Como in Lombardy is a compact lakeside city with a big reputation, elegant stone architecture and a relaxed local rhythm. It sits at the southern tip of Lake Como, wrapped in hills and reflected in still water. For many visitors, the city of Como is the easiest gateway to the lake and a relaxed base for a short break in northern Italy.
Use this friendly guide to understand where Como is, why it works so well as a base and how to plan clear, simple days that mix city streets, lake views and easy boat trips.
Where is the city of Como and why stay here
The city of Como lies in northern Italy, in the region of Lombardy, close to the Swiss border. It sits at the very end of the south‑western branch of Lake Como, surrounded by steep hillsides and forests.
Trains connect Como directly with Milan and with Switzerland, with frequent services that often take under an hour from the main hubs. Boats link the city of Como with lakeside villages and small towns all along Lake Como. This combination makes Como one of the most practical places to stay on the lake.
Como versus other Lake Como towns
When people plan a holiday on Lake Como, they often compare Como with smaller places like Bellagio, Varenna or Menaggio. Each town has a different feel.
Como is the right choice if you:
Want easy access by train from Milan and from airports
Prefer a real city with local life, shops and services
Enjoy staying in a walkable centre with cobbled streets
Like having many hotel and apartment options at different budgets
Want simple boat connections to villages all over Lake Como
Smaller towns such as Bellagio or Varenna feel more like resorts. They have charming streets and big lake views, but fewer services and smaller areas to explore. In Como you get both a historic city and quick access to famous lakeside villages.
Who will enjoy Como most
The city of Como suits a wide range of travellers.
It works well for:
First‑time visitors to Lake Como
Couples looking for a romantic but relaxed lakeside stay
Families who want easy walking, boats and short trips
Travellers using trains instead of hiring a car
People combining Milan, Lake Como and Switzerland in one trip
If you like nightlife until the early hours, you may prefer Milan. If you want a very quiet hill village, you may prefer a smaller town. For most visitors, Como offers a good balance between calm streets and lively evenings.
How to get to Como
One of the biggest advantages of the city of Como is how easy it is to reach. You do not need a car to visit and many people arrive by train.
Getting to Como from Milan
Milan is the main gateway for many trips to northern Italy. From Milan you can reach Como quickly and simply.
There are two main train routes:
Milan Centrale to Como San Giovanni
Milan Cadorna to Como Lago
Trains from Milan Centrale reach Como San Giovanni in around 40 minutes on fast services and a little longer on regional trains. Services are frequent through the day.
Trains from Milan Cadorna arrive at Como Lago station near the lakefront. Journey time is about one hour, and this line is very convenient if you stay near the waterfront.
You can also drive from Milan to Como in around one hour in good traffic. However, parking and restricted traffic zones in the city centre make the train a better choice for many visitors.
Arriving from airports and Switzerland
If you fly into Milan Malpensa, you can take a train into Milan and then change for Como. In some cases there are direct or semi‑direct routes that avoid the main station, but a simple change in Milan Centrale works for most travellers.
From Milan Bergamo airport, shuttle buses run into Milan, where you can change to a train for Como.
If you travel from Switzerland, frequent trains run from Lugano and other towns towards Como San Giovanni. This makes Como a good stop on a longer route between Italy and the Swiss lakes.
Do you need a car in Como
You do not need a car to enjoy a holiday in the city of Como. The historic centre is easy to explore on foot. Boat services and buses cover most nearby villages.
A car can be useful if you want to explore more remote valleys or plan a wider Lombardy road trip. For a first visit focused on Lake Como itself, public transport is usually enough.
If you do drive, be aware of ZTL zones in the centre where only authorised vehicles can enter. Look for accommodation with parking outside the restricted areas, or use public car parks.
Where to stay in the city of Como
Choosing the right area is an important step in Como trip planning. Luckily, the city is compact and you can walk between most neighbourhoods.
Best areas to stay in Como
Most tourists choose one of three main areas, each offering a different balance of lake views, evening noise levels and access to boats and stations.
Historic centre
This is the heart of the city of Como. Here you find the cathedral, narrow streets, shops, cafés and many restaurants. It is ideal if you want to step out of your door into lively lanes.
