Como: 2-Hour Walking Tour

If you’re dreaming of the perfect way to get a taste of Como’s historic charm and stunning scenery without committing hours or breaking the bank, this 2-hour walking tour might just be what you need. While it’s not a full-day deep dive into the city’s every corner, it offers a friendly, accessible way to get familiar with Como’s highlights and its unique character.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the focus on local insight—your guide isn’t just going through the motions but sharing stories that bring the city’s past to life. Plus, the tour’s small group size keeps things intimate and manageable, making it easier to ask questions and take in the sights at a relaxed pace. That said, it’s worth noting that some reviews suggest the content may be more surface-level than some travelers might like, especially if you’re keen on a deep historical experience.

This tour is a good fit if you’re after a quick, engaging overview of Como, especially if you’re only in town for a short time or prefer a gentle stroll with a friendly guide. It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a comprehensive, in-depth exploration or are interested in accessibility options like wheelchair access—but for most visitors, it hits a nice balance.

Key Points

• Concise yet informative: Perfect for a quick introduction to Como’s history and sights
• Small group: Keeps the experience personal and comfortable
• Great for scenery: Enjoy views of Lake Como and its villas
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, keep plans flexible
• Guides: Known for knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides like Nick who bring the city to life

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Como Walking Tour

This 2-hour stroll begins at the Hotel Barchetta Excelsior, right in the heart of Como, making it a convenient starting point. From there, your guide—often Nick, as many reviews highlight—leads you through the narrow streets of Como’s Old Town, revealing its Roman roots and medieval architecture along the way.

The tour is designed to be manageable for most, with a focus on key sights and stories. You’ll explore religious buildings like the Basilica of San Fedele and the Teatro Sociale, which adds a cultural flair to the itinerary. The Duomo di Como, notable for its gothic style, is also on the route, giving you a sense of the city’s religious and architectural history.

One of the highlights is a street where artisans have developed their craft over centuries, giving you a chance to imagine how local trades have persisted through time. While the tour doesn’t go inside many buildings, it’s perfect for snapping photos of villas with lush gardens and secular trees that line the lakeshore, offering plenty of opportunities for those scenic shots.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point at Hotel Barchetta

Situated right at Piazza Cavour, this hotel offers a perfect spot to kick off your exploration. It’s central, easy to find, and provides immediate access to Como’s vibrant street life.

Exploring Como’s Old Town

Your guide will lead you through charming streets, sharing tales of Como’s Roman past and its evolution through medieval times. Expect to see historical buildings, religious sites, and local squares buzzing with life.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visit to Basilica of San Fedele

This church is a key religious and artistic landmark, with its façade and interior reflecting centuries of devotion. Guides often highlight its significance in Como’s spiritual life.

Teatro Sociale and Other Landmarks

The theatre is a hub of local culture, often with stories about performances and its architectural design. The tour also covers secular buildings and palaces, giving a sense of Como’s aristocratic history.

Scenic Walk along the Lake

While it’s a short tour, the route often includes a pedestrian path along Lake Como, where you can appreciate views of the water, villas, and gardens. This part is particularly appreciated for its stunning scenery and relaxed vibe.

Artisan Street

The tour concludes with a visit to a historic street where artisans have practiced their crafts over centuries. It’s a small but meaningful glimpse into Como’s local economy and traditions.

What Our Reviewers Say

Multiple travelers have praised the guides, especially Nick, for their enthusiasm and knowledge. One review mentions, “Nick was fun and informative! We really enjoyed our tour,” which captures the positive vibe. Another notes, “Nick brought the old Como back to life,” highlighting how a good guide can truly make the experience memorable.

However, not all feedback is glowing. A few travelers felt the tour didn’t offer enough depth for the price, with one reviewer remarking it lasted about 1 hour and 30 minutes rather than the full 2 hours, and expressed disappointment at the “poor detail.” This suggests that while the tour offers a solid overview, it may not satisfy those wanting a more thorough historical exploration.

The price point is generally seen as reasonable considering the small group size and local guide expertise, but some travelers might feel it’s a bit light on substance if they’re looking for a deep dive into Como’s history.

The Practical Side: Logistics and Value

Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve and pay later, offering flexibility for travel plans. The tour runs in a small group of up to 8 participants, creating a cozy environment where questions are encouraged.

Starting at just 2 hours, it’s perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary or for those who prefer a relaxed pace. The guided commentary in English and Italian adds to the accessibility, though the small group size might mean walking at a steady pace for everyone.

Remember, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so if accessibility is a concern, you might want to explore alternative options.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This short, friendly introduction to Como is ideal if you want a manageable, informative walk with a guide who knows the city well. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy learning on the go, taking photos of scenic views, and hearing stories from a local.

It’s also good for those on a tight schedule or who prefer not to do long or strenuous tours. Families with older children who are comfortable walking and interested in history might also enjoy this experience, though it’s not tailored for those with mobility challenges.

If you’re after a more comprehensive or private experience, this tour might feel a bit limited. But for a taste of Como’s essence, it delivers a nice balance of sights and stories.

The Sum Up

This Como walking tour offers a friendly, accessible way to get acquainted with one of Italy’s most charming lakeside cities. With a passionate guide like Nick leading the charge, you’ll enjoy a lively narrative that brings historic landmarks and local traditions to life. The route covers the core highlights — from the Duomo to artisan streets — making it a great starter experience, especially if you’re short on time.

While some might find the content a bit light or the duration slightly shorter than expected, the overall value remains solid, especially given the small group atmosphere and scenic setting. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, informative overview rather than an exhaustive historical deep dive.

If you’re visiting Como briefly and want to get a feel for its history, culture, and views, this tour is a gentle, engaging way to do so. Just keep in mind it’s not accessible for everyone, and if you crave more detail, you might want to look into longer or private options.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally accessible for most adults, it’s not specifically designed for children and requires walking for about 2 hours. Older kids interested in history and sightseeing may enjoy it, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with a moderate pace.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The flexible booking options make it easier to adjust your plans if needed.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is in front of Hotel Barchetta at Piazza Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour 1, which is central and easy to find.

Is it possible to customize the tour?
This particular tour is a set 2-hour route, but you may find other tours with different itineraries if you’re interested in more in-depth exploration or private arrangements.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
Yes, it’s a walking tour that covers the Old Town and scenic lakeside paths. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tours are offered in English and Italian, making them accessible to a broader range of travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
Since it’s an outdoor walking tour, bad weather could impact the experience. It’s worth checking the forecast and considering rain gear or rescheduling if possible.

All in all, if you’re after a friendly, scenic, and informative snapshot of Como, this walk with a local guide just might be the perfect way to start your exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: