Gracefully set on the glistening waters of Lake Como, the city of Como<\/strong> offers a refined blend of historical depth, understated charm, and scenery reminiscent of an Impressionist masterpiece. Moreover, it is \u00a0an ideal starting point if you are looking to explore the other lovely towns along the lake<\/a>.<\/p>\n Located on the border with Switzerland, Como is small but charming<\/b>, perfect for exploring on foot. From the lakeside promenades to the grand villas, it offers a relaxed atmosphere<\/b> and a wealth of attractions.<\/p>\n Your exploration of Como should begin with its Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece<\/strong>: the Duomo. Majestic and graceful, its construction spanned over three centuries, from 1396 to 1740<\/strong>, reaching a height of 75 meters<\/strong>. The dome, designed by architect Filippo Juvarra<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n After admiring the cathedral, let the city’s gentle pace guide you. Head to Piazza Alessandro Volta<\/strong>, 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<\/strong>, food and wine events, and cultural gatherings that reflect the deep connection between the city and its surroundings.<\/p>\n The Church of Sant’Abbondio, one of the best-preserved examples of 11th-century Romanesque architecture<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n Stepping inside, you’re struck by the expansive breadth of its five naves<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n For an unforgettable view of the lake and the city, simply take the historic funicular, inaugurated in 1894<\/strong>. In just a few minutes, you’ll reach Brunate, the “balcony of the Alps,”<\/strong> where breathtaking views open up before you, stretching across the mountains and the shimmering water below.<\/p>\n Como retains parts of its ancient defensive walls, with towers and gates still intact<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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<\/strong> to explore with more freedom: both services connect the most captivating towns, from Varenna<\/a><\/strong> to Bellagio<\/a><\/strong>, passing through Menaggio<\/a><\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n If you enjoy staying active even on vacation, the lake is a little paradise for water sports<\/strong> like kayaking and paddle boarding or hiking<\/strong> along the trails that climb the hills.<\/p>\n Como buzzes with life all year long<\/strong>, thanks to a calendar of events that blends elegance, tradition, and modernity. Here are some of the most interesting appointments:<\/p>\nDiscovering the City of Como<\/h2>\n
Como Cathedral<\/h3>\n
Piazza Volta and Piazza Cavour<\/h3>\n
The Church of Sant’Abbondio<\/h3>\n
The Como-Brunate Funicular<\/h3>\n
Medieval Walls and Porta Torre<\/h3>\n
Museums in Como<\/span><\/h3>\n
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Lario, Lake Como<\/h3>\n
Main Events in Como<\/h2>\n
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