The historic centre suits visitors who:
Want to stay very central
Like having many dining options within a short walk
Prefer a mix of apartments and small hotels
Lakefront and Viale Geno
The lakefront zone runs from Piazza Cavour along the promenade towards Viale Geno. Here you get easy access to the water, boat piers, parks and lidos.
This area is best if you:
Dream of waking up near the lake
Plan to take many boat trips
Want easy access to lidos and lakeside walks
Near the train stations
Areas around Como San Giovanni and Como Lago suit travellers who want simple arrivals and departures. You sacrifice some charm but gain total convenience for train travel.
This zone is useful if you:
Arrive late or leave early by train
Are on a short Como city break with luggage
Prefer modern hotels over historic buildings
Types of accommodation in Como
The city of Como offers a wide mix of places to stay.
You will find:
Boutique hotels in historic buildings
Mid‑range hotels close to the lakefront
Budget hotels and guesthouses further from the centre
Serviced apartments ideal for longer stays
Holiday rentals in side streets and residential pockets
If you visit in summer or over holiday periods, book well in advance. Late deals appear sometimes, but the most attractive rooms with lake views and central locations go first.
Top Rated Hotels in Como
- 🔍Como Hills
Review score & number of reviews: 9.3 / 10 – 638 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Modern hotel in a quiet area of Como, about 3.5 km from Baradello Castle. Resort-style stay with contemporary rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for couples, drivers and families who don’t mind being a short drive from the centre.
Neighborhood/landmark: Hills above Como, near Baradello Castle.
Key facilities: Seasonal outdoor pool with sun loungers, fitness centre, garden, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, breakfast, on-site parking and EV charging (paid).
Why it stands out: Great choice if you want a new, stylish hotel with pool and parking rather than a traditional lakefront palazzo. 🔍DBH – Boutique Hotel Lake Como
Review score & number of reviews: 9.2 / 10 – 601 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Chic 4-star boutique hotel in the very centre of Como with elegant, design-led rooms. Offers a refined city base close to shops, cafés and the lake, best for couples and style-conscious city-break travellers.
Neighborhood/landmark: Como City Centre, a short walk from Como Cathedral and the main squares.
Key facilities: Air-conditioned rooms, on-site restaurant and bar, free Wi-Fi, room service, 24-hour front desk, family rooms, buffet/continental/Italian breakfast.
Why it stands out: Combines a prime old-town location with polished boutique interiors and full hotel services.🔍73 Boutique Hotel
Review score & number of reviews: 9.3 / 10 – 656 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Intimate boutique hotel with just a handful of stylish rooms right in Como’s historic core. Feels cosy and personal, with warm service and quality breakfast, ideal for couples and short city stays.
Neighborhood/landmark: Como City Centre, about 100 m from Basilica of San Fedele and a short walk from the cathedral and lakefront.
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi throughout, bar, highly rated breakfast (continental and local cuisine), air-conditioned rooms with coffee machines, 24-hour front desk, laundry/dry-cleaning via partner services.
Why it stands out: Tiny central boutique with a “hidden gem” feel and one of the best-reviewed locations in Como.🔍Plinius Lifestyle Hotel Lake Como
Review score & number of reviews: 9.1 / 10 – 507 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Contemporary hotel between the lakefront and Como’s old town, with sleek rooms and an urban-boutique feel. Very convenient for travellers arriving by train and for those who want everything within walking distance.
Neighborhood/landmark: Central Como, close to Piazza Volta and a few minutes’ walk from the lake and Como San Giovanni station.
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, 24-hour front desk, room service, bar, excellent buffet/continental breakfast.
Why it stands out: A smart, modern option with superb location scores and consistently praised breakfast and staff.🔍Hotel Villa Flori
Review score & number of reviews: 9.2 / 10 – 944 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Romantic 19th-century villa right on the western shore of Lake Como, between Como and Cernobbio. Combines classic interiors with lake-view terraces, making it perfect for couples, honeymooners and special-occasion trips.
Neighborhood/landmark: Lakefront position about 1.5 km from Cernobbio and a short drive or boat ride from Como centre.
