Things to do in Como Italy: honest guide to Lake Como's gateway city (and when to skip it)

Honest take on Como: it is a beautiful city but it is not the Lake Como you see in photos. That version is in Bellagio and Varenna. Como feels more like a real city with great transport links, restaurants and access to the rest of the lake.

We visited twice and here is what we would tell a friend. The Duomo is free to enter and genuinely worth 30 minutes of your time, it was built from 1396 over several centuries and holds statues of both Pliny the Elder and Younger, who were Como natives. The Brunate funicular is worth doing but go in the morning, summer afternoon queues can hit an hour and there is no way to skip them online. The Faro Voltiano lighthouse at the top adds the best panoramic view on the whole trip but has been closed since April 2026 due to a dispute between municipalities so check before you make the walk up.

For the postcard Lake Como views from Como itself, get on the water!

Ferry from Como to Bellagio is 2.5 hours each way. Start early or base yourself in Bellagio or Varenna instead.

September is the best month. Warm water, fewer tourists, everything is still open.

We covered all 15 things to do with an honest take on each in our Como city guide including a one-day itinerary and where to stay.

Happy to answer questions.