Should I take a day trip from Milan?

Deciding between a day trip from Milan to Lake Como and staying overnight in one of the lake's charming villages depends on your travel preferences, time constraints, and desired experiences. Here's a balanced comparison to help you make an informed choice.

Option 1: Day trip

Pros

Convenient and time-efficient: Lake Como is approximately 50 km from Milan, making it accessible by train in about 35–55 minutes and by car in 1 to 2 hours.
Cost-effective: Ideal for travelers with limited time or budget, allowing you to experience the lake's highlights without the expense of overnight accommodations.
Structured itinerary: You can choose to visit towns like Como, Varenna, or Bellagio, each offering unique attractions on a well-curated experience.

Cons

Limited exploration time: A day trip may feel rushed, limiting your ability to fully explore multiple towns or partake in leisurely activities.
Potential crowds: Popular spots can be crowded during peak hours, especially in summer.
Missed evening ambience: You'll miss the tranquil evening atmosphere and local dining experiences that come alive after day-trippers depart.

Ideal for

Travelers with tight schedules
Those seeking a quick glimpse of Lake Como's beauty
Budget-conscious visitors

Option 2: Overnight stay

Pros

Immersive experience: Staying overnight allows you to experience the lake's serene mornings and evenings, offering a deeper connection to the locale.
Leisurely exploration: You can explore multiple towns at a relaxed pace, visit villas like Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, and enjoy activities such as hiking the Greenway del Lago di Como.
Authentic local life: Engage more deeply with the culture, enjoy local cuisine, and perhaps participate in community events.

Cons

Higher costs: Overnight stays involve additional expenses for accommodation and meals.
Planning required: You'll need to find accommodations and possibly navigate local transportation.
Lack of context-setting: You need to arrange your own activities, decide your own itinerary, and actively seek out information.

Ideal for

Travelers seeking a relaxed and immersive experience
Photography enthusiasts and nature lovers
Those interested in cultural and culinary exploration

Final recommendation

Choose a day trip if you're short on time, prefer a structured itinerary, and want to minimize expenses.
Opt for an overnight stay if you desire a comprehensive experience, wish to explore multiple towns, and enjoy leisurely activities.

🧭Which Lake Como town should I stay at?

Como

The lake’s namesake city on its southern tip blends alpine beauty with urban flair. Explore its medieval old town, funicular to Brunate, and lakeside promenade.

Transport options: Trains, buses, ferries

Highlights: Como Cathedral, Brunate funicular

Find on maps

Bellagio

Often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Lake’, this town sits at the intersection of the lake's three branches and is known for its cobbled streets and elegant villas.

Transport options: Ferries

Highlights: Cobblestone streets, Villa Melzi

Find on maps

Lenno

Nestled on Lake Como’s western shore, this commune charms with its tranquil bay, weekly market, and an iconic lush peninsula.

Transport options: Buses, some ferries

Highlights: Villa del Balbianello, serene lakefront

Find on maps

Varenna

A picturesque village on the central eastern shore with the historic Villa Monastero, which includes a museum and botanical garden along the lakefront.

Transport options: Trains, ferries

Highlights: Lovers’ Walk, Church of San Giorgio

Find on maps

Know all the Lake Como towns

Customized three-day itineraries

Here are three tailored 3-day Lake Como itineraries designed for different travel styles—budget-conscious explorers, comfortable spenders, and luxury seekers.

🧳For budget travelers

Day 1: Como City & Brunate

Morning: Check into Ostello Bello Lake Como, a highly-rated hostel offering affordable stays in Como.
Activities: Explore Como’s historic center, visit the Duomo, and see the Life Electric sculpture.
Lunch: Enjoy a gourmet panini at Il Vicolino del Paninaio in Como (~€10).
Afternoon: Ride the Como–Brunate funicular (€3–€5) for panoramic views of the lake.
Dinner: Dine at Il Baretto, a local café bar offering sandwiches, burgers, and pasta at reasonable prices.

Day 2: Bellagio & Varenna

Morning: Take a ferry to Bellagio (~€12 one-way).
Activities: Visit the Lungolago Europa promenade and Punta Spartivento for scenic views.
Lunch: Grab a pizza at Bistrot Antichi Sapori in Bellagio, offering affordable options with lake views.
Afternoon: Ferry to Varenna; walk the Lovers’ Walk and explore the town.
Dinner: Enjoy a meal at Pizzeria Lugano in Menaggio, known for its budget-friendly pizzas and pastas.
Evening: Return to Como by ferry.

