A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Milan vs. Como for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Milan or Como?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Milan and Como can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Milan

Milan is a chic, cultural, and trendy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Como

Como is a vibrant, scenic, and trendy lake area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Milan and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milan or Como?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Milan than Como. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Milan is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and big city activities, while Como attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Como is more touristy than Milan and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Milan is famous for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also well known for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Milan different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Como and Milan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Milan or Como?

Milan is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Milan can be an interesting and educational experience. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Is the Food Better in Milan or Como? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Milan and Como can be difficult as they are each first-rate in their own way.

Many restaurants in Milan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Eat your way through Como, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

Is Milan or Como Better for Nightlife?

Milan is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Milan is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Milan or Como Better for Music?

Milan is renowned for its music scene. However, Como is not a live music destination.

Milan has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Como is not a live music destination.

Is Milan or Como Better for Beaches?

Como is a lake area with good options for the beach. However, Milan is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Como. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Milan is not a beach destination.

Is Milan or Como Better for its Old Town?

Milan is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Como does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Milan is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Milan or Como Better for Hiking?

Como is great for hiking. However, Milan is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Como for the hiking trails. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Milan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Milan or Como?

If you're looking to go shopping, Milan and Como both offer plenty of first-rate spots.

Many people travel to Milan specifically to go shopping. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Como is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Is Milan or Como Better for Families?

Como is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Como. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Milan or Como Better for Couples?

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for couples. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Como is a great lake area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Milan or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Milan and Como are high quality places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

Is Milan or Como Better for Students?

Milan is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Como is not popular with students.

Milan is a great destination for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Como is not popular with students.

Is Milan or Como Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Milan is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Milan has a great public transit system. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

You'll find some public transit in Como, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Milan or Como a more walkable city?

Milan is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Milan. In particular, the city center is walkable.

Como is very walkable. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

For even more information, also check out Is Milan Worth Visiting? and Is Como Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Como or Milan?

How long in Milan or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Milan or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Milan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Milan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

Families should spend more time in Como than Milan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Como, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milan than Como if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Milan.

One day in Milan or Como?

Milan is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Como, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vibrant destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This lake area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Milan or Como?

Milan is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Como. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Milan or Como?

Milan is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Como is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Como. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Milan or Como?

The chic city of Milan offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

You'll find nightlife and food around the trendy destination of Como. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Milan and Como, we can see that Como is more expensive. And not only is Milan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Milan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Milan and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como than you might in Milan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Milan Expensive? and Is Como Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Milan or Como?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Milan and Como, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Milan or Como?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Milan or Como in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Milan and Como. Most visitors come to Milan for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Como because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Milan is around the same temperature as Como in the summer. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Como fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Como this time of the year. In Milan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Milan usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Como during summer. Milan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Milan usually receives around the same amount of rain as Como. Milan gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Milan or Como in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Milan as well as Como. The autumn months attract visitors to Milan because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Como this time of year.

In the autumn, Milan is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Milan in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Como averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Milan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Como. Milan gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Como. Milan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Milan usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Como. Milan gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Como in the Winter?

Both Como and Milan are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Milan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Como for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Como. It's quite cold in Milan in the winter. In January, Milan is generally around the same temperature as Como. Daily temperatures in Milan average around 5°C (41°F), and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Milan usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Como during winter. Milan gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Milan usually receives around the same amount of rain as Como. Milan gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Milan or Como in the Spring?

Both Como and Milan during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Milan for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Como in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Milan is around the same temperature as Como in the spring. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Como fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Milan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Como. Milan gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Como. Milan gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Como and Milan