Como & surroundings

Como and the southern lake

The city of Como sits at the south-western tip of Lake Como, where the lake meets the foothills of the Alps. It makes an easy, practical base: there is a historic centre to explore on foot, regular trains to Milan, and boats that run up the lake to the famous villages further north. Switzerland is only a few kilometres away.

Inside the old city walls you will find the marble cathedral, the Broletto and plenty of piazzas for coffee or an evening drink. Como's long tradition of silk-making lives on in its shops, and the lakeside promenade leads past the neoclassical Tempio Voltiano, dedicated to the physicist Alessandro Volta, who was born here. A funicular climbs from the waterfront to the hill village of Brunate for wide views over the lake and, on clear days, the Alps.

Villages along the shore

North of the city, the western shore is lined with old villages and grand villas. Cernobbio is known for its lakeside hotels and gardens, while Moltrasio, Laglio and Brienno are quieter, with stone houses stepping down to the water. On the opposite shore, Torno has a small harbour and a pleasant waterfront. Boats and buses connect them all, and the lakeside villas and gardens of Tremezzina and Bellagio make a good day out by boat.

For walkers, paths lead up from Brunate and the shoreline villages into the wooded hills, and Villa Olmo's lakeside park is a pleasant place for an easy stroll.

Food, travel and when to go

Lake food is simple and good: risotto with perch, polenta, local cheeses and missoltini, the lake's traditional dried fish. Milan's restaurants and shops are within easy reach for a day trip.

Milan Malpensa is the closest airport, with Linate and Bergamo also in reach. Spring brings the gardens into flower, summer is warm and lively, and autumn is calmer with softer light on the water. The area suits couples, families and anyone who wants the lake without giving up city life.

Read more about Lake Como, or browse the villas listed below to find your base in and around Como.