A Day Trip to Lake Como from Milan

Last Updated on September 29, 2025 by Polly Dimitrova

If you re visiting Milan, taking a day trip to Lake Como should be at the very top of your itinerary. Just 80 km north of the city, Lake Como is not only the third-largest lake in Italy but also one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe, famous for its sparkling waters, charming lakeside villages, and dramatic mountain views.

In this Lake Como one-day guide, you will find how to plan the perfect day trip to Lake Como from Milan. This itinerary will help you make the most of your time and experience the highlights in just one day.

Getting to Lake Como from Milan

Reaching Lake Como from Milan is simple and straightforward, which is why it’s one of the most popular day trips in Italy. While there are many picturesque towns scattered around the lake, the easiest and fastest way to begin your adventure is by taking a direct train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino. From there, you’ll be right on the shores of the lake with easy access to ferries, making it the perfect starting point for a Lake Como day trip itinerary.

Train from Milan to Varenna

One of the easiest ways to start your Lake Como day trip from Milan is by train. Direct trains from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino run about once every hour, and tickets are very affordable at around €13 for a return journey. You can purchase tickets from the machines or online in advance—but don’t forget to validate them at the green machines on the platform before boarding, as this is required when traveling by train in Italy.

The train ride takes just over an hour, with a few stops along the way. Be sure to stay awake for the second half of the journey, as the scenery becomes increasingly stunning. Lake Como sits at the foothills of the Alps, surrounded by mountains, and the views from the train window are the perfect introduction to your adventure.

Ferry from Varenna to Bellagio

Once you arrive in Varenna, you can either spend some time exploring this charming lakeside town or catch a ferry across to Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of Lake Como.” The Lake Como ferry is a must-do experience, and tickets are budget-friendly at around €9 return.

The ride itself takes about 15 minutes and offers some of the best views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, it is worth sitting on the outside deck to soak in the atmosphere. Gliding across the sparkling water with colorful villages tucked into the hillsides is one of the highlights of any Lake Como day trip itinerary.

Our day trip to Lake Como from Milan took place in mid-April, which turned out to be an incredible time to visit. The snowy Alpine peaks in the distance contrasted beautifully with the calm blue waters of the lake, while pastel-colored houses seemed to cascade down the hillsides. Despite the slightly chilly weather, the combination of crisp mountain air and peaceful lake views created an atmosphere that felt almost magical.

Arriving by train and crossing the lake by ferry gave us the perfect first impression of Lake Como—showcasing its dramatic landscapes, charming villages, and the sense of timeless Italian beauty that draws travelers here from all over the world.

Other Ways to Reach Lake Como from Milan

While taking the train to Varenna is the most popular option for a Lake Como day trip, there are several other ways to reach the lake depending on your travel style:

Train to Como Town: Trains from Milano Centrale or Milano Cadorna run frequently to Como San Giovanni (40–60 minutes). From there, you can explore Como’s historic center, take the funicular up to Brunate, or hop on a ferry to other towns.
By Car: Driving takes about 1.5 hours and gives you the flexibility to explore smaller, off-the-beaten-path villages. Keep in mind that parking is limited and can be expensive in busy towns like Bellagio.
By Bus: Buses run from Milan to Como and other nearby towns, but they’re slower and less convenient than the train.
Organized Day Tours: For a stress-free option, consider booking a day tour to Lake Como from Milan. These tours often include transportation, a guide, and sometimes a ferry ride, making them perfect for first-time visitors.

No matter which option you choose, the lake is only about 80 km (50 miles) from Milan, making it a very manageable and unforgettable day trip.

Best Town to Visit in Lake Como – Bellagio

Arriving in Bellagio was a highlight of our Lake Como day trip from Milan. Our first stop was Café Rossi, located right at the ferry dock. The patio heaters were inviting on the cool spring day, and a quick glance at the menu convinced us to stay for lunch. We enjoyed delicious omelettes and paninis while soaking in spectacular views of Lake Como—a relaxing and perfect start to exploring this charming town.

Bellagio is relatively small and mostly pedestrian, making it ideal for wandering. We spent our time strolling through narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses, quaint shops, and steep staircases, all of which give the town its unique charm. The lakeside promenade is perfect for photos, and Punta Spartivento, where the two branches of the lake meet, offers one of the best panoramic viewpoints.

Other must-see spots include Villa Melzi Gardens, a beautifully landscaped lakeside villa open to visitors, and the various boutiques and cafes scattered throughout the historic town center.

