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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Como.
Nestled amidst the gentle rolling hills and beautiful shoreline of Lake Como, lies a picturesque Italian town brimming with endless possibilities.
Here, time slows down, and you can indulge in a leisurely exploration of the stunning landscapes, sumptuous cuisine, and charming architecture that defines this idyllic destination.
Embark on a journey of discovery as we unveil the top things to do in Como.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Como:
1. Como Cathedral
The Como Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta) is a stunning Romanesque-Gothic cathedral in the heart of Como, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate exterior of the cathedral from the Piazza del Duomo, where the striking white marble facade stands out against the surrounding buildings.
Inside, the cathedral features beautiful stained glass windows, marble columns, and a high altar adorned with ornate carvings. Don’t miss the elaborately decorated sacristy, with frescoes that date back to the Renaissance.
Insider travel tips:
2. Villa Olmo
A stunning neoclassical villa that overlooks Lake Como, built at the end of the 18th century.
What to see or do: Explore the grand rooms and halls of the villa that are adorned with beautiful frescoes and intricate decorations. Take a stroll in the expansive park that encompasses the villa and enjoy spectacular views of the lake.
Don’t miss: Visit the Belvedere Terrace where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the city of Como. Be sure to check out the impressive collection of artwork and historical artifacts that are on display inside the villa.
Insider travel tips: Try to plan your visit during the summer when the villa often hosts various cultural events like concerts and exhibitions. There’s no public transportation to the villa, so it’s best to drive or take a taxi.
The entrance fee is affordable, and it’s worth every cent.
3. Funicular Como-Brunate
A funicular railway that connects the city of Como to the small town of Brunate in Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy the scenic views of the city of Como and the surrounding areas. Explore the charming town of Brunate and its picturesque streets, restaurants, and cafes.
Don’t miss: The panoramic view of Lake Como and the Swiss Alps from the top of Brunate.
Insider travel tips: Take the funicular during sunset for a breathtaking view. Purchase a round-trip ticket for a discounted price.
Keep in mind that the funicular can get crowded during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
4. Piazza Cavour
A public square located in the city center of Como, Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square and take in the stunning views of Como Cathedral and the surrounding architecture.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to visit the numerous cafes and restaurants that surround the square.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning to see the square at its quietest and most peaceful, and be sure to try the local delicacy, risotto alla milanese, at one of the nearby restaurants.
5. Tempio Voltiano
Tempio Voltiano is a museum dedicated to one of Italy’s greatest inventors and scientists, Alessandro Volta.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the life and work of Volta, who invented the first electric battery. The museum features an impressive collection of Volta’s original equipment, experiments, and objects.
There are also interactive exhibits, models, and multimedia displays that explain the principles of electricity and electromagnetism.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the impressive collection of Volta’s original equipment, including his first battery and electrostatic generator. Also, check out the “Telegraph Room” exhibit, which showcases the development of telegraphy and telephony.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located on the shore of Lake Como, so take some time to enjoy the views and have a stroll along the promenade.
6. Villa Carlotta
Villa Carlotta is a stunning neoclassical villa located in Tremezzo, on the western shore of Lake Como, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful 17-acre botanical garden, featuring a wide variety of colorful flowers, exotic plants, and ancient trees. Explore the elegant villa’s fascinating art collection and magnificent rooms, showcasing masterpieces by famous painters like Canova, Thorvaldsen, and Hayez.
Stroll along the lakefront terrace and capture picturesque views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: The water lilies in the pond, blooming in July and August, are a sight not to be missed. The charming little chapel, located in the garden, hosts occasional concerts and events that are worth attending.
Insider travel tips: Avoid visiting on weekends to avoid the crowds.
Get there early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy the garden’s peaceful ambiance and take better photos.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen and water, as it can get hot during the summer months.
7. Castello di Vezio
A medieval castle located on a hilltop overlooking Lake Como in northern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s ramparts, towers, and dungeons, and enjoy stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The castle also houses a small museum with exhibits on medieval armor and weapons.
Don’t miss: The castle’s falconry demonstrations, where visitors can see trained birds of prey in flight and learn about ancient falconry techniques.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the climb to the castle can be steep and strenuous. If possible, visit on a clear day for the best views.
Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
8. Basilica di Sant’Abbondio
Basilica di Sant’Abbondio is a beautiful and historic church located in Como, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture of the basilica, including the impressive bell tower and intricate frescoes. Inside, there are many beautiful works of art and religious artifacts to see.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the stunning 12th-century crypt, which contains the tombs of several saints and martyrs. Also, don’t miss the impressive main altar, which features beautiful artwork and a silver reliquary.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to dress appropriately when visiting the basilica, as it is a religious site.
9. Teatro Sociale di Como
Teatro Sociale di Como is a historic theater located in the heart of Como, Italy.
What to see or do: The theater presents various shows such as opera, ballet, concerts, and plays throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The stunning interior of the theater, which features ornate décor and frescoes on the ceiling.
Insider travel tips: – Buy tickets in advance to secure a seat for your preferred show.
10. Parco regionale Spina Verde di Como
Parco regionale Spina Verde is a large park located in the hills surrounding the city of Como in Italy.
What to see or do: The park offers a variety of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of Como and the surrounding areas.
There are also several historic landmarks within the park, including the Baradello Castle, the Eremo di San Donato, and the Santuario della Beata Vergine dei Ceppi.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the park is the panoramic viewpoint at Monte Croce, which provides stunning views of Como, the lake, and the surrounding mountains.
Visitors should also check out the beautiful gardens at Villa Argentina, which is located within the park.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water as the park has steep trails and can be challenging.
11. Chilometro della Conoscenza
Chilometro della Conoscenza is a path filled with cultural and educational landmarks in Como, Italy.
What to see or do: There are several notable sights to see along the path, including the neoclassical Villa Olmo, the Temple of Volta, and the Astronomical Observatory.
Visitors can also explore the lush gardens and parks along the way or stop at various museums like the Pinacoteca Civica and the Educational Silk Museum.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the neoclassical Villa Olmo, which dates back to the late 18th century and features beautiful gardens and fountains.
The Temple of Volta is also a must-see, as it houses the remains of the famous Italian physicist, Alessandro Volta.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes as the path stretches about 1.7 km.
Also, be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and picturesque scenery along the route.
12. Museo Didattico della Seta di Como
Museo Didattico della Seta di Como is a small museum dedicated to silk production in Como, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can see various exhibits and displays related to the history of silk production in the Como area.
The museum showcases the process of silk production, including the cultivation of silkworms, silk weaving, and the impact of silk on the local economy.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the old weaving machines in the museum that were used to weave silk fabrics.
Insider travel tips: Consider taking a guided tour of the museum for a more in-depth understanding of silk production in the Como area.
13. Faro Voltiano
A lighthouse towering over Como, offering panoramic views of the city and Lake Como.
What to see or do: Climb the stairs to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking views of Como, the lake and the surrounding mountains. Take a guided tour of the lighthouse to learn about its history and significance.
Don’t miss: The spectacular sunset views from the top of the lighthouse.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the stairs. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the crowds.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the top of the lighthouse.
14. Broletto di Como
Broletto di Como is a medieval building complex located in the heart of Como, Italy. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, it once served as the city’s seat of government.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the building, which features a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Inside, the main hall is decorated with frescoes and works of art, while the courtyards are home to ancient wells and a 16th-century sundial.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the beautiful arched portico that connects the two main buildings. It offers fantastic views of the Piazza del Duomo below and the soaring spires of the Cathedral of Como beyond.
Insider travel tips: If you want to learn more about the history of Broletto di Como and the city of Como itself, consider hiring a local guide.
They can offer expert insights and take you on a tour of other hidden gems in the area.
The building is also conveniently located within walking distance of other popular attractions, such as the Como-Brunate Funicular and the Volta Temple.
15. Funivia Argegno-Pigra
A cable car ride from Argegno to Pigra in Como, Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains during the 10-minute cable car ride. Once you reach Pigra, take a stroll around the village or go on a hike along the numerous walking trails.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic view of Lake Como from the cable car.
Insider travel tips: The cable car operates from April to October and takes visitors up to 881 meters above sea level.
Avoid the crowds by taking the first cable car of the day and bring a jacket or sweater as it can get chilly at higher altitudes.