Things To Do
in Erba
Erba is a charming Lombard town perched between rolling hills and the lake district, offering a calm base for exploring the Brianza and the Como area. Its historic streets and neoclassical façades reflect a rich local heritage. The town buzzes with seasonal markets, scenic viewpoints, and easy access to hiking trails and lakes.
Friendly locals, a relaxed pace, and picturesque landscapes make Erba a rewarding stop for culture, food, and nature lovers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the quaint streets of Erba's historic center, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant local shops. Don’t forget to visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista, where you'll find stunning frescoes and a serene atmosphere. Grab a cappuccino at a local café to savor the ambiance and plan out your day's adventures.
After lunch, head to Villa Amantea, a beautiful 19th-century villa set within lush gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through the grounds and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding hills. Visit the narrow streets of the nearby village of Pontelambro for a taste of local culture and artisanal shops.
As the sun sets, find a cozy trattoria to indulge in Erba's regional cuisine, such as risotto with locally sourced ingredients. Share stories with friendly locals over a glass of chianti as the atmosphere becomes lively. End your night with a walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the beauty of the town under the stars.
Take a scenic drive to the enchanting Lake Como, where breathtaking views greet you at every turn. Arrive at the charming town of Bellagio and enjoy a leisurely breakfast by the lakeside, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Explore the quaint shops and stunning gardens that make this area a popular destination.
Spend the afternoon aboard a ferry, cruising across the lake to visit the picturesque towns of Varenna and Menaggio. Each town presents its own unique charm, with narrow cobblestone streets and striking vistas. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront café, relishing fresh seafood or traditional Italian fare.
Return to Erba in the evening, taking in the last glowing rays of sunset over the lake. Treat yourself to a gelato as you stroll along the scenic waterfront, capturing the beauty of Lake Como one last time. Settle into a local restaurant for dinner, enjoying the warm atmosphere and delightful flavors of Italian cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃1 liter of water (bottled) | $1-2 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $4-6 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $2-4 |
| 🧀Basic groceries (pasta, sauce, cheese) | $6-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, walkable town with a relaxed pace
- Great base for lake and mountain excursions in Lombardy
- Delicious regional cuisine and welcoming locals
- Proximity to Milan, Como, and Lecco makes day trips easy
- Limited nightlife within town limits; may require trips to larger towns for more options
- Smaller town amenities compared with bigger cities
- Some attractions may be seasonal or weather-dependent
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore, dove è il bagno?" - Please, where is the bathroom?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due, per favore" - I would like a table for two, please
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi può consigliare un ristorante tipico?" - Can you recommend a traditional restaurant?
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Erba
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobblestone lanes, pastel facades, and quaint arches make for classic Lombard town photography.
Short climbs to terraces that reveal sweeping views of fields, hills, and distant lakes.
Quiet squares with a blend of old churches and local life, ideal for candid street shots.
Calm waters and mirrored skies along the lakeside, perfect for sunset reflections.
Food in Erba
Erba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy risotto with porcini mushrooms, a staple in Lombard eateries near Erba.
Must-Try!
Coarse polenta taragna served with mushrooms and local cheeses for a hearty, comforting bite.
Slow-braised beef in Merlot wine served with polenta for a classic Lombard pairing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant weekly market where locals buy cheese, cured meats, vegetables, and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with buongiorno or ciao; use polite forms like Signore/Signora in formal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; keep voices low and phones on silent.
Meals are social; take time to enjoy them and be punctual for appointments or tours.
Safety
Tipping in Erba
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included or expected as modest; rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sunny days with occasional thunderstorms; bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and seek shade mid-afternoon.
Erba at Night
Hiking in Erba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular circular trails through pine woods with scenic overlooks of the Lombardy plains and lakes.
Flat to moderate lakeside route ideal for easy day hikes and birdwatching.
Dramatic limestone hills offering panoramic views over the Lake Como basin; various difficulty levels.
Airports
How to reach Erba by plane.
Main international gateway nearby; good rail and road connections to Erba; typically 60-90 minutes by car or train.
Close to Milan; convenient for domestic and Europe flights; about 45-70 minutes by car or train.
Budget-friendly option with frequent connections; roughly 60-90 minutes to Erba by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with parks, markets, and safe streets.
Many residents enjoy the quiet hillside setting and community life.
Visitors drawn to lake breezes, hiking, and Lombard culture—especially in market seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and public pitches are common.
Hilly terrain around Brianza makes it a favorite for road cyclists and gravel riders.
The Monte Barro area and nearby Grigne foothills attract hikers and climbers alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erba.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many trattorias offer vegetarian alternatives; ask for mushroom risottos, vegetable-based pastas, and polenta dishes.