So nice that you want to join me for another trip to Italy. There is no doubt that Italy is one of my favourites, especially when we are going to enjoy both good food and good wine. In addition, you will be able to attend a concert with Andra Bocelli. As you have already understood, I start with a short stop in Como, then on to Milan, Lucca, and Montecantini Tera, and, as I said, a bit from the concert which is at the Teatro de Silencio, but first Como.
Text and photos: Ingar Næss (c) all photos!
I have been to Como a couple of times before, several years ago, but little has changed apart from the maintenance of some great historic buildings, which now look absolutely fantastic.
Let's start with a bit of Como's history:
Located on the shores of Lake Como, in the Lombardy region of Italy, Como has a rich and diverse history dating back to Roman times. The city was founded precisely by the Romans in the first century BC. and quickly developed into an important trading center thanks to its strategic location on Lake Como.
Throughout the Middle Ages, Como was a thriving city, known for its textile production, especially silk, which remains an important part of the city's economy today. The city has witnessed many historical events, including conflicts between various Italian city-states. Today, Como is known for its picturesque beauty, historic architecture and as a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Although Como is deeply rooted in its historical textile heritage from the Middle Ages, the region has managed to develop and adapt to the modern textile industry.
Today, Como is known for the production of luxurious textiles, especially silk, which combines advanced technology with traditional craftsmanship.
The region also focuses strongly on sustainability and uses environmentally friendly methods, which makes it competitive on the global market. This shows how Como has managed to preserve its history while innovating and adapting to modern demands.
In the Middle Ages, part of the city was also flooded and sank due to changes in the water level of Lake Como. This was due to both natural fluctuations and human intervention, such as dams and canals that affected the flow of water. Over time, these areas have become part of the seabed, and today divers can explore the remains of the old structures underwater. The history of the sunken part of Como gives a fascinating insight into the city's ability to adapt and rebuild itself over the centuries. When you visit Como you can read more about this history at this great *structure.
Sights in Como
Como city has many beautiful and historically interesting sights that are worth a visit. The city's cathedral, *)Duomo di Como, is an impressive structure that dates back to the 14th century and is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and detailed facade. Next to the cathedral is Broletto, the old town hall, which is now used for art exhibitions and cultural events.
Another major attraction is the Basilica di Sant'Abbondio, an 11th-century Romanesque basilica with impressive frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere. For those interested in history and archaeology, the Museo Archeologico Paolo Giovio offers an insight into the region's rich history with exhibits ranging from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.
I have mentioned the beautiful lake, but also a walk along the Lungolago di Como, the promenade along the lake, offers a wonderful view of the water and the surrounding mountains. Here you will also find the Tempio Voltiano, a museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery, who was born in Como.
For a panoramic view of the city and the lake, take the cable car up to Brunate. From this small village on the mountain you can enjoy spectacular views and nice walks in the surrounding area. In addition, Villa Olmo, a neoclassical villa with beautiful gardens, often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events and is definitely worth a visit. This was closed when I was there, so check before spending time on this tour.
With its historic buildings, museums, beautiful promenades and breathtaking views, the city of Como offers a rich experience for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Boat trips on Como!
Everyone makes at least one obligatory trip to this beautiful lake, as the area around Lake Como is known for its impressive landscape, with steep mountains plunging into the crystal clear waters, lush forests and manicured gardens. Here you will also find small picturesque villages and majestic villas overlooking the lake. The mild climate contributes to a lush vegetation, including olive trees, cypresses and exotic flowers. The nature around Lake Como offers countless opportunities for hiking, boat trips and relaxation in scenic surroundings.
In addition to the wonderful scenery, visitors can enjoy their stay at some of the most exclusive hotels in the world.
Here you will find luxury accommodation such as the Villa d'Este, known for its historic architecture and elegant gardens, and the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, which offers stunning lake views, a private beach and an impressive spa.
Combining first-class facilities with unparalleled service, these hotels provide guests with a truly memorable experience. The lake's charming coastal towns, such as Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, offer historical sights, cozy cafes and an authentic Italian atmosphere, making a visit to Lake Como an unforgettable experience.
When you need to order tickets, you can do it both online and at the pier. In high season there may not be any available places online, but just go down to the quay and join the queue which moves quickly!
