Como–Brunate Funicular
Funicolare Como-Brunate
A century-old funicular opened in 1894 that climbs to the “Balcony of the Alps” in seven minutes, with views over Como and the lake.
The Como–Brunate funicular departs from Piazza de Gasperi on the lakeshore and climbs about 500 m in around seven minutes to Brunate, a small village at 715 m known as the “Balcony of the Alps.” On clear days you can see the city of Como, the southern tip of the lake, and, further off, the plains toward Milan and the Monte Rosa snow peaks. Once you are up, stroll the paths: the village has Art Nouveau villas. Continue on foot for about 20–30 minutes to San Maurizio and climb the Faro Voltiano, a lighthouse commemorating Volta, with 143 steps. It is open on weekends, and entry costs about €2. The views are even wider from the top. Fit walkers can also follow the ridge trail toward Monte Boletto. A return ticket costs about €6–7, with departures every 15–30 minutes. Getting there: from Como Cathedral, the lower station is about a 10-minute walk. Note: queues are long on weekends and summer evenings. Check the last downhill departure carefully, because if you miss it, you will have to walk down, which takes about an hour.
Opening hours
Approx. 06:00–22:30/24:00 (extended on summer weekends; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Como Cathedral
- Life Electric & Diga Foranea
- Como Silk Museum
- Basilica of Sant'Abbondio
- Villa Olmo
- Orrido di Nesso
- Greenway del Lago di Como
- Isola Comacina