One day at Lake Como – The perfect Mlan to Lake Como day trip

Lake Como is a dreamlike escape just a short drive from Milan and rightfully a popular day trip destination from the fashion capital. Known for its breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and stunning villas, it is one of Italy’s most beloved destinations and a must-see when in Italy.

A Mlan to Lake Como day trip offers a retreat into tranquility and elegance. You’ll get to discover picturesque villages like Bellagio and Varenna, where stunning villas, colorful houses and cobblestone streets paint a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Enjoy the serene waters, explore historic villas, or simply unwind at a lakeside café, taking in views.

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There are many destinations and activities worth your time on a day trip from Milan to Lake Como, but if all you have is a day, you’ll have to pick and choose what you can fit into your day.

Below I share with you how to do a Milan day trip to Lake Como and the best things to do for 1 day in Lake Como.

How to take a Milan to Lake Como day trip

To take a day trip from Milan to Lake Como, you have several options, each with its own set of advantages and setbacks.

Join a Guided Lake Como Day Trip

Opting for a Lake Como guided tour is the most convenient and organized way to take a trip to Lake Como from Milan. Tours typically include transportation and a guide that provides insights into the area’s history, culture, and attractions.

This option allows you to relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about logistics. Many tours cover popular spots such as Bellagio and Varenna, ensuring you see the best of Lake Como efficiently.

You can even choose a tour that combines Lake Como with a visit to Switzerland!

Day Trip to Lake Como by Train and Ferry

A Lake Como from Milan day trip by train is the most cost-effective method and offers greater flexibility in planning your itinerary compared to an organized tour.

From Milan, you can reach the town of Como in about 40 minutes or Varenna in roughly an hour, with train tickets costing around €5 to €8. Once at the lake, you can explore the various charming towns along the lake by ferry or rental boat.

However, you will need to pay attention to train and ferry timetables and plan your itinerary well.

Drive to Lake Como from Milan

Renting a car offers maximum freedom, allowing you to tailor your itinerary and explore lesser-known areas around the lake. The drive from Milan to the lake’s southern end takes approximately one hour.

You can drive all around the lake stopping wherever you desire, however the full loop takes approx 4h. Taking a (car) ferry can be beneficial as it provides a faster and more scenic way to visit various towns around the lake. You also have the option of renting a boat or joining a private cruise and exploring on your own accord.

One Day in Lake Como – Suggested Day Trip Itinerary

7:20 AM – Train from Milano Centrale

• Start the day early to make the most of your time at Lake Como. I suggest the 7:20 AM train to Varenna
• Make sure to take the direct train. They’re cheaper and faster.
• I recommend buying the ticket online on trenitalia.it and don’t forget to activate it in the app.

8:30 AM – Varenna

• Arrive by train from Milan. Take a short walk to the town center.
• Stroll along the Lovers’ Walk, a scenic promenade with stunning lake views.
• Stop for a morning coffee at Caffè Varenna, where you can enjoy a pastry with your espresso or cappuccino and take in the lake views.
• Explore Villa Monastero and its beautiful gardens, as well as the museum inside the villa.

11:00 AM – Bellagio

• Catch the 10:35 AM or 11:10 AM ferry to Bellagio. The ride takes about 15 minutes and offers splendid views across the lake.
• Spend some time exploring Bellagio’s picturesque streets and shops. Visit sites like the Basilica of St. Giacomo and enjoy the atmosphere in this iconic town.
• Take a walk to Punta di Spartivento or explore Parco di Villa Serbelloni.
• Have lunch at Dispensa 63, offering authentic Italian cuisine and a warm, friendly atmosphere. Consider making reservations in advance.

2:00 PM – Tremezzo

• Hop on the 1:26 PM or 2:00 PM ferry to Tremezzo for a short ride across the lake.
• Visit the magnificent Villa Carlotta, known for its art collections and historical gardens. Explore the villa’s museum and wander through its expansive botanical gardens.

4:00 PM – Lenno

• Take the ferry or bus to Lenno and enjoy the scenic ride along the lake.
• Relax with an afternoon coffee at Lido di Lenno, where you can sip your coffee by the lakeside and enjoy the view.
• Visit Villa del Balbianello, one of Lake Como’s most famous villas, which is known for its beautiful gardens and stunning architecture. Enjoy the guided tour of this picturesque site.

