Attractions and Places To See around Cantù - Top 20

Cantù offers a rich historical heritage. You can visit the Galliano Monumental Complex, an early-medieval architectural jewel featuring the Basilica of San Vincenzo and the Baptistery of San Giovanni with ancient frescoes. Other notable sites include the Sanctuary of Madonna dei Miracoli, the 16th-century Villa Calvi, and the medieval Archinzi Door and Porta Torre. The San Paolo Church and Bell Tower is also a prominent landmark in Piazza Garibaldi.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the Voltiano Lighthouse in Brunate. Built to commemorate Alessandro Volta, it offers splendid vistas of Como and Lake Como. Another excellent viewpoint is Mount Bolettone, one of the first peaks of the Como triangle ridge, providing extensive views.

Yes, you can explore the Oasi Torbiere di Albate-Bassone, a 90-hectare natural reserve south of Como with forests, meadows, and marshes, home to various bird species. It's managed by the WWF and offers natural routes. Additionally, you can find the impressive Cedro Atlante, an Atlas Cedar almost 20 meters high with a circumference exceeding 11 meters, located in the Province of Como.

The area around Cantù is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling. For hiking, explore trails like the 'Abbey of Vertemate – Abbey Trail' or the 'Serenza Stream Crossing – Carimate Castle loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as 'Monte Goi Viewpoint – Lake Montorfano loop' or 'Lura Park – Cycling and pedestrian bridge over the Lura loop'. Discover more options on the Hiking around Cantù, MTB Trails around Cantù, and Cycling around Cantù guide pages.

Many attractions around Cantù are suitable for families. The Como Harbour area offers a pleasant environment for walks and boat trips. Exploring the historical sites in Cantù, such as the Galliano Monumental Complex, can also be an educational experience for older children. The Oasi Torbiere di Albate-Bassone provides easy natural routes for family strolls.

Cantù has a strong tradition in high-quality handmade furniture production. The Art School for Furniture, established in 1882, was Italy's first school of its kind. You can see examples of this craftsmanship at Permanente Mobili, a neo-classical exhibition space on the western side of Piazza Garibaldi, showcasing both classical and contemporary furniture designs by local artisans.

If you're hiking towards Mount Bolettone, Capanna Mara is an excellent refuge to stop. It's located on the route and offers a chance to taste local products and enjoy a break during your trek.

The Galliano Monumental Complex is a significant early-medieval site in Lombardy. It includes the Basilica of San Vincenzo, consecrated in 1007, which is renowned for its valuable frescoes depicting the martyrdom of San Vincenzo and the Madonna with Child and Saints. Adjacent to it is the Baptistery of San Giovanni, featuring remnants of frescoes and a unique eight-pointed star decoration on its dome, along with a full immersion baptismal font.

Yes, the Necropolis, discovered in the 1930s in Via Regina Theodolinda, provides insights into ancient funeral practices in the region. This site is characterized by precious kits and early ceramic outfits, testifying to the spread of cremation in ancient times.

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse experiences offered, from the stunning panoramic views at the Voltiano Lighthouse and Mount Bolettone, to the historical richness of sites like the Galliano Monumental Complex. The opportunity to combine cultural exploration with outdoor activities, such as hiking to Capanna Mara, is also highly valued.

Yes, in Brunate, you can visit the Church of Saint Andrew (Parish of Sant'Andrea Apostolo). It is a relatively small church, admired for its beautiful exterior and interior, and holds historical significance as a religious building in the area.