What To Do In Como Italy

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The Ultimate Guide to Como, Italy: What to Do in 2024

Nestled at the southern tip of Lake Como, the city of Como offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and Italian charm. Known as the gateway to one of Italy’s most stunning lakes, Como provides visitors with an authentic Lombardy experience without the crowds of nearby Milan. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the best things to do in Como, Italy, from historical landmarks to hidden gems.

Why Visit Como?

Como serves as the ideal base for exploring Lake Como’s famous villages while offering its own unique attractions:

• Strategic location: Just 40 minutes from Milan, yet worlds apart in atmosphere
• Rich history: Founded by the Romans, with medieval and Renaissance influences
• Natural beauty: Stunning lake views and access to the pre-Alpine landscape
• Authentic culture: Less touristy than Bellagio or Varenna, with genuine local life
• Gateway to exploration: Excellent ferry connections to all Lake Como destinations

Top 15 Things to Do in Como, Italy

1. Visit the Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como)

The last Gothic cathedral built in Italy, Como’s Duomo is a masterpiece of architecture that took nearly 400 years to complete (1396-1770). Don’t miss:

• The intricate marble façade with rose windows
• Works by Renaissance artists like Bernardino Luini
• The 16th-century tapestries in the apse
• Climbing the dome for panoramic city views

Pro tip: Visit on a clear day when sunlight streams through the stained glass windows, creating a magical effect.

2. Explore the Historic Center

Como’s compact historic center is perfect for wandering. Key sights include:

• Piazza del Duomo: The heart of the city with the cathedral and 13th-century Broletto
• Piazza San Fedele: A charming square with a 12th-century Romanesque church
• Via Vittorio Emanuele II: The main shopping street with historic palaces
• Porta Torre: A 12th-century medieval gate, one of the best-preserved in Italy

3. Take the Funicular to Brunate

One of Como’s most iconic experiences is riding the historic funicular (opened in 1894) to the hilltop village of Brunate. At 715 meters above sea level, you’ll enjoy:

• Breathtaking views of the lake and Alps (on clear days you can see as far as Milan)
• The Art Nouveau-style funicular cars
• The opportunity to hike to the Voltiano Lighthouse
• Quiet streets and elegant villas in Brunate itself

Practical info: The funicular runs every 15-30 minutes, takes about 7 minutes, and costs €6 round-trip.

4. Discover Villa Olmo

This neoclassical villa, built in 1797, is one of Lake Como’s most elegant estates. While the interior is only open for special exhibitions, the gardens are always accessible and feature:

• A perfectly manicured Italian garden
• Stunning lake views
• Seasonal flower displays
• Occasional open-air concerts and events

5. Stroll Along the Lakefront

The lungolago (lakefront promenade) is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Highlights include:

• Piazza Cavour: The main lakeside square with cafés and people-watching
• Monument to Alessandro Volta: Honoring the inventor of the battery who was born in Como
• Tempio Voltiano: A museum dedicated to Volta’s life and inventions
• Public gardens: Perfect for a picnic with lake views

6. Take a Boat Tour on Lake Como

No visit to Como is complete without experiencing the lake by boat. Options include:

Boat Type	Duration	Route Highlights	Approx. Cost
Public Ferry	1-4 hours	Como to Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio	€5-15
Private Taxi Boat	1-3 hours	Customizable, stops at villas	€80-150
Sunset Cruise	2 hours	Prosecco, golden hour views	€40-60
Kayak/Paddleboard	1-2 hours	Explore quiet bays	€20-40

7. Visit the Silk Museum (Museo della Seta)

Como has been a center of silk production since the 15th century. This fascinating museum showcases:

• Historic loom machinery
• The complete silk production process
• Exquisite fabric samples
• Temporary fashion exhibitions

Did you know? Como still produces about 80% of Italy’s silk, supplying luxury brands like Gucci and Prada.

8. Explore the Archaeological Museum

Housed in a former convent, this museum displays artifacts from Como’s Roman past (called Novum Comum), including:

• Roman mosaics and inscriptions
• Prehistoric tools and jewelry
• A reconstructed Roman tomb
• Medieval and Renaissance artifacts

9. Sample Local Cuisine

Como offers delicious Lombard cuisine with lake influences. Must-try dishes:

• Risotto al pesce persico: Risotto with local perch
• Missoltino: Dried, salted fish (a lake tradition)
• Polenta e osei: Polenta with small birds (seasonal)
• Torta di pane: Bread pudding dessert
• Local wines: Try the red Sfursat from Valtellina

Recommended restaurants: Sociale (historic), Imbarcadero (lakefront), Ratanà (modern Lombard)

10. Day Trips from Como

Como’s location makes it perfect for exploring nearby destinations:

Destination	Travel Time	Highlights	Best For
Bellagio	45 min by ferry	“Pearl of Lake Como”, Villa Melzi	Romantic getaway
Varenna	1 hour by ferry	Colorful houses, Villa Monastero	Photography
Menaggio	30 min by ferry	Lido with pool, golf course	Families
Milan	40 min by train	Duomo, La Scala, shopping	Culture & fashion
Lugano, Switzerland	1 hour by bus	Swiss-Italian culture, lake views	International flavor

Seasonal Highlights in Como

Como offers unique experiences throughout the year:

Spring (March-May)

• Blooming gardens at Villa Olmo and Villa del Grumello
• Easter processions and religious festivals
• Ideal weather for hiking (15-20°C)
• Fewer crowds than summer

Summer (June-August)

