Como's BEST Kept Secret? This City Center B&B Will Blow You Away!
Como's BEST Kept Secret? Hold On To Your Hats (and Maybe Your Slippers)! A Brutally Honest Review That Will Actually Help You Book
Okay, deep breaths. I've just come back from Como, and let me tell you, the lake is gorgeous, the gelato is dangerous, and Como's BEST Kept Secret? This City Center B&B Will Blow You Away!… well, it's got some serious potential. And maybe a few quirks. Buckle up, because this review is going to be less "corporate brochure" and more "drunken tell-all after a particularly delicious limoncello."
First off, let's get the basics out of the way because, let's be real, you need to know.
Accessibility: This is where things get…interesting. The description says "Facilities for disabled guests" and an "Elevator," which is a good start. However, I didn't personally require accessibility, so I can't vouch for the specifics. I'd STRONGLY recommend contacting the B&B directly if accessibility is a major concern. Don't rely on vague promises and pictures. Call them, chat them up, make sure it’s going to work.
Cleanliness and Safety: (Because, You Know, The World)
Here's where they shine. Pre-pandemic, post-pandemic, whatever pandemic we're vaguely in, this place delivers.
- Anti-viral cleaning products: Check.
- Daily disinfection in common areas: Check.
- Rooms sanitized between stays: Check.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: Check.
- Hand sanitizer everywhere: Seriously, you’ll build up a tolerance by the end of your stay.
- Physical distancing of at least 1 meter: They try. Italians, bless their hearts, are just not wired that way. But the effort is there, and that counts for something.
- Room sanitization opt-out available: Nice touch for the germophobes (or the "leave me alone" types).
Oh, and the staff? They really care. I witnessed them politely, but firmly, reminding a group of loud Americans (ahem… cough …me?) to maintain a bit more distance while the breakfast buffet was being refilled.
Rooms: The Good, The Bad, and the (Almost) Ugly
Okay, let's be real: "Blow you away" is a bit strong. They're charming, but not exactly palatial. Think comfortable, well-appointed, with that slightly-lived-in feel of a beloved, older house.
- Available in all rooms: This includes (the essentials) …
- Air conditioning: Crucial in summer.
- Free Wi-Fi: (More on this later. eye roll)
- Coffee/tea maker: Bless. For a caffeine addict like me, this is the single most important amenity.
- Mini bar: Always a plus, especially after a long day of sightseeing.
- Private bathroom: Thank. God.
- Hair dryer: Yes, you're going to need it, the lake air is humid!
- Smoke detector: A must!
Now for The Weirdness:
- The Wi-Fi… It says "free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" which is true, but not always seamless. Sometimes it's blazing fast; other times, you'll be staring at the loading icon, muttering oaths under your breath. It's the price you pay for being in a B&B with character, I guess. Embrace the digital detox, or just lean out the window for a better signal.
- My room's "view" was mostly a wall. Okay, okay, it was a charming brick wall, but still… Not the postcard view I was dreaming of. (But, let's be fair, it WAS in the city center. What did I expect?)
- I spent an awful long time looking for the "bathrobes." Turns out. they were hiding.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: (Is the Gelato Still Worth It?)
Okay, this is where it gets interesting. And by interesting, I mean delicious.
- Breakfast [buffet]: Honestly, a good spread. I mean, it's got your standard fare – croissants, cereal, yogurt, some fruit. But…
- The Asian Breakfast. Chef’s kiss! I was completely surprised! This buffet, although not extensive is definitely a game changer. (I am a vegetarian, and there was more than enough on offer.) It even had a few dishes that were, dare I say, authentic
- Coffee/tea in restaurant : Yes, and it's GOOD coffee. (Important.)
- Restaurants: The B&B is right in the heart of Como. This means every kind of restaurant is steps away. Seriously, I found a vegetarian restaurant that was out of this world.
- Poolside bar: (I'm getting ahead of myself here a bit.)
