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Nestled High Above Lake Como, a Rustic Italian Village Presents Breathtaking Scenery All Around

Ascend the funicular to the village of Brunate, a place where a lighthouse emits red, white, and green light signals at night as a symbol of Italian pride.

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Picturesque Italian Village Overlooking Lake Como, Encircled by Breathtaking Landscapes
Picturesque Italian Village Overlooking Lake Como, Encircled by Breathtaking Landscapes

Nestled High Above Lake Como, a Rustic Italian Village Presents Breathtaking Scenery All Around

Nestled high above Lake Como in Lombardy, Italy, the picturesque village of Brunate offers breathtaking panoramic views and a charming authentic atmosphere. This day trip itinerary will guide you through a day of scenic views, historical charm, and local dining, all while exploring the nearby towns for a full Lake Como experience.

Morning: Lake Como and Como City

Start your day by exploring Como’s lakeside promenade or taking a private boat tour on Lake Como. The historic funicular from Como will then take you up to Brunate in just 7 minutes, with round-trip fare around $8.40[1].

Lunch in Brunate

Once in Brunate, enjoy lunch at Ristorante Bellavista, a restaurant near the funicular that has been serving meals with scenic views for over a century[1].

Afternoon: Brunate Village and the Lighthouse

After lunch, stroll through Brunate’s peaceful village lanes and hike up to the lighthouse (Faro Voltiano). Pause at panoramic lookout points such as Belvedere of via Pirotta, Piazza Bonacosa, and Via Pissarottino for different beautiful perspectives of the surroundings[1]. The lighthouse, built in 1927, stands 95 feet tall and offers expansive views of Lake Como, Mount Viso, the Mount Rose massif, and the Swiss Alps[1].

Evening: Sunset Drinks and Descent to Como

Finish your visit with sunset drinks before descending back to Como to enjoy its illuminated lakeside atmosphere[1].

  • Ride the funicular from Como
  • Lunch at Ristorante Bellavista
  • Walk village lanes and visit the lighthouse
  • Enjoy sunset views with drinks

Suggested Packing

  • Walking shoes
  • Camera
  • Sunscreen
  • A light jacket for cooler evenings

Authentic Lake Como Experience: Nearby Towns

For an authentic Lake Como experience, visiting nearby towns is ideal:

| Town | Highlights | Suggested Time | |----------|-------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------| | Como | Rich historic city center, Como Cathedral, shopping | Morning or late afternoon | | Bellagio | Quaint cobblestone streets, lakeside promenade, terraces | 2-3 hours for exploration | | Varenna| Picturesque village on the east side of the lake, lakeside walks | Half to full day | | Menaggio| Charming lakeside town with waterfront cafes and promenade | Optional stop |

Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” is especially recommended, offering classic charm, shops, and the lakeside ambiance on a stroll[2]. Menaggio and Varenna also offer authentic small-town experiences along the lake[2].

If starting from Milan, guided tours are available that include funicular rides, walks through surrounding mountain paths, local food lunches, and scenic boat rides on the lake, covering visits to Brunate and other picturesque nearby villages like Torno[3].

Best Timing

Late spring to early fall is the best time to visit Brunate, as the streets and trails are free from snow, and the sun is shining[1]. Arriving early helps avoid crowds on the funicular, especially on summer weekends[1].

This itinerary balances scenic views, historical charm, authentic local dining, and nearby towns for a full Lake Como experience within one day. During summer, the area becomes more energetic and attracts many visitors. Travelers typically arrive at Milan Malpensa or Linate airports and take a train to Como San Giovanni or Como Lago. From Como Lago station, it's a 6-minute walk to the funicular station at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi[1].

To reach the lighthouse, visitors must take a 30-minute uphill walk from the Brunate funicular stop and climb 143 steps to the circular balconies[1]. We hope you enjoy your day trip to Brunate, Italy, and the surrounding Lake Como region!

[1] Source [2] Source [3] Source

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