Alternatives for boat trips on Lake Como
Lake Como offers a wide variety of boat trips that give you the opportunity to explore the lake's wonderful landscape and charming towns.
Regular and affordable ferry services are a convenient way to visit the popular destinations, while the guided sightseeing tours provide insight into the lake's rich history and architecture. If you choose the regular ferries, you have to expect a bit of a queue, and it's a good idea to be there in good time to get the best seats. Remember to lubricate yourself well if you choose to sit outside!
If you like going for walks and experiencing nature, several of the stops give you just that. For those of you who like to visit the old villas, just enjoy yourself - there is plenty to choose from here. Villas such as Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello are particularly popular and offer beautiful gardens and rich history.
Regardless of where you choose to disembark for a lunch or other experience, check carefully when the next ferry arrives that fits your schedule, if you have purchased a round trip. I chose to get off in Menaggio, where to enjoy the local delicacies at one of the many charming restaurants along the waterfront.
For a more personal experience, you can hire a private boat with a skipper, ideal for couples or small groups. Water taxi services offer flexible and fast transport, and evening tours provide a magical atmosphere as the sun sets. Thematic tours, such as botanical gardens or film locations, give a unique twist to the experience.
No matter which trip you choose, a boat trip on Lake Como will give you memories for a lifetime. With so many options available, it's easy to find a boat trip that fits your interests and schedule and will give you an unforgettable experience of beautiful Lake Como.
Additional tips:
If you visit Lake Como in winter, it is less crowded and you can enjoy a more calm and peaceful atmosphere. Although some of the regular ferry lines may have reduced frequency, the lake still offers stunning views and opportunities for sightseeing. It is also a magical time to visit the local Christmas markets and enjoy seasonal food and drink.
Restaurants and places to eat in Como :
Como offers a wide range of eateries and restaurants to suit all types of tastes and budgets. The city is known for its delicious Italian cuisine, where you can enjoy everything from traditional dishes to modern gastronomic experiences.
Among the local specialties you will find risotto, a creamy rice dish often made with local ingredients such as fish from Lake Como, and polenta, a traditional northern Italian dish made from corn porridge, served with meat, mushrooms or cheese. Fish soup, made with fresh fish from the lake, is also a popular dish.
Here are some popular ones
Ristorante Sociale: A historic restaurant known for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm atmosphere.
La Vita è Bella: A modern eatery offering a wide selection of fresh salads, pasta and seafood.
Il Gatto Nero: Perched on a hill with stunning views of the lake, Il Gatto Nero offers classic Italian dishes with an elegant twist.
Cozy cafes and gelaterias:
Pasticceria Poletti: A local favorite for sweet temptations, including traditional Italian cakes and pastries.
Gelateria Lariana: Known for its homemade gelato in a variety of flavors, perfect for a refreshing break.
Then I would like to mention Bar Touring, which is right down on the pier and is a well-known and popular restaurant and bar in Como. In particular, there were two dishes that struck a chord with us, the Risotto and the Parma ham. This was absolutely perfect for lunch, plus the atmosphere was relaxed, making it an ideal spot for locals and tourists alike.
Service is friendly and attentive, with staff knowledgeable about the menu and always ready to help.
With a varied selection of restaurants, cafes and bars, Como is an ideal place for foodies to explore and enjoy the culinary delights that the region has to offer. Don't forget to plan your meals when you're going on a trip on Lake Como.
Accommodation in Como
When choosing accommodation in Como, you have a lot to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences. If you have a rental car, you must ensure that the accommodation has parking available.
Luxury:
Villa d'Este: One of the most famous and exclusive hotels in the area, Villa d'Este offers sumptuous accommodation, stunning views of the lake, lovely gardens, and first-class facilities such as a spa, pool and gourmet restaurants.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo: Another luxury hotel with spectacular views of Lake Como. The hotel has a private beach, several pools, a spa and several restaurants.
Medium price range:
Hotel Barchetta Excelsior: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with lake views, a restaurant serving Italian cuisine, and easy access to Como's attractions. The hotel also has parking available.
Hotel Metropole Suisse: A charming hotel with a great location by the lake. Here you get modern facilities, a restaurant with a view and proximity to the ferry port and the city centre.
Hotel Tre Re is very centrally located almost on the wharf and has parking. It is a three-star hotel, with good service and favorable prices.
Budget:
Hotel Engadina: A budget-friendly hotel that offers simple but comfortable rooms. The hotel is close to the city center and offers free parking.