Key facilities: Private parking, free Wi-Fi, lakeside restaurant and bar, gardens and terraces, family rooms, 24-hour front desk; some rooms with balconies overlooking the lake.
Why it stands out: Delivers the classic “Lake Como villa” experience with panoramic views and elegant historic charm.
Top Rated Villas in Como
🔍Villa Platamone
Review score & number of reviews: 9.7 / 10 – around 598 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Historic 19th-century villa turned luxury boutique stay in a quiet residential area about a short walk uphill from Como’s historic centre. Suites feature antiques, elegant décor and views over the gardens, pool and surrounding hills. Best for couples and adults seeking a refined, romantic stay close to the city.
Neighborhood/landmark: Leafy area near Como Borghi station, close to the old town and city walls.
Key facilities: Seasonal outdoor pool, sauna, small gym, bar, breakfast service, free Wi-Fi, large garden, sun terrace, free private parking.
Why it stands out: A true “villa experience” with historic charm and resort-style wellness facilities near central Como.🔍Charming & Luxury Villa Como Lake
Review score & number of reviews: 9.8 / 10 – 54 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Large classic villa with six bedrooms, several living spaces and a full kitchen, located in a residential district near Villa Olmo. Interiors blend traditional style with modern comforts, while outside you get balconies, lake views, a garden and a sun deck. Best for extended families or groups wanting a spacious private villa close to Como attractions.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Villa Olmo and a short drive or bus ride from Como San Giovanni station and the lake promenade.
Key facilities: Private parking, hot tub, garden with BBQ and outdoor fireplace, full kitchen, shared kitchen areas, Wi-Fi, family rooms, airport shuttle and car-rental options.
Why it stands out: One of Como’s best-reviewed large villas, ideal for groups seeking space and lake views.🔍Suite11 Como apartment
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 / 10 – 113 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Stylish apartment in a historic building in Como’s old town, offering two large bedrooms, a living-kitchen area and a balcony. Guests praise the décor, cleanliness and easy access to the lake, restaurants and major sights. Best for families or small groups who want comfort and central convenience.
Neighborhood/landmark: In the medieval core near Como Cathedral and main shopping streets.
Key facilities: Entire apartment, fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, balcony, excellent cleanliness ratings, Wi-Fi.
Why it stands out: A design-focused apartment with generous space right in the heart of Como.🔍Lake View 9
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 / 10 – 57 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): One-bedroom holiday home on Viale Geno with striking panoramic lake views. Offers about 100 m² of space, including two living rooms, a fully equipped kitchen and two bathrooms, perfect for an adult couple seeking privacy and comfort. Best for couples wanting a romantic lake-view stay within easy walking distance of central Como.
Neighborhood/landmark: Viale Geno lakeside area, close to the funicular, Como Lago station, and waterfront attractions.
Key facilities: Terrace with lake and city views, air conditioning, full kitchen, washing machine and dryer, Wi-Fi, private parking, pet-friendly.
Why it stands out: Provides intimate villa-style living with exceptional lake views close to Como’s centre.🔍Atelier 55 Casa arte e natura
Review score & number of reviews: 9.2 / 10 – 21 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Cosy one-bedroom holiday home in the green hills above Como, with an artistic, tranquil atmosphere and a small river running beside the property. Includes a living room, full kitchen and terrace, with thoughtful touches and excellent host reviews. Best for couples—often travelling by car—who want a peaceful nature retreat near the city.
Neighborhood/landmark: Hillside area about 1.6 km from Como Borghi station and around 2.5 km from old-town landmarks.
Key facilities: Garden, sun terrace, river and mountain views, private entrance, full kitchen, free parking, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly.
Why it stands out: A serene, characterful hideaway offering nature and privacy while staying close to Como.
Top Rated B&B in Como
🔍SantAgata bed&breakfast
Review score & number of reviews: 9.7 / 10 – 773 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Intimate, highly rated B&B in a residential area just uphill from Como’s historic centre. Rooms are modern, very clean and open onto a well-kept garden, with a friendly host who often helps with restaurant and boat reservations. Best for couples and city-break travellers who value personal service and a relaxed setting.
