COMO
How to chill out in Como, Italy’s tranquil city by the lake.
Hotel: Palazzo Albricci Pellegrini
Ever get homesick when you travel? Don’t worry, you’ll feel right at home at the cosy yet chic Palazzo Albricci Pellegrini. The owners, Maximiliano and Lidia, are eternally curious travellers in love with life and hospitality. Stay right in the heart of Como and enjoy reading your favourite books by the lake.
Attraction: Villa del Balbaniello
Villa del Balbaniello is located on the shore of Lake Como, not far from the cute Isola Comacina. A monastery until 1787, it was then turned into a villa and a loggia was added to provide two different panoramas across the lake. It’s well known for featuring in various movies, such as A Month by the Lake, Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones (notably the scene where Anakin digs deep and reveals that he, quote, “doesn’t like sand, its coarse“), and Casino Royale.
Park: Parco Spina Verde di Como
The best of both worlds, Parco Spina Verde di Como borders on its northern side with Switzerland and it takes its name from the elevated ridge upon which it stretches. The park is expansive and houses natural springs, ancient villages and wild boar. Time to go exploring.
Restaurant: Feel Como
Feel Como is proud to has its own feel-osophy. Chef Federico (born and bred in Milan), Sommelier Elisa and the small team serve up delicious modern cuisine. Eat fresh and local (right from the mountains and the nearby lake) and enjoy some amazing touches with a dreamy interior design.
Bookstore: Libreria Plinio il Vecchio
The place to visit if you are an #archilover, a photography-aficionado, or just plain artsy! The Plinio il Vecchio bookshop has a choice of best international titles, and even a huge selection of travel, cooking, gardening and illustrated books. If you are lucky, while in Como, don’t miss their unique exhibitions of works of graphics and photography.
Café: Babi Como
In need of colours and emotions while travelling? Then head to Babi Como and you will be surrounded by an explosion of vibrancy…and a highly delicious brunch.
Church: Basilica Cattedrale di Como
Como Cathedral is the Roman Catholic cathedral of Como and it is commonly described at the last gothic cathedral build in the city. Its imposing west front was built between 1457 and 1498. Don’t miss the rose window.
Live Venue: L’officina della Musica
L’officina della Musica, which translates to The Music Workshop, goes beyond your usual venue. It offers a variety of cultural events, such as photography exhibitions and workshops of various kinds. The night out offered here perfectly matches Como’s chilled out vibe.
Piazza: Piazza Cavour
Piazza Cavour famously looks like a fairy tale during the Christmas period, with mulled wine, markets, ice skating rinks and more. But fear not, this is a beautiful part of Como to visit all year round. Jogging trails, scenic views of the lake, colourful homes, pretty buildings, cafes, cool bars and restaurants are all on offer here.
