Brunate is a serene hilltop comune in the Province of Como, overlooking Lake Como from approximately 500 meters above the city. Located about 50 kilometers northeast of Milan, this small town swells with visitors during the summer months. It offers a peaceful retreat with historical significance, including the Faro Voltiano lighthouse dedicated to Alessandro Volta. Accessible via a scenic funicular or winding road from Como, it serves as an ideal base for travelers seeking elevated views and tranquility away from the lakeshore bustle.
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Stay in the San Maurizio district to be near the iconic Faro Voltiano lighthouse. This area offers panoramic views of Lake Como and a quieter atmosphere. Accommodations often consist of rented apartments or villas, particularly popular in summer. Booking well in advance is recommended due to high seasonal demand.
Brunate is connected to Como city by a steep, winding road and a funicular railway. The funicular is the most convenient transport option for hotel guests, avoiding the challenges of driving on narrow mountain roads. It provides easy access from Como's main stations and docks, making it ideal for travelers without a car.
Summer is the peak season for visiting Brunate. While the permanent population is around 1,800, the town becomes significantly more populated as tourists rent holiday homes. The higher altitude offers cooler temperatures compared to the lakeshore. Travelers should expect a lively atmosphere and book accommodations early to secure preferred lodging.
master cathedral in Como
Rationalist building located in Como, nowadays seat of the Guardia di Finanza provincial command
football stadium
church building in Como, Italy
museum devoted to Alessandro Volta's studies in Como
art collection of Paolo Giovio existed in Como
church building in Como, Italy
tower in city walls of Como
iron sculpture designed by Daniel Libeskind on Lake Como, Italy
museum in Como, Italy
civic opera house in Como, Italy
castle in Como
While this restaurant’s recent move has brought a new setting and a change of address, it continues to serve cuisine which is a fusion of Italian, Asian and other influences, with a menu featuring plenty of vegetables, spices and aromatic herbs used by the chef to create dishes full of concentrated flavours. If you enjoy innovative and original combinations, this is the restaurant for you as many of the dishes on the menu (including the desserts) offer something different, including recipes with more challenging and acidic and bitter flavours. Our inspector particularly enjoyed the pickled whi
WebsiteSituated near the lake at the entrance to a narrow street dotted with various shops, this small contemporary-style restaurant boasts an equally tiny outdoor space for summer dining and is run with skill and professionalism by a young couple. The friendly, welcoming wife oversees the front of house, while her husband creates dishes full of character in the kitchen.
WebsiteTucked among the picturesque streets of Cernobbio, this modern, inviting bistro blends retro charm with contemporary furnishings and personalized touches. At the entrance, a cozy lounge with a bar counter beckons guests to linger over aperitifs and signature cocktails, while in summer the outdoor terrace offers moments of pleasure amid the lake breeze. In the kitchen, a young, dynamic team reinterprets Mediterranean flavors through contemporary recipes that are both authentic and aromatic. Not to be missed: “Pappa e Gambero,” crusted shrimp atop tomato and basil pappa, and “Tagliolino ai tre p
WebsiteIn summer, the terrace by the lake offers a splendid view and is the perfect setting for dishes that highlight Italian tradition but also satisfy the most cosmopolitan palates. The foie gras escalope served with parsnips, apple compote and pink grapefruit, for example, is excellent. If the weather's not so great, you'll be just as comfortable in the elegant indoor dining room overlooking the lake (the most popular) or the garden. The evening dress code is elegant (we are, after all, inside the luxurious Villa d'Este hotel).
WebsiteThis small, welcoming restaurant with a hint of minimalism and just a few tables serves personalised meat and fish dishes which aim to offer something a little different, with a choice of three tasting menus and an à la carte. Having previously gained experience outside the area, the young family team from Campania runs the restaurant with enthusiasm and a real love for the region’s cuisine.
WebsiteThis long-established family-run restaurant (opened in 1926) with an updated contemporary decor continues to serve cuisine that is classic and generous in style yet adapted to modern tastes. Individual dishes take pride of place on the menu at lunchtime, although you can also order from the À la carte if you wish. There’s also an outdoor space for summer dining.
WebsiteSituated a few metres from the lake in the centre of the village, this welcoming and long-established family restaurant boasts a dining room that transforms into a veranda with outdoor dining in summer. The cuisine here is traditional, with generous portions of fish from the lake and sea.
WebsiteItalian
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