Neighborhood/landmark: Around 400 m from Como Borghi train station and about 1.4 km from Como Cathedral and the lakefront.
Key facilities: Garden, bar, terrace, free Wi-Fi throughout, lift, private on-site parking, rooms adapted for disabled guests, daily breakfast.
Why it stands out: One of the best-reviewed B&Bs in Como, combining homely comfort, great hosts and easy access to both the station and old town.🔍Al Molo di Sant’Agostino
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 / 10 – 672 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Stylish adults-only B&B in the Sant’Agostino quarter, just behind the lakefront and marina area. Rooms blend vintage touches with modern bathrooms and are praised for comfort and cleanliness, making this a great choice for couples and friends on a city or lake break.
Neighborhood/landmark: Less than 1 km from Basilica of San Fedele, around 6 minutes’ walk from Como Cathedral and close to the lake and Como–Brunate funicular.
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi throughout, lift, luggage storage, air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TV, mini-fridge or minibar, coffee machine and kettle, private bathrooms with hairdryer, bidet and toiletries.
Why it stands out: A central yet quiet B&B with characterful rooms and easy walking access to the lake, cathedral and funicular.🔍Aurum – Como Luxury Suites
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 / 10 – around 370 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Design-driven luxury guest house in an elegant building on Piazza del Duomo, directly facing Como Cathedral. Suites are spacious, soundproofed and artfully decorated, many with balconies and city or mountain views, appealing to couples and style-conscious travellers.
Neighborhood/landmark: Prime position in Como city centre on Piazza del Duomo, about 300 m from Basilica of San Fedele and roughly 700 m from Como Lago train station.
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, soundproof rooms, some kitchenettes and balconies, steam room, lift, airport and area shuttle (paid), concierge service, luggage storage, family rooms and facilities for disabled guests.
Why it stands out: Delivers a “wow” factor stay right on the cathedral square, with boutique-hotel comfort in a B&B-style property.🔍In Centro Luxury Rooms
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 / 10 – 245 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Contemporary guest house with sleek, minimalist rooms in the very heart of Como. Guests like the spotless interiors, comfortable beds and easy walking access to all main sights, making it ideal for couples, solo travellers and small families.
Neighborhood/landmark: Around 200 m from Como Cathedral, close to Broletto and Piazza Cavour in the pedestrianised old town.
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi, lift, air-conditioned rooms with desk, safe, flat-screen TV and private bathroom with bidet, some units with balcony or small dining area, shared lounge and terrace, family rooms available.
Why it stands out: Offers hotel-level comfort and design in a compact B&B format just steps from the cathedral and lakefront.🔍Gaby Lake Suites
Review score & number of reviews: 9.2 / 10 – 475 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Small guest house with a handful of individually styled suites in the historic Sant’Agostino district by the lake. Rooms are recently renovated with private bathrooms, air conditioning and balconies, many enjoying lake or mountain views, making this a strong choice for couples on a short break.
Neighborhood/landmark: In the heart of Sant’Agostino, only a few metres from Como Nord Lago train and bus stations, about 5 minutes’ walk to Piazza Cavour, boat piers and the Como–Brunate funicular.
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi throughout, express check-in/out, paid shuttle service, air-conditioned suites with balcony or terrace and private bathroom, cots on request.
Why it stands out: Combines boutique-style suites and lake views with a very convenient location for trains, boats and the lakeside promenade.
Top Rated Apartments in Como
🔍La Vecia Curt
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 – 114 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Historic yet fully renovated apartments in a 13th–14th-century building in Como’s old town. Interiors are modern and stylish, with spacious living rooms and equipped kitchenettes, ideal for families or small groups. A great choice for travellers who want character, comfort and walking access to all major sights.
Neighborhood/landmark: Via Vitani, close to Piazza Volta, Piazza Cavour and the lakefront promenade.
Key facilities: Kitchen/kitchenette, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, balcony options, on-site Italian restaurant, non-smoking rooms, safety deposit box.
Why it stands out: Combines medieval charm with modern boutique-style apartments in a prime central location.🔍Roccolo Valley View
Review score & number of reviews: 9.1 – 128 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Spacious two-bedroom apartment on the hills above Como with terrace and balcony overlooking the surrounding valley. Interiors are bright and homely, offering a full kitchenette and generous living area. Best for families or friends with a car who want quiet surroundings and panoramic nature views.
