Italy
Things to do in Como
Como sits at the southern tip of the western branch of Lake Como, under an hour by train from Milan. Its walled centre has a Gothic-Renaissance cathedral and silk-making heritage, and the lakefront leads to Villa Olmo and the Tempio Voltiano dedicated to Alessandro Volta. From the pier, public boats and private tours reach Bellagio, Varenna and the villas of the Tremezzina.
- Private boat tour of Lake Como
- Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta
- Bellagio and Varenna by public ferry
- Brunate funicular and hike to the Volta lighthouse
Experiences in Como
Top-rated experiences in Como
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Highlights
- Private boat tour of Lake Como
- Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta
- Bellagio and Varenna by public ferry
- Brunate funicular and hike to the Volta lighthouse
- Lakefront walk to Villa Olmo
- Cooking class with risotto and lake fish
Best time to visit
April to June and September to October are best, with gardens in bloom in spring. In July and August boats and villas are crowded, and from November to March ferry timetables are reduced and some villas close.
Getting around
The centre is walkable. Trains run from Milan Cadorna to Como Nord Lago and from Milano Centrale or Porta Garibaldi to Como San Giovanni, and Navigazione Laghi ferries and hydrofoils link the lake towns from the Piazza Cavour pier.
Local tips
- Take the fast hydrofoil from Como to Bellagio and the slower ferry back to see the shore villages.
- Ride the Brunate funicular early or late in the day in summer to avoid long queues.
- Check opening days for Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta before planning, as both have seasonal schedules.
Day trips from Como
- Bellagio
- Varenna
- Tremezzo
- Lugano
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Como?
The most booked experiences in Como are Private boat tour of Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta, Bellagio and Varenna by public ferry and Brunate funicular and hike to the Volta lighthouse.
When is the best time to visit Como?
April to June and September to October are best, with gardens in bloom in spring. In July and August boats and villas are crowded, and from November to March ferry timetables are reduced and some villas close.
How do I get around Como?
The centre is walkable. Trains run from Milan Cadorna to Como Nord Lago and from Milano Centrale or Porta Garibaldi to Como San Giovanni, and Navigazione Laghi ferries and hydrofoils link the lake towns from the Piazza Cavour pier.
Do I need to book tours in Como in advance?
For headline sights and small-group tours, yes: popular slots sell out in high season. Most partners offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
How many days do I need in Como?
Two to three full days cover the main sights, plus one day for each day trip you want to add.