Day 3: Lenno & Villa del Balbianello

Morning: Bus to Lenno (~€2–€3).
Activities: Walk to Villa del Balbianello (entry €11; €9 for students) and tour the gardens.
Lunch: Enjoy a meal at Bar Company Vecchia Maiolica in Griante, offering pasta, pizza, and salads at reasonable prices.
Afternoon: Relax at Teresio Olivelli Park in Tremezzo.
Dinner: Return to Como and dine at L’Ora della Pasta, a takeaway pasta shop offering homemade dishes like ragu and ravioli (~€6).

💼 For mid-range spenders

Day 1: Como & Brunate

Morning: Arrive in Como and check into Hotel Du Lac & SPA in Bellagio, offering lake views and spa services.
Activities: Visit the Duomo and take the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views.
Lunch: Dine at Trattoria San Biagio in Orsenigo, specializing in Lombard fare.
Afternoon: Explore Brunate’s scenic spots.
Dinner: Enjoy a meal at La Darsena in Tremezzo, known for its lakeside dining and seafood specialties.

Day 2: Bellagio & Villa Melzi

Morning: Ferry to Bellagio.
Activities: Tour the Villa Melzi gardens (entry €8).
Lunch: Savor Italian cuisine at Ristorante Terrazza Barchetta in Bellagio.
Afternoon: Explore Bellagio’s boutiques and charming streets.
Dinner: Dine at Osteria il Pozzo in Menaggio, offering authentic Italian dishes.

Day 3: Varenna & Villa Monastero

Morning: Train to Varenna.
Activities: Visit Villa Monastero (entry €10) and walk the Lovers’ Walk.
Lunch: Dine at Il Ristorante di Paolo in Menaggio, known for its refined dining experience.
Afternoon: Relax by the lake and explore Varenna's picturesque streets.
Dinner: Return to Bellagio and enjoy dinner at Ristorante Bilacus, offering traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist.

💎For luxury visitors

Day 1: Arrival & Cernobbio

Morning: Arrive via private transfer; check into Villa d’Este in Cernobbio, a historic luxury hotel with extensive gardens and lake views.
Lunch: Dine at The Veranda restaurant in Villa d’Este, offering exquisite dishes like truffle-topped courgette flowers.
Afternoon: Relax at the hotel’s spa and gardens.
Dinner: Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Il Sereno Al Lago, a Michelin-starred restaurant on Lake Como.

Day 2: Private boat tour & Bellagio

Morning: Embark on a private boat tour of Lake Como, passing by celebrity villas.
Lunch: Savor a meal at La Punta in Bellagio, offering panoramic lake views.
Afternoon: Visit Villa Serbelloni gardens and explore Bellagio's upscale boutiques.
Dinner: Return to the hotel; enjoy a gourmet dinner at Mistral, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni.

Day 3: Villa del Balbianello & Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Morning: Visit Villa del Balbianello (entry €11), renowned for its elaborate terraced gardens.
Lunch: Dine at La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi in Grand Hotel Tremezzo, offering fine dining with lake views.
Afternoon: Relax at the hotel's spa and enjoy its floating pool.
Dinner: Farewell dinner at The Kitchen, a Michelin-starred restaurant within Sheraton Lake Como, known for its refined simplicity and seasonal cuisine.

Frequently asked questions about Lake Como tours

Are boat tours on Lake Como available year-round?

Regular public ferry and private boat tours mainly run from March to October, with peak operations in May–September. Winter months have limited ferry services, and a lot of private tours shut down due to weather and reduced demand.

Do I need to book Lake Como tours in advance?

Yes, especially in the peak season (May to September). Guided tours, boat rentals, and villa entries can sell out. Pre-book online or directly with local operators.

Is a guided tour of Lake Como worth it?

Yes—guided tours are ideal if you want historical insights, stress-free logistics, and curated access to villas, gardens, or even private boat rides. Many tours cover multiple towns (e.g., Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo) in one day and include stops by major sites like Villa Balbianello or Villa Carlotta.

What’s the difference between a public ferry and a private boat tour?

Public ferries are inexpensive (€4–€15 per leg), can be hopped on and off as you like, scenic but slower. Private boat tours are more expensive (€150–€400+ per hour), but customizable, faster, and great for photography or special occasions. Some include prosecco, guides, or villa stops.

Do I need a car to tour Lake Como?

Not at all. Most popular towns are connected by ferry and bus. A car may be helpful for remote villages or mountain hikes, but it’s not recommended in busy towns due to narrow streets and limited parking. Trains + ferries are the easiest combo.

Can I visit Lake Como on a day trip from Milan?

Absolutely. Trains from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni or Varenna-Esino take about 40–60 minutes. Day tours from Milan often include transportation, a boat cruise, and guided visits to villages. However, staying overnight allows more time for ferry-hopping and villa visits.

