Why not in Arona by the Maggiore lake ? Arona is not a city like Como but is still a big Town (20.000 people) and is a well known lakeside resort. From Arona you can easely visit Stresa and the Borromee Islands.

I believe there is a bus service to Malpensa but, for sure, you can catch trains to Gallarate (20 min) then catch a free shuttle to the airport.

Actually it depend in which season you are coming in Italy: if you are coming in late fall or winter, It'll be better stay in Como than in Arona because Arona seem a desert town in winter.

Sorry, no hotel to suggest you.

Ciao, Marco in Milan (Italy)