Como-Brunate Funicular, for a breathtaking view of the lake

The Como-Brunate funicular is one of the most popular attractions on Lake Como, offering a unique experience to those who wish to explore the natural beauty and picturesque landscapes of the area.

This historic funicular connects the city of Como with the small village of Brunate. The short but intense journey offers a spectacular view of the blue waters of the lake, the surrounding Alps and the green hills of Lombardy.

The history of the funicular

Until the beginning of the 19th century, the village of Brunate could only be reached by a mule track built in 1817, which connected it to Como. Then, in the second half of the century, some narrow and winding carriage roads were built, to connect it to both Como and Tavernerio, thus reducing its isolation.

In 1890, the interest of some holidaymakers and residents of Brunate, including the mayor, led to the creation of a committee to promote the construction of the “Como-Brunate Tramway”. After less than a year of work, on 11 November 1894, the Como-Brunate funicular was inaugurated and opened to the public.

Its construction stimulated tourism in this hilly town, also thanks to the spectacular view of the lake and the city of Como that travellers can still admire along the way.

The route and the view

The Como-Brunate funicular leaves from Piazza A. De Gasperi in Como and arrives at Piazza A. Bonacossa in Brunate, with two stops on request:

• in Como Alta;
• in the hamlet of Carescione, in Brunate.

Halfway along the route is the “Noon Cannon”: installed in 1912 and reactivated in 1990 after a long period of inactivity, it fires a blank shot every day at noon.

Once in Brunate, visitors can explore a village full of attractions in a spectacular natural setting. One of the most popular destinations is the Volta Lighthouse, built to honour Alessandro Volta, from where you can enjoy an incredible 360-degree panoramic view of the entire lake and the surrounding mountains. The Church of Sant’Andrea, one of the town’s historical monuments, is worth a visit, along with the maze of picturesque and quiet streets, ideal for a relaxing stroll.

For nature lovers, Brunate is the ideal starting point for walks and excursions among breathtaking landscapes. Due to its elevated position, Brunate is known as the “balcony of the Alps”, from where, on a clear day, it is possible to see Monte Rosa, the Apennines, and even the skyline of Milan.

Useful information

The Como-Brunate funicular ride takes just seven minutes, offering a quick and scenic ride up to Brunate. All services stop at Carescione upon request.

A single ticket costs €3.60, while a return ticket is € 6.60, with discounts and reductions for children and residents. The service operates every day from 6:00 to 22:30, with regular departures every half hour and more frequent services every quarter of an hour during peak periods.

On Saturdays and during the summer months, the service is extended until midnight, offering an evening option for those who wish to admire the lights of the lake and mountains at sunset or at night.

Article translated by Jasmina Towers

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Curiosities

Parks and Nature

Transport and Mobility

Travel

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