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- An Updated List On What To Do In Como
Picturesque, polished, endearing — this about describes the delightful destination of Como. Set on the Swiss-Italian border and at the southern tip of Lake Como, the city is steeped in history, dating back to the Bronze Age when Celtic tribes inhabited it. Its strategic location on the edge of Lake Como propelled it to a critical trade and commerce hub in the Lombardy region during the Middle Ages.
Today, it has a magnetic effect on visitors all year round, boasting unique Gothic architecture, laid-back walkable streets, sparkly blue waters, and scenic natural landscapes. But this is only the tip of the iceberg; Como is awash with attractions and fun adventures, guaranteed to entertain all travelers. Whether a history buff, culture enthusiast, foodie, or outdoor adventurer, Como is one of those hidden Italian gems tourists will relish discovering.
UPDATE: 2023/09/06 13:15 EST BY DYLAN MYERS
An Updated List On What To Do In Como
Como, Italy is the ideal European vacation destination, boasting luxurious palaces, picturesque lake views, and adventurous outdoor activities. The northern Italian haven offers travelers so much that this refreshed list included additional things to do in Como, including hiking ancient Roman highways, strolling through villas, biking through vineyards, and more!
Top Things To Do In Como, Italy
Como is a city with a little bit of everything. It offers a range of adventures on land and water that should be on the bucket list for every first-timer in Italy.
From strolling along the quaint, narrow streets of its Old Town to taking a boating excursion on the beautiful Lake Como, here are the best excursions for travelers wondering what to do in Como, Italy.
1 Explore The Old Town In Como City
Como Old Town is a gem worth exploring on foot. Marked by narrow cobbled streets and surrounding fortress walls built in the 12th century, the area takes visitors down memory lane. Quaint shops, restaurants, churches, and museums line the streets in historic buildings with incredible medieval and pre-medieval architecture.
The old-day piazzas add to the charm of the Old Town, offering a cozy space where locals and visitors converge to interact or take in the sights and sounds. Guests will love the area's small-town feel and its inhabitants' laid-back lifestyle.
Old Town Como houses diverse historical treasures that tourists should explore while wandering its streets, including the Basilica di San Fedele and the Como Cathedral.
2 Visit The Majestic Como Cathedral
Como Cathedral, or Duomo di Como, is easily the most impressive building in the city and a must-see for travelers visiting Como.
Built between the 14th and 18th centuries, the colossal structure incorporates a mix of architectural styles, from a Gothic facade and a Baroque dome to a Romanesque bell tower, making it one of the most irresistible monuments in northern Italy.
Its facade impresses with high statue columns, ornate stone works, and rose windows, while the dome features a top lantern with several windows to allow natural light into the church. The interior is lavishly decorated with gold artwork and other additions.
Como Cathedral was dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and is the most important religious building in the city.
- Hours: Weekdays, 10:30 am – 5 pm
- Admissions: Free
If possible, try returning to the cathedral at night when it is illuminated; the sight is breathtaking.
3 Discover The City’s History At Como Archeological Museum
The Como Archeological Museum chronicles Como’s past from prehistory to the Roman Age, painting a portrait of the city’s evolution. The facility is housed in the Palazzo Giovio and displays a range of archeological finds dating back to the ancient Greek era.
These artifacts include stonework, jewelry, pottery, and agricultural implements associated with the Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians. All the exhibits are accompanied by insightful information about the item, providing an interesting history lesson for guests.
- Admissions: ~$5.36 USD (€5)
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am – 6 pm
4 Stroll Along The Scenic Lakeside Promenade
Como’s lakeside promenade is a spectacular 3.7-mile stretch with dramatic views of Lake Como. The crescent-shaped path is perfect for a leisurely evening stroll while admiring homes on the overlooking hills.
A typical stroll begins at Piazza Cavour in Old Town, a vibrant square with terraced pubs and cafes. On the western side of the promenade, guests will run into Como’s Monument to the Fallen, dedicated to the victims of World War I, while the east side has the Villa Geno.
Whether guests walk or hop on two wheels, the promenade offers a unique and exciting perspective of the city and its surroundings.
Find the vast grassy patch ideal for sunbathing or the pool for those who fancy a dip.
5 Enjoy A Boating Excursion On Lake Como
There is no better way to discover the best spots on Lake Como and experience its beautiful surrounding landscapes than to get on a boat. Besides being fun, it is a great way to soak in the stunning sights along the shores of the lake.