Neighborhood/landmark: Via al Roccolo, residential hillside area about 10–15 minutes by car from Como centre.
Key facilities: Full kitchen/kitchenette, free parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace and balcony, washing machine, city and mountain views, pet-friendly.
Why it stands out: A peaceful, scenic retreat with large indoor and outdoor spaces.🔍Casa Anzi
Review score & number of reviews: 9.3 – 188 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Modern apartments with private entrances and family-friendly layouts just a few minutes’ walk from Como’s historic core. Units include fully equipped kitchens, air conditioning and comfortable seating areas, ideal for longer stays. Suited to couples and families wanting a home-like base close to Como Cathedral and the lake.
Neighborhood/landmark: Via Martino Anzi, around 400 m from Como city centre.
Key facilities: Full kitchen, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, private bathroom with bidet, terrace in some units, family rooms.
Why it stands out: Offers contemporary, self-catering comfort in a very central but quiet location.🔍Palazzo La Cortesella – Modern Design & Central Location
Review score & number of reviews: 9.1 – 529 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Design-led apartments in a renovated historic palazzo in central Como, a short walk from the lakefront and Volta Temple. Interiors are sleek and soundproofed with high-quality finishes, appealing to style-conscious city travellers. Lift access and private parking add convenience for those arriving with luggage or by car.
Neighborhood/landmark: Via Piero Gobetti, close to the lake and within easy reach of Como San Giovanni station.
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi, private parking, air conditioning, soundproof rooms, lift, on-site mini-market, airport shuttle service.
Why it stands out: Blends boutique design with hotel-like amenities in a prime centre location.🔍Marcello’s Como Lake
Review score & number of reviews: 9.3 – 425 reviews
Short description (2–3 sentences): Renovated suites and apartments in the heart of Como, offering boutique styling and excellent cleanliness ratings. Guests appreciate the comfortable beds and the easy access to the station, cathedral and lakefront. Ideal for couples or solo travellers wanting a refined base with everything within walking distance.
Neighborhood/landmark: Central Como, around 550 m from Piazza Cavour and close to Como San Giovanni station.
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned units, garden-view options, modern private bathrooms, safe deposit box.
Why it stands out: A stylish and well-located apartment house perfect for exploring Como on foot and by boat.
Best things to do in the city of Como
From churches and museums to lakefront walks, viewpoints, swimming spots and boat trips, there is plenty to fill your days. Como may be smaller than a big capital city, but it offers a dense list of sights and gentle experiences. You can fill several days without repeating the same walk.
Explore the historic centre and Como Cathedral
Start your visit in the old town. This compact area sits behind old city walls and spreads out from Piazza Duomo.
The highlight is the Como Cathedral, known as Duomo di Como. This impressive church mixes Gothic and Renaissance elements. The façade is richly decorated with statues and carvings.
Step inside to admire the high ceiling, coloured glass and side chapels. Even if you are not deeply religious, the building is worth your time.
Around the cathedral you will find the medieval Broletto, once used as a town hall. Narrow lanes lead to small squares such as Piazza San Fedele, with arcades and shops that sell local products.
As you wander, look up at stone details and small balconies. The charm of the city of Como lies as much in these quiet corners as in its main monuments.
Walk the lakefront promenade
From the historic centre it is a very short walk to the waterfront. The lakefront promenade is one of the most pleasant areas in Como.
Start at Piazza Cavour, facing the harbour with its boats. From here you can stroll along paths lined with trees and lawns.
On the way you pass the neoclassical Volta Temple, a museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the local scientist who helped develop the electric battery. Nearby stands Life Electric, a modern sculpture that reflects the water and sky.
The lakefront is lively during the day and especially in the early evening. Locals and visitors sit on benches, lick gelato and watch the changing light over the hills.
Visit Villa Olmo and its park
Continue along the shore and you reach Villa Olmo, one of Como’s grandest villas. The building has a pale façade, a formal garden and a lakeside park open to the public.
