Ever dreamed of walking through Lake Como’s charming towns? Or marveling at its stunning views? And enjoying the area’s famous food? You’re in the right spot! As a seasoned traveler, I’m here to share how to easily get from Milan to this beautiful Italian spot.
Lake Como’s beauty is hard to resist, and it’s close to Milan. You can find many ways to get there, whether for a day trip or a longer stay. This guide will show you the best ways to travel from Milan to Lake Como. You’ll learn about different routes, travel options, and tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
- Train tickets can cost as little as €12 per person for the recommended route from Milan to Lake Como.
- The fast boat ferry ride from Como to Bellagio takes approximately 45 minutes.
- The Varenna-Esino to Milan Centrale train ride is a direct trip lasting about 65 minutes.
- Milan’s main train station, Centrale, serves as a transportation hub with connections to buses, trams, and the Metro.
- Weekends and holidays may experience reduced train frequency and potentially longer travel times in the Milan-Como route.
Overview of Milan to Lake Como Journey
Lake Como is a stunning spot in northern Italy, known for its beautiful views and rich culture. The trip from Milan to Lake Como is a scenic ride. It offers different ways to travel and a chance to see lovely towns and villages.
Distance and Travel Time Overview
The distance from Milan to Lake Como is about 32 miles (51 km). The time it takes to get there depends on how you travel. By train, it’s around 40 minutes from Milan Central to Como S. Giovanni. The train from Milano Cadorna to Como Nord Lago takes about an hour.
Driving from Milan to Como takes about an hour. This makes it a good choice for those who want more freedom and control over their trip.
Popular Destinations Around Lake Como
- Como Town – Famous for its Como Cathedral, the town has a beautiful waterfront and lots of shops and restaurants.
- Bellagio – Known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is a lovely town with scenic villas and beautiful streets.
- Varenna – This small village has stunning views of the lake. It’s also home to historic sites like the Villa Del Balbianello.
Best Time to Visit Lake Como
The best time to visit Lake Como varies based on what you like. Late spring to early fall is usually the best. The weather is nice, and there’s lots to do, like seeing historic villas and gardens, or enjoying water sports and boat tours.
How to Travel from Milan to Lake Como
Many travelers love exploring Lake Como from Milan. There are several easy ways to get there. You can choose from trains, driving, or guided tours.
Train Travel
Trains are a top choice for getting to Lake Como. They run from Milan’s big stations to the lake. The trip takes 36 minutes to over an hour, depending on where you go.
Regionale trains are cheaper but might not have as many comforts as faster trains.
Driving
Driving gives you freedom and flexibility. The trip takes about 40 minutes to 1.25 hours. The A9/E35 highway offers beautiful views.
But, watch out for narrow roads and limited parking. Also, Milan and Como have Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL) areas where unauthorized vehicles face fines.
Bus and Other Options
Buses are available but not as good as trains or driving. Private transfers or guided tours offer comfort and local knowledge.
Choosing your travel method, you’ll see beautiful views and towns. With some planning, you’ll have a great trip to Lake Como.
“An idyllic journey from Milan to Lake Como, featuring a scenic train winding through lush green hills, charming villages with terracotta rooftops, and shimmering blue waters of the lake surrounded by majestic mountains under a clear blue sky.”
Getting to Como Town from Milan
Traveling from Milan to Como is easy. You have a few options to choose from, each with its own benefits.
Milano Centrale to Como S. Giovanni Route
The train from Milano Centrale to Como S. Giovanni is a favorite. It takes about 40 minutes. Trains run several times a day.
Fares range from €5.20 to €9.80, depending on the service.
Milano Cadorna to Como Nord Lago Option
Another choice is the train from Milano Cadorna to Como Nord Lago. It takes about 1 hour. Trains are faster and more direct here.
Ticket prices are from €8 to €16.
Practical Tips for Train Travel
- Use the Trenord app to plan and buy tickets easily.
- Regional trains are cheaper but stop more. EuroCity trains are faster but pricier.
- After arriving in Como, take the C10 or C30 bus to see more towns and sights.
Choosing any route, the train is a great way to reach Como. It’s efficient and affordable, opening the door to the beautiful Italian Lake District.
