Planning a trip from Milan to Lake Como and wondering how to get there? Whether you’re organizing a full itinerary with Milan and Lake Como or simply planning a day trip to Lake Como from Milan, figuring out transportation is one of the first things you need to sort out.
Between trains, buses, taxis, and private drivers, there are several ways to travel between Lake Como and Milan, and the best option depends on your budget, schedule, and where you’re actually staying on the lake.
I traveled from Milan to Lake Como last summer after flying into Milan (MXP) from the United States, so I experienced this route firsthand (with a toddler!). We stayed in the small town of Torno on the lake and returned from Lake Como to Milan Centrale at the end of our trip. Because Lake Como is quite large and transportation options vary depending on the town you’re visiting, choosing the right route can make a big difference in how smooth your travel day feels.
In this guide, I’m sharing the best ways to travel from Milan to Lake Como and from Lake Como to Milan, including the fastest, cheapest, and easiest options. I’ll also walk you through exactly what we did, along with practical tips to help you decide which transportation option works best for your trip.
This site participates in affiliate programs. When you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support allows me to continue providing this free content. Thank you!
Distance Between Milan and Lake Como
The distance from Milan to Lake Como depends on which town you’re visiting on the lake and which part of Milan you are coming from.
Most travelers are heading to towns like Como, Bellagio, Varenna, or Torno, and travel times vary slightly depending on the route.
Typical travel times include:
- Milan to Como: about 1 hour by car or train (1.5 hours from MXP, 1 change)
- Milan to Varenna: about 1 hour by train (~2.5 hours from MXP, 1-2 changes)
- Milan to Bellagio: about 1.5 hours by car or ferry connections (train to Varenna then ferry required)
*Note that the train times listed are from Milano Centrale so it will be longer if you’re departing from MXP as your starting point.
If you’re flying into Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), the drive to Lake Como is usually about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and your destination. However, if you want to take the train from MXP, it requires at least one change and adds time to your journey.
Here’s a map to help you visualize MXP to Como and to Varenna at the top. Milan Central station is in Milan proper as I’ve notated on this map.
Flying Into Milan From the USA
Most travelers visiting Lake Como from the United States will fly into Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). It’s the largest international airport in northern Italy and the most convenient starting point when traveling from Milan to Lake Como.
If you are traveling from other parts of Europe, you might have options to fly into other nearby airports including Milan Linate Airport (LIN).
From the airport, you’ll have several transportation options including:
- Private driver
- Taxi
- Train
- Bus
- Rental car
Your best option will depend on your budget, how much luggage you’re traveling with, and where you’re staying on the lake.
Milan to Lake Como by Car (Easiest Option)
If convenience is your priority, traveling from Milan to Lake Como by car is the easiest and most direct option.
This is the route we chose after landing at MXP, and it made getting to the lake after a long international flight incredibly easy (especially with a toddler!)
Personally, I always recommend arranging a driver ahead of time when arriving in a new country. After a long flight, the last thing I want to do is navigate train stations, rental car counters, or taxi lines. It’s a game changer!
We booked a private driver through Blacklane and the experience was seamless. Their app made communication easy and our driver was very patient when we had a luggage mix-up at the airport (another traveler accidentally grabbed my suitcase instead of hers!).
Why I Recommend a Private Driver
- Door-to-door transportation
- No navigating train stations or schedules
- Comfortable after a long international flight
- Ideal if you’re staying in smaller Lake Como towns
The drive from Milan to Lake Como usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on where you’re staying.
Other Car Options
Taxi
Taxis are available from Milan and the airport, but they can be expensive depending on distance. I always prefer to just arrange it ahead of time – you’ll thank yourself!!
Rental Car
While renting a car might seem convenient, I personally don’t recommend driving around Lake Como.
The roads are narrow and winding, and parking is limited in many lake towns. Even our local drivers while we were there advised against it as some parts are pretty tough to drive around. Once you arrive, ferries and water taxis are usually much easier for getting around the lake – it is a huge lake!
🚗 If you really do need to rent a car, I always recommend Discover Cars to check for the best rates and availability.
Milan to Lake Como by Train (Most Efficient Option)
Taking the train from Milan to Lake Como is one of the most efficient and popular ways to travel between the two destinations.
Milan has several train stations, but the most common departure stations include:
- Milano Centrale (main train station)
- Milano Cadorna (second largest train station in Milan)
- Milano Porta Garibaldi (smaller, regional hub)
Trains arrive at two main stations on the lake:
- Como San Giovanni (near Como town)
- Varenna-Esino (great for visiting Varenna and Bellagio)
Train rides typically take 40 minutes to 1 hour. HOWEVER, if you’re going from the airport (MXP), you’ll have to train to one of these stations and make a change to reach Como, adding significant time to your journey.
On your return from Lake Como to Milan, I think the train makes sense if you’re staying in Como or Varenna near the stations already!
Tips for Taking the Train
- Book tickets in advance through Trenitalia or Rail Europe.
- Upgrade to first class or business class for more space – it was so nice!
