Graciela was outstanding. We especially appreciated her genuine passion in addition to her wonderful explanations. Personable, warm, knowledgeable and approachable, she was a perfect guide who made history come alive!
Sites & Insights: Como City Tour
Connect Como’s Roman roots and lakefront elegance
The Finer Details
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.
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.
Choose this tour if…
- 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.
Sites Visited
- Como City Center
- Como Cathedral
- Lakefront
Logistics
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Accessibility
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.
Cancellation Policy
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Meet the Experts
Where You’ll Go
From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.
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Cathedral of Como
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Como Historic District
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
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English-speaking expert guideTours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
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Intentionally sized groupsA smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
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Tickets and entrance feesAll entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
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HeadsetsHeadsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Not Included
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Food and drinkUnless booking a Food & Drink tour or tasting experience, refreshments are not included.
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Transportation to and from the meeting pointUnless noted, pre- and post-tour transport isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
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GratuitiesTips aren’t included, but we encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
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Hotel pickup or drop-offUnless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Make the Most of Your Tour
Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.
Dos:
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Check the weather and dress appropriately
- Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
- Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
- Bring firearms or weapons
- Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
- Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always
contact us.
Don’t just take our word for it
Giuseppina Is warm, personable, engaging and very knowledgeable. The tour was like spending 2.5 hours with a good friend who happens to have great insight and knowledge of Como and the surrounding area. Truly a five start tour.
Giusi was a wonderful guide, super easy going and accommodating. She grew up in Como and knows the area like the back of her hand. I would definitely book her again!
Book a Tour
Let Your Curiosity Shape Your Journey
Join passionate experts on intimate walking tours that reveal a city’s unique stories, spark conversations, and leave you seeing the world—and yourself—a little differently.
Structured, never scripted
Your interests guide your Expert, leading to stories and perspectives that matter to you.
Crafted for conversation
With 12 or fewer guests, ask questions, engage with your Expert, and fully immerse yourself.
Experts, not guides
Explore with 1,200+ Experts—from historians and architects to archaeologists and chefs.
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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.