JournalTastes of the lakeUpdated July 2026

The best gelato near Lake Como, minutes from Villa Grel

When the afternoon warms the garden at Cardina, there is only one sensible plan: drive down the hill, find the shade of a plane tree by the water, and order a cone. Here are the gelaterie we send our guests to first — each with the distance from the villa, why it’s worth it, and a tip or two.

Summer afternoon near Lake Como

La Breva

~6 km · ~15 min by car · Lungo Lario, Como

A family favourite set just across the road from the water, near Piazza Cavour. The fruit gelato — mango and lemon above all — is made with fresh milk and tastes of the season. Come for the flavour, stay for the view: there are few better ways to end a lake day than a cone on a bench with the water in front of you.

Good to know: loveliest at sunset for the lakefront view · no booking needed · check current summer hours before you set off.

Gelateria Guidi

~6 km · ~15 min by car · Via Domenico Fontana, Como

Tucked between Piazza Cavour and Piazza Volta, Guidi is the name locals reach for when the question is simply “the best in town.” Classic, beautifully balanced flavours and a perfect central spot for a stroll afterwards. Expect a short queue on sunny weekends — a good sign.

Good to know: central and easy to combine with a walk through the old town · busiest late afternoon.

Gelab

~6 km · ~15 min by car · Via Cinque Giornate, Como

A few steps from the Duomo, with the laboratory in full view behind the counter. Gelab is the address for anyone travelling with dietary needs: a generous range of lactose-free and gluten-free flavours, cones included, without any drop in quality. Creative seasonal specials reward the curious.

Good to know: excellent gluten-free and lactose-free options · ask about the flavour of the week.

Sottozero

~6 km · ~15 min by car · Near Porta Torre, Como

Close to the medieval gate at the entrance to the old town, Sottozero greets you with a rainbow of colour and a long list of flavours. A cheerful stop at the start or end of a walk through the historic centre, and a hit with children.

Good to know: handy if you’re arriving from the villa side of town · great for families.
Stay at Villa Grel

Everything here is a short drive from your door.

Villa Grel sits on the hillside at Cardina, minutes above Como — the perfect base for a lake summer. Four bedrooms, a private garden, and the whole villa to yourselves.

Check availability

Planning the rest of your day? See what’s on around Lake Como this week.

Distances are approximate, measured from Villa Grel in Cardina to central Como. Opening hours change with the season — it’s always worth a quick check before you go.