Mercato di Piazza San Fedele
Tucked into the atmospheric medieval square of Piazza San Fedele — flanked by a Romanesque church and porticoed palazzi — this twice-weekly street market is where Como residents actually shop, making it one of the most honest and photogenic markets on the lake.
What to Find and Buy
Stalls spill across the cobblestones on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, selling seasonal fruit and vegetables from Brianza farms, wheels of local formaggi, cured bresaola from the Valtellina valley and bundles of fresh herbs. It is a working market, not a tourist trap, so prices are fair and vendors are happy to slice samples.
Look out for the fabric and textile stalls — Como is the silk capital of Europe and remnants of high-quality silk, linen and cotton often appear here at a fraction of boutique prices. A silk scarf bought in Piazza San Fedele is a far more satisfying souvenir than anything from a gift shop.
The Square Itself
Even on non-market days, Piazza San Fedele deserves a visit. The 11th-century Basilica di San Fedele has a magnificent apsidal end visible from the narrow lanes behind it, and the surrounding medieval buildings retain their original external staircases and loggie.
A handful of cafés under the porticos serve excellent espresso; grab a stool, order a macchiato and watch the square do its thing — it is one of the most lived-in corners of the old town.
More of Como
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Como →
