The complete travel guide — boat tours, hotels, things to do & more
Cernobbio is a small town located northwest of Como, set between the slopes of Mount Bisbino and the calm waters of Lake Como.
Known for its elegant lakeside villas, refined atmosphere and scenic promenades, it is one of the most sophisticated destinations on the lake.
In this complete guide you will discover the best things to see and do in Cernobbio, along with all the essential information you need to plan your visit.
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To make the most of your time in Cernobbio, you can explore its elegant lakeside center, visit historic villas, discover hidden green spaces, and much more 
Start your visit in Piazza Risorgimento, the main square overlooking the lakefront area known as Riva di Cernobbio. This lively zone features the Art Nouveau ferry pier, hotels, cafés, restaurants, and a small playground, making it one of the most active and accessible parts of the town.
Along the promenade, you’ll also find the Monumento ai Caduti, dedicated to the victims of the two world wars and sculpted by Angelo Galli, as well as the monument to Giuseppe Garibaldi, one of Italy’s most important historical figures.
From the lakeside, narrow streets lead into the historic village, where alleys open onto quiet corners and panoramic views over Lake Como. Walking here offers a more intimate perspective of Cernobbio, with traditional architecture and local landmarks.
Among the most notable sites is the Church of San Vincenzo, just steps from the waterfront. Originally built in medieval times and later renovated in the 18th century, it is recognizable for its colorful Baroque façade and prominent position near the lake.
Villa Bernasconi was built for the Bernasconi family, who played a key role in developing the local silk industry in the early 20th century. The villa’s Liberty-style design incorporates decorative motifs inspired by silk production, making it one of the most original examples of Art Nouveau on Lake Como.
Opening season: All year round on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays
Regular admission: €10
Reservation required: No
Address: Largo Campanini 2, Cernobbio
Today, the villa functions as a cultural space and interactive museum, offering exhibitions that tell the story of the building and the family who lived there. During the summer months, it also hosts events such as concerts, food festivals and cultural initiatives.
Villa Bernasconi is located a short 10-minute walk south of Riva di Cernobbio, making it easily accessible on foot.
The Giardino della Valle is located along the Garovo stream, close to both the town center and Villa d’Este. Once an illegal dumping site, it was restored through the work of resident Ida Frati into a community-focused garden and cultural space.
Today, the garden hosts more than thirty plant species, small ponds, wooden bridges, sculptures and even a bookcrossing area. It is open year-round and offers a quiet retreat ideal for reading, relaxing or simply enjoying nature.
Spring offers the most vibrant blooms, while autumn brings warm colors throughout the entire garden.
Located on a panoramic promontory, Villa Pizzo is a historic residence surrounded by elegant terraced gardens overlooking Lake Como.
Over the centuries, it has hosted noble families from Italy and Europe and now serves as an exclusive venue for weddings and private events. Guided tours offer access to its interiors and lakeside scenery.
Opening season: All year round only via guided tours or during public events
Regular admission: €15
Reservation required: Yes
Address: Via Regina, Cernobbio
Villa Erba is one of the most impressive 19th-century villas on Lake Como, known for its monumental halls, frescoed ceilings and richly decorated interiors. Associated with director Luchino Visconti, it evokes the atmosphere of classic Italian cinema.
Today, Villa Erba is used for exhibitions, conferences, weddings and international events, making it one of the most important cultural venues in the area.
Opening season: The park of the villa can be visited from 10 am to 6 pm on specific days or during public events. For more information, check the official website.
Regular admission: According to the event. Guided tours available for a fee.
Reservation required: Yes
Address: Largo Luchino Visconti 4, Cernobbio
➡️ Discover Villa Pizzo and Villa Erba
If you want to spend a sunny day in Cernobbio, this is the right place. This restaurant and beach club is located at the end of Riva di Cernobbio, a few steps from the pier, and is equipped with deckchairs, umbrellas, and a pool.
Address: Piazza Risorgimento 5, Cernobbio
The Sentee di Sort is a 30/45-minute walk that starts in Rovenna, a small hamlet above Cernobbio that can be reached by the C128 bus, and goes all the way to Moltrasio (from where you can return toward Cernobbio by C110 bus).
This hike offers truly unique views of Lake Como. Although being quite an easy path, I don’t recommend it for those who are afraid of heights.
An easy 1-hour trail starting from the hamlet of Santo Stefano in Cernobbio and reaching the Croce dell’Uomo viewpoint, from which the beautiful landscape of Lake Como can be admired.
On the way you’ll encounter some characteristics villages and enjoy beautiful views of the lake. The path is quite easy but I recommend wearing some good hiking shoes.
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Cernobbio is an important stop along the route that connects Como to the towns located in the northern part of the lake.
The stops vary depending on the service, but in general, all routes heading north always stop in Bellagio. Some of the ferries departing from Cernobbio also offer an express service by hydrofoil a few times a day, which helps optimize travel time by skipping some towns.
Boats to and from Cernobbio operate all year round, including winter. Service interruptions are limited to major holidays (see the company’s website).
The cost depends on several factors, in particular: length of the journey, type of service (e.g., regular or express), whether it is a round-trip ticket or a day pass. Here are some examples:
Cernobbio has a single pier, which provides access to ferries that carry only passengers, and is located in Piazza Risorgimento.
On the company’s official website, navigazionelaghi.it.
Online booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season (between June and September). If you are unable to purchase your ticket online, you will need to go to the ticket office at the pier between 30 minutes and one hour before departure.
The best time to visit Cernobbio depends on what you look for. Here’s a clear breakdown:
If you want the perfect mix of good weather, beauty, and manageable crowds, choose:
➡️ Late May–June
➡️ Late September
Take a train from Milano Centrale or Milano Cadorna to Como, then continue to Cernobbio either by ferry or by the C110 bus.
In Cernobbio, it’s best to plan for at least a full half day to fully enjoy the historic center, lakeside views, and local experiences. This allows enough time to wander the charming streets, and savor the town’s cuisine without rushing.
Cernobbio’s center is mostly flat and therefore easily accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Address: Via Regina 23, Cernobbio
Explore Cernobbio step by step
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2 Responses
Good website, especially for older people. We would like to see many of these places, but I can’t find links to any maps.
Thank you
Patricia Francis
Thank you Patricia 🙂 You can find a comprehensive map of Lake Como here.