Cernobbio

Cernobbio is a small yet enchanting town that overlooks the western shore of Lake Como and has been recognised since the 19th century as one of the area’s principal tourist destinations. Situated just a few kilometres from Como, Cernobbio was considered a strategic location since Roman times, as it lay along the Via Regina, a Roman road that connected Cremona’s river port to Chiavenna via Mediolanum (Milan). During the Middle Ages, the town became an important fishing centre, whilst today it is a picturesque village surrounded by lush vegetation.

Monte Bisbino, part of the Prealps near Como, embraces the town and is mirrored in the lake’s azure waters, creating a truly unique and magical landscape. From its summit, you can admire a breathtaking panorama that stretches from the Swiss Alps to the Lombardy plains. The town offers not only the chance to discover numerous cultural sites but also to enjoy walks and hikes immersed in nature, shop through the village streets, or savour excellent local produce.

Things to do in Cernobbio

Cernobbio’s centre develops along the lake’s shores and has managed to preserve its original medieval core. Along Lake Como’s shores, you’ll also find a charming little harbour from which boats depart to explore Lario.

Thanks to its position, Cernobbio is an ideal destination in any season: from January to December, you can admire ever-changing yet equally wonderful landscapes, accompanied by truly unique architectural heritage.

Beyond elegant villas rich in art and history, Cernobbio is a town truly made to human scale that offers glimpses of great charm and is the perfect destination for a weekend of history, nature and relaxation.

Piazza Risorgimento

The heart of Cernobbio is Piazza Risorgimento, an elegant square overlooking Lake Como. Here stands the Monument to the Fallen, a bronze monument created by Angelo Galli depicting the main stages of Italian Unification (from the Wars of Independence to the First World War). The statue was inaugurated in 1923 by Prince Umberto II of Savoy, but in 1945 a plaque was added in memory of those who fell in the Second World War.

Sanctuary of San Vincenzo

The Sanctuary of San Vincenzo is dedicated to Saint Vincent, Martyr and Deacon of Saragossa, who is considered the town’s patron saint. The building has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, but boasts a façade designed in 1861 by Milanese architect Giacomo Bussi. In the niches beside the main portal you’ll find Saint Constantine and Saint Hippolytus. The interior features a single nave, with two lateral altars in polychrome marble and an ancient baptistery dating from 1570.

Church of the Most Holy Redeemer

The Church of the Most Holy Redeemer was built between 1908 and 1912 by Cesare Formenti and is the town’s most important place of worship. Inside, it boasts three naves and paintings by Volonterio depicting God the Father, Saint Abundius, Saint Ambrose, the Holy Spirit with the four evangelists and Saint Peter. The façade features a doorway topped with a gilded mural and five statues of the saints Stanislaus, Ambrose, Abundius, Louis and Anthony.

Villa d’Este

Villa d’Este is a Renaissance residence surrounded by extensive grounds situated along Lake Como’s shores. The complex, built on the ruins of a convent, has undergone various alterations and renovations over the years that have substantially changed its original appearance. Initially, the residence was known as Villa del Garovo, named after the stream of the same name that ran through the area, and was built as a summer residence for Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio. Since the late 19th century, the complex has become a luxury hotel that counts among Italy’s historic establishments. Early notable guests include publisher Giulio Ricordi, Verdi, Puccini and numerous government figures and celebrities.

Villa Erba

Villa Erba is one of the most important and luxurious villas overlooking Lake Como. The villa was built in the late 19th century by the Lombardy Erba family, who loved spending periods at Como. In particular, the patron was Luigi Erba, who commissioned the work from architects Angelo Savoldi and Giovan Battista Borsani. The villa currently features a square layout, extends over two storeys and is in Mannerist-Alessian style. Wide staircases descend towards the lake, whilst an elegant garden extends all around the villa.

Villa Bernasconi

Villa Bernasconi is an elegant residence built in the 20th century by architect Alfredo Campanini for fashion entrepreneur Davide Bernasconi, who founded the Tessiture Bernasconi company. The residence was meant to represent the success achieved by the Bernasconi family in the textile sector.

The façade is adorned with decorative elements depicting silkworms, flowers, butterflies and other elements of the silkworm life cycle. The interior is also characterised by architectural elements typical of Art Nouveau style and houses a museum that allows you to learn about the history of the Villa and the Bernasconi family.

Where to stay in Cernobbio

Cernobbio is a small Lake Como town that boasts a limited number of accommodation facilities compared to other larger resorts in the area. Cernobbio represents an excellent base for exploring Lake Como and is therefore often chosen as a base for a stay.

The town is known for its hospitality and prestigious manor houses, often converted into accommodation facilities, which have always attracted notable guests. The budget required to stay here is usually mid to high range. In addition to luxury hotels and prestigious accommodation, Cernobbio also has welcoming bed and breakfasts and a few apartments.

Recommended hotels in Cernobbio

How to reach Cernobbio

Like many other towns overlooking Lake Lario, Cernobbio is easily accessible not only by car but also by ferry boat. From Como, the town can be reached by ferry boat in approximately 15 minutes. Those preferring to use the car from Milan should take the A9 motorway until the Como Lago exit. From Como, take the Regina state road, whilst from Lecco you must first take the SS36 Lake Como and Spluga road and then the Regina state road.

Cernobbio does not have a railway station; the nearest one is Como San Giovanni, which has direct connections to Milan Centrale, Milan Porta Garibaldi and Monza railway stations. Cernobbio is also well connected to Milan and Como thanks to bus services run by local companies.

Cernobbio Weather