The lovely lakefront city of Como is the capital of the province of Como in northern Italy. Famous for its silk production, its proximity to Lake Como and the Alps has made it a popular tourist destination in all seasons. It is 40km from the city of Milan and close to the Swiss border, offering great day trips around the area.
The nearest airport to Como is Milan’s Malpenso Airport. The small Ferrovia Nord Milano train line links Milan with Como, or take the Malpensa Express train to Saronna and connect with the train LeNord to Como. Once in Como, ferries provide a scenic and efficient way to get around the area and there is a good local bus system.
Como is on the tip of the southwestern arm of Lake Como and has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot, spring and autumn are warm and pleasant and winters are short but damp with skiing in the nearby mountains.
The old walled city of Como is packed with treasures: palaces, churches, gardens, theatres and works of art. Highlights are the magnificent Duomo, the neo-classic Villa Olmo, the Porto Vittorio tower, the Gardens of the Tempio Voltiano, the Casa del Fascio and the medieval Town Hall called the Broletto. From the top of the Baradello Tower there are stunning views of Lake Como.
The lakeshore is dotted with beautiful villas and resort villages, against the scenic backdrop of green mountains and hills. Visitors can take the local ferry to Isola Comacina, Como’s only island, with its two lovely churches or take a funicular ride to the village of Brunate, 720 metres above the town with great views and scenic hiking trails.
Como has several festivals such as the Palio Remiero del Lario rowing race and the historical re-enactment of the Palio del Baradello, both in September. In June the town celebrates with a festival, boat procession and fireworks for the Sagra di San Giovanni.