For a first visit to Como, the historic Città Murata (walled old town) suits first-timers who want to walk to everything, while the Lungo Lario lakefront is best for those chasing water views and passeggiata strolls. Borgovico and the areas near San Giovanni station work well for budget travellers and anyone arriving by train, and the funicular-linked Brunate offers a quieter, elevated base for couples wanting panoramas.
The areas, by traveller
Città Murata (Historic Centre)
The compact walled old town packs Piazza del Duomo, cobbled lanes, cafés and shops into an area you can cross on foot, and it sits just steps back from the lake. Central and lively, it's the easiest base for a first visit.
Explore Città Murata (Historic Centre) →Lungo Lario (Lakefront)
Stretching along the Lake Como waterfront near Piazza Cavour, this strip has the classic promenade, ferry docks and open water views. Ideal if being right by the lake matters most to you.
Explore Lungo Lario (Lakefront) →Borgovico
A calmer neighbourhood west of the centre following the lakeshore toward Villa Olmo, with local trattorias and a more everyday feel. A good pick for travellers wanting to step back from the busiest tourist streets while staying walkable to the centre.
Explore Borgovico →Near San Giovanni Station
The area around Como San Giovanni, the main-line station, favours easy arrivals and departures toward Milan. It's less scenic than the lakefront but practical and often more affordable.
Explore Near San Giovanni Station →Como Lago / Piazza Cavour area
Close to the Como Lago station and ferry terminals, this zone is convenient for exploring Bellagio, Varenna and other lake towns by boat. Handy for anyone planning to hop around the lake.
Explore Como Lago / Piazza Cavour area →Brunate
A hillside village reached by funicular from Como, offering sweeping views over the lake and a peaceful, elevated retreat. Best for those who don't mind riding the funicular down to reach the town centre and lakefront.
Explore Brunate →
Practical basics
- Getting in
- Milan Malpensa (MXP) is the main airport; reach Como by shuttle, train or car in roughly an hour, arriving at the San Giovanni or Como Lago stations near the centre.
- Best time to visit
- Late spring and early autumn bring pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the busy midsummer peak.
- Getting around
- The centre and lakefront are walkable, while ferries, the funicular to Brunate and local buses connect the wider lake and hills.
Frequently asked
Which area is best for first-time visitors?
The Città Murata historic centre is the easiest base, letting you walk to the Duomo, cafés and the lakefront without needing transport.
Where should I stay for the best lake views?
The Lungo Lario lakefront around Piazza Cavour puts you right on the Lake Como waterfront, close to the promenade and ferry docks.
Is it better to stay in Como or a smaller lake town?
Como town is the most convenient and connected base with the widest range of options; smaller towns like Bellagio are quieter but rely more on ferries and are easy to reach on day trips.
Cities near Como
Hand-picked hotel guides for Como — real hotels, exact prices and distances — are on the way. This page will grow into the full recommendation set.
An independent guide to where to stay in Como — hotel recommendations are on the way.