Things to do in Como: Best attractions for Man United fans before Champions League fixture

Manchester United fans travelling to Como's Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia for their Champions League group stage clash later this month will have plenty to look forward to away from the football, with one of Italy's most beautiful destinations waiting to be explored.

Situated on the shores of Lake Como, the city combines historic architecture, picturesque streets and spectacular lakeside scenery, while some of the region's most famous villas and villages are also within easy reach.

Whether you are arriving early for the fixture, staying for a few days or looking to make the most of a European away trip, there is plenty to see and do around Como.

FootballGroundGuide takes a look at some of the best attractions and experiences for Red Devils fans visiting Como.

1. Explore Como Cathedral

Como Cathedral, or Duomo di Como, is arguably the city's most recognisable landmark and an obvious starting point for any visit.

Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, construction began in 1396 and continued for several centuries before the building was finally completed in the 18th century.

Its Gothic architecture, ornate façade and intricate stonework make it particularly impressive from the outside, while the interior features lavish decoration, frescoes and stained-glass windows.

Located in the heart of Como, the cathedral is also ideally placed for fans exploring the city centre before or after a match.

2. Wander through Como's Centro Storico

Como's Centro Storico is perfect for supporters wanting to experience the city at a more relaxed pace.

The historic centre is made up of cobbled streets, medieval buildings, small squares, independent shops and cafes, providing plenty of opportunities to soak up the atmosphere before matchday.

Piazza del Duomo is one of the main focal points, while Porta Torre offers another reminder of Como's medieval past.

It is also an excellent area to wander around in the evening, with plenty of restaurants and bars providing somewhere to eat and drink during a European away trip.

3. Tour the famous Villa del Balbianello

One of Lake Como's most famous attractions, Villa del Balbianello has been used as a filming location for both Star Wars and James Bond.

The centuries-old mansion sits on the lakefront in the village of Lenno and is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, making it one of the most picturesque spots in the region.

Visitors can explore the villa itself to learn more about its history and architecture, while the gardens are arguably an attraction in their own right. The grounds feature centuries-old trees, colourful flowers and spectacular viewpoints across Lake Como.

The villa's famous lakeside balcony is also an unmissable photo opportunity for any Star Wars or James Bond fan.

4. Visit Villa Monastero

Another of Lake Como's spectacular historic villas, Villa Monastero can be found in the picturesque village of Varenna.

The former monastery has been transformed into a museum and botanical garden, offering visitors the chance to combine history with some of the region's most impressive scenery.

The gardens stretch for almost two kilometres along the lakeside and are filled with colourful plants, historic features and beautiful viewpoints.

Even if museums are not normally your thing, the gardens alone make Villa Monastero worth considering during a longer stay around the Champions League fixture.

5. Ride the Funicolare Como-Brunate

For some of the best views across Como and Lake Como, take a ride on the Funicolare Como-Brunate.

The funicular railway climbs from Como to the hilltop village of Brunate, providing spectacular panoramic views as it makes its way above the city.

Clear days are best for taking in the scenery, while travelling early can help avoid some of the crowds.

It is a relatively straightforward experience to add to a day exploring Como and offers something completely different from the city's historic attractions.

6. Explore Lake Como

Of course, no trip to Como would be complete without spending some time on the lake itself.

Lake Como is one of Italy's most famous destinations and offers a variety of ways to explore its waters, from regular ferry services to private boat tours and watersports.

Taking a boat is also one of the easiest ways to visit some of the lake's famous towns and villages, including Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio.

For fans turning their away trip into a longer break, a day exploring the lake could be one of the highlights of the entire visit.

7. Discover Orrido di Bellano

Those looking for something a little different can make the journey to Orrido di Bellano, a spectacular natural gorge on the eastern shore of Lake Como.

The attraction features walking paths, waterfalls and dramatic rock formations, creating a striking contrast to the elegant villas and lakeside towns for which the region is famous.

It is a particularly good option for fans who want to get out into nature and experience another side of the Lake Como area during their stay.

8. Relax in Piazza Cavour

Piazza Cavour is one of the central meeting points in Como and provides an easy way to experience the city's atmosphere without needing to travel far.

The square features monuments, cafes and the Teatro Sociale, making it a good place to sit down, grab a coffee or something to eat and watch local life unfold.

Its central location also makes Piazza Cavour a useful starting point for exploring Como's historic centre and the nearby waterfront before the Champions League action gets underway.