Porta Torre Como
A striking 12th-century medieval tower guarding Como's historic heart, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and a bustling market.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the lively market.
Porta Torre Como
Best Time
Experience the lively market.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A striking 12th-century medieval tower guarding Como's historic heart, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and a bustling market.
"Beautiful tower but it is not accessible and it seems to be in bad condition."
🎯 Market Day Magic
Visit on Tuesdays or Saturdays for the lively market! Great for unique finds.
🏛️ Admire from Outside
Porta Torre is impressive but not accessible inside. Enjoy its history from the exterior.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Porta Torre Tower
Southern gate of Como's old city walls
Imposing 12th-century medieval tower, a testament to Como's defensive past. Admire its Romanesque architecture.
Weekly Market
Outside Porta Torre
Bustling market on Tuesdays and Saturdays offering everything from vintage clothing to local goods. A true local experience.
Old Town Charm
Surrounding Porta Torre
Explore delightful streets filled with restaurants, shops, and historical buildings. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Market Days at Porta Torre
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Market Day Magic
Visit on Tuesdays or Saturdays for the lively market! Great for unique finds.
🏛️ Admire from Outside
Porta Torre is impressive but not accessible inside. Enjoy its history from the exterior.
🛍️ Shopping Nearby
Explore boutiques like Galaonmars for Italian fashion near Porta Torre.
🚶♀️ Old Town Wander
Wander the charming old town surrounding the tower for shops and restaurants.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Market Day Magic
Visit on Tuesdays or Saturdays for the lively market! Great for unique finds.
🏛️ Admire from Outside
Porta Torre is impressive but not accessible inside. Enjoy its history from the exterior.
🛍️ Shopping Nearby
Explore boutiques like Galaonmars for Italian fashion near Porta Torre.
🚶♀️ Old Town Wander
Wander the charming old town surrounding the tower for shops and restaurants.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Porta Torre to be an impressive historical monument, a key landmark in Como's old town. While the tower itself isn't accessible, its imposing presence and Romanesque architecture are appreciated. The surrounding area, especially the vibrant weekly market, is a major draw, offering a lively atmosphere and unique shopping opportunities.
"Absolutely love Como. This was our second of many more visits to come. Make sure to schedule time visit the Saturday market outside the wall. Otherwise the old town is delightful to walk and explore."
Cliff Hope
"Beautiful tower but it is not accessible and it seems to be in bad condition. Would be much better if there was a sign explaining the history."
Wayne Kruse
"Porta Torre, also known as Torre di Porta Vittoria, is an imposing 34-meter-high fortress built in 1192 at the initiative of Mayor Uberto de' Olevano. It was constructed to defend the main entrance to the city of Como."
Dr. Hani Hossni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Porta Torre is conveniently located in the historic center of Como, easily accessible on foot from the city center and train stations like Como Borghi.
Yes, it's in a strategic position served by main transport links, making it easy to reach via bus or train.
While the area is central, parking might be challenging. It's best to park in designated city garages and walk.
Walking is the best way to explore the old town and its surroundings, allowing you to discover hidden gems.
Absolutely! It's a great landmark to begin your exploration of Como's historic center and its many attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Porta Torre is a historical monument visible from the outside. There's no entry fee to view the tower itself.
As an outdoor monument, Porta Torre can be viewed at any time. The surrounding shops and restaurants have their own operating hours.
Unfortunately, Porta Torre is not accessible for interior visits. It's best appreciated from the outside.
While there might not be specific tours for Porta Torre itself, many general Como city tours will include it as a point of interest.
No, browsing the market is free. You only pay for any items you choose to purchase.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the weekly market, wander through the charming old town, dine at local restaurants, and visit nearby historical sites like the Duomo.
Yes, the tower itself is a striking medieval structure, and the surrounding old town offers many picturesque spots for photography.
You'll find a variety of shops, including boutiques with Made in Italy clothing, vintage stores, and local artisan shops.
Occasionally, health initiatives like blood pressure checks are offered in the piazza as part of public health campaigns.
Built in 1192, it was a crucial defensive fortress for the city of Como, part of its medieval fortifications.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The area around Porta Torre is brimming with restaurants and cafes offering local Italian cuisine.
Yes, many bars and cafes in the old town offer aperitivo, a perfect way to enjoy the evening atmosphere.
Expect delicious pasta dishes, fresh lake fish, and regional Lombard specialties.
Look for local trattorias or pizzerias for more affordable and authentic dining experiences.
While Italian is dominant, you might find some international options in the more tourist-frequented areas of the old town.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the imposing facade of the tower from different angles, and don't miss the charming streets and market scenes nearby.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful dramatic effects on the medieval architecture.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be mindful of private businesses and respect local customs.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full tower and surrounding architecture, while a standard lens works for street scenes.
Drone usage is often restricted in historic city centers. Check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for carousels or other small amusements that sometimes pop up in the piazzas, which can be a hit with younger visitors. Many restaurants in the area are family-friendly, offering simple pasta or pizza options that kids usually enjoy.
🛍️ Budget Travelers
For dining, seek out local pizzerias or trattorias away from the main tourist thoroughfares for more economical meals. Enjoying a picnic with items bought from local markets or bakeries is also a great way to save money while experiencing Como.
🏛️ History Buffs
While you can't enter, learning about its construction and strategic importance adds depth to your visit. Consider joining a general city tour that often highlights Porta Torre and other historical landmarks in the old town.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Porta Torre
The tower's design reflects its military purpose. The outer side presents a solid, fortified appearance, built to withstand attacks. In contrast, the inner side features elegant arched openings, hinting at the presence of wooden floors that once existed within the structure. This duality in its design speaks to the architectural ingenuity of the period, balancing defensive needs with internal functionality.
While Porta Torre is a captivating piece of history, it's important to note that it is not accessible for interior visits. Visitors can admire its grandeur and historical significance from the exterior, appreciating its role in shaping the city's past. Its presence continues to be a focal point for those interested in medieval history and architecture in Como.
Experiencing the Porta Torre Market
Travelers often rave about the market's atmosphere and the potential for unique finds. It's a place where you can hunt for treasures, from designer pieces to everyday necessities, all in a bustling, friendly environment. The market is a testament to the enduring community spirit of Como and a highlight for many visitors.
To make the most of your market visit, arrive early to get the best selection and enjoy the lively ambiance before the peak crowds. It's an excellent way to experience the authentic side of Como beyond the typical tourist attractions.
Shopping and Dining Around Porta Torre
Beyond shopping, the old town surrounding Porta Torre is dotted with numerous restaurants and cafes. These establishments serve up delicious local Italian cuisine, from classic pasta dishes to regional specialties. It's the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring, enjoy a leisurely meal, or savor an evening aperitivo while soaking in the historic ambiance.
For those seeking a more local experience, exploring the smaller trattorias and pizzerias can offer authentic flavors at reasonable prices. The combination of shopping and dining makes the Porta Torre area a well-rounded destination for visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit