Como-Brunate Jeep Sightseeing Tour & Funicular Rail SKIP THE LINE

Explore Lake Como’s Hillside with a Unique Jeep and Funicular Tour

The Como-Brunate Jeep Sightseeing Tour offers an engaging way to experience the scenic beauty of Lake Como and its hilltop town Brunate. Priced at $81 and lasting approximately 2 hours, this tour combines the thrill of a private open-top jeep with a visit to the iconic Volta Lighthouse. With a small group of only eight participants, it promises a more personalized experience and easy interaction with the professional English-speaking driver.

What makes this tour stand out is skip-the-line access to the panoramic basement of Volta Lighthouse, as well as a carefully curated itinerary through historic sites and breathtaking viewpoints. It’s ideal for visitors seeking to avoid crowds while enjoying the best of Lake Como’s hilltop scenery. Be aware that cable-car (funicolare) tickets are not included, so you can choose to extend your experience on your own.

Key Points

• Two-hour guided sightseeing around Brunate and Lake Como’s hillsides
• Open-top Jeep transportation ensures scenic views and easy access
• Limited group size of just eight people for an intimate experience
• Skip the lines to visit the Volta Lighthouse basement and enjoy exclusive access
• Stops include historic churches, Liberty villas, and panoramic viewpoints
• Tour starts at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, Como at 11:30 am

Discovering Brunate’s Historic Village and Liberty Villas

The tour begins at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi in Como, where travelers meet the professional driver for a brief safety briefing. From there, the open-top Jeep takes you through Brunate’s ancient streets, allowing you to admire 19th-century Liberty villas like Villa Antonelli and Villino Rubini. These villas add a touch of elegance and history to your hillside exploration.

During the drive, the guide points out notable sites such as Brunate’s centro storico, highlighting the town’s connection to Alessandro Volta, the pioneer of electricity. The small group size ensures you can ask questions and learn about the local history comfortably.

Exploring Brunate’s Top Religious and Historic Stops

The itinerary includes visits to Chiesa di Sant’Andrea Apostolo, a church dating back to 1340 and renovated in the 16th century. This church offers a glimpse of the town’s spiritual heritage. Next, travelers stop at Punto Panoramico di Via Pissarottino, where several Liberty villas line the route, providing charming views and photo opportunities.

Another highlight is Chiesa di San Maurizio, a small church built in 1592. Its quaint architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in local religious sites.

Climbing to Volta Lighthouse and Breathtaking Lake Views

One of the key highlights is the visit to Faro Voltiano, the famous lighthouse built in 1927 on Tre Croci Mount. The 29-meter tower offers stunning vistas of Lake Como, the surrounding mountains, and the Alps. From the lighthouse basement, visitors enjoy a panoramic view of the lake and the city of Como below.

The viewpoint at Faro Voltiano draws praise for its spectacular scenery and photo opportunities. The basement access is free with the tour, giving an exclusive perspective rarely available without a lengthy wait.

Optional Funicular Ride and Local Shopping at Brunate

After soaking in the views, the tour includes a stop at the upper station of the Funicolare Como-Brunate. Visitors can browse local shops for souvenirs, and if desired, purchase a funicular ticket to descend back to Como on their own. The funicular ride offers a quick, scenic trip down the hillside, but note that funicular tickets are not included in the tour price.

This stop is ideal for those wishing to extend their exploration or pick up local gifts, with a 10-minute window to browse and buy.

Access and Logistics: How the Tour Operates

The tour departs from Piazza Alcide de Gasperi in Como at 11:30 am. It features transportation in an open-top Jeep, enhancing the sightseeing experience by providing unobstructed views of Lake Como and the hills. The small group limit of eight ensures a relaxed atmosphere, enabling better engagement with the guide.

The tour lasts about 2 hours, during which travelers explore both historic sites and panoramic viewpoints. The meeting point is easily accessible by public transportation, and the tour is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with a light walking component.

Access to Volta Lighthouse Basement and Skip-the-Line Advantage

A standout feature of this tour is the guaranteed skip-the-line access to the panoramic basement of Volta Lighthouse. This exclusive access means visitors avoid long queues and can enjoy the stunning views immediately. It’s a notable benefit, especially during busy seasons when the lighthouse can get crowded.

This feature adds value to the experience, allowing more time to appreciate the scenery and learn about Alessandro Volta, the famous physicist from Brunate.

Price, Inclusions, and Additional Costs

At $81, this tour offers good value given the exclusive access and personalized service. Included in the price are the Jeep ride, guided commentary, and free entry to the lighthouse basement. Food, drinks, and funicular tickets are not included, providing flexibility for individuals to customize their experience.

Participants should be prepared for smart casual dressing, with sunscreen and sunglasses recommended in summer. The tour is suitable for most people, including those with limited mobility, as it involves short stops and minimal walking.

The Experience in Context: What Past Participants Say

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide, the stunning views, and the value for money. One reviewer notes that the Jeep offers a fab way to see the village, with amazing scenery and hidden spots that would be difficult to reach independently.

Some mention the difficulty purchasing tickets at the lighthouse during late hours, so planning the visit earlier in the day can prevent disappointment. Many appreciate the small group setting, which fosters a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Tour Most?

This small-group Jeep tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized, scenic experience of Lake Como’s hillside and Brunate’s historic charm. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer avoiding long waits and enjoy stunning views from elevated vantage points. The skip-the-line access to the lighthouse basement** makes it a strong choice during busy periods.

The tour might be less suitable for those seeking longer cultural exploration or full guided tours of Como itself, as it focuses mainly on scenic stops and viewpoints.

Final Thoughts on the Como-Brunate Jeep Sightseeing Tour

This tour delivers a compact, scenic exploration of Lake Como’s hillside, combining comfortable transport with goosebump-inducing vistas of the lake and mountains. The small group size and exclusive lighthouse basement access enhance the overall experience, making it a practical choice for travelers who value personal interaction and efficiency.

While some might want to extend their visit with additional activities like the funicular ride or dining, the core experience offers excellent value for those eager to see Brunate’s historic sites and spectacular views without the hassle of crowds or long lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but the tour involves short stops and some walking. It’s best for those comfortable with light activity.

Are funicular tickets included?
No, the fare for the funicular ride is not included. You can buy tickets separately if you choose to descend from Brunate on your own.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at eight people, ensuring a personalized experience with more interaction with the driver.

Can I visit the lighthouse basement?
Yes, free access to the panoramic basement of Volta Lighthouse is included, allowing you to enjoy the views without waiting in lines.

What are the start and end points?
The tour starts and ends at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi in Como at 11:30 am.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available at stops like Faro Voltiano and local shops at Brunate.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended, with sunscreen and sunglasses advised for summer months.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations are handled through sightseeingthebest.com, with confirmation received within 48 hours of booking.