Several local outfitters offer tourists an opportunity for this memorable adventure with boat tours to different towns around the lake, including Bellagio and Cernobbio.
Alternatively, opt for a simple sightseeing boat excursion focusing on the different landmarks and history of the region. Whichever the preference, this is a popular activity that travelers shouldn’t overlook.
Take a private tour on a speedboat to cover more ground faster and visit as many towns as possible.
6 Take A Day Trip To Bellagio
Bellagio is a storybook town and arguably the best destination on Lake Como; guests will want to dedicate a day out of their itinerary to check it out. The town sits at the intersection of the three arms of Lake Como, spoiling visitors with unrivaled views of the vast lake.
The promenade at La Punta is also a fine location to snap away Insta-worthy photos of the vacation.
Bellagio is fun to explore and home to multiple well-manicured gardens, high-end shopping destinations, and trendy restaurants. A boat trip to Bellagio lasts about an hour from Como, so tourists need not worry about spending the whole day at one point of interest.
Several transport options will get vacationers to Bellagio from Como, including a boat and ferry. A ferry ride will cost around $6-$8 but take an extra hour due to the stops along the way.
7 Tour The Remarkable Villa Olmo
Architecture of the city of Como over the Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy.
Villa Olmo is one of the multiple villas on the shores of Lake Como and a major tourist attraction thanks to its overall appeal. Located in the northwestern section of the city, it is famed for hosting various high-profile personalities since its completion in the 18th century.
Famous people like Napoleon, Holy Roman Empire Francis II, and Ferdinand, the Austrian Emperor, have enjoyed the accommodation offered by the beautiful villa at one point in history.
Guests visit to appreciate the neoclassical features on its facade, including a spectacular colonnade with tondos. Inside the villa, various statues, frescoes, and paintings decorate the walls.
- Admissions: Free
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am – 6 pm
Explore the manicured grounds surrounding the villa for free, in the winter any day from 7 AM to 7 PM, or in the summer from 7 AM to 11 PM.
8 Ride The Funicular Up To Brunate
While Brunate is a separate village from Como, it is only a stone’s throw away and offers one of the major attractions for first-timers in the city. Aptly nicknamed the “balcony in the Alps” by locals, the town sits high in the mountains at an 800-meter altitude, offering a bird’s eye perspective of Como city, Lake Como, and the surrounding region.
- The fastest way to get to Brunate is to take a funicular, a trip that takes just under 10 minutes.
- Cost: ~$4.50 (€3.60) one-way, ~$8 (€6.60) round-trip
- Frequency: Every half hour throughout the day until midnight
In Brunate, tourists can find multiple viewpoints to make the most of the dramatic views of the city. The atmosphere is exquisite in the mountains, and the fresh air provides a great escape from the busier city.
A one-way ticket on the funicular costs around $3, whereas a return ticket is $5. These operate daily between 6 am and 10:30 pm, passing every 30 minutes.
9 Scope Out Porta Torre
Porta Torre is an ancient city landmark that served as the gateway to Piazza Vittoria. It traces its history to the 12th century during the construction of the city walls and makes for a nice stop for any historians fascinated by Como’s past.
The landmark’s construction provides insight into ancient Roman military architecture. Standing at 40 meters, it is a thick, impenetrable wall with four rows of arches on the inside.
Although it was initially part of the city’s perimeter wall, it currently stands alone.
Find the statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, one of Italy's first patriots and revolutionaries, near Porta Torre.
10 Try Canyoning At Lenno Or Porlezza
Extreme sports enthusiasts and admirers will be glad to know that the diverse landscapes around Lake Como offer adrenaline-rushing opportunities.
Local companies have taken advantage of this to provide tourists with a chance to try their hand at canyoning, a thrilling sport involving jumping and sliding down a cascading series of cliffs and canyons to get to the water or ground below.
This is a great way to up the ante while in Como, especially for those looking to get the better of their fears. Interested tourists can access the sport at the canyons in Lenno or Porlezza.
Adventurists looking for a reliable company can check out Lake Como Adventures for their canyoning escapades.
- Prices: from ~$70 (€65)
- Excursion Duration: 3.5 hours
- Note: All prices include a certified guide and equipment
Don't forget to pack a swimsuit, towel, and waterproof camera when canyoning near Lake Como!
