Lake Como is one of the world's most beautiful lakes — a Y-shaped alpine lake framed by mountains, lined with 18th and 19th century villas and colorful villages. A day trip from Milan can combine Como city, the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views, a ferry to Bellagio (Lake Como's most scenic village) and optionally a side trip to Villa del Balbianello at Lenno.
| Travel time | 36 minutes to Como by Trenord train |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Type: Train; Details: Trenord from Milano Cadorna to Como San Giovanni; frequent service; Cost: €4.80; Duration: 36 min; Type: Train (Varenna); Details: Trenord from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino; 1 hour; Cost: €8.50; Duration: 60 min |
Suggested itinerary
- Train to Como. Visit Como Cathedral and lakefront. Take funicular to Brunate (views). Ferry to Bellagio. Explore Bellagio harbor and gardens. Return ferry to Como or train from Varenna.
Weather through the year in Italy
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Italy.
Highlights
- Como city and its Gothic-Renaissance Cathedral
- Brunate funicular for panoramic lake views
- Ferry from Como to Bellagio (slow ferry 2hr; fast hydrofoil 50min)
- Bellagio harbor, lanes and Villa Melzi gardens
- Villa del Balbianello (add-on from Lenno)
- Varenna (direct train — often less crowded than Bellagio)
Tips for visiting
- Buy a day ferry pass (€21.50) if you plan to visit multiple villages
- Bellagio is very crowded in July-August — consider Varenna as a quieter alternative
- Villa del Balbianello requires a boat taxi from Lenno (€5) and must be booked ahead on weekends