What to See in Brunate: Best Views, Food & Local Tips (2026)

Whenever friends visit me in Como and ask where to find the best view of the lake, or i talk to tourists down by the lakefront about what to do in Como, I always point them toward the funicular station. But while the 7-minute ride is famous, knowing what to see in Brunate once you reach the top is what actually makes the trip worth it. Known as the ‘Balcony of the Alps,’ this hilltop village is my favorite escape for cooler air, quiet ‘Stile Liberty’ architecture, and authentic mountain food that you just won’t find down in the busy city center.

🚠 How to Reach Brunate: The Funicular Ride

The journey to Brunate is an experience in itself. From the lakeside station in Como, the historic funicular climbs the steep mountainside in just seven minutes. As you ascend, the city of Como shrinks below you, and the expansive blue of the lake opens up—it is easily one of the most photographed commutes in Italy.

💡 Looking for the technical details? For the full 2026 timetable, current ticket prices, and my “secret” tips for skipping the long ticket lines, check out my dedicated guide: How to Take the Como–Brunate Funicular in 2026.

⚠️ Quick March 2026 Note: If you are visiting right now, remember that the funicular is undergoing maintenance until April 1, 2026. During this time, a replacement bus service departs every 30 minutes from Piazza De Gasperi (near the funicular station) and takes you directly to Brunate.

🏞️ What to See in Brunate: My Top 5 Picks

Most travelers take the funicular up, snap one photo, and come right back down. Don’t do that! Take a look at this list of what to see in Brunate. Brunate is known as the “Balcony of the Alps” for a reason, and the best parts of the village are just a short walk away from the station.

1. The Volta Lighthouse (Faro Voltiano)

The iconic landmark of Brunate sits at the very top of the hill in the San Maurizio district. Built in 1927 to honor Alessandro Volta (the inventor of the battery who was born in Como), it is the ultimate destination for hikers.

• The Hike: It’s a 25–30 minute walk uphill from the funicular. The path is paved and leads through charming streets, but it is steep—so wear comfortable walking shoes! Sometimes you can catch a ride in an open-top Jeep that shuttles people to the top for a few Euros, but the service can be hit-or-miss depending on the season.
• The View: On a clear day in 2026, the panorama is unbeatable. You can see the skyscrapers of Milan to the south and the massive, snow-capped Monte Rosa in Switzerland to the north.
• Pro Tip: If the lighthouse is open, climb the spiral staircase. The view gets more impressive with every level until you reach the 360-degree balcony at the top.

2. The “Pissarottino” Viewpoint

If you aren’t in the mood for a long uphill climb, follow the signs for “Pissarottino.” This is an easy, mostly flat 10-minute walk that hugs the side of the mountain. It leads to a natural balcony overlooking the western branch of the lake, giving you a bird’s-eye view of Cernobbio and the famous Villa d’Este. It’s the best “effort-to-reward” ratio in town!

3. Liberty-Style Architecture

As you wander toward the lighthouse, keep your eyes open for the stunning villas lining the streets. Brunate was the “place to be” for wealthy Milanese and Como families in the early 1900s. You’ll see incredible “Stile Liberty” (Italian Art Nouveau) architecture, featuring ornate ironwork and floral frescoes that are incredibly photogenic.

4. The Campari Fountain (Fontana del Campari)

Keep a lookout for this quirky bit of history on Via Roma as you walk toward the lighthouse. This Art Deco fountain was built in the 1930s as a “monumental advertisement” for the famous red bitter. Only three of these original fountains remain in all of Italy! It’s a great spot for a unique photo—and yes, the water is drinkable (though sadly, it’s fresh mountain water and not Campari!).

5. Church of Sant’Andrea Apostolo

Located right in the heart of the village, this church dates back to the 14th century. While it was largely rebuilt in the 1930s, it remains a peaceful sanctuary with beautiful local frescoes and a striking facade. It’s the perfect place to sit for a moment and soak in the quiet mountain atmosphere before heading back down to the busy streets of Como.

They don’t call Brunate the ‘Balcony of the Alps’ for nothing. Watch this quick video of the view from the Volta Lighthouse to see why this is my #1 recommendation for anyone visiting Como in 2026.

🍝 Where to Eat: Authentic Mountain Flavors

Dining in Brunate is a different experience than down by the lake. Up here, the menus shift toward “Cucina di Montagna” meaning hearty portions, local cheeses, and wild boar. Here are my personal favorites that are all open and ready for the 2026 season:

For the “Local Legend” Experience: Trattoria dei Bracconieri

If you only have one meal in Brunate, make it this one. It’s famous for a reason.

