Lake Como is less than an hour from Milan, which makes it one of the easiest Italian dreams to reach. But the best way to get there depends on where you are staying on the lake, how much luggage you have and how you like to travel. Here is our local guide to every option, from trains to private transfers, plus the airports.
The short answer
- To Como town: a direct train from Milan takes about 40 minutes to an hour.
- To Varenna: a direct train from Milano Centrale takes about an hour.
- To Bellagio, Tremezzo or Menaggio: combine a train with a boat, or take a private transfer door to door.
- From the airports: a private transfer is the simplest option, especially with luggage.
By train
Trains are a comfortable, inexpensive way to reach the lake, with two main routes:
Milan to Como
Regional trains run from Milano Centrale and Milano Porta Garibaldi to Como San Giovanni, and from Milano Cadorna to Como Nord Lago, which is right on the lakefront. Both journeys take roughly 40 minutes to an hour.
Milan to Varenna
Direct regional trains run from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino on the line towards Tirano, taking about an hour. From Varenna station it is a short walk down to the village and the boat landing.
Tip: regional trains do not usually require seat reservations, but timetables vary, so check the latest times before you travel and remember to validate paper tickets.
Then by boat
Public boat services connect most lakeside villages and run to their own timetables, which vary by season. From Varenna, boats cross to Bellagio and Menaggio in minutes, and from Como you can travel up the lake to the central villages. For complete flexibility, a private water taxi can meet you at the station or your hotel.
By private transfer
A private driver is the most relaxing option, especially with luggage, children or an evening arrival. The driver meets you at your hotel in Milan, the station or the airport and takes you straight to your hotel on the lake. Expect roughly an hour to Como and around one and a half to two hours to the central lake, depending on traffic.
By car
Driving gives you freedom, but the lakeside roads are narrow and winding, and parking in the villages can be difficult in summer. Many travellers find it more relaxing to arrive by train or transfer and explore the lake by boat.
From Milan’s airports
Milan Malpensa
Malpensa is the main international airport. A private transfer to Como takes about an hour, and longer to the central lake. Reaching the lake by train is possible, but usually involves at least one change.
Milan Linate
Linate is closer to the city and mainly serves European flights. A private transfer to the lake is the most straightforward option.
Bergamo Orio al Serio
Bergamo airport, popular with low-cost airlines, is closer to the eastern shore of the lake. A private transfer is again the simplest choice.
Which option is best for you?
- Travelling light and staying in Como or Varenna: the train is quick and easy.
- Staying in Bellagio, Tremezzo or Menaggio: train plus boat, or a private transfer.
- Arriving from the airport, with family or plenty of luggage: a private transfer.
- Short on time: a private transfer saves changes and waiting.
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit Lake Como as a day trip from Milan?
Yes, but you will only see a small part of the lake. To enjoy it properly, we recommend staying at least two or three nights. Our Lake Como itinerary for 3, 4 and 5 days shows how to spend your time.
Which station is closest to Bellagio?
Varenna-Esino is the most convenient station for Bellagio, as boats cross the lake from Varenna in a few minutes.
More Lake Como guides
- The perfect Lake Como itinerary: 3, 4 and 5 days
- Where to stay on Lake Como
- Lake Como private boat tours
- The best time to visit Lake Como
- A Lake Como honeymoon
Let us organise your arrival
We arrange private transfers from Milan, the airports and the stations, and plan the rest of your stay on the lake around your dates. Tell us about your trip for a free, tailor-made proposal, discover our private Lake Como trips, or plan your journey today.