5 Ways to Travel From Milan to Lake Como

Lake Como, located in northern Italy, is one of the most picturesque destinations in Europe, offering visitors stunning scenery, charming lakeside towns, and crystal-clear waters.

Many travelers journey from Milan to Lake Como by train, car, bus, or ferry. Each mode of transport offers a unique experience and its own advantages.

By Train

Taking the train from Milan to Lake Como is one of the most convenient and popular options, particularly for reaching not just Como, but also other lakeside towns such as Varenna and Lecco.

Trains leave from Milan Centrale or Milan Porta Garibaldi and head towards Como San Giovanni, Varenna-Esino, and Lecco. The trip to Como takes around 40 minutes to 1 hour, while it takes about 1 hour to reach Varenna and Lecco.

When you arrive at Como San Giovanni, it's about a 15-minute walk to the lakeside, where you can explore the town or catch a ferry to other towns like Bellagio.

If you're heading to Varenna, the Varenna-Esino station is a short walk to the town center and the ferry terminal. For Lecco, you can walk or take a taxi from the train station to the lakeside promenade, which is ideal for those looking to explore a quieter part of Lake Como.

Advantages of Traveling by Train

One of the main advantages of traveling by train is the speed and frequency of the service. Trains run regularly, offering a quick and direct route without the worry of traffic delays. It's an affordable option, with tickets typically priced between €5-10.

Additionally, the train ride offers scenic views as you approach the lake, making the journey enjoyable in itself.

Tips for Taking the Train

To ensure a smooth trip, it's recommended to purchase tickets in advance, particularly during peak season. If you buy your ticket at the station, make sure to validate it at the machines before boarding the train.

Private Transport

For travelers who prefer a more comfortable and luxurious option, private transport services are available from Milan to Lake Como. Private transfer companies offer door-to-door service in luxury vehicles, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about navigation or parking.

This option is especially convenient for those traveling with heavy luggage or in larger groups.

Advantages of Private Transfers

Private transfers typically include pick-up from your accommodation in Milan and drop-off at your destination in Lake Como, be it a hotel, villa, or lakeside town.

The journey is tailored to your schedule, and you can enjoy the scenic drive without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads. While private transfers are more expensive than public transport, they offer the advantage of comfort, privacy, and convenience.

Tips for Private Transport

If you're leaning toward private transport, contact Odynovo to ensure your journey to Lake Como is seamless and unforgettable!

By Bus

Taking the bus is another affordable and convenient way to travel from Milan to Lake Como, with buses not only serving Como but also other lake towns such as Lecco.

Autostradale and FlixBus offer direct buses from Milan Lampugnano Bus Station to Como's Piazza Matteotti and Lecco, with the journey to both destinations taking around 1.5 hours.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station, and prices are generally lower than train tickets, starting at around €5.

Once you arrive at Como Piazza Matteotti, you'll find yourself in the heart of the town, just steps away from the lakeside and various attractions.

If you get off the bus in Lecco, you can easily reach the town's beautiful lakefront by foot, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll or hop on a ferry to explore other parts of the lake.

Advantages of Traveling by Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly option for travelers, particularly for those looking to save on transport costs. While buses may take slightly longer than trains due to traffic conditions, they provide a direct and comfortable way to reach the lake.

Tips for Taking the Bus

It's important to check the bus schedule in advance, as services may be less frequent than trains, especially on weekends or public holidays. Make sure to arrive early at the bus station, as buses can fill up quickly during the summer months.

Buses in Italy

By Car

Self-driving from Milan to Lake Como is an excellent option for travelers who prefer flexibility and the freedom to explore at their own pace. The drive to towns like Como or Lecco typically takes about 1-1.5 hours via the A9 motorway toward Como or the SS36 highway toward Lecco.

If you're heading to popular destinations like Bellagio or Menaggio, be prepared for narrow and winding roads. While these routes require careful navigation, the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains make the journey incredibly rewarding.

Advantages of Self-Driving

One of the main advantages of self-driving is the ability to stop wherever you wish - whether it's to explore charming villages, take in scenic viewpoints, or enjoy a meal at a local restaurant along the route.

For families or groups, having a car ensures direct transport to your accommodation, eliminating the hassle of coordinating with public transportation schedules.

It also gives you the freedom to explore more remote and less touristy spots around the lake.

Tips for Self-Driving

When driving to Lake Como, there are a few practical things to keep in mind. Parking in towns like Como, Bellagio, and Menaggio can be tricky, especially during peak tourist season. Look for designated parking areas to avoid fines, and expect to pay for parking in most towns.

Additionally, roads near Bellagio can be quite narrow and may require extra caution. Remember that the A9 motorway has tolls, so be sure to have cash or a credit card ready for payment.

If you're considering a self-drive tour, Odynovo can assist in crafting the perfect route and itinerary tailored to your self-driving adventure around Lake Como unforgettable!

By Ferry

For a truly scenic experience, you can travel to Lake Como by combining a train or bus journey with a ferry ride. Ferries operate frequently between the major lakeside towns, including Como, Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio.

For example, if you take the train to Como San Giovanni or Varenna-Esino, you can catch a ferry to reach Bellagio or Menaggio, with crossings taking anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 hour depending on the route.

Advantages of Traveling by Ferry

Taking the ferry is an excellent way to soak in the wonderful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. You'll pass by charming villas, lush gardens, and picturesque towns along the way.

Ferries also offer a relaxing alternative to driving or public transport, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the journey.

Tips for Taking the Ferry

It's important to check ferry timetables in advance, especially during the off-season when services may be limited. Tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminal or online.

How to Get From Milan Airports to Lake Como

If you're flying into Milan's Malpensa or Linate airports, getting to Lake Como is relatively straightforward. From Malpensa Airport, you can take the Malpensa Express train to Saronno, where you can transfer to a train bound for Como San Giovanni.

The total journey takes about 1.5 hours. From Linate Airport, you'll need to take a bus to Milan Centrale and then catch a train to Como or Varenna.

Private transfers are also available from both airports, offering a more direct and comfortable option for reaching Lake Como without the need for multiple transfers.

Lake Como

Lake Como Towns to Explore

Lake Como is a large area, and its charm lies in the variety of towns that dot its shores, each offering a unique experience.

Como

Como is the largest town on the lake and serves as the primary entry point for many visitors.

Here, you can stroll through Piazza Cavour, visit the Como Cathedral, or take the funicular to Brunate, a hilltop village offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Como also boasts several excellent restaurants and shops, making it a great place to start your exploration of the lake.

Varenna

Varenna is a peaceful and picturesque village on the eastern shore of Lake Como. Known for its colorful houses and charming waterfront promenade, Varenna offers visitors a tranquil retreat.

A must-visit is the Villa Monastero, a wonderful lakeside villa with beautiful gardens that extend along the shore. From Varenna, you can easily take a ferry to nearby Bellagio or Menaggio.

Bellagio

Often referred to as the "Pearl of Lake Como," Bellagio is one of the lake's most famous towns. Situated on a promontory where the lake splits into two branches, Bellagio is known for its elegant villas, like Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni, both of which feature scenic gardens.

The town's cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day of exploration.

Menaggio

Located on the western shore, Menaggio is a charming town that combines beautiful lake views with historical charm. It's an ideal base for those who enjoy outdoor activities, as it offers access to hiking and cycling trails in the surrounding hills.

Menaggio also has a lovely lakefront promenade and a lively town square filled with cafes and shops. From Menaggio, you can take a ferry to Bellagio or Varenna, making it a great stop on a day of lake exploration.

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