What to See in the City of Como

Gracefully set on the glistening waters of Lake Como, the city of Como offers a refined blend of historical depth, understated charm, and scenery reminiscent of an Impressionist masterpiece. Moreover, it is  an ideal starting point if you are looking to explore the other lovely towns along the lake.

Discovering the City of Como

Located on the border with Switzerland, Como is small but charming, perfect for exploring on foot. From the lakeside promenades to the grand villas, it offers a relaxed atmosphere and a wealth of attractions.

Como Cathedral

Your exploration of Como should begin with its Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece: the Duomo. Majestic and graceful, its construction spanned over three centuries, from 1396 to 1740, reaching a height of 75 meters. The dome, designed by architect Filippo Juvarra, rises above a building that harmoniously blends Gothic and Renaissance styles, adorned with spires, pinnacles, and statues dedicated to two local ancient luminaries: Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger, sculpted by the Rodari workshop. Inside, time seems to stand still amid the 16th- and 17th-century Flemish tapestries and the works of Bernardino Luini and Gaudenzio Ferrari, masters of the 16th-century Lombard school.

Piazza Volta and Piazza Cavour

After admiring the cathedral, let the city’s gentle pace guide you. Head to Piazza Alessandro Volta, dedicated to the inventor of the battery, where the 1838 statue by Pompeo Marchesi celebrates one of Como’s most illustrious sons. A short walk away, Piazza Cavour bustles year-round with markets, food and wine events, and cultural gatherings that reflect the deep connection between the city and its surroundings.

The Church of Sant’Abbondio

The Church of Sant’Abbondio, one of the best-preserved examples of 11th-century Romanesque architecture, also deserves a visit. It stands on the remains of an early Christian Basilica dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul and is named after Sant’Abbondio, the city’s fourth bishop. The current structure was rebuilt in 1050 by Benedictine monks, who gave it the severe yet harmonious imprint typical of Lombard Romanesque.

Stepping inside, you’re struck by the expansive breadth of its five naves, punctuated by powerful stone columns, and the verticality of its twin bell towers, understated and elegant. A cycle of 14th-century frescoes in the apse narrates episodes from the life of Christ, offering a visual and spiritual immersion in local medieval art.

The Como-Brunate Funicular

For an unforgettable view of the lake and the city, simply take the historic funicular, inaugurated in 1894. In just a few minutes, you’ll reach Brunate, the “balcony of the Alps,” where breathtaking views open up before you, stretching across the mountains and the shimmering water below.

Medieval Walls and Porta Torre

Como retains parts of its ancient defensive walls, with towers and gates still intact. Porta Torre, in particular, is one of the city’s symbols: imposing, austere, and yet captivating, it transports you directly back to the Middle Ages. From here, a picturesque walk begins, taking you through the city’s more authentic and less touristy side.

Museums in Como

Como offers a network of museums and cultural venues seamlessly integrated into the urban fabric, capable of narrating the history, identity, and deepest soul of the region.

• Silk Museum: a tribute to Como’s world-renowned silk tradition. The museum traces the production chain, from 19th-century spinning mills to fine fabrics destined for international haute couture;
• Volta Temple: dedicated to Alessandro Volta, inventor of the battery and an illustrious citizen of Como. This elegant neoclassical building houses scientific instruments, documents, and curiosities, and is wonderfully situated on the lakeside promenade;
• Civic Art Gallery (Pinacoteca Civica): housed in the medieval Palazzo Volpi, it collects artworks spanning from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, with a particular focus on Lombard artists;
• Teatro Sociale: an Italian-style theater of rare beauty, home to opera seasons, concerts, and theatrical performances. Even without a ticket, it’s worth a visit to admire its refined interiors and breathe in the atmosphere of a grand soirée.

Lario, Lake Como

There’s no denying that the lake is one of Como’s main attractions. After exploring the city, let yourself be lulled by the tranquility of the water. You can board a public ferry or opt for a private water taxi to explore with more freedom: both services connect the most captivating towns, from Varenna to Bellagio, passing through Menaggio, offering unforgettable glimpses along the way. The public service is well-organized and offers single tickets or day passes for easy movement between the villages and villas nestled by the water.

If you enjoy staying active even on vacation, the lake is a little paradise for water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding or hiking along the trails that climb the hills.

Main Events in Como

Como buzzes with life all year long, thanks to a calendar of events that blends elegance, tradition, and modernity. Here are some of the most interesting appointments:

• Como Città della Musica Festival
  • • Late June – Mid-July, Teatro Sociale and other outdoor venues;
    • A refined mix of opera, symphonic concerts, contemporary music, and site-specific performances. All set in evocative settings like parks, historic villas, and piazzas.
• Parolario
  • • September, various locations between Como and Cernobbio;
    • A festival dedicated to culture and literature, featuring international guests, meetings, debates, and readings. A perfect opportunity for those who love stories and well-spoken words.
• Sant’Abbondio Fair
  • • Late August – Early September, Sant’Abbondio complex area;
    • An event that combines history, gastronomy, and local traditions. Ideal for discovering the city’s most authentic side, amidst local crafts and flavors.
• Città dei Balocchi (City of Toys)
  • December – Early January, historic center;
  • During the Christmas holidays, Como transforms into an enchanted village with light displays, markets, children’s events, and live music. An experience that fascinates both young and old, with a setting worthy of a Christmas film.