Overview
Como is a small city of roughly 85,000 people at the southern tip of Lake Como (Lago di Como) in Lombardy, about 40 km north of Milan. Its position between the lake's two lower arms and the first ridges of the Alps gives it a landscape that shifts quickly from waterfront promenades to forested hills. The historic centre is largely intact and compact, making most key sights walkable.
The city has been prosperous since Roman times and later became a significant centre of silk production, a legacy still visible in specialist shops and the local silk museum. Nineteenth-century wealth left behind an unusually high density of neoclassical and Art Nouveau buildings, lakeside villa gardens, and civic architecture that rewards unhurried exploration.
While Lake Como as a whole draws international visitors, the city of Como itself is quieter than the mid-lake villages like Bellagio. This makes it a practical base: good transport links, a range of accommodation, and everyday Italian urban life running alongside the tourism economy.
Before You Go
Visas
Italy is a Schengen Area member. For specific entry requirements based on your nationality, check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before you travel.
Health
No specific vaccinations are required for travel to Como. EU/EEA citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). All other visitors should arrange comprehensive travel health insurance before departure.
What to pack
- Comfortable walking shoes with grip — the hillside paths and cobbled streets can be uneven
- Layers: lakeside mornings and evenings can be cool even in summer
- A compact rain jacket; the lake creates its own microclimate and brief showers are common
- Sunscreen and sunglasses if you plan time on the water
Money
ATMs (called bancomat) are widely available in the city centre. Card payments are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, though smaller cafés and markets may still be cash-preferred. Verify current exchange rates before you travel.
Getting There
By Air
The closest major international airport is Milan Malpensa (MXP), roughly 50–60 km from Como. Milan Linate (LIN) and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) are also options, though connections to Como require a change in Milan. Verify current transport connections and schedules on the respective airport websites.
By Train
Como has two main train stations. Como San Giovanni is served by Trenitalia regional and intercity services connecting to Milan Centrale and beyond. Como Lago (also called Como Nord Lago) is the terminus of the Ferrovie Nord commuter line linking to Milan's Cadorna station — a reliable and frequent option for day-trippers from Milan. Journey times from Milan vary; verify current timetables on Trenitalia or Trenord websites.
By Car
Como is accessible via the A9 motorway from Milan. Parking in the historic centre is limited; lake-area traffic in summer can be heavy. Visitors staying in the city often find it easier to park on the outskirts and walk or use local transport.
By Bus
Flixbus and other coach services connect Como to Milan, other Italian cities, and cross-border Swiss destinations including Lugano and Zurich. Verify routes and schedules on carrier websites.
Getting Around
Within the City
Como's historic centre is compact and best explored on foot. The lakefront promenade, the cathedral, the silk museum, and the main squares are all within comfortable walking distance of each other.
Ferries and Hydrofoils
Navigazione Laghi operates ferry, hydrofoil, and car-ferry services across Lake Como, departing from the Piazza Cavour jetty in the city centre. This is the primary way to reach mid-lake and upper-lake towns. Schedules are seasonal and change significantly between summer and winter — always check the Navigazione Laghi official website for current timetables before planning day trips.
Funicular
A historic funicular connects the city centre to the hillside neighbourhood of Brunate, offering aerial views over the lake. Operating hours and prices should be verified locally or on the official operator's site, as they vary by season.
Buses and Taxis
ASF Autolinee operates local bus services covering Como and surrounding communities. Taxis are available at the main stations and can be arranged through hotels. Ride-hailing apps have limited availability; verify locally.
Things to See & Do
Como Cathedral (Duomo)
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is the dominant landmark of the old town. Construction spanned from the late 14th to the 18th century, producing a façade that blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. Entry is generally free for worshippers; tourist visits may be subject to a fee — verify on-site.
Museo della Seta (Silk Museum)
Como's silk industry dates to the Renaissance and continues today. This small, well-regarded museum documents the full history of silk production, from raw material to finished fabric, using historic machinery and archival materials. Opening hours and admission fees should be confirmed on the museum's official website before visiting.
Brunate
The funicular ride to the village of Brunate takes only a few minutes but delivers a dramatic shift in perspective. The village itself is quiet, with Art Nouveau villas, walking trails into the hills, and views down the lake. A longer trail leads to the lighthouse of Volta (Faro Voltiano), a monument to Alessandro Volta.
Lakefront Promenade and Gardens
The waterfront stretching from the Piazza Cavour toward the Villa Olmo gardens is the social and scenic spine of the city. The neoclassical Villa Olmo, though often used for temporary exhibitions, has grounds open to the public at times — verify access locally.
Volta Temple (Tempio Voltiano)
A small neoclassical museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the physicist born in Como who gave his name to the volt. The collection includes scientific instruments and documents. Admission fees and hours should be confirmed on-site or via the city's tourism office.
