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Brunate Lake Como

4.6
·491k reviews·Brunate, Italy

Brunate, the 'Balcony of the Alps,' offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como accessible via a scenic funicular ride from Como.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Clear skies, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Brunate - Image 1

Brunate Lake Como

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Clear skies, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Brunate, the 'Balcony of the Alps,' offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como accessible via a scenic funicular ride from Como.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The funicular ride from Como to Brunate offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Funicular Tickets

Consider buying tickets online in advance to save time, especially during busy periods.

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Essential for exploring the village and any hiking trails.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Brunate Funicular Ride

Brunate Funicular Ride

Como to Brunate

Ascend to Brunate via a scenic funicular for unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Como.

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Faro Voltiano (Volta Lighthouse)

Faro Voltiano (Volta Lighthouse)

Brunate summit

Climb this iconic lighthouse for an even higher vantage point over the stunning landscape.

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Monte Boletto Trail

Monte Boletto Trail

From Brunate

Hike peaceful forest paths for a different perspective and opportunities for foraging.

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Planning Your Visit

Funicular Fun: Your Gateway to Brunate

The primary way to reach Brunate is via the funicular from Como. Book tickets in advance if possible, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues. The ride itself offers stunning views, so have your camera ready! Instagram+1

Embrace the Views: What to Expect

Brunate is known as the 'Balcony of the Alps' for a reason! Prepare for breathtaking panoramic vistas of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. Comfortable walking shoes are a must if you plan to explore beyond the main village. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Take the funicular from Como to Brunate and enjoy a couple of hours’ walk to Monte Boletto, to see Lake Como from another point of view ✨🇮🇹 #travel #traveltips #italy #europe #italian #italia #lakecomo #lagodicomo #hiking #hikingineurope #hikingadventures
sofiaferrabue
84 likes • 4.9K views

🎟️ Funicular Tickets

Consider buying tickets online in advance to save time, especially during busy periods. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Essential for exploring the village and any hiking trails. Instagram

Go up to Brunate with a cable car and admire the whole city and Lake Como from the top 🇮🇹 ❤️ #radwahussien #therenaissancepolymath #egypt #italy #palestine #dubai #ksa #como #view #enjoy #fun #moments #shots #goodday #saturday #alive #grateful #cablecar #ride #beauty #friends #positivevibes #loveisintheair #رضوى_حسين #مصر #ايطاليا #دبي #فلسطين #السعودية #صباح_الخير
the_renaissance_polymath
23 likes • 1.8K views
Best Places for Foraging Walks Around Lake Como Brunate & Monte Boletto – Just above Como, this scenic trail offers a mix of nettles, wild garlic, and dandelion greens along peaceful forest paths. Val d’Intelvi – A valley between Lake Como and Lake Lugano, known for its rich biodiversity and edible wild thyme, oregano, and fennel. Monte Bisbino – Overlooking Cernobbio, this high-altitude trail ...
lakecomokitchen
18 likes • 358 views

📸 Camera Ready!

The panoramic views are incredible; don't miss capturing them. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Village

Hike to Monte Boletto for more serene views and nature. Instagram

🎥 3 Days on Lake Como — Save this itinerary! 📍 Day 1 — Como & Bellagio 🌊 Como: walk along the lakeside and visit the Duomo 🚡 Brunate: panoramic views from the funicular 🌿 Villa Olmo: gardens and lakefront views 🏞️ Bellagio: Salita Serbelloni, Punta Spartivento and the charming old town 📍 Day 2 — Varenna & The Villas 🌸 Varenna: romantic lakeside promenade (Passeggiata degli Innamorati) 🏛️ Villa...
gmarcod91
11K likes • 212.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Funicular Tickets

Consider buying tickets online in advance to save time, especially during busy periods. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Essential for exploring the village and any hiking trails. Instagram

📸 Camera Ready!

The panoramic views are incredible; don't miss capturing them. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Village

Hike to Monte Boletto for more serene views and nature. Instagram

🍽️ Dining with a View

Enjoy local cuisine at restaurants like MamaGina for an unforgettable experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como from Brunate, easily accessible via the scenic funicular. The charming village and the iconic lighthouse are also highlights, offering a delightful escape with stunning vistas. Some find the village itself a bit small, and crowds can be significant during peak times.