- Keep small change for bathrooms at Milano Centrale
- Stay aware of your belongings in busy stations (our driver made a point to tell us to be careful when he dropped us at Milano Centrale)
We considered taking the train from Lake Como to Milan on our return trip. However, we were staying in Torno at Il Sereno Lake Como Hotel, which meant we would first need a car or ferry to reach the Como train station. That transfer alone would have taken 30 minutes, so hiring a driver ended up being easier especially with a toddler and our luggage (car seat & stroller really add up!). He drove us from our hotel on Lake Como to Milano Centrale where we then trained to Florence for the rest of our Italy trip.
Milan to Lake Como by Bus (Cheapest Option)
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to travel from Milan to Lake Como, buses are available.
However, this is typically the slowest option and schedules can be less convenient for travelers.
Buses are often used by locals commuting between towns around the lake and they can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel months.
If you choose this option:
- Check schedules ahead of time
- Allow extra travel time
- Have a backup transportation plan
If you have limited vacation time, the extra travel time may not be worth the savings. Plus, if you have a lot of luggage, this is not ideal. It’s great if you are doing a daytrip to Lake Como though (more on that below!).
Milan to Lake Como Transportation Comparison
Here’s a quick breakdown of the best ways to travel between Milan and Lake Como.
| Transportation | Travel Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Driver | 1–1.5 hours | $$$ | Comfort and convenience |
| Train | 40–60 minutes | $ | Efficient travel |
| Taxi | 1–1.5 hours | $$$ | Flexible but expensive |
| Bus | 1.5–2 hours | $ | Budget travelers |
Best Lake Como Towns to Visit From Milan
If you’re planning a trip from Milan to Lake Como, here are a few of the most popular towns to visit and some of the prettiest places in Italy:
Como
Como is the closest town to Milan and one of the easiest places to reach by train. It has a charming historic center, beautiful waterfront views, and the famous funicular to Brunate.
Bellagio
Often called the “pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is known for its elegant villas, colorful streets, and incredible lake views. It’s easy to reach by ferry from either Como or Varenna.
Varenna
Varenna is one of the most picturesque towns on the lake. The train from Milan stops here directly, which makes it a great option for travelers planning a day trip to Lake Como from Milan.
Menaggio
Located across the lake from Varenna and Bellagio, Menaggio has a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful lakefront promenades.
Also see: Our Lake Como Babymoon Guide and Where to Babymoon in Italy!
Planning a Day Trip to Lake Como From Milan
If you’re planning a day trip to Lake Como from Milan, the train is usually the easiest option and is pretty affordable. Though, you could take the bus or a car if needed.
Many trains travel directly from Milan to Como town or Varenna, both of which are great starting points for exploring the lake.
From there, you can:
- Walk through charming historic streets
- Take the funicular for panoramic lake views
- Hop on a ferry to explore towns like Bellagio or Menaggio
A day trip from Milan to Lake Como is definitely possible, but if your schedule allows, staying at least one or two nights on the lake makes the experience much more relaxing. It is truly so beautiful that you won’t want to leave!
My Recommendation for Traveling Between Milan and Lake Como
If your budget allows, I recommend hiring a private driver from Milan to Lake Como, especially if you’re arriving after an international flight with a good bit of luggage (or kids!). It’s the most seamless way to start your trip.
However, if you’re planning a day trip to Lake Como from Milan, the train is efficient, affordable, and easy to navigate.
Both destinations pair beautifully together and traveling between Milan and Lake Como is pretty simple once you understand the options.
FAQ: Milan to Lake Como Transportation
The easiest way to travel from Milan to Lake Como is by private driver or taxi. This option provides door-to-door service and is especially convenient if you’re arriving at Milan Malpensa Airport with luggage (or kids!).
The fastest way to travel from Milan to Lake Como is usually by train. High-speed and regional trains can reach towns like Como or Varenna in about 40 to 60 minutes depending on your departure point.
Yes, a day trip to Lake Como from Milan is very doable and worth it. Taking the train to Como or Varenna allows you to explore the lake, ride ferries between towns, and return to Milan the same day.
Lake Como is much closer to Milan. Travel from Milan to Lake Como takes about one hour, while Venice is more than two hours away by train.
Most people don’t need a rental car when visiting Lake Como and Milan. The roads around the lake are narrow and parking can be limited. Ferries and water taxis are often easier for getting between towns since the lake is so large.
The Wrap Up: How to Go from Milan to Lake Como
Traveling from Milan to Lake Como (and back again) is actually very simple once you understand your options. Whether you choose a private driver for ease, the train for efficiency, or plan a quick day trip to Lake Como from Milan, the right choice comes down to your budget, timeline, and where you’re staying on the lake.
If you want your trip to feel seamless from the moment you land, I always recommend planning your transportation in advance. It makes such a difference, especially after a long international flight.
Need Help Planning Your Italy Trip?
If you’re planning a trip to Milan and Lake Como (or anywhere in Italy), I’d love to help. As a travel advisor, I assist with everything from hotel recommendations to arranging private drivers and transfers so your trip feels effortless from start to finish.
You can reach out to me here to start planning your Italy itinerary. I’ll help you create a trip that feels easy, personalized, and truly memorable.
Also Read:
Save it for later!
Leave a Reply