Como-Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como-Brunate) Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Como-Brunate Funicular Railway. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Full-Day Private Tour of Lake Como From Milan

• Como Walking Tour With Audio and Written Guide by a Local

• Como Brunate Torno. The Breathtaking Scenery

• Exclusive Wine Tasting in Brunate

• Como-Brunate Jeep Sightseeing Tour & Funicular Rail Skip the Line

A one-way ticket for the Como-Brunate Funicular Railway costs €3.60, and a return trip costs €7.20. Passengers ages 12 and younger get a discount, while kids younger than 4 ride for free. If you’re staying in Brunate, it may be worth getting the 10-trip pass for €32.50.

Yes, the Como-Brunate Funicular Railway is well worth riding, both for the views and experiences available at the top. Running since 1894, the railway is the fastest way to get from lakeside Como to hilltop Brunate, known as the "Balcony of the Alps." It's easy to make the 7-minute trip on your own, or you can ride the funicular with a guide to better explore Brunate, a scenic village that many travelers overlook. Tours typically take you hiking, wine tasting, or villa-hopping in the idyllic foothills overlooking Lake Como.

Per one customer who booked the Exclusive Wine Tasting in Brunate, "So glad we decided to do this tasting. Ariana was very kind and knowledgeable, sharing three wines from the regions. Delicious. The food served with each was quite substantial and delicious as well. Along with the ride on the funicular and the beautiful views into Switzerland and of Como below, a very memorable experience. Highly recommend."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

There are tons of fun things to do after riding the Como-Brunate Funicular Railway. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Lake Como:

• Villa del Balbianello

• Villa Melzi Gardens (Giardini di Villa Melzi)

• Brunate

• Fort Montecchio Nord (Forte Montecchio Nord)

• Lido Villa Olmo

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Lake Como.