Things To Do
in Como
Como is a charming city located in northern Italy, near the Swiss border. It is known for its picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Como, surrounded by beautiful mountains. The city is famous for its elegant architecture, historic churches, and lively piazzas.
Visitors can enjoy boat trips on the lake, explore the narrow streets of the old town, and taste delicious Italian cuisine in local restaurants.
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll around Lake Como, enjoying the breathtaking views. Visit the historic Como Cathedral and take in its stunning architecture.
Enjoy lunch at a lakeside cafe, indulging in traditional Italian cuisine. Afterward, take a funicular ride to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Relax with a leisurely dinner in Brunate, watching the sunset over the lake. Take a nighttime walk back down to Como, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Head to the Greenway del Lago di Como, a scenic walking path that hugs the shoreline. The fresh air and views will energize you for the day ahead.
Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the small parks along the path. Explore the charming villages along the way and shop for local crafts.
Return to Como and dine at a restaurant that specializes in local fish. Enjoy a glass of wine while watching the stars light up the sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking scenery of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with historic villas and charming towns.
- Mild climate, making it pleasant to visit year-round.
- Excellent cuisine with fresh local ingredients.
- Variety of outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and cycling.
- Close proximity to Milan and other Northern Italian cities.
- Tourist crowds, especially during peak season can lead to overcrowding.
- Higher cost of living and accommodations compared to other Italian regions.
- Limited public transportation options around the lake.
- Some areas may be challenging to access due to steep terrain.
- Seasonal weather variations can affect travel plans and activities.
Best Activities in Como
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Como offers beautiful hiking trails with stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
Explore the picturesque Lake Como by taking a boat tour and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
Enjoy a leisurely or challenging bike ride around the scenic Lake Como, with options for different skill levels.
Explore the historic and scenic Villa del Balbianello, which offers beautiful terraced gardens and stunning views of the lake.
Tours
Uncover the best of Como with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Como
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque town located at the tip of the peninsula, offering stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
A historic villa with beautiful terraced gardens and breathtaking views of the lake, a popular location for photo opportunities.
A charming village located on a hill above Como, providing panoramic views of the lake and the city.
Food in Como
Como Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy risotto dish made with locally caught perch from Lake Como, combined with flavorful herbs and white wine. It's a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Recommended place to try: Ristorante Sociale
Must-Try!
This dish comprises polenta served with dried and salted shad, a traditional staple of the Lake Como region. It offers a delightful blend of textures and savory flavors. Recommended place to try: Osteria La Tana dei Pescatori
Lavarello, a local whitefish, is marinated in vinegar, onions, and aromatic herbs, creating a tangy and refreshing flavor profile. It's a beloved traditional dish. Recommended place to try: Trattoria Cavour
Unique Experiences
Get to know Como better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The lively Mercato di Como offers a vibrant showcase of local produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and fresh seafood. Visitors can savor street food like panzerotti (fried turnover pastries) and porchetta sandwiches while exploring the bustling market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting religious sites or upscale restaurants, it's important to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing. In general, Italians often dress stylishly, so it's a good idea to dress neatly and avoid overly casual attire.
When meeting someone in Como, it's customary to greet them with a handshake and maintain direct eye contact. It's also common to greet friends and acquaintances with a kiss on the cheek, following the local custom of 'air kisses' or actual cheek-to-cheek contact, depending on the level of familiarity.
When dining in Como, it's polite to wait until everyone is served before starting to eat. It's also customary to keep your hands above the table during the meal and to use utensils rather than eating with your hands, except when eating certain finger foods. Finally, it's important to engage in conversation and savor the meal, as rushing through a meal is considered impolite.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Como with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Como
Ensure a smooth experience
In Como, Italy, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is customary to round up the bill or leave a 10% tip at restaurants. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also appreciated.
In Como, Italy, cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger stores and restaurants. It's always best to carry some cash, especially in more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Como.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Como is during the spring (April to June) when the weather is mild and the gardens are in full bloom. Expect moderate crowds and higher hotel prices.
Summers (July to August) are popular but can be crowded and hot. Expect vibrant outdoor activities and a lively social scene.
Autumn (September to November) is another lovely season with cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and the beautiful fall foliage in the surrounding areas.
Winter (December to February) is the quietest season with lower hotel rates. Expect a peaceful atmosphere but with limited outdoor activities due to the cold weather.
Como at Night
Hiking in Como
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot offering stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains, accessible by a funicular from the city.
A historical trail that runs along the eastern shore of Lake Como, featuring scenic views and charming villages.
A challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of Lake Como and the Alps, featuring beautiful trails through forests and meadows.
A picturesque hike that leads to the historic Piona Monastery, with views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
A serene trail that winds through the countryside, offering peaceful landscapes and the opportunity to connect with nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Como through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Como by plane.
The largest airport serving Milan and surrounding areas, located approximately 50 kilometers from Como.
An airport located about 60 kilometers from Como, primarily serving domestic and short international flights.
Located approximately 45 kilometers from Como, this airport serves low-cost carriers and various international destinations.
Situated about 30 kilometers from Como, this Swiss airport serves several regional and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group consisting of native Italians who reside in Como.
A significant number of residents originating from countries such as Romania, Poland, and Russia.
Residents from Maghreb countries like Morocco and Algeria.
Includes individuals predominantly from countries like China and India.
A growing demographic of elderly residents, reflecting the aging population in the region.
Includes university students and young professionals, particularly those studying or working in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The Soul of Como
Discover the essence of Como through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is very popular in Como, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Basketball enjoys a strong following, with local clubs and leagues fostering community participation.
Cycling is popular in Como due to its scenic landscapes and numerous biking trails.
With its beautiful lake, Como offers great opportunities for rowing and is home to several rowing clubs.
Running events and marathons are common, attracting both locals and visitors to the picturesque routes.
Tennis has a dedicated following in Como, with several clubs and courts available for enthusiasts.
Given the presence of Lake Como, swimming is both a recreational and competitive sport in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Como.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Como's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Notable eateries known for their vegetarian and vegan options include Le Cantine del Teatro and Riva Vellucci.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find a range of gluten-free offerings at selected establishments such as Torno's Ristorante Montepiatto and Como's Ristorante Imperialino, which are known for their attention to dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Como with these cultural adventures.
