Como-Brunate Jeep Sightseeing Tour & Funicular Rail SKIP THE LINE

If you’re dreaming of scenic vistas, charming hilltop villages, and a touch of local history, this Como-Brunate Jeep Sightseeing Tour might just be what you’re looking for. Based on reviews and tour details, it offers a unique way to experience some of the best sights around Lake Como without the hassle of long waits or strenuous walks. We love that the tour combines a comfortable, open-top jeep ride with some insightful commentary and stunning vistas—plus, it caps at just eight participants, so you’re not lost in a crowd.

One of the standout features is access to the panoramic basement of the famous Volta Lighthouse, which means you’ll get an up-close view of Lake Como and the Alps, away from the crowds. Another plus is the opportunity to explore Brunate, a charming hilltop town once home to Alessandro Volta, the pioneer of electricity.

However, a point to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include the funicular ride itself, which some might want to experience separately. Also, since it’s a small-group tour, it’s better suited for those who appreciate a more intimate, personalized experience rather than a large-group adventure. It’s particularly ideal for travelers keen on combining sightseeing with a dash of local history and incredible photo opportunities.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Lake Como, this tour works well if you’re looking for a relaxed, engaging way to see the highlights without too much walking or waiting. It’s especially suitable for those who want a balance of scenic views, local stories, and a small, friendly group setting.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience and better interaction with your guide.
• Skip-the-line access to the lighthouse basement saves you time and allows for more sightseeing.
• Comfortable transportation by open-top jeep makes the steep hills and narrow streets easier to navigate.
• Educational insights about Alessandro Volta add a cultural and historical layer to your visit.
• Visit multiple highlights in Brunate, including churches, Liberty villas, and scenic viewpoints.
• Limited availability means booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re considering this tour, it helps to know what to expect at each stop and why these spots are worth your time. We’ll walk through the itinerary, mixing what’s described with what reviews reveal about the experience.

Starting Point: Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, Como

The tour kicks off at the central piazza in Como, a convenient spot close to transportation links and typical of the city’s lively atmosphere. At 11:30 am, you’ll meet your driver in an open-top Jeep—an ideal way to start the adventure as you cruise through the scenic surroundings.

Exploring Brunate’s Historic Village

Your first stop is the Brunate ancient village, where magnificent views and historic charm come together. Here, you can admire 19th-century Liberty villas like Villa Antonelli and Villino Rubini, visible from the street. The small streets, steep and winding, are best explored with a vehicle, as the walk would be quite demanding.

The village’s center storico is where you’ll feel immersed in local life. The tour emphasizes the quaint streets and local architecture, giving you a sense of what life was like here centuries ago. We love that the guide provides insights into the area’s history and notable residents, including Alessandro Volta, who once called Brunate home.

Visit to Religious Sites

Next, you’ll stop at Chiesa di Sant’Andrea Apostolo—a church dating back to 1340, renovated in the 16th century, and Chiesa di San Maurizio from 1592. These churches, though modest, are steeped in history. The reviews mention that these stops are brief (about 10 minutes each), but they give a taste of the local religious and architectural heritage.

The Viewpoint with “Wow” Views

A highlight is the Punto Panoramico di Via Pissarottino, offering sweeping views over Como City and the lake. This spot is perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape. The nearby Liberty Villas along the way add to the area’s charm and elegance.

The Iconic Faro Voltiano (Volta Lighthouse)

The Faro Voltiano, built in 1927, is the star of the show. Standing 29 meters tall atop Tre Croci Mount, it’s a must-see. You’ll get to visit the basement of the lighthouse, which is free access, and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the lake, the Alps, and beyond.

One reviewer mentions, “The view from the lighthouse is stunning,” and notes that it’s worth the effort to reach it. The lighthouse is accessible by a shuttle or funicular, but since this tour doesn’t include the ride, you might find yourself exploring the area further on your own. Still, the basement access alone makes it worthwhile.

Funicular and Shopping in Brunate

Your last stop is the Funicolare Como-Brunate upper station. Here, you can browse local shops and pick up souvenirs or, if you wish, take the funicular down to Como city (tickets not included). The funicular ride offers more scenic views, and some reviews suggest combining it with other local excursions.

End of the Tour

The tour wraps back at the starting point, giving you the full experience in roughly two hours. It’s quick but packed with highlights, making it perfect for those with limited time or looking for a relaxed outing.

What We Think About the Price and Value

At $81, this tour offers a lot in terms of intimate access, scenic views, and local insights. The small group size and skip-the-line access make it feel more exclusive than large bus tours. You get transportation in an open-top jeep, which is a fun, comfortable way to traverse the steep streets and hilly terrain.

The inclusion of free access to the lighthouse basement adds value, as many travelers pay extra for similar visits. Plus, the guided commentary about Alessandro Volta brings an extra layer of interest, especially for history buffs.

Some reviews highlight the convenience of the tour—one mentions that “you can admire amazing views with lake and mountains around,” and others praise the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “Andrea is such a great guide. He takes care of everyone and has a lot of knowledge of the city.” This indicates that the guide’s professionalism and local knowledge are definite pluses.

What’s Not Included

Keep in mind, the funicular tickets are not included, so if you want to ride down or up, you’ll need to buy those separately. Also, food and drinks aren’t part of the package, so plan accordingly if you want a meal or snack during your day. The tour does not include a guide for the stops, so your driver will probably share insights, but if you’re keen on detailed historical commentary, you might want to supplement your visit with some independent research.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is most suitable for travelers who appreciate a small, personal group, and want to see Lake Como’s highlights without the hassle of navigating on their own. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic drives, panoramic views, and learning about local history in an informal setting.

If you’re traveling with someone who prefers a more relaxed pace and doesn’t want to hike around steep streets, this tour’s jeep transportation is a great solution. It’s also perfect for those with limited time but still want a meaningful sightseeing experience.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally accessible for most travelers, it’s best for older children who can enjoy the scenic views and are comfortable in small groups. The tour’s focus on sightseeing and the small group size appeal to those looking for a relaxed outing, not necessarily a family-focused adventure.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 2 hours, including sightseeing stops and some brief explorations.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as the tour has limited availability—just eight travelers—and the reviews emphasize the importance of booking ahead.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but there are no specific age restrictions mentioned.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is recommended, and during summer, sunscreen and sunglasses are advisable to handle the sun during open-air jeep rides.

Is the lighthouse basement accessible?
Yes, the tour includes free access to the lighthouse’s panoramic basement, which offers incredible views.

Can I buy tickets for the funicular during the tour?
The funicular tickets are not included, but you can purchase them at the upper station if you wish to ride down to Como.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not part of the tour, so plan accordingly.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Jeep tour around Lake Como offers a well-rounded blend of scenic views, local history, and convenient transportation. It’s a thoughtful way to see some of the most beautiful spots in the area comfortably, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a more intimate experience. The access to the lighthouse basement and the guided insights into Alessandro Volta’s legacy elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

While it does have some limitations—such as not including the funicular or food—the overall value is clear, especially for travelers who want a relaxed, informative, and scenic tour with a small group. If you’re looking for a charming, hassle-free way to explore Lake Como’s hilltop highlights, this tour could be just what you need.

Happy exploring, and I hope your trip to Lake Como is filled with incredible views and memorable moments!