Inside, Villa Olmo often hosts exhibitions and cultural events. Even if you do not visit the interior, the gardens are worth the walk.
The park is a good place for a relaxed break on the grass. Children can run freely and adults can enjoy wide views across Lake Como.
Nearby you will find a lido area with pools and sunbeds in summer. This is one of the easiest options for swimming and sunbathing close to the city centre.
Ride the Como–Brunate funicular
For a different perspective on the city of Como, take the funicular up to Brunate. The station is near the lakefront and journeys are short.
As the carriage climbs, views open up over the rooftops, the harbour and the lower hills. At the top, Brunate welcomes you with cafés, small lanes and panoramic terraces.
From Brunate you can follow marked paths to viewpoints and to the Volta Lighthouse, which offers sweeping views across the lake and towards the Alps on clear days.
If you enjoy walking, consider taking the funicular up and walking part of the way down. Trails vary in difficulty, so choose a route that matches your fitness.
Enjoy swimming, lidos and lakeside relaxation
Swimming directly from the centre of Como is not always practical, but several lidos and lakeside spots make it easy to get in the water.
Lido Villa Geno and the lido near Villa Olmo offer pools, lake access, sunbeds and bars in summer months. They are popular with both locals and tourists on hot days.
Further along the shore, you can find additional swimming areas and small beaches. Always follow local advice and signs about water quality and safe zones.
If you prefer to stay dry, you can still enjoy lakeside relaxation. Order a drink at a waterfront café, sit on a terrace and simply watch boats come and go.
Boat trips and day trips from Como
One of the biggest pleasures of staying in the city of Como is having boat services right at your doorstep.
Classic ferry trips from Como
Public ferries and hydrofoils leave from piers near Piazza Cavour. Routes connect Como with many villages and towns along the lake.
Popular stops include:
Cernobbio, just a short hop away
Torno, with a peaceful atmosphere and stone lanes
Argegno, a good starting point for visits up into the valley
Bellagio, the famous village at the junction of the lake’s three branches
Fast services get you to Bellagio in around an hour from Como, depending on the route. Slower ferries take longer but feel more relaxed and scenic.
Check timetables ahead of time, especially in shoulder seasons. In summer you get more departures and longer operating hours.
Day trips to Bellagio, Varenna and other towns
From Como you can plan easy day trips to other well‑known Lake Como towns.
A classic outing is a full day in Bellagio. You can stroll through narrow streets, visit gardens and enjoy big lake views from terraces.
Another popular idea is to cross the central lake triangle. After reaching Bellagio you can take short ferry rides to Varenna and Menaggio. Each has its own character, and you can sample all three in one long but rewarding day.
Closer to Como, stylish Cernobbio makes a good half‑day trip, with elegant villas and a pleasant lakeside promenade.
Cross‑border ideas from Como
Thanks to its location near the border, the city of Como also works as a base for cross‑border excursions.
You can take a train or drive to Lugano in Switzerland for a day by another lake. You can also combine Como with visits to the Swiss Alps or to smaller lakes on both sides of the frontier.
Remember that Switzerland uses a different currency and that some mobile phone plans apply roaming charges. Check details before you travel.
Como for different types of travellers
Not every visitor wants the same holiday. The city of Como can adapt to many styles of trip.
Como for couples
Couples often choose Como for its mix of romance and ease.
You can:
Wander hand in hand through the old town
Book a table at a restaurant with outdoor seating
Take an evening boat trip and watch the lights come on along the shore
Share a bottle of wine on a terrace with lake views
If you like gentle activity, add a walk in the hills or a visit to the lighthouse. If you prefer to relax, simply slow down and enjoy long meals and soft light on the water.
Como for families
Families find Como practical and enjoyable.
Reasons include:
Flat, walkable streets in the centre
Boat trips that feel like mini adventures for children
Parks and open lawns along the lakefront
Lidos with pools and safe swimming areas
Many apartments offer kitchen facilities, which make it easier to handle meals with younger children. Supermarkets and bakeries are close at hand.
When planning a family stay, look for accommodation near the lakefront or in the historic centre so you can reach most activities on foot.
Como for city break fans and slow travellers
If you love city breaks, Como gives you a different flavour from Milan, Rome or Florence. Life moves at a calmer pace, and the water is always close.
