
Isola Comacina
Lake Como's only island, rich in history from Roman times to the Middle Ages, offering scenic walks and a unique cultural experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sagra di San Giovanni festival

Isola Comacina
Best Time
Sagra di San Giovanni festival

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Lake Como's only island, rich in history from Roman times to the Middle Ages, offering scenic walks and a unique cultural experience.
"Glorious!! Beautiful to walk around, take in the views and enjoy a picnic!"

Ferry Access
Take the ferry from Ossuccio for direct access. Check schedules in advance! :ferry:
Entrance Fee
Be aware of the entrance fee; some find it a bit high for what's accessible. :euro:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Archaeological Ruins
Various locations on the island
Explore remnants of Roman and medieval structures, including basilicas and churches, whispering tales of the past.

Sagra di San Giovanni
Isola Comacina
Experience the oldest festival on Lake Como with traditional celebrations and a spectacular fireworks display.

Scenic Walking Paths
Island-wide
Wander through lush greenery, enjoy stunning lake views, and discover hidden coves on this charming island.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Getting to Isola Comacina
Best Time to Visit for Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ferry Access
Take the ferry from Ossuccio for direct access. Check schedules in advance! :ferry:
Entrance Fee
Be aware of the entrance fee; some find it a bit high for what's accessible. :euro:
Fireworks Viewing
Book a boat tour for a unique view of the San Giovanni fireworks! :sparkler:
Picnic Spots
Enjoy a picnic with stunning views; the cafe/restaurant can be pricey. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ferry Access
Take the ferry from Ossuccio for direct access. Check schedules in advance! :ferry:
Entrance Fee
Be aware of the entrance fee; some find it a bit high for what's accessible. :euro:
Fireworks Viewing
Book a boat tour for a unique view of the San Giovanni fireworks! :sparkler:
Picnic Spots
Enjoy a picnic with stunning views; the cafe/restaurant can be pricey. :sandwich:
Historical Exploration
Explore Roman and medieval ruins, though some areas might be restricted. :ancient_ruins:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Isola Comacina is cherished for its unique status as the only island on Lake Como, offering a blend of historical ruins and natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the scenic walks and the charming atmosphere, though some find the entrance fee a bit steep and the on-site dining options overpriced. The island truly shines during special events like the Sagra di San Giovanni.
"The only island of Lake Como. It played an essential role in the military history of the region. Valued for its exceptional nature and splendid views, Isola Comacina is an excellent location for walking and a lovely beach."
COMO LAKE Today
"Lovely islad near Lenno"
Jacek Rzymelka
"The island is beautiful, but in my opinion is €6 entrance per person to much for what you get. The church was closed and the old ruins where not accessible even if information signs where inside. Some parts of the old church are behind iron bars which is a pity."
Hans Van Zundert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Isola Comacina from Como, you'll typically need to take a bus or car to Ossuccio, which is the closest mainland town. From Ossuccio, a short ferry ride will take you to the island. Some boat tours also depart from Como itself, offering a more direct but potentially pricier option.
The most common and recommended way to get to Isola Comacina is by taking the ferry from Ossuccio. This is a scenic and convenient option. Alternatively, private boat tours offer a more exclusive experience.
Yes, ferries operate to Isola Comacina, primarily from Ossuccio. It's advisable to check the ferry schedules in advance, especially outside of peak tourist season.
You can reach the vicinity of Isola Comacina by public transport by taking a bus to Ossuccio. From there, you'll need to catch a ferry to the island.
While not the most common method, the island's unique location has led to mentions of arriving by hydroplane or yacht, offering a luxurious approach to this special destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Isola Comacina. Some visitors have noted that the fee of €6 per person might be considered high for what is offered, especially if certain historical sites are closed or inaccessible.
The island itself is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific attractions like churches or ruins may have their own limited opening times. It's best to check locally or upon arrival.
While not always mandatory for general island access, booking ferry tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events like the Sagra di San Giovanni.
Some visitors have reported that certain ruins or parts of old churches might be behind iron bars or not fully accessible, which can be disappointing.
The entrance fee typically grants access to the island's grounds, allowing you to explore its natural beauty and historical remnants. However, access to specific buildings or guided tours may incur additional costs.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
On Isola Comacina, you can explore ancient archaeological ruins, enjoy scenic walks with beautiful lake views, relax on the small beach, and dine at the island's restaurant. It's a place rich in history and natural beauty.
Absolutely! Isola Comacina is described as beautiful to walk around, offering lovely views and a pleasant environment for exploration. It's a treasure for those who enjoy scenic strolls.
Yes, there is a restaurant on Isola Comacina. However, some visitors note that it can be quite overpriced. Many people opt to bring a picnic to enjoy the island's scenery.
Isola Comacina is an important archaeological site with findings from Roman times to the Middle Ages. You can see the complex of the Romanesque Basilica of S. Eufemia, and remains of other churches.
Yes, Isola Comacina is noted for having a lovely beach, making it a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy the waters of Lake Como.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the island's charm from various vantage points, including the lakeside paths offering stunning views of Lake Como, the ancient ruins, and the picturesque church. The fireworks display is also a popular photographic subject.
You can photograph the archaeological ruins on Isola Comacina, which date back to Roman and medieval times. However, be aware that some areas might have restricted access.
Isola Comacina is highly photogenic, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical architecture, and stunning lake vistas. It's a favorite for capturing the essence of Lake Como.
The golden hours of sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography on Isola Comacina, highlighting the island's textures and the lake's reflections. Midday can be bright but still offers great views.
The Sagra di San Giovanni on June 24th provides a spectacular opportunity to photograph fireworks over the lake, creating dramatic and memorable images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some ruins might have restricted access, the overall experience of exploring a small island, enjoying the lake views, and perhaps a dip at the beach can be delightful for younger visitors. The Sagra di San Giovanni fireworks are a definite highlight for all ages, but be prepared for crowds.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on enjoying the natural beauty and historical ambiance of the island, which are free to experience once you've paid the entry fee. Opting for public transport to Ossuccio and then the ferry is generally more economical than private boat tours.
💖 Couples
For a truly special experience, consider booking a private boat tour that includes a stop at Isola Comacina, or time your visit to witness the magical fireworks during the Sagra di San Giovanni. The island's historical charm adds a unique layer to a romantic getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Isola Comacina's History
Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this past, including the complex of the Romanesque Basilica of S. Eufemia and other church ruins. These archaeological sites offer a tangible connection to the island's layered history, from its early fortifications to its medieval religious significance.
While some historical elements are well-preserved, it's worth noting that accessibility to certain ruins can be limited, with some areas behind barriers. Despite this, the island remains a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts eager to uncover its ancient stories.
Experiencing the Sagra di San Giovanni
A highlight of the Sagra is the spectacular fireworks display over the lake, illuminating the night sky and reflecting on the water. Many visitors choose to experience this magical moment from the water itself, with boat tours offering prime viewing spots.
If you plan to attend the Sagra di San Giovanni, booking accommodations and ferry tickets well in advance is crucial due to the high demand. It's an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit and beauty of Lake Como.
Nature and Recreation on the Island
Visitors can enjoy the island's pleasant walking paths, discovering its scenic spots and tranquil atmosphere. There's also a lovely beach where you can relax and soak in the Mediterranean sun.
While the island offers a peaceful retreat, it's worth noting that dining options are limited to one restaurant, which some find to be on the pricier side. Many visitors opt to bring their own picnics to fully enjoy the natural surroundings without breaking the bank.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit