TOP things to do in Como Italy: a beautiful Lakeside Town
TOP things to do in Como Italy: a beautiful Lakeside Town. Do you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and explore a place that oozes history and romance? Look no further than Como, Italy – the “queen of the Lake Como”. From its stunning palazzos and Bellagio-style villas to the cuisine, culture, and activities, Como has something for everyone.
This article will explore the best things to do in Como, Italy. Take a look at the grand architecture from the 1st century BC, take a stroll in the cobblestoned streets, or enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the shoreline. Plus, we’ll share insider tips on the best time to visit, what to pack, and the unique experiences. So, if you’re ready for an unforgettable journey, let’s dive right into how to spend your time in this enchanting Italian city.
Table of Contents
How to get to Como?
You can reach Como by car, by boat if you come from other places on the lake and also by train as the train station is located right in front of the lakefront.
What are the best things to do in Como Italy?
Here are the main things to do and see in Como:
- Historic center of Como
- Vittoriale Como
- Como pier
- Tour of Lake Como on the historic Concordia boat
- Como Brunate funicular
- Baradello Castle
- Tempio Voltiano Como
- Lunch or dinner in one of the lakeside restaurants
Visit the town and the historic center of Como
The historic center of Como is charming, and in the main square, there are several bars where even in winter, you can have an aperitif or something to drink outside thanks to the heating fires. This way, you can relax and enjoy the view of Como cathedral.
Vittoriale Como
Vittoriale Como is a charming villa located on the shores of Lake Como in Italy. It is known for its exquisite architecture, beautiful gardens, and stunning views of the lake. The villa offers a glimpse into the life of the renowned Italian poet, Gabriele D’Annunzio, who resided there. With its historical significance and picturesque setting, Vittoriale Como is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of Italian art and culture.
Como pier
The Como pier is a beautiful panoramic point from which to see Lake Como. Furthermore, from the Como pier you can take boats to visit other beautiful places on Lake Como and to see the lake from the lake.
If you want to have a light snack or if you want to have an aperitif on the lakefront, the pier is an excellent place: there are several bars nearby where you can relax with a drink or even enjoy a quick meal.
The Como pier is also very close to the historic centre, so if you don’t have much time, you are in the center and want to head to the lakeside, the pier is an excellent point of reference.
Here is the position of the Como pier on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FtdVyYUQY7wSSLiZ9.
Tour of Lake Como on the historic Concordia boat
The tour of Lake Como on the historic Concordia boat is exciting. The Concordia boat began its navigation on Lake Como in 1926 and, after a period of stoppage, it returned to sailing in 2016. By going around Lake Como with this historic boat, you can stop in the main locations on the lake.
Como lakeside
It is also very pleasant to take a walk along the lakeside of Como. Como’s lakefront is well suited to walking as it is quite long. Como together with its lakeside is a lively city full of life especially during the weekend when there are also street artists who entertain passers-by.
Also part of the walk along the lakeside of Como is the walk dedicated to Sergio Caramelli. This lakeside walk is nestled between the lake and small gardens with benches on which you can sit and relax.
If you want to see some short images of this part of the lakefront, watch this short video: https://youtu.be/Jdk9_w1ABa4.
The small square with the circular fountain in the center, which is found in this position on Google Maps, is also very beautiful: https://maps.app.goo.gl/D7V2FRAS1fqgnVZW9.
Como Brunate funicular
In Como, there is also a funicular. If you are in the historic center of Como it is very easy to reach the funicular on foot because it is located right on the lakeside of Como. The funicular takes you up to an advantageous position from a panoramic point of view.
The funicular cost is 3.60 euros one way (prices verified in November 2023). The convenient thing about the funicular is that it is open until late. In November 2023, the funicular was open until 10 am. Then you could go up not only during the day but also in the late afternoon or evening without much worry about the return times.
Baradello Castle
From the lakeside of Como, looking towards the historic center of Como, we see a promontory with a tower behind the city. This tower is part of the Baradello Castle, a castle that can be visited for a fee and can be reached by car in about twenty minutes from the center of Como.
The castle was built in 1158 by Emperor Frederick Barbarossa.
Tempio Voltiano Como
The Volta Temple in Como is an elegant building that pays homage to the famous Italian scientist Alessandro Volta. Located on the city’s lakefront, the Volta Temple houses a museum dedicated to Volta’s life and discoveries, including his most famous invention, the electric battery.
Through interactive displays and historical exhibits, visitors can immerse themselves in the history of electricity and appreciate Volta’s contribution to modern science. This fascinating and culturally significant place is an unmissable stop for those wishing to explore the scientific history of Como, as well as wanting to learn more about one of Italy’s most important scientists.
Lakeside restaurants
Are there any restaurants on the lakeside of Como where you can eat something while enjoying the view? Yes, on the lakeside of Como, there are several restaurants where you can have lunch or dinner outside while enjoying the view of Lake Como.
Como in winter
Lake Como is an excellent tourist destination to visit during spring or summer but it is also possible to visit it in winter, taking into consideration the characteristics of this season. In fact, the hours of light in winter are much fewer and the shadow comes much earlier than in summer to darken the city.