• The Dish: You have to try the Pappardelle with Wild Boar (Cinghiale).
• The Vibe: It’s cozy, rustic, and feels like eating in a mountain cabin.
• Local Tip: It’s very popular with locals on weekends, so I highly recommend booking a table in advance.

For a Quick Bite with a View: Capolinea Bistrot

Located right next to the funicular station, this is the most convenient spot, but the quality is surprisingly high.

• The Dish: Their Onion Soup (Zuppa di Cipolle) is a Brunate specialty.
• The Vibe: Great for a high-quality pizza or a quick Aperol Spritz on the terrace while you wait for the next funicular car.

For the True Mountain Classic: La Polenteria

As the name suggests, this place is the “King of Polenta.” If you haven’t tried it, polenta is a staple of Lombardy—a creamy, hearty cornmeal dish that is the ultimate Italian comfort food. It’s located on the way to the lighthouse, making it a perfect stop on your way to or from it.

• The Dish: You can get polenta served with almost anything, but my favorites are the versions with melted local cheeses or the rich, slow-cooked venison stew.
• The Vibe: It’s incredibly cozy. It is the perfect place to warm up on a cooler March or April day when you need something soul-filling after a hike.

For a Relaxed Family Pizza: Pizzeria Osteria Il Faro

A bit further from the main tourist path, this is where you go for a relaxed, no-frills meal.

• The Dish: Classic wood-fired pizzas that won’t break the bank.
• The Vibe: Very friendly service and popular with the families who actually live in the village.

For the “Wow” Factor: Ristorante Bellavista

If you are looking for a romantic spot or a place to celebrate, this is it.

• The Vibe: As the name implies, the view from their dining room is spectacular, especially at sunset. It’s a bit more “refined” than the rustic trattorias, making it a great choice for a long, lazy lunch.

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💡 A Note for 2026 Travelers:

Most of these restaurants are a 5–15 minute walk from the funicular station. Even during the March 2026 maintenance closure, these spots remain open and are easily accessible via the replacement bus service from Como.

🥾 Hiking from Brunate: Trails for Every Level

If you’ve got your walking shoes on, Brunate is the perfect starting point for some of the best panoramic hikes in the region. Here are three routes I recommend:

1. The Easy Descent: Brunate to Como via San Donato

Don’t want to wait for the funicular back down? You can walk! This is a beautiful downhill path that takes about 45–60 minutes.

• The Route: Follow the signs for “Como per San Donato.”
• The Highlight: Halfway down, you’ll pass the Eremo di San Donato, a former 15th-century convent perched on the cliffside with a killer view of the city.
• Pro Tip: This path consists of steep, historic stone steps. It’s easy on the lungs but can be tough on the knees, so take it slow!

2. The Classic Day Hike: Brunate to Torno (Strada Regia)

This is one of the most famous “bridge” hikes on the lake. It connects the mountain to the water.

• The Experience: You’ll walk through chestnut forests and pass through the tiny stone hamlet of Monte Piatto.
• The Highlight: Look for the Pietra Pendula, a massive “mushroom” rock balanced precariously on a smaller stone.
• The Finish: After about 2.5 hours, you’ll end up in the beautiful lakeside village of Torno. From there, you can catch a ferry back to Como—it’s the perfect loop!

3. The Peak Performance: Monte Boletto

For those who want to get as high as possible, this trail leads to one of the most famous summits in the area.

The Reward: At 1,236 meters, you get a true “top of the world” feeling with views that stretch from the Apennines to the highest peaks of the Swiss Alps.

The Hike: It’s a moderate climb starting from the San Maurizio area (near the lighthouse). It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Is Brunate Worth It?

Absolutely. Whether you’re coming for the 360-degree views from the Volta Lighthouse, a hearty plate of polenta at La Polenteria, or a peaceful hike through the chestnut forests, Brunate offers a perspective of Lake Como that you simply can’t get from the shore.

Even with the March 2026 funicular maintenance, the replacement bus makes it easy to reach this “Balcony of the Alps.” Just remember to bring your walking shoes and a camera—you’re going to need both!

🗺️ Plan the Rest of Your Lake Como Adventure

If you’re staying in the area for a few days, here are the guides you’ll need to make the most of your 2026 trip:

• Where to Stay in Lake Como: Still looking for the perfect base? Check out my guide to the Best Towns and Hotels in Lake Como for every budget.
• The “Pearl” of the Lake: Don’t miss my full guide on What to See in Bellagio for the best gardens and lakeside walks.
• The Movie Star Villa: If you want to see the most beautiful gardens on the water, read my tips for visiting Villa del Balbianello (the Star Wars and James Bond filming location!).

Have a question about your trip to Brunate? Drop a comment below or tag me in your photos from the lighthouse – I’d love to see that 2026 view!