Looking for a short list of the best things to see around Lake Como? Below you will find a concise roundup of the top attractions, with a quick note on who each site suits best. The nearby Lake Como towns also provide useful stops when planning an itinerary.
Table of Contents
- Villino Rubini
- Anello Brunate: a walking route through the hillside
- Faro Voltiano: a landmark above Como
- Cattedrale di Como: Gothic and Renaissance architecture in the city
- Villa Del Balbianello: an architectural building
- Villa Carlotta: art, botany, and garden paths in Tremezzina
- FAQ
1. Villino Rubini
Villino Rubini is a private Art Nouveau estate built in 1892 and set within four acres of beech forest in Brunate, above Lake Como. The estate offers ten rooms across three buildings, a heated pool, a spa, a sauna, a gym and a studio. We provide a daily continental breakfast and a private shuttle to the historic Como-Brunate funicular, which has run since 1894.
Guests who stay here enjoy immediate access to the hilltop village and can reach most other attractions on foot or by a short bus ride. The gardens seat up to one hundred people for outdoor dinner under a tent, making the estate a usable choice for small weddings or corporate gatherings. A recent review noted the original ceiling mouldings and period floors as a highlight of the recent restoration.
We recommend Villino Rubini for affluent couples, families looking for a quiet retreat, and small groups planning a focused off-site meeting. How to Choose Where to Stay in Lake Como offers more detail on the different rental scenarios we provide.
2. Anello Brunate: a walking route through the hillside
Anello Brunate is a scenic hiking loop that winds through the hills above Brunate. The trail is well marked and suitable for walkers of most abilities. Along the way you pass stone walls, mature oak trees and occasional views of the surrounding valleys.
The loop takes about two hours to complete and returns you near the funicular station, so you can easily combine a hike with a ride down to Como. Hikers appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the chance to pause at a small wooden shelter for a snack.
Ideal for active travellers, families with older children and cycling groups looking for a low-impact alternative to the road climb.
3. Faro Voltiano: a landmark above Como
Faro Voltiano stands on the hill that bears the name of Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery. The lighthouse was erected in the 1920s and offers a modest observation platform with panoramic vistas of the town of Como and the surrounding mountains.
Visitors reach the site by a short walk from the funicular stop or by a brief local bus ride. The site includes an information panel that explains Volta’s life and his connection to the region.
Because the climb is gentle, the lighthouse is a good option for seniors, families with young children and anyone who wants a quick cultural stop without a long hike.
4. Cattedrale di Como: Gothic and Renaissance architecture in the city
The Cathedral of Como, dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption, dominates the city centre with its blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements. Construction began and continued for over three centuries, resulting in a harmonious mix of styles.
Inside you will find a rich collection of sculptures, tapestries and two historic organs that date back to the 17th century. The cathedral remains an active place of worship, but guided tours are offered throughout the week.
Visitors who are interested in art history, architecture or sacred music will find the Duomo rewarding. Usable information on opening hours and ticketing is available here.
5. Villa Del Balbianello: an architectural building near Brunate
Villa Del Balbianello is an architectural building about 17.7 km (11 mi) from Brunate. The attraction is listed among the architectural buildings in the area and can be considered when planning an itinerary beyond Brunate.
For visitors starting in Brunate, the listed distance is approximately 17.7 km (11 mi). This provides a useful reference when comparing the location with other attractions around Lake Como.
The listing identifies Villa Del Balbianello as an architectural building and records its distance from Brunate. More information is available for readers researching the attraction before planning a visit.
6. Villa Carlotta: art, botany, and garden paths in Tremezzina
Villa Carlotta lies in Tremezzina, roughly 20.9 km from Brunate. The 19th-century mansion is surrounded by a botanical garden that displays a wide range of Mediterranean and exotic plant species. The museum inside the villa hosts a rotating program of art exhibitions, often featuring works from the Italian Romantic period.
Visitors can explore the garden’s winding paths and several historic statuary groups. The site offers discounted tickets for students, senior groups and school parties, and it provides free entry for the group leader of qualified school visits.
Villa Carlotta is well suited for families, art students and nature enthusiasts who prefer a leisurely day exploring both cultural and botanical attractions.
FAQ
What is the best way to reach Brunate from Como?
The quickest option is the historic Como-Brunate funicular, which runs every 15 minutes and drops you off near the centre of Brunate.
Are the attractions wheelchair accessible?
Some sites, such as the Cathedral of Como and Villa Carlotta, have limited wheelchair routes, but many hilltop locations like Faro Voltiano have stairs only.
Can I host a wedding at Villino Rubini?
Yes, the estate offers outdoor garden dining for up to one hundred guests and can be hired for exclusive use.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for this attraction?
Tickets can be purchased online or on site, but buying ahead is recommended during the summer months when visitor numbers are highest.
Is public transport available to Villa Carlotta?
Yes, regular bus services connect Como with Tremezzina, and a short boat ride can also bring you to the nearby pier.
What hiking options exist near Villino Rubini?
The Anello Brunate loop and several side trails start from the village and provide varied lengths for walkers of all levels.
We think Villino Rubini offers the most convenient base for exploring the region while enjoying high-quality comforts. Plan your stay and begin exploring the region.
Occasional stories from the estate, sent a few times a year at most.