Day Trip to Lake Como – from Milan, Italy

Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and relaxing escapes from Milan. With sparkling blue water, dramatic mountain backdrops, and charming lakeside towns, the lake feels peaceful and far removed from the city — even though it’s only about 40 minutes by train. The moment you arrive, the atmosphere shifts. The pace slows, the scenery opens up, and the combination of water, hills, and historic villages creates a setting that feels almost cinematic. Whether you explore Como, take a ferry to Varenna or Bellagio, or simply enjoy a lakeside stroll, the experience is unforgettable.

A Scenic Escape Close to Milan

Como is the easiest starting point for most travelers. The train station sits close to the waterfront, so you can begin exploring almost immediately. The promenade is wide, breezy, and perfect for a relaxed walk along the lake. Cafés line the water, offering beautiful views and a calm place to enjoy a drink or light meal. If you want to see more of the lake, ferries connect Como to nearby towns, each with its own charm and scenery.

Charming Towns Worth Visiting

Varenna is one of the prettiest and easiest towns to reach by ferry. Its narrow lanes, colorful houses, and lakeside walkway make it a favorite for travelers who want something peaceful and picturesque. Bellagio, often called the “Pearl of the Lake,” sits at the meeting point of the lake’s three branches. It’s known for steep cobblestone streets, elegant shops, and postcard‑worthy views. Even a short visit to one or two towns gives you a wonderful sense of Lake Como’s beauty.

Why This Day Trip Is Worth It

Lake Como offers a refreshing change of pace from Milan’s busy streets. The scenery is stunning from every angle, the ferries are scenic and enjoyable, and the towns are easy to explore on foot. Even with just a few hours, you can enjoy a lakeside lunch, take a ferry ride, and soak in the mountain views. The experience feels relaxed and restorative, which is why so many travelers consider it a highlight of their time in northern Italy.

Best Time to Visit

• Late spring through early fall: Warm weather and vibrant scenery
• Morning: Fewer crowds and smoother ferry connections
• Weekdays: A more relaxed experience overall

How Long to Spend

Plan for half a day to a full day, depending on how many towns you want to visit. A shorter visit still feels rewarding, but a full day gives you time to explore multiple stops at a comfortable pace.

Getting There

Trains from Milan to Como run frequently and take about 40 minutes. You can depart from:

• Milano Centrale
• Milano Cadorna

From Como, the lakefront is a short walk away, and ferries make it easy to reach nearby towns.

For Cruise Travelers

If you’re visiting Milan before or after a cruise from Venice or Rome, Lake Como is an easy and rewarding addition to your itinerary. The train ride is quick, the lakefront is walkable, and the experience requires very little planning. It’s a beautiful way to add a scenic highlight to your trip.

Insider Tips

• Varenna is one of the easiest and most scenic towns to reach
• Como’s waterfront promenade is perfect for a relaxed stroll
• Ferries get busy midday — mornings are smoother
• Wear comfortable shoes for lakeside paths

Common Complaints

• Ferries run less frequently in winter
• Popular towns can feel crowded in peak season
• Bellagio has steep streets that require extra effort

Final Thoughts

A day trip to Lake Como is one of the most rewarding additions to any Milan itinerary. With easy train access, beautiful scenery, and charming lakeside towns, it’s a peaceful and memorable escape from the city.

To explore more great things to do in the area, check out my full Top 20 Things to Do in Milan guide.