Escape the crowds on an exclusive boat ride and guided tour, with all transport covered.

Full day out to: Lake Como and Bellagio. Take a scenic ferry ride to the charming village of Bellagio, a panoramic two-hour boat cruise to Como, and a walking tour of its historic city center.
You’ll get: A professional English/Spanish-speaking guide, round-trip transfers from Milan, and unlimited high-speed WiFi on both bus and boat.
Bellagio: Stroll the ‘Pearl of the Lake’, famed for its romantic lakeside views and quaint streets.
Como: The enchanting town center, rich in art, culture, and literary history, with elegant villas and lush gardens.

Inclusions

Full day trip to Como and Bellagio
2-hour private boat tour of Lake Como
High-speed Wi-Fi onboard
Guided walking tour of Como city center
Free time at Bellagio
Round-trip bus transfers from Milan
Expert English/Spanish-speaking guide

Exclusions

Hotel pick-ups

Food & drinks

Tip: The beautiful villages around here are known for their high-quality silk production; budget to drop by locally-owned stores.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.
Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.
Dress code: If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Set off by train, explore two countries, and cruise a lake – all in one day.

Full day out to: Lake Como, St. Moritz, and the Swiss Alps. Glide across Lake Como on a serene cruise, ride the panoramic Red Train through the UNESCO-listed Bernina Pass, and enjoy free time to chill at the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz.
You’ll get: Round-trip AC coach transfers from Milan, 2nd class Bernina Red train ticket, and a private boat tour. Led by an expert English and Spanish-speaking guide with logistics fully managed for a smooth day trip.
Lake Como: One of Italy’s most iconic lakes, surrounded by scenic mountains and picturesque lakeside villages.
Bernina Red Train: Journey aboard one of Europe’s highest alpine railways.
St. Moritz: This chic resort town is famed for its luxury, scenery, and world-class chocolate.

Inclusions

Full day trip to Como and St. Moritz
Private boat tour of Lake Como
Round-trip bus transfers from Milan
Bernina Red Train round-trip tickets
Free time at St. Moritz
Expert English/Spanish-speaking guide

Exclusions

Food & drinks

Gratuities

All participants are required to carry their original passport/travel document with them to enter Switzerland. Participants from a non-EU country will need a Schengen Visa.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.
Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.
Dress code: If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Visit three cities across Italy and Switzerland, and relax on a private boat tour.

Full day out to: Como, Bellagio, and Lugano from Milan. Enjoy a guided walking tour in Como and a panoramic private boat tour on Lake Como. Get free time to café-hop in the Italian commune of Bellagio, and admire unique architecture in the Swiss lake city of Lugano.
You’ll get: Comfortable bus rides, unlimited high-speed WiFi on both bus and boat, a professional English/Spanish-speaking tour leader, and audio headsets for groups over 10.
Como: Discover the art, history, and gothic cathedral of this picturesque lakeside city on a walking tour.
Bellagio: Enjoy free time in this picturesque commune, stroll its cobblestoned paths, and discover historic villas.
Lugano: Explore the Swiss city center, shop for high quality products, and sample authentic Swiss chocolate.

Inclusions

Full day trip to Como, Bellagio, and Lugano
2-hour private boat tour of Lake Como
High-speed Wi-Fi onboard
Guided tours of Como, Bellagio, and Lugano
Round-trip bus transfers from Milan
Expert English or Spanish-speaking guide (as per option selected)

Exclusions

Hotel pick-ups

Food & drinks

All participants are required to carry their original passport/travel document with them to enter Switzerland. Participants from a non-EU country will need a Schengen Visa.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.
Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.
Dress code: If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

A scenic ferry ride departing from Como S. Agostino.

Everything you get: Cruise for 90 minutes, enjoying panoramic views of Como's lakeside villas and mountains. Live commentary in English offers you context on everything you see. Sail past the picturesque communes of Bellagio or Tremezzo.
Why choose this: For a budget-friendly and comprehensive overview of Lake Como's highlights in a short time.
Upgrades: Choose to add on a guided walking tour of the Como city center for more context.

Inclusions

1.5-hour shared boat tour of Lake Como
Live commentary in English
Guided walking tour of Como city (as per option selected)

Exclusions

Food & drinks

This experience is not accessible by wheelchair or stroller.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Escape the crowds on an exclusive boat ride and guided tour, with all transport covered.