What People Like

Spectacular lake views
Scenic funicular ride
Iconic lighthouse

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Village is small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular and scenic way to reach Brunate from Como is by taking the funicular. The Como-Brunate funicular station is easily accessible in Como. The ride offers spectacular views as you ascend. Instagram+1

Yes, the funicular is often referred to as a cable car and it's the primary mode of transport connecting Como to Brunate. Instagram+1

While often used interchangeably, the Como-Brunate transport is technically a funicular, a type of cable railway that runs on inclined tracks. Instagram

There are stairs from Como to Brunate, but it's a very strenuous climb. The funicular is highly recommended for most visitors. Reddit

The funicular ride itself is quite short, typically lasting around 7-10 minutes, offering continuous stunning views. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The funicular price can vary, but it's generally an affordable way to get to Brunate. It's advisable to check the official website or local ticket offices for the most current funicular como brunate price. TikTok

Tickets for the funicular can be purchased at the station in Como. Buying in advance online might be an option during peak seasons to avoid queues. Instagram

Brunate village and its viewpoints are generally free to access. Any costs would be for specific attractions like the lighthouse if there's a climbing fee. Instagram

Operating hours can change seasonally. It's best to check the official schedule for the funicular como brunate to ensure you have the latest information. Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking the funicular in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons to secure your spot and avoid potentially long wait times. Instagram

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

Must-do activities include riding the funicular for panoramic views, visiting the Faro Voltiano (Volta Lighthouse), and exploring trails like the one to Monte Boletto for more scenic vistas and foraging opportunities. Instagram+1

Brunate is famously known as the 'Balcony of the Alps' due to its spectacular panoramic views over Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. Instagram

Yes, Brunate is a great starting point for hikes. The trail to Monte Boletto is popular for its scenic beauty and foraging potential. Instagram+1

The viewpoints in Brunate offer expansive, breathtaking vistas of Lake Como, the city of Como, and the distant Alps. It's a truly memorable sight. Instagram+1

While not a single designated 'terrace,' various points and cafes in Brunate offer stunning elevated viewpoints overlooking the lake. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Brunate has several restaurants and cafes, many offering incredible views of Lake Como. MamaGina Brunate is a notable spot for traditional flavors and memorable experiences. Instagram

You can expect traditional Italian cuisine, often with local Lombardy influences. Many establishments focus on fresh ingredients and offer dishes with a view. Instagram

Dining prices can vary, but generally, restaurants with prime views might be slightly more expensive. However, you can find options to suit different budgets. Instagram

Yes, there are typically cafes and eateries located near the funicular station in Brunate, offering convenient options for a quick bite or a meal. Instagram

While not explicitly designated picnic areas, the trails and scenic spots around Brunate offer opportunities for a picnic with a view, especially if you pack your own food. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire funicular ride offers incredible photo opportunities. Once in Brunate, the area around Faro Voltiano and various viewpoints overlooking the lake are prime spots. Instagram+1

Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography. However, clear daytime views provide the best visibility of the lake and surrounding landscape. Instagram

Absolutely! Climbing the Faro Voltiano provides an elevated perspective, allowing for stunning panoramic shots of Lake Como and the Alps. Instagram

Experiment with wide-angle shots to capture the vastness of the lake and mountains. Also, look for opportunities to frame the lake with charming village elements. Instagram

A camera with a good zoom lens is beneficial for capturing distant details, but a smartphone with good low-light capabilities will also capture the beauty effectively. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Brunate is a fantastic destination for families, offering a unique and engaging experience. The funicular ride itself is an adventure for children, providing exciting views as you ascend. Once in Brunate, the open spaces and the chance to explore the village offer plenty of visual stimulation. The Faro Voltiano can be an exciting landmark to visit, though the climb might be challenging for very young children. Instagram+1

Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options might be more limited or pricier than in Como. The trails around Brunate are generally gentle enough for family strolls, allowing kids to enjoy the natural surroundings. It's a great day trip that combines a bit of thrill with beautiful scenery, making it memorable for all ages. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Brunate offers a budget-friendly way to experience stunning Lake Como views. The funicular ticket is a relatively small expense for the incredible vistas it provides. Once in Brunate, many of the best experiences, like enjoying the panoramic viewpoints and exploring the village, are free. Instagram+1

To save money on food, consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots. While there are restaurants, opting for a packed lunch can significantly reduce your expenses. Exploring the hiking trails is also a free and rewarding activity that offers beautiful scenery without additional cost. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Brunate is a photographer's dream, offering spectacular panoramic views that are perfect for capturing the essence of Lake Como. The funicular ride itself provides dynamic shots as the landscape unfolds. Don't miss the Faro Voltiano for elevated perspectives, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1

Experiment with wide-angle lenses to encompass the vastness of the lake and mountains, or use a zoom to focus on charming details of the villages below. The interplay of light on the water and the dramatic mountain backdrops creates endless photographic possibilities. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Brunate Funicular

The Brunate funicular is more than just transportation; it's an experience that sets the tone for your visit. This historic cable railway connects the city of Como directly to the hilltop village of Brunate, offering a swift and scenic ascent. As you climb, the charming streets of Como recede, replaced by increasingly breathtaking panoramas of Lake Como and the surrounding Alps. The journey itself is a highlight, with many visitors noting the spectacular views as a key part of their trip. Instagram+1

Opened in 1894, the funicular has been a beloved way for locals and tourists alike to access Brunate's elevated beauty. The ride is relatively short, typically lasting under 10 minutes, but it packs a visual punch. It's a fantastic way to get a sense of the scale and grandeur of Lake Como without strenuous effort. For those looking to maximize their experience, consider the timing of your ride to coincide with the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for truly magical photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

When planning your trip, it's wise to check the operating hours and consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid potential queues. The funicular station in Como is conveniently located, making it an easy addition to any Lake Como itinerary. Instagram

Exploring Brunate's Panoramic Vistas

Brunate truly lives up to its nickname, the 'Balcony of the Alps,' offering unparalleled panoramic views that stretch across Lake Como and into the distant mountain ranges. The village itself is perched high above the lake, providing a unique vantage point that captivates visitors. From various points in Brunate, you can gaze down at the shimmering waters, the colorful towns dotting the shoreline, and the majestic peaks that frame the landscape. Instagram+1

A must-visit for an even higher perspective is the Faro Voltiano (Volta Lighthouse). This iconic structure, dedicated to Alessandro Volta, offers a climbable ascent that rewards visitors with an even more expansive and breathtaking vista. It's a perfect spot to truly appreciate the grandeur of the region and capture some of the most memorable photos of your trip. Instagram

Beyond the main viewpoints, Brunate also serves as a gateway to further exploration. Trails like the one leading to Monte Boletto offer a chance to immerse yourself in nature, with opportunities for gentle hikes and even foraging for wild edibles, as noted by some local enthusiasts. These paths provide a more serene experience, away from the immediate village bustle, while still offering stunning glimpses of the surrounding beauty. Instagram+1

Hiking and Nature in Brunate

For those who love to stretch their legs and connect with nature, Brunate offers delightful opportunities for hiking and exploring scenic trails. The village is a fantastic starting point for walks that lead you through peaceful forests and offer different perspectives of the Lake Como landscape. The trail to Monte Boletto is particularly recommended, providing a rewarding experience for walkers. Instagram

These trails are not just about the views; they also offer a chance to discover the local flora and fauna. Some visitors have noted the presence of edible plants like nettles, wild garlic, and dandelion greens along these paths, making it an interesting spot for those interested in foraging walks. It’s a great way to experience the natural bounty of the region. Instagram

When embarking on these hikes, it's always advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for varying terrain. While the trails are generally accessible, carrying water and checking weather conditions beforehand will ensure a more enjoyable and safe exploration of Brunate's natural surroundings. Instagram

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