (via Doha), or Singapore Airlines (via Singapore). Another option is to fly to a major European hub like London, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam and take a connecting flight to Milan.


• From South Africa: You will also have a one-stop flight to Milan. Popular routes are via major hubs in the Middle East (Dubai, Doha) or Europe (Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Paris).

From the Airport to Como:
Once you land in Milan, Como is just a short trip away. From Malpensa Airport, the most convenient option is often the train. You can take the Malpensa Express to Saronno and change for a direct train to Como Lago, or take it to Milano Centrale and connect to a train to Como San Giovanni. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. From all airports, you can also arrange to pick up your Campcruiser motorhome from a nearby depot, allowing you to hit the road directly and start your Italian road trip immediately.