Christmas in Como

We landed in Milan and headed straight for espresso grande’s. While the flight from New York was direct and painless, it’s still a haul without good sleep.

We sucked down our jet black coffees and picked up the rental car for our drive to Lake Como. Our ride was ready and waiting, and once Ian and Mira arrived from the train station we stuffed the trunk like a Thanksgiving turkey and headed north.

Once in Como and settled in our AirBnb overlooking the Duomo and the lake, we headed out to explore (and get another coffee). After a stroll along the waterfront, we popped into a local eatery – Ox Pub & Grill – and ordered our first assortment of Italian carbs. The restaurant kicked things off with a taste of Prosecco on the house and shortly thereafter, Burrata, Pizza, Pasta and Panini(s) covered our table. We feasted and fueled for the rest of our walk through town and the local Christmas market. The sun shone brightly and locals flooded the streets with scarves on their necks and mulled wine in their hands, as all prepared for Christmas Eve celebrations.

We stocked up on supplies for the kitchen and Christmas Day brunch, and headed back to the AirBnb to kick our feet up.

Christmas Eve dinner was at a local spot that was recommended to us by Patrick’s cousin and also highlighted in our Fodor’s Travel Guide – Il Gatto Nero.

It was a “hold your breath” drive to get up to the restaurant but once there, the stunning views of Lake Como below made it well worth the knuckle breaking turns. Il Gatto was decked to the nines for Christmas with garland, lanterns, teddy bears (it’s apparently a thing in Italy because they’re everywhere this time of year) and poinsettias galore. The table was set beautifully with festive china and glowing candles — holiday spirit was certainly in full effect. With champagne in hand and a gorgeous dinner of fresh Italian fare surrounding us, we toasted to a very merry Christmas.

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Christmas Day greeted us with vibrant sunny skies and warmer than usual weather. We blasted traditional tunes and gathered around the living room in our ‘What the Elf Jammies’. Our stockings were stuffed with small treats and we each took our turn opening. Afterwards Patrick whipped up a fabulous family brunch that was enjoyed by all.

We had to take advantage of the weather, so we geared up for a long walk on the water. Como was alive with tourists and locals alike; everyone was enjoying their day off. The water sparkled in the sun and we continued to glide along the pathway lining town. Five miles and a lot of laughs (and photos) later, we were ready for a Christmas aperitif.

Back at the ranch we enjoy some beers and games, where we traded off between Farkle and Euchre. The gang got so caught up in the fun, that we decided to finish our game night in style — with four takeaway pizzas and loads of Prosecco!

We played Farkle into the wee morning hours, before finally turning in for bed. It was certainly a Christmas to remember!

Our last day in Como would be dedicated to “town hopping” using Lake Como’s notable ferry transports. More tomorrow….#Twofortakeoff