Brunate

The Funicolare Como-Brunate is one of those engineering marvels that beautifully blends practical transportation with scenic delight. Opened in 1894, it was conceived as a way to connect the bustling lakeside city of Como with the hillside village of Brunate, perched some 700 metres above. Initially powered by steam and later electrified, the funicular became a symbol of 19th-century ingenuity, offering both locals and visitors a reliable and fascinating ascent up the steep incline. Its red carriages, gently swaying as they climb, feel like a journey back through time – a reminder of how elegantly the past solved challenges of geography.

At the summit lies Brunate, often affectionately nicknamed the ‘Balcony of the Alps’ for its commanding panoramic views. From the terrace near the upper station, the eye sweeps across Lago di Como’s shimmering waters, framed by mountain peaks that seem to rise straight from the shoreline. On a clear day, you can even glimpse the snow-capped Alps in the distance. Watching the city spread out below, with the dome of Como’s cathedral glinting in the sunlight, it is easy to see why this route has remained so popular for well over a century.

Brunate itself is not merely a viewpoint but a charming hilltop village rich in Belle Époque architecture and tranquil walking paths. One can wander through narrow lanes lined with elegant villas or take the scenic walk to the Faro Voltiano, a lighthouse built in honour of Alessandro Volta, Como’s most famous son. Cafés with terraces offer a quiet place to enjoy coffee or a glass of wine while taking in the vistas. Whether used as a brief escape from the city or the gateway to longer alpine hikes, the combination of the funicular’s nostalgic charm and the idyllic beauty of Brunate makes this experience timeless.

Funicolare Como-Brunate
Como
Italy
https://www.funicolarecomo.it