We always try to focus on our custom wishes (Since 1993)

We always try to focus on our custom wishes

Lake Como Day Trip

A day trip to Lake Como is a convenient and rewarding experience for travelers based in Milan or nearby regions. Known for its scenic views, lakeside villages, and cultural sites, Lake Como can be explored efficiently in a single day if you plan. This guide explains how to organize your visit, including how to book airport transfers, join a tour, enjoy wine tasting, and travel between key locations.

Starting Point: Milan or Nearby Airports

Most day trippers to Lake Como begin their journey from Milan or nearby airports. The two most practical starting points are:

Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) – 52 km from Como (~1 hour by car)
Milan city center (Milano Centrale) – 50 km from Como (~40 minutes by train)

If you're flying into Milan in the morning and planning a same-day visit to the lake, consider booking a private or shared airport transfer. Transfers from Malpensa or Linate airports to the town of Como typically take about an hour. This ensures a smoother start to your day without navigating public transport with luggage.

Best Base for a Day Trip: Como Town

Como, the town at the southern end of the lake, is the most accessible point for a day trip. From here, you can take boat rides to nearby towns, explore historical attractions, or join a guided tour.

Key sites in Como:

Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como) – located in the town center
Brunate Funicular – 7-minute ride up the hill to panoramic views
Villa Olmo – 2.5 km west of Como’s center (30-minute walk)

From Como, boat services and tours can take you to popular destinations like Bellagio, Varenna, or Tremezzo. Public ferries run frequently from spring through early fall..

We create moments that inspire you, excite you, challenge you, connect you with the world, and stay with you for life.

Tours for a Day Trip: What to Expect

If you have limited time, booking a Lake Como tour can help you maximize your visit. Many tours depart from Milan and include round-trip transport, a lake cruise, and stops in one or two towns.

Common full-day tour itinerary (from Milan):

Depart from Milan by coach or train (~8:00 AM)
Arrive in Como (~9:30 AM)
Guided walking tour of Como (~1 hour)
Boat cruise to Bellagio or Varenna (~1–2 hours)
Free time for lunch or sightseeing (~2 hours)
Return to Milan by late afternoon (~6:00 PM)

Some tours include skip-the-line tickets for villas or cathedral visits. If you're already staying near Lake Como, half-day private tours are also available and can be customized.

Wine Tasting Options Around Lake Como

While Lake Como itself is not a major wine-producing area, several experiences nearby allow for wine tasting within a day trip timeframe. These typically feature wines from Lombardy, such as Valtellina (Nebbiolo-based) or Franciacorta (sparkling wine).

Recommended options:

Wine bars in Bellagio or Como: Enotecas offer tasting menus with regional wine and food pairings.
Valtellina day tours: Located about 100 km (2 hours) northeast of Como, this alpine valley is known for its terraced vineyards. Some tours combine a winery visit with scenic stops and lunch.
Wine tasting tours from Milan: Some day tours from Milan to Lake Como include short wine tastings en route or upon return.

Travelers should check winery opening times and book appointments in advance, as walk-in visits are uncommon.

Suggested Itinerary for a Self-Guided Day Trip

Here’s a practical self-guided itinerary that balances time, transport, and experiences:

7:30 AM – Depart Milan (train to Como S. Giovanni)
8:30 AM – Arrive in Como; walk to the lakefront
9:00 AM – Visit Como Cathedral and stroll around Piazza Duomo
10:00 AM – Ride the Brunate funicular for panoramic lake views
11:00 AM – Board the ferry to Bellagio (~1.5 hours)
12:30 PM – Lunch in Bellagio (many lakeside restaurants available)
2:00 PM – Visit gardens of Villa Melzi (10-minute walk from ferry)
3:30 PM – Optional wine tasting at a local enoteca
4:30 PM – Take ferry to Varenna (15-minute ride)
5:00 PM – Explore Villa Monastero or the lakeside promenade
6:00 PM – Train from Varenna to Milan (~1 hour 15 minutes)

This route uses public transport and allows you to visit 2–3 towns in one day. Be sure to check train and ferry schedules ahead of time.

Transportation Between Main Locations

Como to Bellagio:

By ferry: ~1.5 hours (regular or fast services available)
By car: 30 km / ~1 hour (narrow, winding roads)

Bellagio to Varenna:

By ferry: 15 minutes (frequent during the day)
By car: 70-minute drive around the lake

Varenna to Milan:

By train: ~1 hour 15 minutes to Milano Centrale

Keep in mind that ferry services run less frequently in winter and during early mornings or late evenings.

Tips for a Smooth Day Trip

Book ferry tickets and train seats in advance, especially in summer.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as most towns have cobbled streets and some hills.
Check weather forecasts – boats may not operate in rough weather.
Start early to avoid delays and make the most of your time.

Conclusion

A day trip to Lake Como offers a realistic way to enjoy its famous views, historic sites, and even some wine tasting without needing an overnight stay. Whether you choose a guided tour or a self-organized itinerary, planning is key to covering major highlights. With easy access from Milan and nearby airports, including options for airport transfers, Lake Como remains a practical destination for both spontaneous visitors and structured travelers.

Book Now!