Day Trips on the Lake
Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzina are the most-visited mid-lake destinations reachable by ferry. Each has its own character: Bellagio is the most famous and busiest; Varenna is quieter with steep lanes and notable villa gardens; Tremezzina (formerly Tremezzo) is home to the celebrated Villa Carlotta gardens. Factor ferry travel times into planning.
Food & Drink
Local Cuisine
Como's cooking is Lombard in character, with some crossover from neighbouring regions and Switzerland. Expect dishes based on lake fish (lavarello, agone, persico), risotto, polenta, and cured meats. Missoltini — sun-dried agone preserved in salt and bay leaves — is a traditional local specialty.
Coffee and Bars
Italian bar culture is alive in Como. Mornings call for a cornetto and espresso or cappuccino at a standing bar; aperitivo hour (typically late afternoon) is a sociable institution. Prices are generally lower at the bar counter than at a table, and significantly lower than at lakefront tourist terraces.
Where to Eat
The streets and squares immediately behind the lakefront (away from the main tourist promenade) tend to offer better value and more locally oriented menus. The area around the cathedral and the old market square has a mix of trattorie, pizzerie, and modern casual restaurants. Reservations are advisable at popular spots on summer weekends.
Wine and Drinks
Lombardy produces notable wines — Valtellina reds (made from Nebbiolo) and Franciacorta sparkling wines are regional highlights widely available in Como. Aperol Spritz and Campari-based drinks are standard aperitivo choices.
Shopping
Silk and Textiles
Como remains one of Europe's leading centres for high-end silk production and design. Several shops in the city centre sell silk scarves, ties, and fabric — ranging from luxury brand outlets to smaller independent retailers. Prices vary widely; genuine Como silk from reputable shops carries quality assurance. Look for the Como Silk designation or ask vendors about the origin of the fabric.
Markets and Food
Como has regular outdoor markets where local produce, clothing, and household goods are sold. Verify current market days and locations with the local tourism office or on arrival, as schedules can change seasonally.
General Shopping
The pedestrianised streets of the historic centre — particularly around Via Vittorio Emanuele II — have a mix of Italian and international retail chains alongside independent boutiques. Most shops observe traditional Italian hours with a midday closure, though this varies.
Practical Information
Emergency Numbers
In Italy, dial 112 for the unified European emergency number (police, ambulance, fire). 118 is the dedicated medical emergency number. 113 reaches the state police (Polizia di Stato).
Tourist Information
Como's official tourism office (IAT) is located in the city centre near the lakefront. Staff can provide maps, ferry timetables, and event information. Hours vary by season — verify before relying on a visit.
Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi is available in some cafés and public areas. Italian SIM cards can be purchased at phone shops and some tobacconists (tabaccherie) with a valid passport. EU mobile roaming regulations mean EU residents typically use their home plans without surcharge — confirm with your carrier.
Tipping
Tipping is not obligatory in Italy. A coperto (cover charge) and servizio (service charge) may already be included in restaurant bills — check before adding a tip. Rounding up or leaving small change is common and appreciated.
Pharmacies
Farmacie (pharmacies) are identified by a green cross. They can advise on minor ailments and dispense some medications without a prescription. After-hours duty pharmacies (farmacia di turno) rotate; a list is posted on pharmacy doors.
Safety
Como is generally a safe city for travellers. Standard urban precautions apply: keep an eye on bags and valuables in busy tourist areas, at ferry docks, and on trains.
Pocket theft can occur in crowded spots during peak summer season, particularly along the waterfront promenade and at transport hubs. Use interior pockets or secure bags when in crowds.
Lake safety deserves attention: lake water can be cold, currents unpredictable in certain areas, and boat traffic is significant in summer. Swim only in designated areas and heed any posted warnings. If hiring a boat or kayak, ensure you understand local navigation rules.
Mountain and hillside trails above the lake can become slippery after rain. Wear appropriate footwear and inform someone of your route if undertaking longer walks above Brunate.
Local Culture & Etiquette
Como has a layered cultural identity: a working Lombard city with an active university, a textile industry tradition, and a significant tourism economy. Residents generally have a pragmatic relationship with visitors and appreciate basic courtesy — greetings in Italian (buongiorno, grazie, per favore) go a long way.
The city celebrates a number of religious and civic festivals through the year. The Feast of Sant'Abbondio (the city's patron saint) in late August is one local tradition; verify current event details with the tourism office.
Como's silk heritage intersects with contemporary design culture: several local firms work with international fashion houses, and the city occasionally hosts trade and design events related to textiles. The Museo della Seta provides the most accessible entry point to understanding this tradition for general visitors.
Churches in the centre (including the cathedral and the Basilica of Sant'Abbondio, a fine example of Lombard Romanesque architecture) are active places of worship. Visitors are welcome outside of service times but should dress modestly — shoulders and knees covered — and behave accordingly.