Como is the city that gives its name to the famous lake, one of the most romantic and luxurious places in Italy, loved for centuries by artists, nobles, and international travelers. Located at the southwestern end of the Como branch, the city is a perfect blend of art, history, and nature. Its historic center, enclosed by medieval walls, boasts Gothic and Renaissance masterpieces. Como is historically known as the City of Silk due to its long tradition in the textile industry, which has brought it prestige and wealth.

What Our Local Guides Recommend Seeing: Architecture, Panorama, and Navigation

• Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como) – One of the most important monuments in Northern Italy, whose construction lasted nearly four centuries, combining Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
• Volta Temple (Tempio Voltiano) – Museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, inventor of the electric battery and famous citizen of Como, located on the lake shores.
• Como-Brunate Funicular (Funicolare Como-Brunate) – Offers a breathtaking panorama of the city, the lake, and the surrounding Alps. Brunate is a picturesque village of interest.
• Villa Olmo – Imposing Neoclassical villa, now a venue for events and exhibitions, with a splendid Italian garden on the lake.

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Missoltini (or Missultin) – Dried and pressed lake shad, a traditional dish typical of Larian cuisine.
• Polenta and Toc – A long-cooked polenta dish, served with melted cheeses and butter, a symbol of local peasant cuisine.
• Perch Fillet in Green Sauce (Filetto di Persico in Salsa Verde) – A lake classic, perch fillet prepared with a sauce based on parsley, anchovies, and capers.
• Como Silk (Seta di Como) – Although not an edible product, silk is the artisanal product of excellence, famous worldwide for its quality and design.

Experiences and Activities Selected by Our Travel Designers

• Lake Navigation – Boat excursions to admire the famous villas (like Villa Balbianello and Villa Carlotta) and the picturesque villages (Bellagio, Varenna).
• Shopping and Silk Museums – Opportunities to purchase fine silk artifacts and delve into the history of the local textile industry.
• Lakeside Walk and Nightlife – The lakeside promenade is the heart of social life, with elegant restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Como
• Official Lake Como Tourism Website

Top 5 Recommended Accommodations by Our Local Experts

• Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como (Blevio) – An oasis of luxury and wellness with spectacular lake views.
• Grand Hotel Tremezzo (Tremezzo) – An icon of luxury hotellerie with its floating swimming pool on the lake.
• Villa Serbelloni (Bellagio) – A historic and charming hotel in one of the most desirable locations.
• Hotel Metropole Suisse – Central location in Como, with lake views and high-level services.
• NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi (Blevio) – Former monastery transformed into a luxury structure with a unique design.

Top 5 Recommended Restaurants (with Michelin stars)

• Mistral (Bellagio - 1 Michelin Star) – Gourmet restaurant at Villa Serbelloni with creative cuisine and breathtaking views.
• Materia (Cernobbio - 1 Michelin Star) – Avant-garde cuisine with an ethical and territorial approach.
• Il Sereno Al Lago (Torno - 1 Michelin Star) – Signature cuisine in a design location with one of the best lake views.
• Ristorante La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi (Tremezzo) – A culinary experience celebrating the Marchesi tradition with lake views.
• Kitchen (Como) – Offers excellent Italian cuisine in an elegant setting, inside the Sheraton Lake Como.