Lake Como · transport
Getting to Lake Como
Choosing Malpensa vs Linate and what the transfer costs.
Lake Como is closer to Milan than most travellers realise — 45 to 90 minutes by private transfer from either airport. The right choice depends on which shore you are staying on.
Milan Malpensa (MXP)
The major long-haul gateway — every direct flight from the US, Asia and the Middle East lands here. 45 minutes by private car to Cernobbio, 75 minutes to Menaggio, 90 minutes to Bellagio/Varenna via the car ferry.
Milan Linate (LIN)
Smaller, closer-to-Milan-city airport. 50 minutes to Como city, 75 minutes to Bellagio. Better for European-only flights and onward Milan-city stays.
Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY)
Low-cost Ryanair / Wizz hub. 60 minutes to the eastern shore (Varenna, Bellagio via ferry). Reasonable choice for European travellers.
Trains and ferry connections
From Milano Centrale: trains to Como S. Giovanni (40 min), to Varenna-Esino (1h), then ferry across. Private transfers from Malpensa: €180–€280 depending on shore. Speedboat transfers across the lake from Como city to Bellagio: 35 minutes.
At a glance
- •Long-haul flights: Milan Malpensa (MXP)
- •MXP → Cernobbio: 45 min by private car
- •MXP → Bellagio: 90 min (includes ferry)
- •Train: Milano Centrale → Varenna in 1h
- •Cross-lake speedboat: Como → Bellagio in 35 min
Frequently asked
More Lake Como guides
season
When to Visit Lake Como
Garden bloom, ferry season and quiet shoulder months.
transport
Lake Como Ferry Guide
The lake's public transport system — when to use it.
culture
Lake Como Villa Gardens Guide
Four indispensable estates and when to visit each.
experiences
Lake Como Honeymoon Guide
Sunset cruises, private terraces and Belle Époque hotels.
Plan your Lake Como trip
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Luxury Villas in Lake Como
What to Do
Curated Lake Como Experiences
Half day or full day (3–8 hours)
Private Boat Tour on Lake Como
Discover the lake's hidden gems from a vintage wooden boat
2 hours (evening)
Sunset Aperitivo Cruise
Golden hour on the water with Prosecco and panoramic views
Full day (6–7 hours)
Villa & Gardens Guided Tour
Step inside the legendary villas that define Lake Como
From Our Journal
Lake Como Reading & Insights
- 11 min readTuscany vs Amalfi Coast: Which Italian Destination Is Right for You?Two of Italy's most iconic destinations, but very different experiences. Here's an honest comparison to help you decide — or convince you to do both.
- 11 min readThe Best Time to Visit Lake Como: Season-by-Season GuideLake Como is breathtaking year-round, but each season offers a different magic. Here's when to visit based on what matters most to you.
- 14 min readLake Como Towns: A Complete Guide to Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio & MoreEach Lake Como town has its own personality. From glamorous Bellagio to romantic Varenna, here's your guide to finding the perfect base and exploring beyond it.
Curated Collections
Plan a Trip Around a Theme
- Wedding VenuesHandpicked private estates in Tuscany and Lake Como suitable for destination weddings: full buy-outs, 12+ guests, vetted vendor network and dedicated planner.
- Family VillasPrivate villas in Tuscany and Lake Como chosen for families: fenced pools, gentle gardens, quiet roads, child-friendly amenities and quick access to gelato.
- Honeymoon StaysIntimate properties for two in Tuscany and Lake Como: private pool or lakefront, panoramic terrace, in-house dining and total privacy.
- Large GroupsEstates in Tuscany and Lake Como that comfortably host 14 or more guests: multiple bedrooms with en-suites, vast living areas, on-site staff.