The Top Attractions in Como, Italy
The beautiful city of Como in northern Italy offers visitors plenty of sights and activities. From exploring historic architecture to relaxing by the lake, there's something for everyone. This guide will highlight the top things to see and do in Como.
Explore the Historic City Center
Como's historic city center is filled with medieval and Renaissance architecture. Take a stroll through the pedestrian streets to admire sights like the Cathedral of Como, Broletto town hall, and the towering city walls. The Cathedral, constructed between the 14th and 18th centuries, features a magnificent Gothic facade and ornate interior. Visitors can also climb the church tower for panoramic views over the city.
Don't miss Piazza San Fedele, the main public square surrounded by porticoes with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Pop into the Volta Temple, a neoclassical building commemorating Alessandro Volta, the scientist who invented the battery. Art lovers will appreciate the collection of paintings and sculptures at the Contemporary Art Gallery and Museum.
Relax by Lake Como
Lake Como, situated at the foot of the Alps, is the main natural attraction in Como. Stroll along the scenic lakefront promenade and relax at one of the parks or beaches during sunny weather. At the lake's edge, visitors can also tour aristocratic villas like Villa Olmo, which hosts art and culture exhibitions.
For the best views over the Y-shaped lake, take a boat cruise or ride the Como-Brunate funicular up to the Brunate hilltop. Other excellent vantage points include the lighthouse in Villa Geno, the alpine gardens in Villa del Grumello, and atop the Baradello fortress ruins. Don't miss watching the sunset over the glittering lake waters.
Explore the Outdoors
Como offers visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors amid spectacular Alpine scenery. Take the cable car up to the village of Pigra for hiking trails with stunning lake views. Or walk the Greenway del Lago, a lush nature trail connecting Cernobbio to Colonno.
Other popular hiking destinations near Como include Mount Bisbino, Mount San Primo, and the Sacro Monte di Ossuccio, an UNESCO site with 15 chapels linked by wooded paths. Visitors can also play a round of golf at Villa d'Este's scenic course dotted with cypress and olive trees.
Take a Day Trip from Como
Como makes an excellent base to explore the surrounding attractions in northern Italy. Take a day trip by train or car to visit other scenic Lake Como towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. Or head slightly further afield to Bergamo, an ancient walled city with Renaissance and medieval architecture.
Other possible day trips are Milan (about one hour away), Lugano in Switzerland, and St. Moritz for hiking in the Swiss Alps. Visitors staying longer can also consider overnight trips to places like Verona, Lake Garda, or Venice.
Sample the Cuisine
Como's cuisine features fresh local ingredients like lake fish, regional meats, risotto, polenta, and cheeses like taleggio. Be sure to try dishes like risotto al pesce persico (rice with perch), polenta, and brasato (braised beef).
Visitors can sample authentic local flavors at osterie (taverns) and cafes around town. Check out the local produce market to taste cheese, salami, and other regional specialties. And don't miss Como's famous gelato shops - try unique flavors like rice with cinnamon and nutmeg or cheese with fig.
With its enchanting historic architecture, stunning Alpine setting, and excellent dining, Como has so much to offer visitors. Use this guide to make the most of this Italian lakeside gem.