Full day out to: Lake Como and Bellagio. Take a scenic ferry ride to the charming village of Bellagio, a panoramic two-hour boat cruise to Como, and a walking tour of its historic city center.
You’ll get: A professional English/Spanish-speaking guide, round-trip transfers from Milan, and unlimited high-speed WiFi on both bus and boat.
Bellagio: Stroll the ‘Pearl of the Lake’, famed for its romantic lakeside views and quaint streets.
Como: The enchanting town center, rich in art, culture, and literary history, with elegant villas and lush gardens.

Inclusions

Full day trip to Como and Bellagio
2-hour private boat tour of Lake Como
High-speed Wi-Fi onboard
Guided walking tour of Como city center
Free time at Bellagio
Round-trip bus transfers from Milan
Expert English/Spanish-speaking guide

Exclusions

Hotel pick-ups

Food & drinks

Tip: The beautiful villages around here are known for their high-quality silk production; budget to drop by locally-owned stores.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.
Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.
Dress code: If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Set off by train, explore two countries, and cruise a lake – all in one day.

Full day out to: Lake Como, St. Moritz, and the Swiss Alps. Glide across Lake Como on a serene cruise, ride the panoramic Red Train through the UNESCO-listed Bernina Pass, and enjoy free time to chill at the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz.
You’ll get: Round-trip AC coach transfers from Milan, 2nd class Bernina Red train ticket, and a private boat tour. Led by an expert English and Spanish-speaking guide with logistics fully managed for a smooth day trip.
Lake Como: One of Italy’s most iconic lakes, surrounded by scenic mountains and picturesque lakeside villages.
Bernina Red Train: Journey aboard one of Europe’s highest alpine railways.
St. Moritz: This chic resort town is famed for its luxury, scenery, and world-class chocolate.

Inclusions

Full day trip to Como and St. Moritz
Private boat tour of Lake Como
Round-trip bus transfers from Milan
Bernina Red Train round-trip tickets
Free time at St. Moritz
Expert English/Spanish-speaking guide

Exclusions

Food & drinks

Gratuities

All participants are required to carry their original passport/travel document with them to enter Switzerland. Participants from a non-EU country will need a Schengen Visa.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.
Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.
Dress code: If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Visit three cities across Italy and Switzerland, and relax on a private boat tour.

Full day out to: Como, Bellagio, and Lugano from Milan. Enjoy a guided walking tour in Como and a panoramic private boat tour on Lake Como. Get free time to café-hop in the Italian commune of Bellagio, and admire unique architecture in the Swiss lake city of Lugano.
You’ll get: Comfortable bus rides, unlimited high-speed WiFi on both bus and boat, a professional English/Spanish-speaking tour leader, and audio headsets for groups over 10.
Como: Discover the art, history, and gothic cathedral of this picturesque lakeside city on a walking tour.
Bellagio: Enjoy free time in this picturesque commune, stroll its cobblestoned paths, and discover historic villas.
Lugano: Explore the Swiss city center, shop for high quality products, and sample authentic Swiss chocolate.

Inclusions

Full day trip to Como, Bellagio, and Lugano
2-hour private boat tour of Lake Como
High-speed Wi-Fi onboard
Guided tours of Como, Bellagio, and Lugano
Round-trip bus transfers from Milan
Expert English or Spanish-speaking guide (as per option selected)

Exclusions

Hotel pick-ups

Food & drinks

All participants are required to carry their original passport/travel document with them to enter Switzerland. Participants from a non-EU country will need a Schengen Visa.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.
Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.
Dress code: If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book Milan to Lake Como day trips

Top things to do in Milan

Why visit Lake Como?

Stunning natural beauty

Historic towns

Exciting activities

A stone’s throw from the Swiss

Things to know before booking Lake Como tours

Your Lake Como tour options

Only boat tour

With transfers from Milan

With trips to Switzerland

Should I take a day trip from Milan?

Option 1: Day trip

Option 2: Overnight stay

🧭Which Lake Como town should I stay at?

Como

Bellagio

Lenno

Varenna

What are the most famous villas near Lake Como?

Villa del Balbianello

Villa Carlotta

Villa d'Este

Public transport stops around Lake Como

Map of Lake Como

Unique experiences at Lake Como

Surfing

Gardens and nature walks

Culinary delights

Customized three-day itineraries

🧳For budget travelers

Day 1: Como City & Brunate

Day 2: Bellagio & Varenna

Day 3: Lenno & Villa del Balbianello

💼 For mid-range spenders

Day 1: Como & Brunate

Day 2: Bellagio & Villa Melzi

Day 3: Varenna & Villa Monastero

💎For luxury visitors

Day 1: Arrival & Cernobbio

Day 2: Private boat tour & Bellagio

Day 3: Villa del Balbianello & Grand Hotel Tremezzo

What should I wear or bring on a Lake Como tour?

Frequently asked questions about Lake Como tours

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