If you’re traveling in the North of Italy, the magnetic pull of Lake Como is likely to rope you into its forcefield. Although it’s associated with extravagant villas and well dressed millionaires, Como is also a quaint little town with tranquil Italian charm and an endearing city center. During one of my free weekends in Milan, I hopped on a regional train to Como for less than 4 euros one-way, and I arrived in the mountain-surrounded town in less than 45 minutes. I wasn’t expecting much since I felt the main attraction of the city is founded on a mix of water and wealth, but I was delighted by the small town. Whether you’re in the mood to spend some time by the water, are looking to get an eyeful of the city itself, or are simply going in order to track and seduce George Clooney, here are a few suggestions for a day trip to Como.
Visit the Duomo & Historic Center
In every city I visit, the piazza del duomo is usually my first stop pit. It tends to be the hub of the town, the center of city life, and it’s typically the most important monument on my list of things to see. Construction on the Como Cathedral, or il Duomo di Como, began in 1396, but it wasn’t completed until the first half of the 18th century. The facade was built between 1455 and 1486 and is one of the best examples of Late Gothic architecture in Northern Italy. Entrance is free and the inside is lovely though I was more stricken by the exterior. It’s finished in a dreamy white marble facade with a mint green dome. If you go, keep an eye out for the “door of the frog,” on the northern entry, which is adorned with a frog trying to catch a butterfly. Touching the frog is said to bring you good luck, so if you’re looking for George, you’re gonna want to be touchin’ that frog.
Afterward, delight in the compact yet charming historic center of Como. Stroll down the narrow city streets and take in the beauty of the rustic buildings and dreamy little piazzas. There are plenty of good spots for lunch or dinner in the center when you get hungry.
Take a Boat Ride
During my trip, I wanted to get out on the water if only for a little bit, but unfortunately all of my friends with yachts were out of town on that day (not). If you’re balling on a budget and don’t have friends with yachts, you can take a 30-minute boat ride for about 5 euros. Just head to the water and walk to the right and you’ll see a number of docks offering tourist rides. It’s just a quick little trip around the bay, but it’s nice to actually be on the water and feel the wind in your hair. Do it! Mi raccomando.
Walk Around the Lake Path
If you walk towards the water and head to the left, you’ll encounter a lovely walking path that winds around the water. Stroll along and take in the view of the water and villas that border it. This is a great way to help you choose the mansion you’ll buy when you make your fortune.
Visit Villa Olmo
If you’re interested in taking a glimpse inside one of the villas on the lake, you can take a stroll down to Villa Olmo. Entrance is free, and though the villa is not furnished, it’s elegant and intriguing nonetheless. Upon reaching the water, walk to the left down the lakeside path for about fifteen minutes. Eventually you’ll come upon this imposing yellow structure with a large garden guarded by Italian statues. Simply walk in and ask for a ticket and ba-bam, you can wander through the first floor rooms for free.
Take the Tram Up to Branate
On the northeastern side of the lake (to the right if you’re facing the water), you’ll see the funicolare (tram) that transports visitors up to the town of Branate, on the adjacent mountainous slope. For stunning views, take the tram up to the top and get a drink at one of the restaurants on the terrace. There’s also a lovely little church at the top of the hill, but to be quite honest, I wasn’t particularly impressed by the Branate excursion. Though that could be because I walked the wrong way and missed the main panorama. Whoops.