11 Marvel At The Tempio Voltiano
Both science nerds and lovers of great architecture should include the Tempio Voltiano in their list of things to do in Como. Known in English as Alessandro Volta's Temple, the small but stately neoclassical building was built in the early 1900s in honor of the renowned Italian physicist.
Not only can visitors admire the impressive facade and lovely halls inside, but Tempio Voltiano is also home to a museum with 15 showcases, preserving some of Volta's inventions and the work of other leading scientists of the time.
- Admissions: ~$6 (€5)
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am - 6 pm
While tourists can still wander the halls, as of September 2023, the museum section is temporarily closed for renovation.
12 Hike The Sentiero del Viandante
Outdoor enthusiasts looking for the opportunity to stretch their legs won't be disappointed by the Sentiero del Viandante. The ancient Roman highway has been converted into a popular hiking trail that follows the eastern shores of Lake Como, offering some peace, quiet, and spectacular views of the lake.
Surrounded by olive groves, the route passes through ancient churches, hamlets, and monasteries.
- Trail Length: 6.6 miles, one-way
- Duration: 4 - 5 hours
- Difficulty: Hiking the entire route is challenging due to the significant elevation gains, although many hikers just choose to complete smaller sections
- Start / Stop Location: Lierna / Varenna (some wayfarers recommend taking the train back from Varenna, or finishing the hike in Lierna for a swim on the beaches)
Time it right to catch some of Lake Como's best sunset views from the Sentiero del Viandante.
13 Wander Through Villa Carlotta's Botanical Gardens
Among the best things to do in Lake Como, visiting all its luxurious lakeside mansions is a favorite for tourists. Villa Carlotta is one of the area's most famous, celebrated for its perfect union of architecture and nature. The villa's stunning frescos, halls, and balconies lead out to picturesque views and some 20 acres of lush gardens.
The botanical gardens boast rare trees and plants, including towering cedars, bamboo, sprawling rhododendrons, and azalea. Inside Villa Carlotta, a museum showcases collections of sculptures, tapestries, and early 19th-century artwork.
- Admissions: ~$16 (€15)
- Hours: Daily, 10 am - 6 pm
14 Take An E-Bike Tour Through The Countryside
Sometimes going on two wheels is the best way to personally experience all there is to see in Lake Como. Several e-bike tour companies offer cyclists the chance to leisurely explore the rolling hills, vineyards, medieval villages, and some of Italy's interesting historic sites around Como.
One of the many excellent e-bike tours in Como, this three-hour excursion provides outdoor enthusiasts with a local guide to lead them through the villages of Laglio, Moltrasio, and Cernobbio, and later across the border into Swiss vineyards.
- Cost: from $120 per person
- Duration: Three hours
- Distance: 20 - 30 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
15 Best Time To Visit Como
Como’s proximity to Lake Como's large mass of water results in pleasant weather for much of the year with Mediterranean-like conditions.
- The best time to visit the city is between April and October when it’s relatively warm and mild.
Spring
Spring is an excellent time to be in Como as conditions begin to warm up after winter. Temperatures hover around 50 degrees Fahrenheit in March but steadily rise to an average of 62 degrees Fahrenheit in May. Tourists gradually stream into Como, and the blossoming trees and flowers create a great atmosphere to explore the city.
Smaller crowds and little rainfall make for a great mix of factors for visitors in spring.
Remember to pack an umbrella for those occasional showers.
Summer
Visiting Lake Como ranks high as one of the many things to do in Italy in the summer; hence this is the peak tourism season in Como. The conditions are warm, with temperatures average in the high 70s, and tourists flock to the city to make the most of the various beaches on Lake Como. The water temperature is perfect for a dip, and Como is a beehive of activities, offering an excellent opportunity to get out and mingle.
Rainfall is uncommon, so no worries about outdoor expeditions being interrupted by showers.
Book flight, accommodation, and tickets to attractions well in advance as prices rise drastically when the high season begins.
Autumn
Autumn is a pleasant shoulder season where crowd numbers subside, and the fall colors transform the city into a picture-perfect setting for outdoorsy guests. Temperatures are mild, with lower humidity and even less rainfall. This is a great time to climb the mountains and scope out the snow-capped peaks.
