Discover the Como Cable Car

The Como–Brunate funicular is a historic cable railway that connects Como to the peaceful village of Brunate atop the hills. Covering a distance of approximately 1,084 meters, the cable car climbs nearly 494 meters, with an exeptional gradient reaching up to 55%.

The trip takes just seven minutes, yet it transforms every visitor’s perspective into a cinematic panorama.

A journey through time: the history of the funicular

Opened to the public on November 11, 1894, the funicular marked a pivotal moment in Como's development, replacing mule paths with swift transport. Originally powered by steam, the system was electrified in 1911. Over the decades (particularly in 1935, the 1950s, and again in 2011) the funicular underwent major renovations, including the introduction of air-conditioned, Liberty-style cars designed by Gangloff and Agudio, complete with panoramic windows and refined interiors. Thanks to these renovations you can have a breathtaking view of Como and the lake during your trip to Brunate.

Como cable car: where it leads and how to make the most of it

Once you reach the summit, Brunate unfurls like a vista designed for romance and reflection. Known as the "balcony over the Alps," it offers sweeping views of Lake Como, the Alps, and even Milan’s skyline on a clear day.

Here are our suggestions on what to do in Brunate:

• A romantic aperitivo or dinner at one of the hilltop restaurants. The view from Brunate, especially during the sunset, is one you'll never forget.
• Explore graceful trails that lead to hidden gems like the Volta Lighthouse (Faro Voltiano). Climb its 143 steps for a 360-degree panorama that combines historical reverence with postcard perfection.
• Head to Pissarottino Spring, a panoramic viewpoint from which you can admire the first basin of the lake, Villa d’Este, Villa Erba, and even Monte Rosa.
• Return to Como via scenic walking paths, such as the one that runs alongside the cable car or the trail that passes by the Hermitage of San Donato, a former 15th-century convent.

Opening hours, tickets and purchase information of Como cable car

The schedule of Como cable car varies depending on the season. In summer, for example, rides are available until midnight, while during the colder months, the last departure is usually around 6:00 PM.
To stay up to date with current operating hours, we recommend visiting the official website of the Como cable car.

Tickets may be purchased directly at the Piazza Alcide de Gasperi station or at nearby authorized vendors.

Ticket prices (effective from July 1, 2025) are as follows: a single ticket costs €3.60, while a return ticket is €7.20. Children up to 4 years old travel for free, and those up to 12 years old benefit from reduced fares: €2.40 for a single ticket and €4.80 for a return ticket.

Your luxury Como journey begins here

For visitors eager to experience Lake Como through an exclusive lens, the Como cable car is simply the beginning. It opens the door to elevated romance, stunning vistas, and discovery. But the real luxury lies beyond: crafted experiences like private boat tours reveal the hidden poetry of the lake’s shoreline.

Allow Como Yachting to curate your personalized voyage, combining an ascent on the cable car with a sunset cruise or historic villa visits. Let us create your ideal itinerary, where every moment becomes a memory etched against the timeless beauty of Lake Como.