Como-Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como-Brunate)

The Basics

Once powered by steam engine, the Como–Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como–Brunate) now runs with an electric motor and travels through a lengthy tunnel before emerging to panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding area, including Villa d'Este, Villa Erba, and Monte Rosa. If Brunate, perched 2,362 feet (720 meters) above Como, isn’t high enough for you, after exiting the cable car you can continue another 30 minutes along a rough mule track to San Maurizio and then take 140-plus steps to the top of the Volta lighthouse. Either buy a return ticket for the funicular back down to Como, or take one of the many hiking trails that wind their way down to the lakeshore. Scenic trips on the Como–Brunate Funicular Railway are included in many Como day trips from Milan and as part of small-group hikes from Como.

Things to Know Before You Go

• With views like these, you will definitely want to bring your camera.

• Kids love the dizzying, steep trip up and down the mountainside.

• If you are headed up the mountainside to hike, be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring plenty of water.

• The funicular is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

The Como–Brunate cable car entrance is located at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, about 10 minutes by bus from the railway station through the Como city center. From the bus terminal on Via Torno, it’s an easy 5-minute walk to the funicular. Lake Como (Lago di Como) is a popular day trip from Milan, the bustling capital of Lombardy.

When to Get There

The cable car runs all year, but the best time to visit the region is from late spring to early fall, when the countryside is lush and the high altitude offers a respite from the heat.

Como’s Main Sights

The city of Como sits on the shores of Lake Como and offers a number of interesting attractions. Those not to miss include Piazza Cavour; the Tempio Voltiano, a museum dedicated to scientist and inventor Alessandro Volta; and the neoclassical Villa Olmo.

What is the Como-Brunate Funicular (Funicolare Como–Brunate), and where is it located?

The Como-Brunate Funicular (Funicolare Como–Brunate) is a cable railway that shuttles visitors and locals up the steep mountainside from Como to the village of Brunate. The base station is in Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, a square that’s within a short walk from both the lakefront and the Como Lago train station.

What are the operating hours and ticket options for the Como-Brunate Funicular?

The Como-Brunate Funicular operates daily throughout the year, from early morning until late at night. In the peak summer months, it stays open until midnight. If, like most visitors, you’re arriving from Como, you’ll need to buy a round-trip ticket (andata e ritorno). Children under 4 years old can ride for free.

What can I see and do in Brunate after riding the funicular?

At Brunate, you can take photos against the dramatic backdrop of Lake Como. There are marked trails to different lookout points, including one that leads to the Volta Lighthouse (Faro Voltiano). This spectacular vantage tower was built in honor of Alessandro Volta, the electricity pioneer who lived locally.

What dining options are available near the Como-Brunate Funicular?

There are lots of dining options at Como and Brunate. At Como, you’re right by the lungolago, which is the lakeside promenade and go-to place for travelers who want lots of choice and a buzzy atmosphere. For high-up views, less mosquitos, and a relaxed vibe, head to Brunate.

Is the Como-Brunate Funicular suitable for families and children?

Yes, the Como-Brunate Funicular is family-friendly, albeit more for older kids who’ll be thrilled by the steep ride. With younger ones, keep in mind that the funicular is busy on summer weekends and you may have to fold your stroller away. Many pathways at Brunate are also cobbled and steep.

Are there any hiking trails or scenic walks near the Brunate funicular station?

Yes, the most popular is the short but steep Faro Voltiano trail to the lighthouse. For around half a day of hiking, continue onward to Piazzale del Cao to hike the looped trail known as the passeggiata della baite. The route is loved for its views and mountain huts where local dishes await.

Ways to explore

The funicular ride from Piazza Alcide de Gasperi in Como up to Brunate takes only seven minutes. Most people buy tickets at the station; lines form in the peak summer months, so allow extra time for this.

If you want the comfort of exploring Brunate on a tour, book in advance and travel up the funicular with a guide to get the lowdown on the town’s famous son, Alessandro Volta, a pioneer of electricity. Some guided tours include jeep transport from Como with an option to ride the funicular back down the hill at the end.

Accessibility

The Como-Brunate Funicular is accessible for wheelchair users, although Brunate has steep, cobbled streets.

Age limits

People of all ages are welcome, but strollers must be folded away on the funicular. Baby carriers are more suitable for walking around Brunate.

What to pack

You’ll want to bring cash, as smaller Brunate restaurants often prefer it to card payments, as well as a camera and comfy shoes for conquering the cobbles.

What to wear

Pack layers—Brunate sits at a higher altitude.

Not allowed

Eating on the funicular, picnicking in Brunate

Amenities

Basic restrooms at the funicular stations, ticket offices

Address 

The Como-Brunate Funicular is in the center of town, close to the lakefront and the Como Nord Lago train station, making it easy to reach on foot or by public transit. Note that rideshares don’t operate here.

Driving

While there is a small parking lot on nearby Viale Geno, you likely won’t find a space during the peak summer months or weekends. Instead, park at the multistory Autosilo Valduce, a roughly 10-minute walk from the Como-Brunate Funicular.

Public transportation

From the Como Nord Lago train station, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the funicular. Alternatively, take the C130, C131, or C132 bus to the “Via Torno 50/30” stop, which is closest to the base station.

Best times to visit

The funicular departs every 15 minutes between 6am and 12am. Avoid midmorning on weekends or summer vacation days, when it's crowded.

Best days to visit

The Como-Brunate Funicular runs every day of the week, but weekdays are typically less busy.

Best months to visit

Fall and winter offer a better chance of clear days for great views at the top. Spring is often rainy, and the summer is busier with tourists.

Special events

From May through July, and from October through January, look out for the Sunday sunset concerts in Brunate (Concerti del Tramonto), which showcase a mix of jazz and classical music.