About the Journey
Lake Como — with its shimmering blue waters, dramatic Alpine backdrop, and elegant lakeside villas — is one of Italy's most iconic destinations. If you're flying into Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), you might wonder: how do I actually get there? The good news is that, while there is no single direct connection, the journey is entirely manageable and genuinely scenic.
This guide walks you through every transport option so you can choose the route that best suits your budget, schedule, and travel style.
Getting There
By Train — The Most Popular Option
Trains are the go-to choice for most travellers. There is no direct train from Malpensa to Como, so you will need to change at Milano Cadorna or Milano Centrale.
Option A: Malpensa Express → Cadorna → Como San Giovanni (fastest)
- Take the Malpensa Express from Terminal 1 or 2 to Milano Cadorna — approx. 40–52 minutes, trains every 30 minutes.
- At Cadorna, transfer to a Trenord regional train toward Chiasso or Lugano, stopping at Como San Giovanni.
- Total journey: approximately 1 hour 30–45 minutes.
- Como San Giovanni sits right in town, a short walk from the lakefront and ferry terminal.
Option B: Via Milano Centrale
- Take the Malpensa Express to Milano Centrale (approx. 50 min), then a regional train to Como.
- Total journey: approximately 1 hour 50 min – 2 hours.
By Bus — Budget-Friendly & Direct
If you're travelling light or on a budget, bus services offer a comfortable and affordable connection from the airport directly to Como — sometimes without any transfers at all.
- SPX (formerly Autostradale) operates coaches between Malpensa and Como. Journey time approx. 1 hour depending on traffic.
- Buses typically depart from Terminal 1. Schedules are less frequent than trains.
- Fares are generally lower than the train, making this the most economical option.
By Private Transfer — MilanobyCar
For travellers who want door-to-door convenience — especially with heavy luggage, families, or late-night arrivals — a private Mercedes transfer with MilanobyCar removes all the stress. Your driver meets you in arrivals with a name board.
- Pre-booked private transfers available from many operators at Malpensa, drivers waiting in the arrivals hall.
- The drive to Como takes roughly 45–60 minutes along the A8/A9 motorway.
- Shared shuttle services can reduce the cost significantly for solo travellers.
- Official taxis are metered — always confirm the approximate fare before departure.
By Rental Car — Freedom to Explore
Renting a car at Malpensa gives you the freedom to explore the lake at your own pace — a big advantage if you plan to visit Varenna, Bellagio, or Menaggio.
- All major rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt) have desks at Malpensa Terminal 1.
- The drive follows the A8 and A9 motorways (toll-paying). Distance approx. 50 km, under an hour in light traffic.
- Parking in central Como can be tricky and expensive in peak season.
Quick Comparison
| Transport | Duration | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 Train (via Cadorna) | ~1h 30–45 min | €13–20 | Solo travellers, couples |
| 🚌 Bus | ~1 hour | €10–15 | Budget travellers |
| 🚐 MilanobyCar Private Transfer | ~45–60 min | €80–150+ | Families, groups, VIP |
| 🚗 Rental Car | ~45 min | €30–60/day + tolls | Multi-destination explorers |
