A quick escape from the city
Lake Como's glacial water and mountain villages are just over an hour from Milan by train, with Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio linked by frequent ferries.
Key Facts
Transport options
By Car
Drive the A9 to Como and follow the lakeside roads north. Parking fills fast in summer, so arrive before 9 AM or use the ferry from Cadenabbia.
By Public Transport
Trenord regional trains from Milano Centrale reach Varenna-Esino in just over an hour for about 7 euros, with connections to Bellagio by bus or ferry.
Organized Tour
Group tours from Milan include round-trip transport plus a boat cruise, with prices starting around 55 euros per person for a full day on the lake.
How to spend the day
Varenna
Arrive by 9:30 AM. Stroll the lakeside promenade, visit Villa Monastero's gardens, and catch the morning light on the water. Allow 2 hours.
Lake Como
Take the midday ferry across to Bellagio. Walk the steep lanes, browse the silk shops, and eat lunch with a view over the lake.
Varenna to Milan
Catch the 6 PM ferry back to Varenna and the evening train to Milano Centrale. You will be back for a late aperitivo.
What to see and do
Ferry cruise
Hop between Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio on the frequent public ferries, with mountain views from every angle on the water.
Villa Monastero
A lakeside botanical garden in Varenna with terraces of exotic plants, sculptures, and views stretching across to Bellagio.
Bellagio promenade
The pearl of Lake Como, with steep cobbled lanes, silk shops, and a waterfront promenade linking the two arms of the lake.
Make the most of your day trip
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Buy a ferry day pass for about 14 euros to hop freely between villages without buying individual tickets
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Start with Varenna since it is quieter in the morning and the train station is closer to the lakefront
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Pack a light jacket since the lake breeze can be cool even in summer, especially on the ferry deck
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Reserve a table at a lakeside trattoria in Bellagio for lunch since tables fill quickly by noon
Ferry schedules and train connections leave little slack in a lake-day itinerary. Travel insurance covers missed connections, lost bookings, and weather disruptions.
What travelers say
What to bring
Essentials
- Layered clothing since lake weather changes quickly throughout the day
- Comfortable shoes for steep village paths and cobblestone streets
- Sunglasses and sunscreen for bright lake reflections
- Cash for ferry tickets and small village shops
Nice to have
- Camera with zoom lens for capturing distant villas across the water
- Light rain jacket for sudden afternoon showers
- Swimsuit if you want to dip at Lido di Bellagio
- Book to read on the ferry between villages
Smart advice for any day trip
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Book tickets online
Most popular sites sell timed-entry tickets online. Booking in advance lets you skip the line and guarantees entry, especially during peak season.
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Pack light but smart
Bring only what you need: water, snacks, sunscreen, and a portable charger. A heavy bag will slow you down on long walking days.
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Keep digital copies
Save tickets, maps, and confirmation emails on your phone. A dead battery is less stressful when you have screenshots ready.
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Start early
The first hour of the day is the quietest at any attraction. You will also have more flexibility if plans change or delays happen.
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Check return schedules
Know the last train or bus back before you leave. Missing the final connection can turn a day trip into an expensive taxi ride.