Things To Do
in Como
Como sits on the southern arm of Lake Como, framed by the Alpine foothills and a storied medieval center. The city blends elegant architecture, riverside promenades, and a relaxed, refined pace. Its lakeside setting makes ferry rides to nearby towns feel effortless, while historic sites and gardens add cultural depth.
Visitors enjoy a polished, intimate atmosphere with outstanding Lombard cuisine and easy day trips to the lake’s most famous villas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, enjoying a fresh cornetto and a rich Italian espresso. Afterward, wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, taking in the stunning architecture of the Duomo di Como. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Piazza Cavour, where you can admire the lake views and bustling atmosphere.
In the afternoon, explore the Museo Storico G. Garibaldi, where you can learn about the rich history of Como and its significance in Italian unification. After immersing yourself in culture, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a trattoria, savoring local specialties like risotto con pesce persico. Spend the rest of the afternoon shopping for handmade crafts and souvenirs in the charming boutiques lining the streets.
As the sun begins to set, find a lakeside restaurant to enjoy dinner with a view of Lake Como. Relish in traditional dishes while listening to the gentle lapping of the water against the shore. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, soaking in the romantic ambiance of the illuminated city.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the ferry terminal. Board a scenic boat tour that will take you across the breathtaking waters of Lake Como, surrounded by majestic mountains and picturesque villas. As you glide along, keep your camera handy to capture the stunning landscapes and charming towns that dot the lakeshore.
Arrive in Bellagio, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Lake', and explore its beautiful gardens and quaint streets. Enjoy lunch at a lakeside café, sampling local wines paired with fresh seafood. Spend the afternoon visiting the historic Villa Melzi and its expansive gardens, taking in the beauty of the blooming flowers and serene lake views.
Return to Como by boat as the sun begins to set, casting a golden hue over the water. Once back in Como, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a cozy restaurant, where you can sample traditional Italian dishes. After dinner, consider visiting a local gelateria for a sweet treat to end your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a bar | $6-9 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-250 |
| 🚆Local train/taxi/transfer | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lake scenery and easy access to Milan
- Rich historic sites and villa gardens
- High-quality Italian cuisine and refined ambiance
- Excellent rail connections and walkable center
- Crowds can be heavy in peak season
- Prices tend to be higher around the lake
- Nightlife is relatively low-key compared to big cities
- Travel times from some international gateways can be longer
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Vorrei un biglietto per Como, per favore" - I would like a ticket to Como, please
Places to Visit in Como
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic-Romanesque cathedral with a detailed facade and a dramatic rose window; best photographed in soft morning light.
Lakeside promenade with elegant reflections of the cathedral, boats, and ferries creating dynamic compositions.
Terraced gardens with lake views, statues, and seasonal blooms—great for wide landscape frames.
Iconic lakeside villa perched above the water with tiered terraces and dramatic perspectives; access by boat or guided path.
Food in Como
Como Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy risotto cooked with perch from Lake Como, finished with a touch of lemon and herbs.
Must-Try!
Sun-dried sh (lsk fish) grilled or fried and served with soft polenta.
Creamy, cheesy polenta enriched with butter and garlic; a comforting staple in the region.
Buckwheat pasta layered with potatoes, greens, and cheese; a hearty Lombard classic sometimes featured in seasonal menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market around Piazza Vittoria with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties.
Casual bites and paninis along the lakefront; convenient for a quick flavor of the local fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting such as Buongiorno is appreciated; shop staff and servers respond best to courteous manners.
Dress modestly in churches and during meals; speak at a moderate volume in public spaces and keep noise low near residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Como
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included. If not, a 5-10% tip is customary in restaurants; rounding up the bill is common in casual venues.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; keep some cash for markets, small cafés, or taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with peak lake activity; expect crowds around ferries and popular villas. Stay hydrated, reserve spots, and enjoy sunset waterside strolls.
Mild days with colorful foliage along the lake; fewer crowds and great light for photography, plus harvest menus in many restaurants.
Cool to cold with possible rain; some attractions operate on limited hours, but Christmas markets add festive charm in Como and nearby towns.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens; shoulder-season crowds ease; expect periodic showers—layered clothing helps.
Como at Night
Hiking in Como
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic lakeside trail on the western shore linking Colonno to Cadenabbia, passing villas and villages with water views.
Hiking options from Como up to Brunate with rewarding lookout points over the lake; combine with a funicular return.
Cross-border hike near Mendrisio offering sweeping Alpine views; start from Capolago or Tiè and ascend to the summit.
Airports
How to reach Como by plane.
Major international gateway; about 50-60 miles from Como with rail and road connections to Milan and Como.
Closer to central Milan; good for European and domestic flights; train connections to Milan and onward to Como.
Bergamo airport nearby; accessible by bus or train to Milan and then to Como.
Switzerland’s Lugano-Agno; convenient for travelers coming from or through southern Switzerland; connections to Como by road/train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of European and international visitors exploring the lake district.
Residents who work in hospitality, services, and the arts, keeping the culture vibrant.
People living part-time in Como or working in tourism during peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple summer activity with rentals and clubs along the shore.
Local leagues and casual play in parks and stadiums around the region.
Varied trails in the foothills and nearby Alps suitable for different fitness levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Como.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Como restaurants offer vegetarian options such as risotti, pasta with vegetables, and grilled vegetables; many also feature pesto and seasonal greens. When in doubt, ask for house specials or a vegetarian pasta.