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If you are visiting Milan, then a day trip to Lake Como is a must-do! It is the perfect way to escape the city and find yourself immersed in nature, mountains and surrounded by water. Lake Como, or Lago di Como in Italian, has been a popular retreat for the wealthy since Roman times. Now it is renowned for its luxury, stunning and opulent villas and picturesque streets.
But how to get there? Is it worth it? What to do? And is it expensive? This guide covers everything you need to know about taking a day trip to Lake Como from Milan.
While organised day trips are available from Milan, going on your own self-guided day trip will allow you to take your time, see more and be more rewarding. Plus, it’s really easy to do!
Is a Day Trip to Lake Como Enough Time?
One day in Lake Como is a great introduction to the region. It will give you enough time to see the three prettiest towns, and give you a great feel for the area without feeling too rushed. Happily, most of the “must-see” sights are conveniently clustered in the middle region of the lake, which makes it very possible to take a day trip to Lake Como from Milan and feel you have seen plenty.
When is the Best Time to Visit Lake Como?
The best time to visit Lake Como is during the shoulder season (April – May and September – October) when the temperature is pleasant, but the summer crowds haven’t yet fully arrived. The spring is ideal for visiting famous villas and blooming gardens, although it can be rainy in April. In the early autumn, you can expect warm, pleasant weather and for it to be quieter. Making it ideal for hiking and exploring towns without the crowds.
In the summer, you will have the best weather, making it perfect for swimming and boating, as well as great nightlife. However, it is going to be very crowded.
Having said all the above, I visited in January, and it was perfect! Granted, I did get incredibly lucky with the weather, but having the snowy mountains as the backdrop to the lake was simply beautiful. Visiting in the winter is totally possible, just be prepared for cold and misty days.
How to Get to Lake Como
Taking a day trip to Lake Como from Milan couldn’t be easier! There are a couple of straightforward options to get you there.
By Train
The best and most straightforward option to get to Lake Como from Milan is by train. It’s cheap and stress-free, and trains run roughly every hour from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni. The journey takes around 40 minutes. A second-class ticket costs just €5.20.
There are actually two stations worth knowing about, depending on where you want to go:
- Milano Centrale → Como San Giovanni — the most popular route, dropping you in Como city, where you can pick up ferries and buses to towns like Bellagio and Menaggio.
- Milano Centrale → Varenna-Esino — ideal if you’re heading to the central towns on the lake like Menaggio, Varenna and Bellagio, taking just over an hour. This is the route I would recommend.
By Car
If you want to have more flexibility, then another option is to hire a car from Milan and drive. Head for Varenna, which will take around 1 hour and 20 minutes. However, be aware that parking is difficult and expensive around Lake Como. You also won’t need a car on this day trip, so I would personally recommend getting the train.
If you are combining a trip to Lake Como with a stay in Milan, then don’t miss this post to help plan your stay:
What to do in Milan for a Day: How to have an Awesome Time
Which Towns to Visit on a Day Trip to Lake Como
If you are taking a day trip to Lake Como from Milan, my recommened itinerary would be the following:
- Catch the train from Milan to Varenna
- Take the ferry from Varenna to Bellagio
- Then take the ferry from Bellagio to Menaggio
- A final ferry from Menaggio to Varenna
- Return home on the train from Varenna to Milan
And below is what you need to see in each town.
Varenna
Varenna is the perfect first stop on your day trip to Lake Como. Often described as the most romantic town on the lake, it’s a maze of colourful houses, steep cobbled alleys and stunning lakeside views. You could easily spend hours here just wandering. It is also best to head here in the morning, and this is the side that gets the morning sun.
What to see in Varenna
- Villa Monastero: On any trip to Lake Como, a visit to a villa is a must. And this is the one to see. It is the top thing to do in Varenna and one of the most beautiful villas on Lake Como. The botanical gardens meander down to the lake, and the views are simply stunning. Allow around 1.5 to 2 hours here. Entry is €13 for the garden and house museum, or €10 for gardens only.
- Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Walk of Lovers): A romantic lakeside path suspended over the water, offering stunning views of the lake and the narrow cobbled streets of the town winding uphill. It is also the way into town from the ferry.
- Piazza San Giorgio: The main square is a lively area with cute cafes, delicious food and the 14th-century parish church of San Giorgio. It’s free to visit and the perfect place to sit with a coffee and watch the world go by.
Where to eat in Varenna
There are plenty of restaurants with stunning views, and here are a couple to check out:
- Vecchia Varenna: A romantic lakeside spot with traditional Italian food.
- Ristorante Il Cavatappi: Great local food and good value.
