Lake Como · experiences
Lake Como Day Trips Guide
Milan, Bergamo, Lugano and the Bernina Express to St Moritz.
Lake Como's location makes it one of Italy's best bases for day trips — Milan in an hour, Bergamo's medieval old town in 90 minutes, and Switzerland accessible in under two hours. The classic four:
Milan — fashion, art, aperitivo
From Como: 40 minutes by train. The Duomo, the Last Supper (book ahead), Brera district, Quadrilatero della Moda (Via Montenapoleone), aperitivo in Navigli. Long but rewarding day.
Bergamo — the perfect medieval old town
90 minutes by car or train. The Città Alta (upper city) is a perfectly preserved Venetian-walled hilltop, reached by funicular. Best lunch: Da Mimmo for traditional Bergamasca. Pair with Bergamo's Accademia Carrara (excellent Renaissance collection).
Lugano (Switzerland) — Swiss lakeside elegance
90 minutes from Bellagio via Menaggio. Different lake, different feel — Swiss precision, designer shops, the Monte San Salvatore funicular. Bring your passport (border crossing). Pay in Swiss francs or euros (worse rate in CHF).
Bernina Express to St Moritz
The UNESCO-listed Rhaetian Railway from Tirano (eastern Lake Como) to St Moritz — 2.5 hours through alpine glaciers, 196 bridges, 55 tunnels. One of the world's great train journeys. Day-trip from Lake Como with a private driver to Tirano makes it manageable.
At a glance
- •Milan: 40 min by train from Como
- •Bergamo Alta: medieval old town + Accademia Carrara
- •Lugano: Swiss lake elegance (bring passport)
- •Bernina Express: UNESCO alpine train via Tirano
- •Private driver for cross-border + long days
Frequently asked
More Lake Como guides
season
When to Visit Lake Como
Garden bloom, ferry season and quiet shoulder months.
transport
Getting to Lake Como
Choosing Malpensa vs Linate and what the transfer costs.
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.
Plan your Lake Como trip
Our concierge designs every itinerary around your dates, group and pace. One inquiry is all it takes.
Start your inquiryWhere to Stay
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.