Your first visit to Como should be organised not around a long list of sights, but around two convenient walking areas. Once you’ve got off the bus, first leave your luggage, take a short break, and only then head into the centre. You can cover the key sights in two days if you plan a logical order of stops on your map.
Be flexible: check-in times, the weather and your actual drop-off point may differ from what you expect. In Italy, factor in cobbled streets, a lunch break, advance bookings for popular attractions and time for a short rest.
Day one: exploring the city centre
Start with Como Cathedral: on the way, get a feel for the distances, the pace of the city and the available transport. The next stop is Piazza Cavour. It’s best to leave time between them for a coffee or lunch, rather than filling the gap with yet another museum.
Don’t leave charging your phone until the evening: navigation and e-tickets drain the battery quickly. Mark your return point and an alternative walking route separately on the map.
Day two: the main attraction and a leisurely finish
Head to the lake promenade at the earliest time slot available to you. The route then naturally continues to the funicular to Brunate; take your time on the way, as it’s the second day that allows you to take a closer look at the city’s details.
Before heading back, allow some quiet time without visiting any new sights. You’ll need this to sort out your luggage, use the loo, charge your phone and make your way to the platform without any unnecessary stress.
How to draw up a realistic budget
Only pay in advance for things that have a limited time slot. Leave some funds on hand for flexible decisions: a different route, an extra change, or a break in a café. It’s best not to include a small reserve in your daily budget.
What to prepare before arrival
- a screenshot of your ticket, the address of your destination and the entrance to your accommodation;
- markings for Piazza Cavour and the funicular to Brunate on a downloaded map;
- a fully charged power bank, water and a compact raincoat;
- a backup route to the bus without complicated changes.
Useful links
To help you prepare, also read ‘Ukraine–Italy bus: how to prepare for an international journey’, ‘Ukraine–Italy bus: route, luggage and plan B’, and ‘How to plan your first day after a long coach journey’. You can check journey times and coach travel options on RedRay. Check the latest visiting guidelines and events calendar via Italy’s official tourism portal and the official websites of specific attractions. Sources verified on 6 September 2026.
Questions and Answers
How should you organise your 48 hours in Como?
Spend your arrival day exploring the town centre and open spaces, and the following morning visiting attractions that require a ticket. Keep the final few hours free before your journey home.
What should I do with my luggage before check-in?
Ask your hotel or holiday apartment if they offer early luggage drop-off. Alternatively, use an official luggage storage facility with clear rates, a receipt and convenient opening hours.
When is a travel pass worth it in Como?
A travel pass is worth it if you’re making several long journeys in a single day. If your route takes you through the compact city centre, compare the cost of the pass with two or three single tickets.
Which stops along the route should you check in advance?
Check the time slot for the lake promenade, the rules on carrying rucksacks, and how to collect your ticket. Also, confirm the exact address of your next bus stop.