Every year I embark on an annual mother, daughter trip to Maui over the Memorial Day weekend. While I certainly could’ve used the relaxation this year, my mom and I decided it was time for a little change of pace. Rather than returning to Hawaiian islands, we chose to get lost in our heritage and return to Italy, if only for a while. Get lost with us in “The Nomad’s Guide to Como, Italy.”
+ Must-visit locations
Bellagio: Bellagio, you’re gorgeous. Well-known for its 18th-century cobblestone roads, luscious gardens, and spectacular lakeside view, Bellagio is one of your must-visit villages surrounding Lake Como. Wandering through the streets of Bellagio, you’ll discover authentic Italian food, leather goods, clothing, jewelry, home goods, and much more. Note, if you’re staying in the city of Como, you’ll need to access villages by ferry or speedboat.
Brunate: A small town in the province of Como accessible by the Funicolare Como-Brunate. Not only can you spend the day walking the cobblestone streets, but you can find quaint shops and restaurants overlooking a phenomenal view of the lake. Take a relaxing stroll to learn about local landmarks, such as Chiesa Sant’ Andrea Apostolo, or hike the trails through the hills of Brunate.
Como Cathedral: Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the building’s construction began in 1396 under the supervision of Lorenzo degli Spazzi di Laino, but the Gothic-Renaissance architecture was modified by multiple successors and was not complete until 1770. The Como Cathedral is considered one of the most important structures in the Lombardy region and can be found in the city’s piazza.
+ Favorite eats & drinks
Bar Delle Terme: Despite the fact that Bar Delle Terme is a part of the Albergo Terminus Hotel, locals and visitors alike gravitate towards this small restaurant & bar’s lakeside views, jasmine filled patio, and unique decor. While this a great spot for friends and family to gather over happy hour, I highly recommend ordering some authentic Italian food to go with your drink. The vegetable soup may be listed as an appetizer, but trust me, it’s big enough as an entrée dish all on its own. In addition to the soup, the plates of pasta are to die for, specifically the Penne Arabiata.
Birra Moretti: Originally an Italian brewing company founded in 1859 (later acquired by Heineken), this restaurant & bar is clearly still an Italian staple to this day. The Como location is just a block from the Hotel Metropole Suisse. Not only did this small restaurant & bar have floods of customers coming and going for delicious plates and happy hour Aperol Spritzers, but I’m fairly sure my mother and I were 1 of 2 American families at the entire restaurant. Our favorite plates included a combo pizza composed of artichokes, bell peppers, olives, and sausage in addition to a chicken and spinach dish. Put it on your list of eats & drinks next time you’re visiting Como and tell me what your favorite dish is!
+ To-do activities
Funicolare Como-Brunate: The funicular is 10-minute ride to Brunate (price: 11.50 euro). It’s an easy, fun, and inexpensive way to see Lake Como from above with spectacular views of all the surrounding villages. Once you get to the top, explore Brunate as long as you’d like. The funicular runs every 10 minutes, so there’s no time limit on your experience.
Como Ferry: Want to go on a treasure hunt for George Clooney’s palace along Lake Como? Take the ferry (price: 20 euro). It’s an inexpensive way to see multiple villages, but be warned. The ferry could take hours to get to your destination depending on which village they stop at first and once you arrive at your destination, you have 2 hours to get back to the ferry for pick up. If you’re late, there won’t be another one! Private speedboats are an available alternative, but can exceed 20 euro and may be charged by the hour. That being said, the ferry ride is smooth sailing with sightseeing you can’t get from land.
Como Piazza: Como’s piazza hosts a variety of unique shops, cafes, restaurants, and landmarks, such as the Como Cathedral. Get your steps in and treat yo’ self during your vacation to Como.
All in all, Como is a destination for lounging, accommodated by spurts of adventure. Locals from Milan often access Como for a weekend getaway along with tourists seeking the solitude of the quaint villages surrounding Lake Como. While I was definitely in need of some relaxation, our next destination completely stole my heart. Check out the continuation of Chatt with Chelsea’s s Italian travel guides with “The Nomad’s Guide to Siena, Italy.”
