Lake Como’s best self-guided tours pack real discovery into every step.
The Downtown Como walk hits all the historic high points, with clear audio directions that keep you on track through medieval lanes and grand piazzas.
My favorite option is the cleverly designed Sherlock Holmes mystery tour – it turns sightseeing into a fun whodunit while showcasing the city’s architectural gems.
For nature and history buffs, the lakeside audio tour delivers fascinating stories about the villas and gardens along Como’s famous shoreline.
All these tours work well for independent travelers who like to explore at their own pace.
Let’s check out the top self-guided tours worth your time in Lake Como.
Key Points
- The Lake Como Self-Guided Walking Tour provides a digital audio guide to explore downtown Como, covering major landmarks in 10-15 minutes.
- The Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game offers an interactive journey to solve a captivating murder case, guided by a smartphone app.
- The Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and Its Breathtaking Lakeside provides offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, ending at the Como-Brunate funicular station.
- All three tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours, and the Lake Como and Como Lakeside tours are accessible for wheelchair users and service animals.
- Prices for the tours range from $21.42 for the Sherlock Holmes experience to $21.47 per person for the Lake Como walking tour.
Lake Como: Self-Guided Walking Tour – Downtown Como
After arriving at the meeting point in Piazza Cavour, participants embark on a self-guided walking tour to explore the charming downtown area of Como.
The tour covers a distance of approximately 10-15 minutes between the starting point and the end at Villa Olmo. Along the way, the digital audio guide provides information about points of interest, and users can access navigation apps for directions.
The tour is open from September 19, 2023, to October 12, 2025, with operating hours from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM, 7 days a week. Prices start at $21.47 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are allowed. Most travelers can participate, as there are no strict health requirements.
The digital audio guide features include directions based on user location, a blue line showing the path, and the ability to access navigation apps.
The tour ends at Villa Olmo, allowing participants to explore the area further on their own.
Read our full review: Lake Como: Self-Guided Walking Tour – Downtown Como Review
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Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game
In this self-guided Sherlock Holmes murder mystery game, participants embark on an immersive adventure through the historic streets of Lake Como. Priced at just $21.42 for a group of up to four, this private tour allows you to experience the city at your own pace, guided by a smartphone app.
The game begins at Piazza del Duomo, where the app will lead you on an interactive journey, challenging you to solve a captivating murder case.
Throughout the experience, you’ll engage with the city’s landmarks and uncover clues to piece together the mystery. The tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, but most travelers can participate.
While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s located near public transportation. With the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this self-guided Sherlock Holmes adventure offers a unique and flexible way to explore the enchanting city of Lake Como.
Read our full review: Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game Review
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A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and Its Breathtaking Lakeside
Situated along the picturesque shores of Lake Como, this self-guided walking tour invites travelers to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this Italian gem.
With the VoiceMap app, adventurers can embark on a captivating journey, armed with offline access to audio, maps, and geodata that bring the tour to life.
The tour starts at the iconic Piazza Alessandro Volta in Como, just a 10-minute walk from the Como S. Giovanni train station for non-residents.
As you explore the charming lakeside, the audio guide provides insights and stories that enhance your understanding and appreciation of the surroundings.
The tour culminates at the Como-Brunate funicular station, offering a convenient endpoint for your self-guided exploration.
Wheelchair users and those with service animals can fully participate in this accessible experience.
With a reasonable price point and positive reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure in the breathtaking landscape of Lake Como.
Read our full review: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and Its Breathtaking Lakeside Review
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The Sum Up
Lake Como offers a variety of self-guided tours that allow visitors to explore the picturesque town and its stunning lakeside views at their own pace. Whether it’s a walking tour of downtown Como, a murder mystery game, or a lakeside stroll, these tours provide an engaging and immersive way to discover the charm and beauty of this iconic Italian destination.