Como City Guide
Impossibly picturesque, Como has long been a favourite amongst tourists, with its elegant villas, historic buildings and scenic lake. Admire the frescoes in the Palazzo Volpi, enjoy the craftsmanship of the Cathedral and take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Lake Como.
What to do and see in and around Como
The Cathedral
Combining a myriad of architectural styles Como Cathedral situated on the Piazza Duomo was constructed between 1396–1740. This spectacular cathedral displays some outstanding craftsmanship, from the rose-window on the façade to the two lateral doors; the Cathedral is well worth a visit.
Baradello Castle
Dating back to the 12th century this Romanesque Tower was built for defence purposes and stands at a height of 430 metres above sea level on Baradello Hill, overlooking Como.
Basilica Sant’Abbondio
This Romanesque church dedicated to the fourth Bishop of Como was built on the spot of an earlier church, the perimeter of which is marked on the floor of the current Basilica in black marble. The interior of the Basilica boasts granite columns and 14th century frescoes.
Teatro Sociale
With its majestic neoclassical façade and elegant interior the 19th century Teatro Sociale has long been a popular venue for opera; even standing in for Milan’s La Scala when it was damaged in the 2nd World War.
Lake Como
The third largest lake in Italy Lake Como is known for its beautiful blue waters and picturesque shoreline as well as a being ideal for lovers of watersports.
Como Funicular
The Como-Brunate funicular takes lucky visitors from the lake to the Alps Balcony for spectacular views of the city.
Villa Olmo
This splendid neo-classical 18th century villa was built for the Marquis Innocenzo Odescalchi by the famous architect Simone Cantoni and opened by none other than Napoleon. Brought by the Como Commune in 1925 the villa has since been the elegant setting for exhibitions, concerts and theatre.
Archaeological Museum "Paolo Giovio"
The variety and diversity of exhibits at Como’s Archaeological Museum "Paolo Giovio" is testimony to Alfonso Garovaglio’s love of collecting antiques and archaeological artifacts.
Amongst this collection are Greek vases, bronzes and gems.
Civic Arts Collections of Palazzo Volpi
The grand setting of the 17th Century Palazzo Volpi is home to frescoes and sculptures from the Middle Ages, Renaissance portraits and paintings from the 16th–20th centuries.
Villa del Balbianello
Overlooking Lake Como this elegant 18th century villa is home to a small museum displaying the spoils of the former owners, Guido Monzino, collected on his numerous expeditions. However the exquisite garden is the real draw to this beautiful villa.
The villa is open from the middle of March to the middle of November.
Villa Carlotta
Dating back to the 17th century this stunning villa with its graceful Italian garden occupies an enviable position between lake and mountains. Built by the Milanese Marquis Giorgio Clerici the villa doubles up as art gallery, and is home to many masterpieces such as Francesco Hayez's "The last kiss of Romeo and Juliet".
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