Traveling to Bellagio from Milan
Bellagio, a beautiful spot on Lake Como, is a favorite among visitors from Milan. There are many easy ways to get from Milan to this lovely town.
One easy way is to take a train from Milano Centrale to Como S. Giovanni. This trip takes about an hour. Then, you can catch a C30 bus or a boat to Bellagio. The boat ride is about an hour and shows off the lake’s beauty.
Another option is to take a train to Lecco and then a D10 bus or a boat to Bellagio. This route is a bit longer but offers more scenic views.
For those who like private transport, driving from Milan to Bellagio takes about 1.5 hours. But, parking in Bellagio can be hard, so this might not be the best choice for everyone.
There are also tours from Milan to Bellagio and Lake Como. These tours include transport, sightseeing, and activities. They make exploring this area easy and fun.
Choosing how to get to Bellagio from Milan is easy and fun. It lets you enjoy the natural beauty and charm of Lake Como’s favorite town.
Reaching Varenna from Milan
Traveling from Milan to Varenna on Lake Como is easy and scenic. You can take the train or drive. Both ways offer beautiful views and a chance to see Italy’s stunning regions.
Direct Train Routes
The train from Milan Central to Varenna-Esino station takes over an hour. Trains start at 6:20 AM and end at 9:20 PM. This gives you many options for your visit.
The one-way ticket in second class costs €6.80. It’s a cheap and comfy way to travel.
Driving Instructions
Driving from Milan to Varenna takes about 1.5 hours. You’ll take the A4 highway and SS 36. The trip is 53 miles (85 km) long.
You’ll see beautiful countryside and Lake Como along the way. It’s a great way to see Italy’s beauty.
Connection Options
Once in Varenna, you can visit nearby towns. The ferry to Bellagio costs about €5 each way and takes five minutes. It’s a quick way to cross the lake.
The Villa Melzi Gardens in Bellagio are a must-see. They have a small entrance fee. It’s a luxurious experience.
Whether by train or car, the trip to Varenna is a great way to enjoy Lake Como’s beauty and charming towns.
Lake Como’s Transportation Network
Exploring Lake Como is easy thanks to its good transportation network. You can travel between Milan and the lake or explore towns around the lake. There are many ways to get around.
Ferries and Boats
The Navigazione Laghi ferry system runs all year, linking towns like Como, Bellagio, and Varenna. These ferries and boats offer beautiful views of the lake. But, ferries can get crowded in summer, so plan ahead.
Buses and Trains
Buses like the C10 and C30 lines cover the lake’s shores. They are a cheap way to travel. Trains also connect Milan to places like Como and Lecco, taking 30 to 60 minutes. Arrive early at bus stops, as schedules can be sparse.
Driving and Taxis
Driving gives you freedom, with Milan to Lake Como taking 1 to 1.5 hours. But, walking is best in towns due to narrow streets. Taxis and private transfers are pricey, with few cabs available.
| Transportation Mode | Pros | Cons |
| Ferries | Scenic views of the lakeConvenient for connecting towns | Crowded during peak seasonLimited late-night options |
| Buses | Cost-effectiveFrequent service in some areas | Infrequent service in off-peak seasonsSlower than trains |
| Trains | Efficient for reaching key townsComfortable and reliable | Limited late-night optionsCan be more expensive than buses |
| Driving | Flexibility and independenceAbility to explore remote areas | Traffic congestion in peak seasonsLimited parking in town centers |
| Taxis | Convenient for short tripsGood option for late-night travel | Relatively expensiveLimited availability in some areas |
There are many ways to travel around lake como. Whether you’re going from milan to lake como or exploring the area, you have options. Knowing the good and bad of each helps plan your trip better.
Conclusion
Traveling from Milan to Lake Como has many options. You can choose trains, driving, or scenic ferries and buses. Each way has its own charm, making Lake Como perfect for a day trip or a longer stay.
The train is the most popular choice. It’s fast and affordable, taking just 37 minutes to Como and over an hour to Varenna and Bellano. Train tickets cost between $12 and $33 for a round trip.
If you prefer to drive, you can explore at your own pace. But, parking in towns can be hard. Guided tours and private transfers are also great, letting you relax and enjoy the views.