You can spend days walking different routes, reading on benches and trying new cafés.
Slow travellers can use Como as a base for a week or more. You can mix relaxed days in the city with boat trips and train outings to nearby towns and Milan.
When to visit Como and how long to stay
Choosing the right time of year helps you enjoy the city of Como at its best.
Best time to visit Como
Spring and autumn are ideal for many tourists. In April, May, September and October, temperatures are mild. Crowds are lighter than in the peak of summer.
Summer brings long days and warm water. July and August are busy months, with higher prices and more visitors. This can be lively and fun if you enjoy atmosphere.
Winter is quieter. Some services reduce hours, but you gain calm streets and a more local feel. Around December the city often has festive lights and events, which add charm even on cooler days.
How many days do you need in Como
For a first visit, plan at least two nights in the city of Como. This gives you one full day to see the centre, the lakefront and the funicular, plus another day for a boat trip.
With three to four nights you can:
Explore the old town in more depth
Add several boat excursions
Visit nearby towns or spend a day in Milan
Enjoy a mix of activity and lazy afternoons
If you use Como as a base for wider Lake Como and cross‑border travel, a full week works very well.
Practical tips for visiting the city of Como
A few simple tips can help your trip run smoothly.
Getting around Como
You can explore most of the city centre and lakefront on foot. Paths are mostly flat and distances are short.
Ferries connect Como with other lakeside towns. Hydrofoils are faster but may cost more than regular boats. Decide based on your budget and schedule.
Local buses cover some hillside neighbourhoods and nearby villages. Check timetables for the latest routes and seasonal changes.
Money, safety and language
Como uses the euro. Cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger shops. Small cafés and kiosks may prefer cash.
The city is generally safe for tourists. As always, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, at stations and on busy boats.
Italian is the main language. In the tourism industry, many people speak at least basic English. Learning a few simple Italian phrases can still help you connect with locals.
Budget planning for Como
Prices in Como are often a little lower than in the most famous smaller resorts around the lake but higher than in some inland towns.
You can save money by:
Staying slightly away from the lakefront
Choosing apartments with kitchens
Eating lunch menus instead of always dining à la carte
Using regular ferries instead of fast hydrofoils when time allows
For a more luxurious stay, look for lakefront hotels with terraces and spa facilities.
FAQs
Is Como worth visiting?
Yes. The city of Como is worth visiting for its mix of historic streets, lakeside promenades and easy boat links. It works well for both short breaks and longer stays.
Is Como a good base on Lake Como?
Como is an excellent base if you travel by train or want strong transport links. You get a real city atmosphere as well as quick access to smaller lakeside towns by boat.
Is Como good for families?
Yes. Families appreciate the flat centre, safe promenades, parks and lidos. Boat trips and the funicular are popular with children.
Is Como good for couples?
The city suits couples who enjoy gentle romance rather than intense nightlife. Think lake views, evening walks and good food.
Do you need a car in Como?
No. Most visitors manage very well without a car. Trains, boats and local buses cover the main routes.
Can you visit Como as a day trip from Milan?
Yes. Frequent trains make Como one of the simplest day trips from Milan. However, staying overnight lets you enjoy quieter mornings and evenings by the lake.
Can you swim in Como?
You can swim at lidos and designated lakeside areas near the city. In summer they offer pools, sunbeds and safe access to the water.
What is Como famous for?
Como is known for its lakeside setting, cathedral, historic silk industry and role as a gateway to Lake Como.
Plan your city of Como break
The city of Como gives you a soft introduction to Lake Como. You can combine historic streets, gentle hill views and easy boat rides without complex logistics.
Start by choosing how many nights you want to stay: two or three nights for a first visit, longer if you want more boat trips and day excursions. Book a hotel or apartment in the historic centre or along the lakefront. Then plan a simple mix of cathedral visits, lakefront walks, one or two boat excursions and time to sit and take in the view.
With clear plans and space for slow moments, your Como holiday can balance sightseeing with relaxation. Use the city as your base, explore the lake at your own pace and enjoy this corner of Lombardy where water, hills and stone lanes meet.
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