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Sites and Insights: Lake Como Welcome Tour starting from Como

Soak in the lively atmosphere of the beautiful lakeside city
From US$416 privately
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Tour Details
Duration
2.5 hours
Product Type
Tour
Venues
  • Cathedral of Como
  • Como Historic District
Photos & Highlights
  • Learn about the history and the traditions of the charming city of Como
  • Led by a local historian or art historian
Tour Description
You might have heard of Como as the “Pearl of Lombardy”, or as a cozy little town on the Lake, or because a high-profile celebrity fell in love with it and turned it into an elite vacation destination. 

The truth is, that people have been drawn to Como's tranquil streets and magnificent lakeside views for centuries. Founded in its current location by none other than Julius Caesar himself, Como quickly grew into one of the region's largest strategic and commercial centers and has remained so ever since.

Explore the quiet charm of this lovely and historically rich city like a true local: wander along the narrow streets of Como's old city center while savoring a refreshing ice cream cone or after a classic Italian breakfast of coffee and pastries, and take in the breathtaking views of the Lake. During this 2.5 tour starting from Como, our local expert will provide you with an insider perspective on the history, culture, and architecture of this fascinating city. 

You’ll pop into Como Cathedral, Italy's last Gothic cathedral, to discuss its construction and styling. You’ll discover more hidden corners and Medieval stories when you'll see some of the original fortification walls, and you will stop at the lovely Piazza Volta - named in honor of the Como-born Alessandro Volta, the battery inventor.

For guests staying in Milan, see our Half-Day Lake Como Day Trip from Milan.

Experts
Laura Laura
Art Historian
Giuseppina
Local Guide
Luisa Luisa
Art Historian
Tiziana Tiziana
Art Historian
Katerina Katerina
Local Guide
  • You are spending a few days in Como and you want to discover how the city developed over generations alongside the lake
  • You have heard of Como in the past but you don’t understand the hype, and you want to know more about the city's history and cultural importance
  • You want a taste of the local vibe and flavors, feel like a native, and sip a coffee or enjoy gelato on the go.
  • Como City Center
  • Como Cathedral
  • Lakefront

Transportation

Can I be picked up from my hotel?
You will meet your guide in a central location in the Como City Center, easily reachable via private car, taxi, or public transportation, but we cannot meet you at your hotel due to the itinerary of this tour and the logistics of the area. 

Additional Trip-Planning Resources

  • For more information on planning your travels to Milan and Como, take a read through our Context Stories.
  • If you are looking to learn more about Milan and Como prior to a visit, check out our online lectures at Context Learning.

Does this tour include other towns besides Como? Can we go to Bellagio? 
No, this tour does not include any other cities other than Como such as Bellagio or others. This is a tour of the City Center and Downtown area of Como.

Can we stay longer in Como after the tour? 
Yes, this tour is designed for clients that are staying in the Como area so the expert will meet you there and will leave you to enjoy the rest of their day in Como after the tour. 

Can we take the Funicolare? 
We cannot assure this in advance. Crowds and lines can be extremely long in Como during the Summer and the weekends. This tour is a walking tour of the downtown area, and the Funicolare will be added if the lines permit it and you are interested. You are more than welcome to go on your own after or before the tour.

Our hotel is in Milan, can we add transportation to/from Milan?
For guests staying in Milan, we have a dedicated itinerary that includes transportation to/from Como. Please check out our Half-Day Lake Como Day Trip from Milan.
We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.

Is this tour wheelchair-friendly?
This tour is primarily a walking tour and involves a lot of walking and the city center of Como presents mostly cobblestones and uneven sidewalks. Parts of it are accessible to wheelchair users and it can be adapted by the guide. 
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Where You'll Start

Discover the Beauty and Culture of Lake Como: An Immersive Welcome Tour from Como

Experience the stunning landscapes and rich history of Northern Italy with our Lake Como Tour, starting from the charming town of Como. This guided tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the region, blending breathtaking sights with deep cultural insights. As you explore the picturesque lakeside villages and historic landmarks, our local expert will share the stories and traditions that have shaped Lake Como into the iconic destination it is today.

Before you embark on your journey, explore our blog for tips on what to do in Milan during a 3-day visit, including a feature on Lake Como. For a deeper understanding of Milanese culture, consider watching our lecture on Italian opera, enriching your experience even before you arrive. To make the most of your time in Como, our audio guide offers a perfect introduction to the area, from the old town to the scenic lakefront.

This Lake Como Tour is more than just a visit—it's an immersive experience that connects you with the heart and soul of the region. Book your tour today and start your adventure in one of Italy’s most enchanting landscapes.