Tips for visiting Bellagio:

Getting there: Take a ferry from Varenna, Menaggio, or Como. The ride from Varenna takes about 15 minutes, with tickets around €9 for a return trip.
Timing: Early morning or late afternoon is less crowded. A quick visit takes 2–3 hours; a more relaxed half-day lets you explore Villa Melzi and fully enjoy the streets.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as streets are cobblestoned and staircases are steep.
Photo spots: Lakeside promenade, colorful streets, and Punta Spartivento for panoramic views.

Whether you are strolling the streets, enjoying a lakeside meal, or taking in the breathtaking scenery, Bellagio is truly a highlight of any Lake Como day trip itinerary.

Other Towns to Visit in Lake Como

While Bellagio is often the star of any Lake Como day trip from Milan, the lake is dotted with several other charming towns worth exploring:

Varenna: A picturesque village with colorful houses, a lakeside promenade, and the beautiful Villa Monastero gardens. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or starting your ferry ride to Bellagio.
Menaggio: Known for its relaxed atmosphere, lakeside cafes, and scenic walking paths. A great stop for a more low-key experience.
Como Town: Larger and livelier, Como is ideal if you want to explore historic streets, visit the cathedral, or take the funicular up to Brunate for sweeping lake views.

Each town has its own character, so even if you only have one day, hopping between a few of them by ferry rides on Lake Como is a fantastic way to see the highlights.

Lake Como Day Trip Itinerary

Morning – Travel and Arrival: Take the train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino (~1 hour). Once in Varenna, stroll along the lakeside promenade or enjoy a quick coffee before your ferry ride.

Mid-Morning – Ferry to Bellagio: Board the ferry from Varenna to Bellagio (~15 minutes). Explore Bellagio’s narrow streets, colorful houses, and steep staircases. Don’t miss Punta Spartivento for breathtaking panoramic views.

Lunch: Enjoy a lakeside lunch at Café Rossi or another local café. Try a light Italian meal while taking in the stunning scenery.

Afternoon – Explore Other Towns: Take the ferry or drive to other towns such as Menaggio or return to Varenna. Optional stops include Villa Monastero in Varenna or the funicular ride in Como town.

Late Afternoon – Return to Milan: Catch the train back to Milano Centrale, or follow your organized day tour schedule if you’re on a guided trip.

Tips:

Check ferry schedules in advance to optimize travel time between towns.
Wear comfortable walking shoes; streets are cobblestoned and staircases can be steep.
Bring a camera—the lake and surrounding Alps offer amazing photo opportunities.
For a relaxed pace, consider allocating 2–3 hours in Bellagio and 1–2 hours in another town.

Tips and Practical Advice for Visiting Lake Como

To make the most of your day trip to Lake Como from Milan, keep these tips in mind:

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) are ideal for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding Alps.
Summer is the busiest season, with crowded ferries and higher prices.

Ferry Tickets and Schedules

Ferries connect major towns like Varenna, Bellagio, Menaggio, and Como.
Return tickets are cheaper and usually cost around €9–€10.
Check the official ferry schedules in advance to avoid waiting or missing connections.

Comfortable Footwear

Streets in Bellagio, Varenna, and other towns are mostly cobblestoned and steep.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to explore comfortably.

Photography Tips

Punta Spartivento in Bellagio and the lakeside promenade in Varenna are perfect for panoramic shots.
Overcast days can be moody and atmospheric; sunny mornings are ideal for bright, vibrant photos.

Time Management

For a one-day visit, 2–3 hours in Bellagio and 1–2 hours in another town like Varenna or Menaggio is a practical plan.
Early morning departures help you maximize daylight and avoid peak crowds.

Family-Friendly Travel

The towns are mostly pedestrian, but staircases and steep streets may be challenging for toddlers or elderly travelers.
Ferries are generally stroller-friendly, but a backpack carrier can be handy for younger kids.

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A day trip to Lake Como from Milan is truly unforgettable. Take a deep breath of the crisp lake air, wander through narrow cobblestone alleys, and capture endless photos of the colorful streets and lakeside views. Enjoy a scoop of gelato, sip a traditional Italian espresso, and marvel at the stunning vistas of the Italian Alps and shimmering waters of Lake Como.

Whether you explore charming Bellagio, stroll along the lakeside promenade in Varenna, or enjoy a relaxing ferry ride across the lake, each moment offers a perfect combination of Italian charm and natural beauty.

If you’re visiting Milan, I highly recommend carving out a day to explore Lake Como. With its picturesque towns, breathtaking scenery, and easy accessibility, this Lake Como day trip is an experience you won’t want to miss!

A Day Trip to Lake Como from Milan – How to Visit, Ferry Rides and Travel Tips