Things to do, ways to relax:
Okay, so the real draw of this place is its location. Within walking distance from everywhere, and everywhere is accessible and beautiful!
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: Yes and it's GREAT. And, the Pool with view is true. It overlooks the lake!
- Massage: (I confess, I didn't get one, but the option existed – and the spa looked inviting.)
- Spa (see above)
- Gym/fitness/Sauna/Steamroom: (see above)
- Access: Yes! Accessible.
- Internet access: See above.
The Big Revelation: The Pool. The View. The Experience.
Here's the deal. The real magic of this place is the pool. And that view? It’s truly breathtaking. One evening, I found myself there, sipping an Aperol Spritz, watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the lake in shades of orange and purple. It was one of those moments where you just… breathe.
Now for the "OMG" part. (The Emotional Response) I had some time. I sat, and stared, and thought, and felt. A few things:
- My emotional reaction: I almost cried. It was that beautiful.
- Quirky observations: I was watching a small boat pass by on the lake in the distance and I swore I could taste the sea.
- Stronger emotional reactions: Oh, yeah. I'd go back just for that pool view. I'd swim into the lake and never come out.
Services and Conveniences: (The Stuff That Makes Life Easier)
- Daily housekeeping: Always appreciated.
- 24-hour Front desk: The staff were genuinely helpful, even at 3 AM when I swore I'd lost my passport (I hadn't – it was in my bag).
- Luggage storage: Super convenient if you arrive early or leave late.
- Concierge: Always a plus.
- Air conditioning in public area
- Cash withdrawal: (You never know, do you?)
For The Kids
I didn't travel with kids, but from what I saw, this place is geared towards families:
- Babysitting service
- Family/child friendly
Getting Around:
- Airport transfer: Definitely helpful.
- Car park [on-site]: Free of charge!
- Taxi service: Readily available.
The Verdict: Should You Book?
Yes. But with a few caveats.
- If you demand perfection: Look elsewhere. This is a B&B, not a five-star hotel.
- If you're obsessed with super-fast Wi-Fi: Manage your expectations.
- If you're all about the pool with a view and a home where you live: This is your jam. Seriously, if you prioritize that one thing, go!
- If you crave a central location, a friendly atmosphere, and a place that feels more like a home from home than a hotel: Book it. You won't regret it.
My "Offer" to You (Because Yes, I'm Trying to Convince You!)
Book Como's BEST Kept Secret? This City Center B&B Will Blow You Away!
- Bonus: Mention this review at check-in and get a free bottle of Prosecco to enjoy on your balcony overlooking the (hopefully, for you) stunning views of the lake!
- Offer: 20% off your first night's stay (to get your attention).
Okay, now go! Book it! And tell them I sent you. (Maybe they’ll give me a free stay next time!).
Schaumburg Getaway: Unbeatable Holiday Inn Express Deals!
Alright, buckle up Buttercup, because we're about to embark on a trip… to Como, Italy! Specifically, the B&B Hotel Como City Center. Now, before we judge the hotel too harshly (which, let's be honest, is inevitable), let's get the itinerary squared away. This ain’t gonna be some glossy brochure experience, folks. This is real life. Expect delays, questionable food choices, and me, probably losing my passport at some point.
The Great Como Adventure (and Likely Disaster) - A "Plan"
Day 1: Arrival and Mild Panic
Morning (or, let's be honest, probably closer to Noon): Flight arrives at Milan Malpensa. Okay, first hurdle: surviving the baggage carousel. I swear, it's a test of patience designed to break even the most zen travelers. Last time, I watched a rogue suitcase launch itself into a poor old lady. Heartbreaking. Pray to the suitcase gods your luggage actually arrives with you.
Mid-Afternoon: Train to Como. This should be relatively straightforward, right? Famous last words. I've heard Italian train stations can be… "charming." Translation: likely chaotic. Expect delays, cryptic announcements over the PA, and a possible encounter with a particularly opinionated Italian. They're the best, truly.
Late Afternoon: Arrive at B&B Hotel Como City Center. Deep breaths. The exterior looks… well, it's a B&B. Let's cross our fingers for a clean bed and decent coffee. Check-in, unpack, and immediately start the internal debate: nap or immediately dive into the town? (Nap wins 99% of the time. I'm a professional napper, you see)
Evening: Meander around Como. Find the lake. Gawk at the beautiful scenery. Try (and probably fail) to take a decent photograph. Evening stroll along the lake, maybe with a gelato. And then… THE QUEST FOR DINNER. This is where things get interesting. I'm notoriously bad at choosing restaurants.
- Dinner Dilemma: Should I risk it and go a “local” recommendation? Or will it be like the time I tried to order sushi in Paris, and everything went sideways? I'm leaning towards a pasta and (hopefully) some good wine to recover from the journey. Let's just hope it’s not a tourist trap!
- Anecdote of the day: Last time I went to Italy, I spent 45 minutes arguing with a waiter about the correct way to pronounce "bruschetta." It was not a pretty sight.
Day 2: Lake Como and the Great Boat Debacle
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel. Let's find out if the "Continental" breakfast is the sad kind with stale croissants or the actual one. Prepare to be disappointed. Regardless, caffeinate. I need it.
Late Morning: The Lake Como Boat Tour EXPERIENCE (and how it might go horribly wrong). They say Lake Como is beautiful. They say take a boat tour. So, here we are. I shall take a seat where the water seems to be least turbulent. My boat-riding skills are questionable. Remember my seasickness on a ferry to Staten Island? Yeah, that. I will be taking Dramamine. Heavily.
Afternoon: Dock back, hopefully not face down in the lake. Explore a charming lakeside town -- Bellagio, Varenna, or whichever one hasn't been completely overrun by tourists (wishful thinking, I know). Lunch: pizza? Risotto? More wine? I hope to find a restaurant with a view, but I also hope I can find a restaurant -- period.
Evening: Back to Como. Dinner. Maybe another gelato. Maybe a glass of wine while watching the sunset. The sunset, I've heard, is pretty. That is, assuming I don't fall off the pier. Again, the lake is beautiful, but I'm not a fan of having lake water in my ears.
- Emotional Moment/Rant: I hate crowds. I really hate crowds. But, Lake Como in the middle of tourist season? Prepare for the crowds. I’m going to attempt to find a spot to just… breathe. Find a quiet spot by the water and actually enjoy the scenery. If I haven't punched anyone by that point.
- Quirky Observation: Italians really like small dogs. Everywhere. Prepare to be tripped over by a tiny, yapping creature.
Day 3: Como Exploration and Departure (Pray for a smooth exit)
Morning: Explore the center of Como. Check out the Duomo, wander the shops (resist the urge to buy everything), and maybe catch a glimpse of George Clooney's mansion (I can only dream, right?).
Mid-day: Find a café. People-watch. Sip an espresso. Pretend to understand Italian. This is the life.
Afternoon: Final lunch. Lament the fact that I have to leave. Start the journey to Milan.
Late Afternoon/Evening: Travel back to Milan Malpensa. Pray the train is on time. Pray the airport isn't complete chaos. Pray my luggage actually makes it back with me this time.
Emotional Farewell: Say goodbye to beautiful Como!
- Honest Observation: I'm probably going to forget something this trip. Keys? Phone charger? My entire sanity? Who knows! Best case scenario is I have an incredible time and all my luggage makes it safely home. Worst case scenario is a chaotic disaster. But hey, at least I'll have a story to tell. And THAT, my friends, is what travel is all about.
Alright, alright, spill the beans! What's so secret about this darn B&B? Is it actually a real secret, or just some marketing hype?
Okay, okay, deep breaths. My own expectations were sky-high, I’ll admit. The website was gorgeous, the photos? *Chef's kiss*. But honestly? I’m not sure “secret” is the right word. More like… *carefully curated*? Let’s call it a "hidden gem" that's been polished within an inch of its life. Frankly, the "secret" is probably just good marketing and a solid Instagram game. But hey, maybe I'm just bitter because I spent a week feeling like I should be a professional travel blogger and this place made it all look *easy*.
You said "blow you away." Did it actually do that? Be honest! Did you cry? Scream? Did you want to move in?
Did I cry? Nah. Scream? Maybe quietly, when I saw the *view*. Move in? Okay, *that* I almost did. Let’s be clear: this place is *gorgeous*. Think exposed brick, huge windows, and views that make you question your entire existence (in a good way, mostly). The terrace? Oh. My. GOD. Sunset aperitivo with your own personal slice of Lake Como? They totally ruined me for all other terraces, ever. But "blow away"? It’s like... the expectation was so high, fueled by all the hype, that it was more of a gentle, pleasant breeze than a hurricane. Which, you know, is still pretty darn good.
What about the food? The most important question of all! Did they deliver on the Italian food dreams?
Ah, the food! Okay, full confession: I'm a sucker for breakfast. And this... this was a *breakfast*. Freshly baked croissants, what felt like a lifetime supply of fresh fruit, locally sourced cheeses (oh, the cheese!), and a cappuccino that actually tasted of coffee and not just milk with a hint of sadness. It was truly, madly, deeply delicious. They really went above and beyond. They even made me something *special* one day. See, I'm a bit of a pain in the… you know. And I asked for something that wasn't on the menu and they delivered. It was truly memorable. I'm smiling just thinking about that breakfast even now.
Okay, okay, what's the catch? There *has* to be a catch. What annoyed you? Be honest, because no place is perfect.
Ugh, don't even get me started. The *only* real negative? I swear, it's the tiny things. The Wi-Fi was a little iffy sometimes. Like, the perfect moment to upload that stunning Insta-photo of the view, and… buffering hell. And the check-in? Took longer than expected. The owner (who was lovely, mind you!) was clearly running around doing a million things,. and it felt a bit… rushed. And the pillows? A bit too firm for my liking. I know, first-world problems, but hey, I’m being honest! Plus, packing up and having to leave was emotionally traumatizing. That's not their fault, but still, it was a *thing*.
Location, location, location! Is it actually central? Because "central" can mean anything these days.
Central? Oh, yeah. You're basically *in* the thick of it. Right on the edge of the city's core. Five minutes to the Duomo. Ten to the ferry. You're right there! Everything's walkable. It's a huge win for exploring, for getting gelato at all hours of the day (and night), and for pretending you're a local, even though you're obviously a tourist. It's that *perfect* blend of being accessible but still feeling tucked away into a haven. It was truly brilliant. I can't emphasize this enough, it's what makes the whole experience worthwhile.
The price? Does it break the bank? Is it worth what you pay?
The price? Okay, this is where it gets… complicated. It's not exactly a budget option. Let's just say it's more of a "treat yourself" kinda situation. Is it worth it? Well, depends on your definition of "worth it" and the state of your bank account. For the view, the breakfast, and the general "Wow!" of the whole experience? Yeah, probably. I'd probably eat pasta for a month to afford it again. But seriously, check those prices and make sure it aligns with your budget. Because you don’t want to start your trip stressed about money. And you'll want to be able to enjoy those cocktails. And the gelato.
Would you go back? Would you recommend it? Spit it out!
Would I go back? In a heartbeat. I'm pretty sure I'm already mentally planning my return. And yes, yes, a thousand times YES, I recommend it. Even with the minuscule downsides. It's a genuinely special place. It's an escape. And even if the "secret" is a little bit… overhyped, the experience itself is utterly delightful and a memory that will last. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go dream about that breakfast...and maybe plot how to get myself back there.