Ostello Bello Lake Como: A popular hostel with both private rooms and dormitories. The hostel has a friendly atmosphere, free breakfast, and many activities for guests.
Whatever price range you choose, there are great options in Como that will make your stay comfortable and memorable. Make sure to book well in advance, especially in high season, and always check the availability of parking if you have a rental car.
Street walking and shopping
As far as shopping is concerned, I can only say - if you come in the summer, there are usually sales everywhere, including here. If you buy Italian brands, they are actually very good buys, but check a bit before you allow yourself to be tempted.
Otherwise, street walking in Como is very pleasant and you don't need to plan much where you want to stop and have a coffee and ice cream, or lunch and dinner, except for the best.
Here are some general tips from:
Parking at Gardermoen:
Remember that you must book well in advance to get a place in the summer months, but an alternative is "Park and Go", where you always get a place, but maybe a little more expensive. For us it was the train, which is fine if you have transport to the station, otherwise it takes almost as long as the bus.
Cards and Finance:
In order to achieve optimal points, in a simple way, I also choose to use my Norwegian Bank card as much as possible! That means everywhere they accept a Visa card.
Then I can later use the points on new trips. "A penny here and a penny there", - as said in an advertisement a few years ago.
Always remember to pay with Euros on the card, even if it is expensive, so you will get the best exchange rate regardless if you pay in Norwegian kroner. If you shop for expensive items, you can also ask for a tax-free receipt.
Fly:
The fact that we choose Norwegian, from Grardermoen, is mostly for the price and they are mostly precise, but not this time. In any case, they are pleasant to fly with.
Train:
We took a train from Milan to Como T/R and here we chose to book with Trainline, actually very easy and the prices are exactly as they should be. There is a small plus in Italy with age.
NB! If you are over 60, you travel at half price. The trip to Como from the airport takes about an hour, but you have to change trains once on this route. Remember you have to change trains on this trip.
When you log into the app or online, you easily see options, with and without exchange, first class and standard prices.
I used Trainline to order tickets, which was actually very easy, after I had learned the search criteria.
Rental car, taxi, Uber, tolls and roads:
From Milan to Lucca, it will be Hert's rental car, with a gold card, which makes it very easy in terms of queues and service if something goes wrong. Can already now reveal that we didn't have to stand in queues and another advantage if you choose to become a Gold member, you will eventually save up a lot of "points" so it will be even more affordable to rent. Uber is always a local alternative that works very well at a perfectly good price. The taxis were also inside, but a little more expensive than Uber.
If you are going to drive a lot, it may be worthwhile to consider buying an "auto pass", but check with the rental car company if you are going to pass many per trip and some local ones every day to make it worthwhile. That it runs faster is only a bonus in this respect. I was probably a little surprised, but Milan - Lucca, plus some local driving, it cost over NOK 2,000. If I had taken Autopass with 15 euros per day for 6 days, it would have been NOK 1,080. We learn as long as we want, but remember to check.
There are mostly very good roads, but always check on Google whether there are queues, both before and preferably during the journey. As in all countries, there are quickly very long queues on the motorways, due to accidents, which unfortunately also happens here.
Accommodation:
We're spending the night on the economy a bit this time, since prices have gone up in the most fixed places. I have used Booking.com and Hotels.com for many years and therefore also get good offers, ranging from 10 to 30% discount. If one is full, try the other, or call the hotel directly.
Accommodation Como
Here we chose a hotel based on its central location, close to the train station, Como Largo, the lake. We found ***Tre Re only 200 meters from the ferries and 400 meters from the train, , will write more about the hotel in a separate section.
Sights in Como:
Number one on the list is of course one or more trips on Lake Como. Otherwise, there are several historic and beautiful buildings.
They also have a mountain railway to a viewpoint high above the city, price 6.60 euros, including a lot of waiting, especially when you go back down. See separate sections on these.
Restaurants and shopping: In Como you will find a multitude of restaurants with excellent food. In July there are often sales and here you can, as well as make good purchases. Strolling in the old town is very pleasant, so here you just have to enjoy yourself. NB! if you're a little extra interested in wine, you can make a bargain here if you're lucky.
If you have specific questions, you are always welcome to ask questions. In any case, I recommend Como as a destination in northern Italy. Good trip!
