Nestled at the base of the Alps, Como Lake is one of Italy's largest and most visited lakes, covering nearly 150 square kilometers. Surrounded by charming, colorful towns, it offers sparkling waters, foggy mountains, and opulent villas. A day trip to Como Lake from Milan is a must for travelers.

You will find below everything you need to know about Lake Como and its surrounding shore villages, a fantastic sightseeing experience for day trips from Milan.

Getting there

Como Lake is located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. Its southern shores are approximately 50 kilometers from Milan.

By car: The journey to Como Lake from Milan takes just over an hour by car. Head northeast on the A9 to the lake's southern shores, then continue on the SS340.
By train: You can reach Como Lake by train from Milan, with direct routes to Como, Varenna, or Como Lago. The journey takes 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the destination.
Guided tours: Alternatively, take a guided excursion to Como Lake. Tours start around 8 AM, last 9 to 10 hours, and meet at a convenient city landmark provided upon booking.

Our selection of the best tours

Lake Como & Bellagio by Bus & Private Boat Tour

Visit Como and the charming Villa Olmo's Italian garden
Exclusive Lake Como boat tour
Price: From €87
Duration: 10-11 hours

Lake Como & Bellagio Day Tour with Luxury Cruise

Discover the city of Como on a guided walking tour and the and gardens of Varenna and Bellagio
Exclusive cruise along Lake Como
Price: From €99
Duration: 12 hours

Milan Bernina Scenic Train ride on the Swiss Alps

Ride the Bernina Train on the Express railway up glaciers + into the Swiss Alps
Explore a charming village on Lake Como
Price: From €155
Duration: 12 h 45'

Itinerary

After meeting your tour guide in central Milan, you'll head to Como Lake by train or coach, enjoying a scenic one-hour journey. Some tours explore Varenna, with a guided walk through its landmarks. Another highlight is Morbegno, known for its wine production, where you'll tour a winery and enjoy a tasting.

Most tours visit Bellagio, offering free time to explore or enjoy a local lunch. The itinerary may also include a trip to Lugano in Switzerland or a ride on the Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps, offering stunning views.

More tour options

There are a plethora of day trips to Como Lake to choose from. They all have different itineraries and visit an array of destinations en route.

Private tour to Como Lake

Your day trip begins with a walking tour of Varenna, followed by a scenic drive to Morbegno in the Valtellina Valley. There, you'll learn about wine and cheese making, enjoy lunch with a view, and visit a traditional vineyard.

Day trip to Como Lake + Bernina scenic train ride

After exploring Varenna, you'll travel to Morbegno on the Adda river to visit a winery. In Tirano, enjoy a traditional lunch before taking the Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps. Finally, in St. Moritz, you'll have free time to explore the lake or enjoy a mug of cocoa.

Day tour to Como Lake + Bellagio and Lugano

On this Como Lake day tour, you'll enjoy a boat tour, visit Bellagio to explore its streets and try local delicacies, then cross into Switzerland to visit Lugano, known for its art and handmade chocolates.

Prices

A cross-country tour to Bellagio and Lugano costs about €110 per person, including a Como Lake cruise. Private day trips are around €240 per person, with round-trip transport and a professional guide. Tours with a Bernina Express train ride cost about €160 per person.

Highlights

Varenna

Varenna, founded in the 7th century, is a historic lakeside town known for its views of Como Lake and relaxed atmosphere. Highlights include the 12th-century Castello di Vezio and Villa Monastero, a botanical garden and museum. Visitors can also rent boats to explore the lake.

Bellagio

Bellagio, the "pearl of Lake Como," is a charming village with colorful buildings and cobbled streets. Popular with celebrities, it dates back to the 7th century BC. Enjoy lake views from Via Giuseppe Garibaldi or visit the scenic Melzi Gardens.

Best time to visit

The best time for a Como Lake day trip is in summer, with water activities and temperatures around 25°C. Winter, from November to February, offers a quieter experience with snow-capped mountains and fewer tourists.

Travel tips

If you have free time to spend around Como Lake, consider renting a boat and discovering the water for yourself.
Some day trips to Como Lake explore the wine region that surrounds the body of water. If you're a fan of the beverage, take a tour that visits a winery.
When in Bellagio, ensure you head to its viewpoint for one of the best sights in the whole of Como Lake.
Take an extra layer with you if your tour travels into the Swiss Alps.

Como Lake: Day Trips and Tours from Milan