Things To Do
in Cantù
Cantù is a historic town in Lombardy, just north of Milan, renowned for its long-standing craft traditions and nearby furniture district. Its compact centro storico features stone arcades, elegant churches, and lively piazzas that invite a relaxed, stroll-friendly visit. The town sits in the Brianza countryside, with easy access to lakes, hills, and the famed Como region.
Visitors are welcomed by friendly locals, a strong sense of design heritage, and fresh, regional cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Basilica di San Paolo, where you can admire its stunning Romanesque architecture. After exploring the basilica, stroll through the charming streets of the old town, taking in the quaint shops and local cafés. Don't forget to stop by a bakery to try some fresh Italian pastries with your morning coffee.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Museo della Seta, where you can learn about Cantù’s rich silk-weaving history. Following the museum visit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional trattoria, sampling local delicacies such as risotto and polenta. Conclude your afternoon with a peaceful walk in the Parco della Villa Calvi, soaking in the beautiful park scenery.
As the sun sets, head to a local pizzeria to indulge in authentic Neapolitan pizza, made with fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets of Cantù, enjoying the ambiance of the town at night. If you’re feeling adventurous, find a cozy bar to savor an aperitivo while mingling with friendly locals.
Hop on a train to the stunning Lake Como, where you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of the water and surrounding mountains. Spend your morning exploring the picturesque town of Varenna, known for its colorful houses and beautiful lakeside promenade. Don’t miss visiting the Villa Monastero with its exquisite gardens overlooking the lake.
After a lovely lunch at a lakeside café, take a ferry ride to Bellagio, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Lake'. Spend your afternoon wandering through the cobblestone streets and boutique shops, enjoying the stunning landscapes at every turn. Be sure to visit the famous Villa Melzi and its beautiful gardens before heading back.
Return to Cantù in the evening and unwind at a local bar, sipping on a glass of local wine as you reflect on your day's adventures. For dinner, treat yourself to a rich and flavorful risotto at one of the town's well-regarded restaurants. End your night with a gelato stroll through the charming streets of Cantù, enjoying the cool Italian breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🧃Bottled water (0.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $1-2.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location for day trips to Lake Como and the Brianza region
- Rich craft and design heritage with a welcoming local vibe
- Can be quieter at night compared to larger cities
- Limited large-scale nightlife and entertainment options within town
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Cantù
Visit one of these nice places.
A central landmark with ornate façade and historic interiors; a strong subject for architectural detail and interior light.
Photograph shaded arcades, cobblestone alleys, and the interplay of light and shadow on weathered façades.
Characterful street scenes with shopfronts, doorways, and occasional street art that capture local character.
Capture quiet water reflections and local bridges at golden hour along accessible riverside paths.
Food in Cantù
Cantù Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A saffron-infused risotto often finished with Parmigiano, widely available in traditional Lombard trattorie.
Must-Try!
A stuffed pasta typical of the broader Lombardy region, usually served with butter sage and parmesan.
A buckwheat-polenta variety commonly served with mushrooms, cheese, or hearty sauces.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the historic center offering fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, and local specialties.
Casual bites like fried snacks and pastries from local pasticcerie and takeaway stalls; look for seasonal specialties during festivals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' and a handshake; use formal 'Lei' in initial encounters unless invited to use first-name terms.
Meal courses are common; wait for everyone to be served before beginning, and keep voices moderate in public spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites; quiet behavior and respectful photography is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Cantù
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, service charge is often included in the bill. If not, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated for good service; rounding up cash is common in casual spots.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and cafes. Cash is still useful for small markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming streets; great for walking tours and outdoor markets. Pack a light jacket for cool mornings.
Warm to hot days; stay hydrated and seek shade in the historic center or by nearby lakes. Expect local festivals and lively evenings.
Cooler days with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic walks in the surrounding Brianza countryside and shorter museum visits.
Cold but manageable; indoors-focused activities like trattorie, cafés, and small art or design spaces are cozy options.
Cantù at Night
Hiking in Cantù
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive away, offering hiking trails, viewpoints, and wildlife in a sheltered hill landscape.
Extensive network of trails through rolling hills and natural scenery, suitable for day hikes from Cantù.
Airports
How to reach Cantù by plane.
Major international hub about 40-60 miles from Cantù, with rail and road connections to the region.
City-focused airport closer to central Milan, convenient for domestic and European flights.
Bergamo airport serving many low-cost carriers, reachable within a couple of hours by car or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with schools, parks, and safe streets.
A design and furniture craft hub attracts professionals in crafts, retail, and design sectors.
Nearby universities and technical institutes contribute a youthful presence in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local passion and weekend matches are common in town clubs and nearby leagues.
Flat to gently hilly terrain around Brianza makes it popular for road cycling and scenic rides.
Community leagues and school teams offer local sporting activity in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cantù.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most trattorie offer vegetarian options; look for risotto, polenta-based dishes, roasted vegetables, and cheese-focused plates. When in doubt, ask for 'senza carne' or 'vegetariano' and request dairy-free or egg-free accommodations as needed.