Where to stay in Varenna
If you decide a day trip isn’t long enough and want to stay overnight, there are some fantastic spots in Varenna.
Casa du Lac: One of the most loved hotels in Varenna, and known for its exceptional staff and central location with easy access to the town centre. A classic, romantic choice right on the lakefront.
Hotel Royal Victoria: A luxury option with an Instagram-famous restaurant and bar featuring a terrace overlooking the lake. In wisteria season, the flowers hang above, making it a stunning spot to relax with a drink.
Albergo Milano: A more affordable alternative, centrally located with an expansive terrace and breathtaking Lake Como views. Great if you want the views without the luxury price tag.
Bellagio
Bellagio is one of the most popular and well-known towns in Lake Como. It is set at the point where the lake splits into two branches, and is home to stunning villas, charming cobbled streets and gorgeous views. Because of its popularity, it is busier than Varenna, but it definitly worth it.
What to see in Bellagio
- Salita Serbelloni: This is the famous street in Bellagio that makes it into all the pictures. It leads from the waterfront to the upper part of the town, and is lined with shops, galleries and restaurants.
- Punta Spartivento: This is a beautiful scenic spot, just a small walk from town. And my favourite spot! It is the very tip of the Bellagio peninsula at a point where the lake splits into three branches. From here you can see towns and mountains in the distance. Snow-capped in the winter!
- Pescallo: This old fishermen’s village is found behind a steep hill on the opposite side of the peninsula, hidden from the crowds. And offers a chance to escape from Bellagio’s hustle and bustle. It is a steep 10-15 minute walk, but well worth it.
Where to eat in Bellagio
There is no shortage of great restaurants in Bellagio, but here are a couple to check out:
- Ristorante Silvio: A family-run institution on the lake. Booking ahead is essential.
- Salice Blu: Outdoor tables and seasonal Italian dishes.
Where to stay in Bellagio
If you choose to extend your stay, then there are some fantastic accommodation options in Bellagio:
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni: A truly grand hotel complete with frescoes, marble pillars and huge chandeliers, two pools, tennis courts and a spa. Plus a stunning glass-walled gourmet restaurant with lake views. The place to stay if you want to treat yourself.
Hotel Belvedere: A luxury lifestyle hotel that has been owned by five generations of the same family since 1880, with panoramic lake views, a private tiered garden, pool and spa. Elegant but with a warm, personal feel.
Hotel du Lac & Spa: A family-run hotel right in the heart of Bellagio, with a view of the main square and the harbour. A great location at a more accessible price point.
Menaggio
Menaggio is the perfect final stop on your day trip to Lake Como. Less crowded and more affordable than Bellagio and Varenna, but just as pretty. With a historic and Italian feel.
What to see in Menaggio
- Piazza Garibaldi & the Lakeside Promenade: This beautiful square is the centre of the village and sits right on the lake. It is surrounded by small restaurants, cafés, and boutiques. The promenade also has stunning views of Bellagio.
- Chiesa di Santo Stefano: The parish church of Santo Stefano is a short walk from the main square. It’s free to enter and well worth a visit. Inside is a beautiful ceiling fresco and a copy of a Madonna painting by Renaissance artist Bernardino Luini, the original of which now hangs in the Louvre in Paris. The bell tower is a landmark of the town and visible from Piazza Garibaldi.
- La Crocetta viewpoint: A panoramic point above Menaggio offering incredible views of Lake Como, the Bellagio coastline and the Upper Lake. It also has historical significance. Monte Crocetta was part of the Cadorna Line from the First World War, and you can still see the old trenches dotted around. Be aware that the hike up does take around 45 minutes, but it is well worth it.
Where to eat in Menaggio
There are plenty of great options in Menaggio, with something for every budget:
- Ristorante del Porto: Located in the marina, a fine dining spot with seafood dishes and beautiful lake views.
- La Trattoria Costantin: Authentic pizza and affordable.
Where to stay in Menaggio
If you want to stay overnight in Lake Como, Menaggio is actually one of the best value bases on the lake:
Grand Hotel Victoria Concept & Spa: A neoclassical property in the centre of Menaggio with exclusive suites, gourmet restaurants, peaceful gardens and a spa. A luxury stay!
Hotel Garni Corona: Incredible lake views, a wonderful breakfast buffet and superb customer service. A great mid-range option in a great central location.
Hotel Adler: Set on the hills above the town with a large garden, swimming pool and panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. Great value for money.
