Surrounded by mountains, grand villas, and pastel villages, Lake Como is one of the most beautiful places in Italy, and it's only about an hour from Milan by train. A day trip lets you hop between its prettiest towns by ferry and still be back in the city for dinner. This guide covers how to get from Milan to Lake Como, how to get around the lake, and a one-day itinerary for Varenna, Bellagio, and Como.
How to Get From Milan to Lake Como
Lake Como is shaped like an upside-down Y. For a day trip, the best plan is to arrive at Varenna on the eastern shore, cross to Bellagio, and return from the town of Como at the southern tip.
- To Varenna: Regional trains from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino take about 1 hour. The station is a short walk from the village and ferry pier.
- To Como: Trains from Milano Centrale or Porta Garibaldi to Como San Giovanni take about 40 minutes to 1 hour. Trenord trains from Milano Cadorna run to Como Nord Lago, right by the lake.
- By car: About 1 hour, but parking in the lake villages is limited and the roads are narrow, so the train is usually easier.
Regional train tickets don't need to be booked in advance. Validate paper tickets before boarding, or buy digital tickets on the Trenord or Trenitalia app.
How to Get Around Lake Como
Ferries
Ferries run by Navigazione Laghi connect the lake towns. The short car ferry between Varenna, Bellagio, Menaggio, and Cadenabbia takes 15 to 30 minutes and runs frequently. For longer trips, choose between the slow boat, which takes around 2 hours from Bellagio to Como and stops at many villages, and the faster hydrofoil, which takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. A day pass can be good value if you plan several crossings. Lines can be long in summer, so buy tickets as soon as you arrive at each pier, and check the last departures.
On foot
The villages are best explored on foot, with lots of steps and cobbled lanes. Wear comfortable shoes.
One-Day Lake Como Itinerary
Morning: Varenna
Take an early train to Varenna to enjoy the village before the crowds. Stroll the Passeggiata degli Innamorati, the Lovers' Walk, a pretty lakeside path into the village. Explore the main square, Piazza San Giorgio, and its old churches, then visit the gardens of Villa Monastero. If you have energy, walk up to the Castello di Vezio for panoramic views of the lake.
Midday: Bellagio
Take the short ferry to Bellagio, often called the Pearl of Lake Como. Climb the stepped lanes of the old town, such as the Salita Serbelloni, browse the silk and leather shops, and have lunch with a view. Walk out to Punta Spartivento, the tip of the peninsula, where the lake's branches meet, and visit the lakeside gardens of Villa Melzi.
Afternoon: Ferry to Como
Take the hydrofoil or slow boat south to Como, admiring the villas along the shore, including the gardens of Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello, from the water.
Evening: Como town
Arriving at Piazza Cavour, see Como Cathedral and the medieval Porta Torre gate, and walk along the lakefront. For sunset views, take the funicular up to Brunate. Then catch the train back to Milan, about 40 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips for Your Lake Como Day Trip
- Start early. The first trains and ferries are the least crowded.
- Visit from April to October for the best weather and the full ferry timetable. Some gardens and villas close in winter.
- Check the last ferry and train before you set off.
- Stay overnight if you can. The lake is magical in the evening once the day-trippers leave.
- Stay connected. An egoViet Italy eSIM keeps ferry timetables and maps on hand. See our Italy eSIM guide. See also the best European travel apps.
Looking for more trips from the city? See the best day trips from Milan and the best places to visit in Italy.
FAQs: Milan to Lake Como Day Trip
Can you do Lake Como as a day trip from Milan?
Yes. Trains take about an hour, leaving plenty of time to visit two or three lakeside towns by ferry.
Which town on Lake Como is best for a day trip?
Varenna and Bellagio are the most beautiful and are connected by a short ferry. Como town is the easiest to reach.
How much is the ferry on Lake Como?
Fares depend on the route and boat type. Short crossings are inexpensive, and day passes are available for multiple trips.
What is the best time to visit Lake Como?
April to June and September to October offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds than July and August.