Como
Latest page update: 14 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Located at the southern tip of the eponymous Lake, Como is a charming city known for its lakeside views and rich history.
Key attractions include the Como Cathedral, showcasing Gothic architecture, and the scenic funicular railway to Brunate, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The picturesque Piazza Cavour is ideal for leisurely strolls. Como is easily accessible by train from Milan, with frequent services taking about 40 minutes, making it a convenient destination for day trips. |
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Como: the city at the southern tip of the Lake
Como, the capital of the province of the same name, is a picturesque city located at the southern tip of Lake Como in northern Italy. With roots dating back to Roman times, Como boasts a rich history evident in its charming architecture, including the stunning Como Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. The city's historical center features vibrant piazzas, shops, and cafes, making it a delightful place to explore.
Tourist attractions include the scenic funicular railway to Brunate, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The beautiful waterfront promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls. Como also hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its artistic heritage.
Getting to Como is convenient, with frequent trains from Milan taking about 40 minutes. Additionally, the city is accessible by road, with parking options available. Nearby attractions include the charming towns of Bellagio and Varenna, making Como an ideal base for exploring the enchanting Lake Como region.
Tourist attractions include the scenic funicular railway to Brunate, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The beautiful waterfront promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls. Como also hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its artistic heritage.
Getting to Como is convenient, with frequent trains from Milan taking about 40 minutes. Additionally, the city is accessible by road, with parking options available. Nearby attractions include the charming towns of Bellagio and Varenna, making Como an ideal base for exploring the enchanting Lake Como region.
Comune di Como
What are the top-rated hotels in Como?
- Four Seasons Hotel Firenze: Set within a restored Renaissance palazzo and convent, this luxury hotel boasts opulent rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a private 11-acre botanical garden, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.
- The St. Regis Florence: Overlooking the Arno River, this historic hotel features lavish interiors designed by Brunelleschi, personalized butler service, and the Michelin-starred Winter Garden by Caino restaurant, blending Renaissance elegance with modern luxury.
- Hotel Savoy, a Rocco Forte Hotel: Located near the Duomo, this contemporary hotel offers stylish rooms with Florentine-inspired decor, a fitness center, and the Irene Bistro serving Tuscan cuisine, providing a chic base for exploring the city.
- Belmond Villa San Michele: Situated in Fiesole's hills, this former monastery features a facade attributed to Michelangelo, elegant rooms with panoramic views, and a renowned cooking school, combining historical charm with modern comforts.
- Portrait Firenze: Part of the Lungarno Collection, this boutique hotel offers suites with bespoke furnishings, stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio, and personalized services, creating a luxurious and intimate atmosphere.
- Hotel Lungarno: Owned by the Ferragamo family, this riverside hotel showcases an extensive art collection, elegant rooms with a nautical theme, and the Michelin-starred Borgo San Jacopo restaurant, blending art and hospitality seamlessly.
- Helvetia & Bristol Firenze: A historic hotel with literary connections, it offers rooms adorned with antique furnishings, a spa inspired by Roman baths, and the Cibrèo Caffè for gourmet dining, exuding timeless elegance.
- The Place Firenze: Housed in a historic townhouse near Santa Maria Novella, this boutique hotel features individually designed rooms, a vibrant terrace bar, and exceptional service, offering a personalized and stylish stay.
- Il Tornabuoni Hotel: Located on Via Tornabuoni, this luxury hotel boasts elegantly appointed rooms, a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views, and proximity to high-end shopping, combining modern luxury with historical charm.
- Hotel Brunelleschi: Set within a restored Byzantine tower and medieval church, this centrally located hotel offers contemporary rooms, a museum with archaeological artifacts, and fine dining at the Santa Elisabetta restaurant, merging history with modernity.
What's the best way to reach Como?
Reaching the city of Como on Lake Como is convenient thanks to its excellent transport links. The closest airports are Milan Malpensa (52 km), Milan Linate (67 km), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (80 km), offering domestic and international connections. From these airports, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use shuttle services to reach Como.
By road, Como is accessible via the A9 motorway, also known as the Autostrada dei Laghi, connecting it to Milan and the Swiss border. Parking is available in designated areas around the city.
For rail travel, direct trains run frequently from Milan’s Centrale and Cadorna stations to Como San Giovanni and Como Lago stations, making it a convenient and scenic option.
Local ferries and hydrofoils operate on Lake Como, connecting the city to picturesque towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo. Buses operated by ASF Autolinee provide reliable service to nearby destinations, including Cernobbio and Menaggio.
By road, Como is accessible via the A9 motorway, also known as the Autostrada dei Laghi, connecting it to Milan and the Swiss border. Parking is available in designated areas around the city.
For rail travel, direct trains run frequently from Milan’s Centrale and Cadorna stations to Como San Giovanni and Como Lago stations, making it a convenient and scenic option.
Local ferries and hydrofoils operate on Lake Como, connecting the city to picturesque towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo. Buses operated by ASF Autolinee provide reliable service to nearby destinations, including Cernobbio and Menaggio.
Como Gallery
Which are the best places to eat in Como?
- Ristorante Sottovoce: Located within the 5-star Vista Lago di Como Hotel, this elegant rooftop restaurant offers refined and authentic high-end cuisine, with à la carte and tasting menus of 3, 6, or 10 dishes paired with sensational wines, all complemented by beautiful views of Lake Como.
- Il Diavolo L’Acqua Santa: Situated at Via S. Giacomo, 36/A, this restaurant provides a variety of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, including fish, risotto, and tagliatelle, all enjoyed in an inviting decor with a magnificent fireplace, offering a great dining experience at reasonable prices.
- Locanda dei Giurati: Found at Via Giorgio Giulini, 16, this Italian restaurant is highly rated with an average price of €35, offering a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring traditional Italian cuisine, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors.
- Il Sale Osteria Siciliana: Located at Via Provinciale per Lecco, 32, this Sicilian seafood restaurant boasts an average price of €36, providing a menu rich in authentic Sicilian flavors, including fresh seafood dishes, in a warm and welcoming environment.
- Ristorante Antica Darsena: Situated at Lungo Lario Trieste, 16, within the Palace Hotel, this Mediterranean restaurant offers an average price of €50, featuring a refined menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, and providing diners with a sophisticated lakeside dining experience.