Discover Brunate: Funicular, Lighthouse, and Local Food

Nestled above Lake Como, Brunate offers visitors a blend of scenic views, historical landmarks, and delightful dining experiences.

Ride the Historic Funicular

The journey begins in Como, where a funicular railway, operational since 1894, transports passengers to Brunate in about seven minutes. This steep ascent provides panoramic vistas of Lake Como and the surrounding Alps. Tickets cost approximately €5.70 for a round trip.
See more on www.funicolarecomo.it

Enjoy Brunate

If you prefer to soak in the stunning views without too much walking, staying in Brunate is a fantastic option. Since Brunate is high above Lake Como, this charming village offers breathtaking panoramas from almost everywhere. Many accommodations, like Hotel Paradiso sul Lago and Locanda Milano 1873, provide spectacular lake views from the comfort of your room or balcony.
You can also relax with a coffee or aperitivo at Capolinea Bistrot or Ristorante Bellavista, both of which offer incredible lookout points over the lake and surrounding mountains.
With the funicular railway making it easy to reach Como in just a few minutes, Brunate offers the perfect mix of relaxation and accessibility, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy the views without long hikes.

This picture is taken from the streets of Brunate

Try the Local Cuisine

Brunate boasts several eateries that cater to diverse palates. Here are some notable options:

Trattoria Dei Bracconieri
4.0 Stars from Google Maps.
Known for its homemade pasta and stunning views, this family-style restaurant offers traditional Italian dishes in a charming setting.
Take a look at other reviews on Tripadvisor.com
Pizzeria Osteria Il Faro
4.5 Stars from Google Maps.
A cozy spot specializing in wood-fired pizzas and classic Italian fare, popular among both locals and tourists.
See more reviews on Tripadvisor.com
Capolinea Bistrot Brunate
4.0 Stars from Google Maps.
A charming bistro known for its friendly service and delightful Italian dishes.

It is always a good idea to call in advance and reserve a table, especially in the summer where Brunate tend to be quite busy. Even out of season its a good idea to check for example google maps for the opening hours of the Trattoria or Restaurants since some of them can be closed for months out of season.

Plan Your Visit

Brunate is accessible via the funicular from Como, Car or Bus. But the best experience you will have using the funicular or tram located a short walk from the Como Lago train station. The village offers a range of walking trails, historical sites, and dining options, making it a perfect day-trip destination.

For a visual glimpse of the funicular ride and the walk to the lighthouse, check out this video:

Experience the charm of Brunate, where history, nature, and Italian hospitality converge to create an unforgettable visit.

Why It’s Worth the Effort to Reach the Volta Lighthouse

Reaching Faro Voltiano, or the Volta Lighthouse, in Brunate requires a bit of effort, but the reward is well worth it. The walk from the funicular station takes about 30 minutes, leading you through charming streets and peaceful forested paths. While the route has some uphill sections, the journey itself is a beautiful experience, offering stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding Alps along the way.

Once you arrive at the lighthouse, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking 360-degree panorama. Standing 29 meters high, the lighthouse offers a bird’s-eye view of Lake Como, the Swiss Alps, and even Milan on a clear day. Climbing the spiral staircase inside the lighthouse adds to the adventure, as each level provides an even more impressive perspective of the landscape.

Beyond the views, the historical significance of the lighthouse makes the visit even more special. Built in 1927 to honor Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery, the lighthouse stands as a tribute to one of Italy’s greatest scientific minds.

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the busier towns around Lake Como, the lighthouse offers a serene and scenic retreat. Pack some snacks, take your time enjoying the breathtaking views, and make the most of this hidden gem above Lake Como.

If you end up getting hungry at the lighthouse Ristorante Osteria Acqua Ciara is worth a visit, if the weather is nice, the view from their terrace is amazing.
If the weather is less nice and you prefer to stay inside and want to try some local mountain food, try La Polenteria. They serve great food at fair prices.