Cernobbio is one of the most prestigious and livable towns on Lake Como, increasingly chosen by international families relocating to Italy from the UK, the United States, and Northern Europe. Known for its refined lifestyle, historic villas, and strategic location, Cernobbio offers a rare balance between quiet luxury, safety, and everyday practicality.
Located just minutes from Como city and close to Switzerland, Cernobbio is particularly attractive for those seeking a long-term base in Italy, rather than a purely seasonal destination. It combines privacy and elegance with the infrastructure needed for real life: schools, healthcare, transport, and essential services.
Dining in Cernobbio: from Michelin star to authentic trattorie
Cernobbio offers a dining scene suited both to everyday living and special occasions, an important factor for families settling long term.
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Ristorante Materia (Michelin Star 2025)
Via Trieste 1/B, 22012 Cernobbio (CO)
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Trattoria Glicine, offering classic Italian cuisine in an elegant yet relaxed setting, surrounded by ancient wisteria
Via Regina 40, 22012 Cernobbio (CO)
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Ristorante Gatto Nero, perched in the hills above Cernobbio, known for traditional Lombard cuisine and panoramic lake views
Via Monte Santo 69, 22012 Cernobbio (CO)
For families relocating to Lake Como, this mix of high-quality dining and informal local restaurants contributes to a balanced and enjoyable daily lifestyle.
Events, culture and prestigious venues
Cernobbio is home to Villa Erba, located directly on the lake between Cernobbio and Como. Once a private aristocratic residence, it is now one of Northern Italy’s most important exhibition and congress centers, hosting international events, design fairs, and cultural exhibitions.
Villa Erba is also a highly sought-after wedding venue, known worldwide for its lakefront gardens, historic architecture, and direct boat access.
Nearby Villa Pizzo, one of the oldest villas on Lake Como, is renowned for having the longest private lakeside frontage on the lake. Today it is internationally recognized as an exclusive venue for private weddings, luxury events, and high-profile celebrations, further enhancing the prestige of the Cernobbio area.
Connectivity, schools and healthcare: practical advantages for relocation
One of Cernobbio’s strongest points for international relocation is its strategic connectivity:
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5 minutes to the motorway connecting Milan and Lugano (Switzerland)
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Approx. 50 km to Milan
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Approx. 30 km to Lugano
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Approx. 50 minutes to Milan Malpensa International Airport
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Close to the International School of Como, popular with expatriate families
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Immediate access to Como city, with shops, restaurants, professional services, Sant’Anna Hospital, and private medical facilities such as Synlab
Water transport is another major advantage: Como city center can be reached by ferry in around 10 minutes, avoiding traffic and parking - a daily convenience that becomes invaluable when living on Lake Como long term.
For outdoor activities, the 4 km lakeside promenade from Cernobbio to Como, passing Villa Olmo, is ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling.
What international buyers should know before moving to Cernobbio
Cernobbio has specific characteristics important for those relocating to Italy. With few exceptions, most villas are located on the hills above the lake. Buyers unfamiliar with narrow Italian roads may initially find driving challenging. However, this layout ensures privacy, reduced traffic, security, and panoramic lake views.
The town is considered very safe, well maintained, and particularly suitable for families, retirees, and professionals seeking a calm yet internationally connected environment.
Real Estate in Cernobbio and long-term value
Thanks to its international reputation, limited supply of properties, proximity to key landmarks, and strong demand from foreign buyers, real estate in Cernobbio has shown long-term resilience and value retention.
Demand comes primarily from buyers seeking primary residences or long-term second homes, rather than short-term speculation or mass tourism.
Villa d’Este: international prestige and lifestyle infrastructure
No description of Cernobbio is complete without Villa d’Este, the legendary 5-star hotel founded in 1873, located at Via Regina 40. Originally a Renaissance villa, it has become one of the most iconic luxury hotels in the world, synonymous with discretion, elegance, and timeless service.
Beyond its role as a luxury hotel, Villa d’Este functions as a lifestyle hub for residents of Cernobbio and the surrounding Lake Como area. Many international homeowners value the possibility of accessing high-level services on a membership or private basis, without living in a hotel environment.
Among the services appreciated by local residents are:
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Spa and wellness facilities
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Gym and fitness services
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Private marina and port services for boats
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Golf club access
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Concierge-style services supporting everyday life
In recent years, Villa d’Este has further strengthened its presence in Cernobbio:
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Acquisition of the historic Hotel Regina Olga, a 4-star lakefront property dating back to the late 19th century
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Acquisition in 2024 of the former Hotel Miralago, planned as Miralago Luxury Apartments
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Acquisition of the legendary Harry’s Bar on the Lungolago of Cernobbio, famously frequented by George Clooney and Robert De Niro
The Veranda Restaurant of Villa d’Este, easily reachable by boat, is one of the most romantic restaurants on Lake Como. When George Clooney hosted Barack Obama at Villa Oleandra, they chose this restaurant for dinner - a detail that reflects the discreet, international character of Cernobbio.
Every spring, Villa d’Este also hosts the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, one of the world’s most prestigious automotive events.
Exclusive property for sale in Cernobbio
We currently offer an exclusive property for sale just two steps from the lake, in a prime location combining lifestyle appeal, convenience, and long-term investment stability.
For further details or to arrange a private viewing, please feel free to contact us. English-speaking realtor, Hanna Fitsner, at +39 366 447 6630 (also on WhatsApp) or via email at info@bestcomo.com.