Winter
Winters can be uncomfortable in Como as temperatures dip dramatically to lows of 37 degrees Fahrenheit, sometimes below freezing point at night. Snowfall is expected, especially in high-altitude areas, but low visitor numbers mean great hotel and flight deals.
Make the most of skiing opportunities during winter at resorts such as Monte Sighignola, Piani di Bobbio, and Valchiavenna in Como.
16 Best Ways To Get Around Como
There are multiple options for getting around Como and the surrounding towns and villages on Lake Como:
Boat
Thanks to the vast mass of water, one of the best ways to traverse the region is by boat. Tourists can choose three types of boats when discovering Como from the water:
- The slow boat (battello) is ideal for scenic excursions. Its open deck allows visitors to snap away at the stunning scenery on Lake Como.
- The hydrofoil (aliscafo) is a more rapid boat service that is handy for day trips to other towns along Lake Como.
- The car ferry (traghetto) serves the central lake region and takes passengers to various interest points, running late into the night.
Bus
There is a reliable bus system operating within and around the city. The urbana bus carries passengers within the city, but given the small size of Como, tourists are better off exploring the town on foot.
On the other hand, the extraurbana bus service goes out of town, traversing different destinations along the shores of Lake Como, including Bellagio, Lecco, and Menaggio.
Taxis
Taxis are another great option, especially for those who need a part-time guide to take them around. These can be found throughout the city, especially outside train stations and near hotels. This is an excellent way to traverse the city, and most bus stops are proximal to the main train stations.
Taxis are relatively expensive compared to other transportation means.
Car
Car rental services in Como allow tourists to make good use of the impressive road network in the region. The opportunity is perfect for those with a penchant for day trips, and a 50-minute drive will get visitors to all the amazing things to do in the beautiful city of Milan.
Renting a car is the best option when planning day trips outside Como. The city streets are rather congested, some connecting roads are very narrow, and driving on them can be a hustle. Also, watch out for drivers who may not follow basic road safety rules.
Walking
Como is perfectly navigable on foot, particularly in its Old Town. The narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings lining them are best explored at a snail’s pace. Numerous piazzas and points of interest in the area motivate guests to stretch out while inspecting them.
How To Get To Como
The nearest airport most travelers go through to arrive at Como is Milan Malpensa. Then, visitors can hop on the Malpensa Express Train from the airport to Saronno, and later another train from Saronno to Como Nord Lago. The journey by train takes about an hour and a half.
Travelers should pack some patience and a go-with-the-flow attitude on any trip to Italy. Ferry times and train schedules are often behind, slow, or unclear.
17 Where To Stay In And Around Como
The shores of Lake Como are lined with several towns and villages, with Como being the most famous of the bunch. This offers visitors various options as far as accommodation is concerned. The best part is that these towns are within minutes of one another by boat, bus, or train, allowing an easy commute between them.
Here are the best places to stay in and around the city and the top lodging options available.
City center
Staying in the city center keeps guests close to Como's main points of interest. Being the central transportation hub of the entire Lake Como region, this is the perfect launching pad for city explorers.
The City Center offers a fair share of tourist sites, particularly in Old Town, home to the Como Cathedral and the Basilica di San Fedele.
The nightlife is also banging in the city center, with several restaurants, pubs, and taverns keeping guests entertained to the wee hours. The best hotels in the area include:
Luxury option:
- Address: Viale Risorgimento 18/A, 20100 Como, Como
- Rate per night: Starts at $229 for 2 guests
- Amenities: Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Free parking, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Free toiletries, Internet
Mid-range option:
- Address: Piazza Cavour 19, 22100 Como, Como
- Rate per night: $$
- Amenities: Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Coffee shop, Flat-screen TV, Cable or satellite TV, Free toiletries
Bellagio
Bellagio is a quaint village about 40 minutes from Como City by ferry. It is a popular tourist spot with two idyllic beaches and a fair share of history. It makes for a great romantic getaway for those looking for a break from Como. Its charming cobblestone streets and trendy restaurants are worth experiencing. Top hotels in the area include:
Luxury option:
- Address: Via Roma 1, 22021 Bellagio, Como
- Rate per night: $$
- Amenities: Private beach, Indoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Valet parking, Free parking
Budget option:
- Address: Piazza Mazzini, 32, 22021 Bellagio, Como
- Rate per night: $$
- Amenities: Spa and wellness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee shop, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Cable or satellite TV, Free toiletries
Menaggio
Menaggio is another tiny town on Lake Como's shores, just under an hour from Como. It is surrounded by mountains and ideal for outdoorsy travelers looking to do some hiking. It also provides various watersport opportunities on the lake, proving to be a sought-after resort town. Accommodation options are diversely available, with top choices such as:
Mid-range option:
- Address: Via Iv Novembre 77, 22017 Menaggio, Como
- Rate per night: $$
- Amenities: Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Valet parking, Free parking, Wi-Fi available in all areas, TV
Budget option:
- Address: Largo Cavour 3, 22017 Menaggio, Como
- Rate per night: $$
- Amenities: Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Cable or satellite TV, Free toiletries, Internet, Hairdryer, Golf
18 Where To Eat In Como
Despite its small size, Como is a charming foodie destination with diverse culinary offerings tailored to tickle the taste buds. Of all the delicious things to eat in Italy, there's more to sample in the city besides the famous Italian pizza.
