Como: Best Things to Do & Top Attractions
Situated in Lombardy, this city is renowned for its lake, scenic landscapes, and Gothic architecture. It's a popular destination for its silk production and proximity to the Alps.
- Train Station
- Como S. Giovanni
- Est. Visit Days
- 2 days
Overview
Como, a city in northern Italy, is renowned for its beautiful location on Lake Como, surrounded by mountains. The city is celebrated for its historic center, which features the impressive Como Cathedral and the medieval walls of the old town. Additionally, Como is a hub of silk production and offers opportunities for scenic boat trips on the lake. However, it can be quite touristy, especially during the peak season, which might detract from the experience. The city's public transportation system is good, making it easy to explore the region.
Traffic & Transport
The city's compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make walking an excellent option for exploring the central areas, where most of the historic and tourist attractions are located. For longer distances, buses are a convenient choice, offering routes that connect various parts of the city and nearby towns. Additionally, ferries provide a scenic way to travel across the nearby lake and visit the charming villages along its shores. To avoid traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to use public transport or bicycles, which are also available for rent. For those preferring taxi services, there are several reliable taxi companies operating in the city. Additionally, the use of taxi-booking apps like Uber provides a convenient option for securing a ride, with availability typically good throughout the area.
History
Originally a Roman colony called Novum Comum, the city was established in 59 BCE. It flourished as a center for silk production during the Middle Ages, contributing to its economic prosperity. The city was frequently involved in conflicts due to its strategic location, including being ruled by the Visconti and Sforza families during the Renaissance. It became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1859, following the unification of the country. The city's cultural heritage is reflected in its historic architecture, such as the Gothic-Renaissance cathedral and the medieval city walls.
Itinerary Sample
Here's a two-day itinerary to explore Como, Italy:
– First day: Visit the Como Cathedral, stroll along the lakeside promenade, and explore the historic center. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Como in the afternoon.
– Second day: Take the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views, then visit the Volta Temple and the Villa Olmo.
Near Excursion
This city offers several interesting day trips within a short distance. Here are some suggestions:
– Bellagio at 30 km: A lovely village known for its cobbled streets and stunning lake views.
– Lugano at 35 km: A Swiss city with beautiful parks, a lakefront promenade, and cultural attractions.
– Milan at 50 km: Italy's fashion and financial hub, home to the Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper."
– Bergamo at 90 km: A historic city with a charming old town and impressive Venetian walls.
– Stresa at 110 km: A lakeside town offering boat trips to the Borromean Islands and beautiful gardens.
Attraction
This city is known for its beautiful lake, historic architecture, and scenic views.
– Lakefront Promenade: Enjoy a relaxing walk along the scenic lakeside with fascinating views of the water and mountains.
– Cathedral: Explore this impressive Gothic-Renaissance cathedral with refined details and a rich history.
– Funicular Railway: Take a ride up to Brunate for panoramic views of the city and the lake.
– Villa Olmo: Visit this neoclassical villa with beautiful gardens and art exhibitions.
– Tempio Voltiano: Discover the museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery.
– Piazza Cavour: Relax in this central square, a hub of activity with cafes, shops, and beautiful architecture.
Activity
In Como, travelers can enjoy boat trips on Lake Como, scenic walks, and historic villa visits.
– Villa del Balbianello: Explore a gorgeous villa with terraced gardens and scenic lake views.
– Funicular ride to Brunate: Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Como and the Alps.
– Greenway del Lago di Como: Walk a scenic 10 km path along Lake Como.
– Silk Museum: Learn about Como's history as a center of silk production.
– Water sports on Lake Como: Try kayaking, windsurfing, or paddleboarding.
Cuisine
The city offers a rich culinary experience with a focus on traditional Italian and regional Lombardy cuisine. Local dishes often feature fresh lake fish and hearty ingredients.
– Risotto al Pesce Persico: Creamy risotto topped with lightly fried perch fillets.
– Polenta Uncia: Rich polenta dish cooked with butter, garlic, and cheese.
– Missoltini: Sun-dried lake fish, typically served with polenta.
– Brasato al Barolo: Beef braised in Barolo wine, often served with polenta or mashed potatoes.
– Torta Miascia: Traditional bread pudding made with stale bread, apples, and raisins.
– Gelato: Italian-style ice cream available in various flavors, often enjoyed as a dessert or snack.
Shopping
The city offers a delightful shopping experience, especially known for its silk products. Tourists can explore small boutiques and local markets for unique items. A popular gift to purchase is silk scarves, which are both luxurious and representative of the local craftsmanship. Additionally, one can find handcrafted jewelry and leather goods. The historic center is a good place to start, with shops that cater to a range of tastes and budgets. These items not only serve as beautiful gifts but also as a memento of your visit.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts the annual Como Film Festival, showcasing international and local cinema. It is also known for its historical silk industry, which is celebrated at the Educational Silk Museum. The Teatro Sociale offers a rich program of opera, concerts, and theater performances. Additionally, the city's dynamic art scene is highlighted in its numerous galleries and the annual 'Parolario' cultural festival, focusing on literature and philosophy.