• Lake swimming and water sports
• Open-air cinema at Villa Olmo
• Fireworks for the Festa di San Giovanni (June 24)
• Evening passeggiata (leisurely stroll) tradition
• Average temperatures: 25-30°C

Fall (September-November)

• Stunning autumn colors in the mountains
• Harvest festivals and wine tastings
• Mushroom foraging in the woods
• Como Film Festival (October)
• Cooler temperatures perfect for hiking

Winter (December-February)

• Christmas markets in Piazza Cavour
• New Year’s Eve fireworks over the lake
• Possibility of snow in Brunate
• Fewer tourists and lower prices
• Cozy cafés with hot chocolate

Practical Information for Visiting Como

Getting There

Como is easily accessible from major Italian and European cities:

• By air: Fly to Milan Malpensa (45 min by bus) or Milan Linate (1 hour by train)
• By train: Direct trains from Milan Centrale (40 min), Milan Cadorna (1 hour)
• By car: A9 highway from Milan, parking available at Largo Spallino
• By bus: FlixBus and regional buses connect to major cities

Getting Around

Como is compact and walkable, but transport options include:

• Public buses: ASF Autolinee serves the city and surrounding areas
• Ferries: Navigazione Laghi connects lake towns (tickets at www.navigazionelaghi.it)
• Bike rental: Several shops offer e-bikes for exploring
• Taxis: Available but expensive for long distances

Where to Stay

Accommodation options range from luxury lakeside hotels to budget-friendly B&Bs:

• Luxury: Hilton Lake Como, Palace Hotel
• Mid-range: Hotel Metropole Suisse, Albergo Terminus
• Budget: Ostello Bello Lake Como, B&B La Stanza di Giulia
• Apartments: Many Airbnb options, especially in the historic center

Money-Saving Tips

1. Purchase a Como Card (€20-30) for free entry to museums and discounts on attractions
2. Take advantage of free walking tours (tip-based)
3. Visit on the first Sunday of the month when state museums offer free entry
4. Eat at trattorias rather than touristy restaurants near the lake
5. Use regional trains (Trenord) instead of high-speed trains when possible
6. Buy ferry tickets in multi-ride packs for discounts

Hidden Gems in Como

For those who want to explore beyond the main attractions:

• San Donnino Basilica: A 9th-century church with fascinating history
• Parco Spina Verde: A nature park with hiking trails and WWII bunkers
• Chiesa di Sant’Abbondio: A 11th-century Romanesque church with beautiful frescoes
• Mercato Coperto: The covered market for local produce and specialties
• Lido di Villa Geno: A quiet lakeside spot popular with locals
• Via Borgo Vico: A picturesque street with artisan workshops

Como with Kids

Families will find plenty to keep children entertained:

• Lido di Como: Lakeside beach with playground and swimming
• Parco della Valle: Large park with walking paths and picnic areas
• Museo della Seta: Kids love seeing the old machinery in action
• Boat tours: Many operators offer family-friendly cruises
• Gelateria Lariana: Famous for its creative gelato flavors
• Funicular to Brunate: Kids enjoy the ride and the views

Sustainable Travel in Como

Como is committed to sustainable tourism. Here’s how to minimize your impact:

• Use public transportation or walk instead of taxis
• Stay in eco-certified accommodations (look for the EU Ecolabel)
• Support local businesses and artisans
• Bring a reusable water bottle (Como has many public fountains)
• Respect protected areas and wildlife
• Participate in local clean-up initiatives if available

Accessibility in Como

Como has made significant improvements in accessibility:

• Most main attractions are wheelchair accessible
• The historic center has some cobblestone streets but generally good accessibility
• Ferries have accessible boarding options
• Many restaurants offer accessible facilities
• The funicular to Brunate is wheelchair accessible

For specific needs, contact Como Turismo in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Como worth visiting?

Absolutely! While smaller than other Italian cities, Como offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty without overwhelming crowds. It’s an ideal base for exploring Lake Como and provides an authentic Italian experience.

How many days should I spend in Como?

We recommend:

• 1 day: For a quick visit to see the main sights
• 2-3 days: To explore Como thoroughly and take a boat trip
• 4-5 days: To use Como as a base for exploring the entire lake

Is Como expensive?

Como is generally more affordable than other Lake Como destinations like Bellagio. Budget about:

• €50-80/day for budget travelers
• €100-150/day for mid-range comfort
• €200+/day for luxury experiences

Can I swim in Lake Como?

Yes! The water is clean and safe for swimming from June to September. Popular spots include:

• Lido di Como (paid entry with facilities)
• Spiaggia di Villa Geno (free public access)
• Various spots along the lakefront promenade

Water temperature reaches about 22-24°C in summer.

What’s the best time to visit Como?

The best times are:

• May-June: Pleasant weather, blooming gardens, fewer crowds
• September-October: Warm days, cool evenings, autumn colors

Avoid August if you dislike crowds and heat.

Final Thoughts

Como, Italy offers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring its medieval streets, cruising on the lake, or simply enjoying a cappuccino by the water, Como provides an authentic Italian experience without the overwhelming tourist crowds of larger cities.

By using this guide and the interactive trip planner above, you can create the perfect Como itinerary tailored to your interests and travel style. From budget backpackers to luxury travelers, Como has something for everyone.

Authoritative Resources

For official information about visiting Como:

• Official Como Tourism Website OFFICIAL – Comprehensive visitor information
• Lombardy Region Tourism GOV – Regional travel planning
• Italian Ministry of Culture GOV – Information about historical sites