How to get around Lake Como
Once you have arrived in Varenna, the best way to get around Lake Como and visit all three towns is by ferry. Not only is it the fastest option, but it also treats you to stunning views of the lake along the way. Crossings between each town take just 15-20 minutes and run frequently, especially during peak season.
You have two options for purchasing tickets. Either a day “free circulation” pass, which costs €15. This is a great option if you plan to hop on and off all day, and it is valid in the central area of Lake Como. Alternatively, single tickets cost €4.60 per crossing. For the itinerary in this guide (Varenna → Bellagio → Menaggio → Varenna), buying three single tickets comes to just €13.80 total, making it cheaper than the day pass!
Tickets can be purchased online in advance or in person at the ferry terminal. A couple of things to be aware of:
- Online tickets sell out incredibly fast during peak season — book early!
- Buying in person can mean long queues, so factor in extra time
- You can also pay by card directly on board
How much does a day trip to Lake Como from Milan cost?
Lake Como is notorious for being an expensive destination, but taking a day trip to Lake Como from Milan is a very cost-effective way to see this part of Italy. A return train ticket from Milan to Varenna costs around €12. Three single tickets for the ferry are €13.80. Entry to Villa Monastero is €13, and budget around €35 for food, drinks and, of course, an ice cream!
Meaning, you can take a day trip to Lake Como for as little as €75!
Where to Stay (if you want more than a day)
If you have more time and decide to spend a night (or two or three) in Lake Como, I would recommend staying in Varenna. It has a train station, making it an excellent access point for the region. As well as good ferry connections to other towns in Lake Como, and a lovely size with choices of bakeries and restaurants.
Day Trip to Lake Como from Milan FAQs
Is Lake Como worth a day trip?
Absolutely! Lake Como is one of Italy’s most beautiful destinations and is easily one of the best day trips you can take from Milan. With stunning scenery, charming towns, delicious food and incredible views, it is well worth the short journey — and will likely leave you wishing you had stayed longer!
Is the train to Varenna from Milan scenic?
Yes! The journey follows the shores of Lake Como and passes through the mountainous valley of the River Adda, with the views getting increasingly dramatic the further north you go. Make sure you sit on the left-hand side of the train when travelling north, as the railway hugs the eastern shore of the lake, and that’s where the best views are.
Can you swim in Lake Como?
Yes, you can! There are numerous designated swimming areas, public beaches, and private resort access points around the lake where swimming is safe and encouraged during the summer months, typically June to September, with water temperatures reaching a comfortable 22–26°C in July and August. September is very much underrated; it’s still warm enough for a dip, with calmer conditions and fewer tourists. However, in the winter months, it will be too cold to swim.
Is Lake Como crowded?
Yes, is the honest answer. Especially in July and August. And, due to increasing popularity, even the shoulder seasons are very crowded now, so there really isn’t a guaranteed quiet period anymore. That said, visiting on a weekday and arriving early in the morning makes a big difference. If you want the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds, aim for late May, June or early October. It will be much quieter in the winter.
Is it better to stay in Como or Bellagio?
If you decide to stay over a few nights, and don’t want to stay in Varenna. Then consider either Como or Bellagio. For most visitors, Bellagio wins. It’s far more charming, while Como feels more like a city.
Spending some time in Northern Italy? Don’t miss these posts:
- What to do in Milan for a Day: How to have an Awesome Time
- 3 days in Venice itinerary for the most amazing break
- Best Things to Do in Venice: The Ultimate Budget-to-Luxury Travel Guide
- 24 awesome things to do in Verona!
Useful travel tools and links
To help you plan your trip, here are some of my favourite useful travel tools and links I use on a daily basis to travel:
- Hostelworld: The place to book hostels and cheaper accommodation. Perfect for backpacking trips. With 24 hour cancellation options, and easy to manage from your account.
- Booking.com: One of the largest places to search for hotels around the world. Often with free cancellation options.
- Hotels.com: Also a fantastic place to source hotels, and they offer a loyalty programme.
- Expedia: Another option for hotels as well as a great place to search for flights, car hire and more.
- Skyscanner: The best place to search for flights to find the best rates.
- GetYourGuide: Easy access to book a wide range of curated tours, activities, and experiences around the world.
- Viator: A great place to search for group tours and day trips. Part of the TripAdvisor brand.
- KnowRoaming: eSIMs are a game changer for travel. Purchase before you go and be connected as soon as you land. KnowRoaming eSIM plans keep you and your devices seamlessly connected in 200+ international destinations.
- G Adventures: The ‘go to’ for all group travel tour adventures. Perfect for solo travellers.
- Amazon: Link to my storefront with ALL the useful gadgets and items I couldn’t travel without.
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