Hotel Barchetta Excelsior

Hotel Barchetta is all about location, location, location. We travelled by train from Milan to the station of Como San Giovanni and walked down to the hotel which took about 15 minutes with cases. (Best to take a taxi for the return leg). The central location provided an ideal base from which to explore Como, the lake and take in a day visit to Lugano in Switzerland. Views from lake fronting bedrooms are simply stunning, city facing views are not as attractive. The breakfast menu was the same each day and offered a choice of something cooked (typically scrambled eggs, sausage and bacon) against the continental alternative of meat / cheese / bread / pastries, plus loads of fresh fruit. Excellent.

Excellent breakfast. Great variety. Very friendly staff. Matteo at the front desk was very helpful and spoke English. He went the extra mile by helping make our 25th anniversary extra special.

Great location facing the lake , booked a lake view room with a nice balcony Good access to the promenade and short walk to the funicular Located in the historic old town, there is easy access to all the shops and lots of restaurants Room was pleasant although a bit dated Breakfast was good Parking was at a sister hotel 5mins away so not too bad

Location is great, right up against the lake, with superb views, although sadly road construction made it a little noisy and dusty. But can’t be helped. Breakfast was decent, standard continental, good selection, including gluten and dairy free options. Bar was good enough, decent atmosphere, friendly staff, usual array of drinks of offer, a decent whisky selection, large array of single malt scotch (laga 8, laphroaig 10 CS, etc) along with usual array of spirits, wine, beer and some classic Italian cocktails. Restaurant was decent also, some stuff is frozen and re-heated/finished rather than coming from fresh. But some items are fresh. Again, friendly service, a little expensive for what it is. But it’s Como. Most places are about 15% or more above market average, so not terribly surprising considering the location. But atmosphere and service makes it worth it, if feeling lost for a place to eat one evening. Bed is a little firm for our liking, and the air-con in our room didn’t seem to be that effective. But the hotel is excellent and good value given what you get. Staff are also amazing and very helpful. Reception staff are very helpful and always happy to answer any questions. We got a good rundown of local attractions and points of interest, including a decent place or two to eat. Boat times etc. Room was very clean, friendly and efficient turndown service. Cleaned every day. Fresh water bottles, towels, toiletries, toilet paper etc.

Great location, you can walk to everything. You can also drive right up to the hotel to unload your bags and then park in a secure park house within easy walking distance for which the hotel provides a discount. Staff are very friendly and helpful. Rooms are quiet, clean and bed was very comfortable. The buffet breakfast is good with all the usual things you would expect.