6:30 PM – Como

• Take the 6:30 PM direct ferry to the town of Como. The journey takes about 30 min offering beautiful views of Villa del Balbianello and Nesso from the water.
• Take the funicular ride up to Brunate for a panoramic view of the lake as the sun sets.
• Enjoy a short stroll through Como, visiting spots like the Cathedral of Como and the lively Piazza Cavour.
• Enjoy dinner at Vintage Jazz Food & Wine, a popular spot known for its inviting atmosphere and excellent food.

9:00 PM – Return to Milan

• From Como, take the train back to Milan from either Como San Giovanni or Como Lago station.

Itinerary Adjustments and Considerations for your Day Trip in Lake Como

• If you wish to slow down decide between Lenno and Tremezzo and only visit one. The choice will likely come down to wether you prefer to visit Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo or Villa del Balbianello in Lenno.
• Take advantage of the fast ferry services. Especially for the ride to Como, you’ll be saving a lot of time in transfers.
• The ferry times above are the high-season timetables at the time of writing but they vary from season to season and over the weekend. You can check the up to date timetables here (make sure to include fast service in your search)
• If you’d like more flexibility consider renting a boat to get around the lake.
• This itinerary includes what I consider to be the highlights of Lake Como and what made sense logistically but there is so much more to do at Lake Como.
• Other destinations worth considering visiting on Lake Como day trips from Milan are Menaggio, Nesso and Cernobbio. There are also plenty of worthwhile walks and beautiful beaches if you have more than a day.

What to do in Lake Como for a Day

Do a Lake Como Boat tour

A trip to Lake Como is incomplete without a cruise on its sparkling waters. Choose from large ferry rides to visit quaint lakeside villages, hire a private boat for leisurely exploration, or enjoy a sunset sail with a private skipper.

Take a cooking class

When in Italy you need to indulge in Italian food and what better way to do so than by learning to cook with the stunning Lake Como as your backdrop! Choose to make homemade pasta in Menaggio or craft a 3-course Milanese meal in Como.

Go on a food tour

Food tours are always a fun opportunity to get to know the local culture while enjoying culinary treats and Lake Como is no exception. Sample northern Italian delights like polenta and nuvola cakes on this Lake Como Food Tour.

Explore the lakeshore by bike or e-bike

If hiking doesn’t appeal, renting a bike or an e-bike may be the Lake Como attraction for you. 

You can challenge yourself to the 160 km long ride around the lake’s perimeter, explore the mountains around Lake Como on one of several mountain bike routes, or take part in an organized E-Bike tour of Lake Como.

Discover the many villas along the lake

Rent a bike or an e-bike to explore the lake’s perimeter or venture into mountain trails. You can also join an organized E-Bike tour if you prefer guided exploration.

Go to the beach

Take some time to unwind on one of the beaches along the lake. Lido di Lenno offers a sandy beach with umbrellas and loungers, perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying lake views. There’s also a bar and restaurant for refreshments.

Join the water sports fun

Experience the thrills of Lake Como’s waters with activities like swimming, kayaking, and standup paddleboarding. Domaso, in the northern part of the lake, is also perfect for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Hunt for truffles and mushrooms

For a unique experience, join a truffle and mushroom hunting excursion with a local chef and his dog. Enjoy fresh air, scenic views, and a taste of adventure.

Go on a hike

Explore the beauty of Lake Como through its hiking trails. The Greenway del Lago offers a scenic walk between historic towns, while the Via dei Monti Lariani offers more challenging treks and spectacular views.

Where to Stay in Lake Como

If you choose to extend your day trip to Lake Como you have plenty of options on where to stay. Como is the biggest town which offers a great selection of accommodation, restaurants and shops as well as easy access to public transportation. Bellagio and Varenna are great options too.

Vista Palazzo | Como
If you’re looking to splurge, the Vista Palazzo in Como is ideal. Just steps from the lake and ferry terminal, it offers top-notch service, a great location, and beautiful décor.

Albergo del Duca | Como
For a mid-priced option, consider Albergo del Duca in the center of Como, known for its friendly staff and prime location, just 5 minutes from the lake and town square.

Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni | Bellagio
The luxurious Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio offers stunning lake views, a pool, and a spa in a setting that recalls the elegance of the past, with all modern comforts.

Hotel du Lac | Varenna
Hotel du Lac sits right by the lake and is known for its charming atmosphere and beautiful views.