If in summer the sun illuminates the city until almost evening, until what time is Como, together with its historic center and adjacent lakefront, illuminated by the sun in winter? The lakeside of Como in the pier area and the historic center is illuminated by the sun until around 4pm in winter.
Since Como is at the tip of the lake, it must be said that the historic center of Como gets shade earlier than other parts of the lakefront.
An example is the following: in November the lakefront towards the center was already in the shade at 4 pm while some other parts of the lakefront remained in the sun until around 4.30 pm.
What things to do in Como Italy in winter?
In Como, in winter you can do several things. First of all, it is pleasant to walk along the lakeside when it is sunny, since the walk along the lakeside of Como is quite long and offers a view of beautiful scenery: while walking you can admire the opposite coast of this branch of Lake Como.
You can also go up with the Como-Brunate funicular to see a nice view of Lake Como. The funicular is in fact active even in winter and until late. Where is the Como funicular located? The funicular is located right on the lakefront, therefore easy to reach on foot.
You can take the boat to visit other locations on Lake Como and fully enjoy the lake.
Furthermore, the historic center of Como is very beautiful and in the main square there are several bars where even in winter you can have an aperitif or something to drink outside, thanks to the heating fires. This way you can relax and enjoy the view of the suggestive Como Cathedral.
How to dress to visit Como in winter?
The temperatures of the lake are mild compared to other areas; therefore, it is pleasant to walk along the lakeside when the sun shines and illuminates the city. In winter, it is still necessary to dress appropriately.
In addition to wearing comfortable shoes to be able to walk for long distances and visit the city, it is also necessary to wear a heavy jacket, such as a coat or a heavy jacket, to be able to cover yourself adequately and protect yourself from winter temperatures.
The use of the jacket and scarf is particularly suitable in the evening when the temperatures drop. It’s incredible how the feeling of cold increases once the sun no longer warms the city and especially us.
Video Como in November
Why Not Explore Como, Italy In November?
Text of the video
We begin our walk in the historic center of Como, immediately heading towards the lakeside. It’s already almost 3 in the afternoon and we know that in winter the sun sets quite early here. Better, therefore, to take advantage of the hours when the sun still shines and warms us to be able to walk along the lakeside.
This video was shot on a Sunday afternoon in November when the level of the lake was much higher than normal and in some places it had overflowed causing some discomfort. However, the day is splendid and many people take advantage of it to walk along the lakeside and admire the view.
Right in front of the lake there is the Como Funicular and as you can see there are also those who queue to go up to the top to see the panorama of Lake Como from above.
It’s just after 4 in the afternoon and as you can see the center of Como is already in the shade but the sun is still shining on part of the lakefront.
We wait for the sunset to continue our walk in peace.
We now return to the center of Como and go in front of the pier where the historic Concordia boat departs. The Concordia boat began its navigation on Lake Como in 1926 and, after a period of rest, returned to navigation in 2016.
Once the sun goes down there are no longer many people here on the lakeside, so let’s move to the main square for an aperitif.
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FAQ: Things to know before visiting Como
Here some useful information for your visit to Como about Como and Italy in general.
Is there a dress code for Lake Como?
No, there isn’t a dress code in Lake Como. Lake Como is very popular abroad, but Italians don’t consider this place more special than other beautiful places in Italy. When you visit Como during the day, it’s better to dress in comfortable shoes and clothes to be able to go around and explore the city. Of course, a little bit of style is always appreciated in Italy but not essential.
You can be more elegant in the evening if you go to a restaurant. This is valid for Como as it is for other parts of Italy. The kind of restaurant where you go also matters about what you can wear.
Is Como worth visiting in winter?
Yes, you can visit Como at any period of the year as the Italians do. Of course, you can’t swim in Como in winter, and you must wear winter clothes. If you go to Como for a day trip, you have to know that the sunset in Como in winter is at about 4 p.m., so it’s better to visit outside places in the morning or early afternoon.
What shoes to wear in Italy in January?
You have to wear shoes good for the winter low temperatures. Boots or sneakers are ok during the day. In the evening you can wear more elegant shoes but always closed shoes and not sandals or summer shoes.
Is Como a walkable city?
Yes, Como is a walkable city. You can walk and visit the historic center on foot, and you can also walk along the lakeside promenade.
How many days do you need in Como Italy?
If you want to visit only Como as a city a couple of days is enough, but if you want to visit the nearby places I suggest you at least 5 days.
Is Como Town worth visiting?
Yes, Como is a nice city to visit and it’s worth visiting for its historic center, for its beautiful lakeside promenade, and for the beautiful views that Lake Como offers.
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Follow us on Pinterest and experience the beauty of the stunning Como Italy City with this captivating board! Journey through the cobblestone streets and stroll past breathtakingly picturesque lakeside villas. Learn about the city’s rich history, explore the many museums and attractions, and uncover some of the best shopping and restaurants tucked away off the beaten path. Get a real feel of this vibrant Italian city and be transported to the shores of Como.
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