Several diners, eateries, and restaurants in the area serve everything from local flavors featuring top Italian cuisine to international dishes from leading chefs.
The nightlife is another reason people prefer Como to other towns on the shores of Lake Como, so watering holes abound in the tiny city. Here are the best places to eat and drink in Como:
Breakfast:
- Address: Via Adamo del Pero 35, 22100, Como Italy
- Hours: Monday to Friday (9 am – 9 pm), Saturday (9 am – 11 pm)
- What to order: Espresso, panini, sandwich
Lunch and dinner:
- Address: Via Luigi Cadorna 15, 22100, Como Italy
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 7:30 pm
- What to order: Shrimp and saporito
- Address: Piazza Roma 43 Cucina sempre aperta, 22100, Como Italy
- Hours: Noon – 10:30 pm, closed on Tuesdays
- What to order: spaghetti with zucchini cream
Drinks:
- Address: Via Borgo Vico 28, 22100, Como Italy
- Hours: Open daily, 6 pm – 2 am
19 Tips For Visiting Como
The Basics
- Most locals around Como will speak Italian as their native language, and lots of road signs and information will be in Italian. Because it's such a frequented vacation destination, English is understood, and many travelers also speak German or Dutch.
- Take out some Euros before traveling or upon arrival to use in Lake Como.
- Travelers should always check entry requirements depending on their nationality before traveling to Como. United States citizens need a valid passport and will be issued a 90-day tourist visa upon arrival.
How Many Days In Como Is Enough?
Three to four days is the ideal amount of time to try out the most essential things to do in Como at a leisurely pace. Outdoor adventurists may want to spend even a week or two in the area, exploring hiking trails or biking.
For travelers short on time, visiting Como in one day is possible, but should be done with a guide to avoid wasting time bouncing between the most important sites.
Why is Lake Como romantic?
Lake Como is one of the prettiest destinations in the whole of Italy. It boasts gorgeous scenery featuring clear blue waters against the backdrop of sprawling mountains. The atmosphere is serene, and various cute towns on the shores make it an ideal romantic getaway.
What is Como known for?
Como is famous for its iconic museums, pretty gardens, and exquisite villas. It is a popular town on Lake Como's shores and worth an inclusion in the ideal Lombardy, Italy itinerary.
20 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Como
Kick off the day’s itinerary at the heart of the city in Piazza Vittoria. Check out the medieval walls built to protect the town and visit the monument of Giuseppe Garibaldi, the iconic general who saved Como from the Austrians in the 18th century.
Head to Piazza San Fedele to check out the Basilica di San Fedele, then to the Piazza del Duomo, where the majestic Como cathedral awaits. The Romanesque church is a top visitor attraction and impresses with its Gothic facade.
Take some time at Brolleto, an old city town hall, before chilling at the Piazza Cavour. This famous lakefront is a tourist magnet perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sights. After lunch, take a boat ride to explore the vast Lake Como. This is an excellent opportunity to scope out the various town on its shores, including Bellagio, Menaggio, and Lecco.
Later, visit the magnificent Villa Olmo and scope out its well-manicured gardens, then ride a funicular to Brunate to enjoy sweeping views of Lake Como and Como city. As the evening ends, go for dinner at Piazza Roma Ristorante Como and wind up the day’s activities by sampling the local nightlife at Il Birrivico.