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Lake Como

Day trips from Milan to Lake Como

Aerial view of Bellagio village on Lake Como with colorful buildings and surrounding mountains.
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Day Trips

From Milan: Lake Como, Lugano & Bellagio by Bus with Private Boat Tour

What to bring

  • All participants are required to carry their original passport/travel document with them to enter Switzerland. Participants from a non-EU country will need a Schengen Visa.
  • Dress code: Wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

Accessibility

  • This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.

Additional information

  • Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
  • Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.
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Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
10 hrs 30 mins - 11 hrs
Guided tour
Transfers available

What to bring

  • All participants are required to carry their original passport/travel document with them to enter Switzerland. Participants from a non-EU country will need a Schengen Visa.
  • Dress code: Wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

Accessibility

  • This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.

Additional information

  • Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
  • Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.

Inclusions #

  • Round-trip transfers from Milan in a comfortable AC bus

  • High-speed Wi-Fi onboard

  • 2-hour private boat tour of Lake Como

  • Guided tours of Como, Bellagio, and Lugano

  • An English, Italian or Portuguese speaking guide (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

  • Hotel pick-ups

  • Food & drinks

  • Get full refund if you cancel 28 hours before the experience start time.
Lakeside view of Bellagio, Italy with colorful buildings and mountains in the background.
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Day Trips

From Milan: Lake Como & Bellagio by Bus with Private Boat Tour

What to bring

  • Dress code: Wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

Accessibility

  • This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.

Additional information

  • Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
  • Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.
‌
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Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
10 hrs - 11 hrs
Guided tour
Transfers available

What to bring

  • Dress code: Wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. If you plan to visit churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

Accessibility

  • This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and stroller.

Additional information

  • Please note that the itinerary/modes of transfer are subject to change depending on seasonality and weather conditions.
  • Depending on the time of year, the Lake Como cruise duration can range from 50 minutes to 2 hours.

Inclusions #

  • Full day trip to Como and Bellagio

  • 1-hour private boat tour of Lake Como

  • High-speed Wi-Fi onboard

  • Guided walking tour of Como city center

  • Free time at Bellagio

  • Round-trip bus transfers from Milan

  • Expert English/Spanish-speaking guide

Exclusions #

  • Hotel pick-ups

  • Food & drinks

  • Get full refund if you cancel 28 hours before the experience start time.
Visitors exploring the rooftop of Duomo Cathedral in Milan, capturing views.
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Combos

Combo (Save 8%): Milan Cathedral & Terraces (Stairs) Tickets + Lake Como, Lugano & Bellagio Private Cruise from Milan

Save on two must-do Milan experiences by pairing the iconic Duomo with a full-day Swiss–Italian lakes tour.

  • Everything you get at the Duomo: Explore Milan’s Cathedral, climb 251 steps to its marble terraces for skyline views, and visit the Duomo Museum and San Gottardo Church with a flexible 2-day ticket that lets you access each area once during your visit.
  • Everything you get on the Lake Como tour: Set off from Milan with a tour leader, enjoy optional free time in Como, cruise on a private boat to Bellagio, continue onward to Lugano for leisure time, and stay connected with unlimited high-speed WiFi on both the bus and boat.
  • Why choose this: A high-value pairing that covers Milan’s top landmark and a full lakes–Swiss day trip in one purchase; saving you money and simplifying your plans.
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Check availability
Free cancellation
30 mins - 10 hrs 30 mins
Transfers available

Save on two must-do Milan experiences by pairing the iconic Duomo with a full-day Swiss–Italian lakes tour.

  • Everything you get at the Duomo: Explore Milan’s Cathedral, climb 251 steps to its marble terraces for skyline views, and visit the Duomo Museum and San Gottardo Church with a flexible 2-day ticket that lets you access each area once during your visit.
  • Everything you get on the Lake Como tour: Set off from Milan with a tour leader, enjoy optional free time in Como, cruise on a private boat to Bellagio, continue onward to Lugano for leisure time, and stay connected with unlimited high-speed WiFi on both the bus and boat.
  • Why choose this: A high-value pairing that covers Milan’s top landmark and a full lakes–Swiss day trip in one purchase; saving you money and simplifying your plans.

Inclusions #

Duomo Milan

  • Access to Duomo Cathedral
  • Terraces access by stairs
  • Duomo Museum access
  • San Gottardo Church access
  • 2-day validity

Lake Como, Lugano & Bellagio Tour

  • Round-trip bus transfers from Milan
  • English-speaking tour leader on board
  • 2-hour private boat tour of Lake Como
  • Free time in Como, Bellagio, and Lugano
  • High-speed Wi-Fi onboard

What to bring

  • Valid passport or EU ID for Swiss border checks
  • Dress code applies: shoulders and knees must be covered

What’s not allowed

  • Tripods, flash photography, food, drinks, helmets, knives, glass items
  • Prams, luggage, drones, masks, high heels at the Duomo

Accessibility

  • Duomo terraces accessible only to the first level; descent may require stairs
  • Tour not suitable for wheelchair users; only foldable strollers allowed at Duomo

Additional information

  • Duomo Museum and San Gottardo closed on Wednesdays
  • Arrive 15 minutes early; late arrivals cannot be refunded
  • Lugano shops may be closed on Sundays and public holidays
  • Purchases over €300 in Switzerland require customs processing (not included)
  • Lite tour option excludes Como and offers more time in Bellagio and Lugano
  • Tickets valid 72 hours from validation with one entry per area
  • Get full refund if you cancel 24 hours before the experience start time.
Aerial view of Lake Como with a boat near the shoreline and mountains in Lombardy, Italy.
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Day Trips

From Milan: St. Moritz-Tirano Day Trip with Lake Como Cruise & Bernina Red Train

Cruise Lake Como, explore St. Moritz, and cross the Alps via a UNESCO-listed rail route with seamless transfers and a local guide.

  • Full day out to: Depart central Milan by luxury coach for a private Lake Como cruise past villages like Bellagio and elegant villas. Continue by coach to St. Moritz for free time, then board the panoramic Bernina Red Train toward alpine glaciers reaching 2,256m. Return to Milan by coach.
  • You’ll get: A professional live guide in English and Spanish, luxury coach travel, a Lake Como private boat cruise, free time in St. Moritz, and Bernina Red Train ride in the 2nd class.
  • Lake Como: Sail by private boat just after sunrise, passing postcard-perfect villages like Bellagio, and gracious lakeside villas.
  • St. Moritz: Free time and a guided walk in one of the world’s most famous Alpine resort-town, known for its luxury boutiques and mountain setting.
  • Bernina Red Train: Board a 2nd-class Bernina Red Train with openable windows, and enjoy glacier and Alpine views reaching 2,256m, before returning to Milan by coach.
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Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
13 hrs
Guided tour

Cruise Lake Como, explore St. Moritz, and cross the Alps via a UNESCO-listed rail route with seamless transfers and a local guide.

  • Full day out to: Depart central Milan by luxury coach for a private Lake Como cruise past villages like Bellagio and elegant villas. Continue by coach to St. Moritz for free time, then board the panoramic Bernina Red Train toward alpine glaciers reaching 2,256m. Return to Milan by coach.
  • You’ll get: A professional live guide in English and Spanish, luxury coach travel, a Lake Como private boat cruise, free time in St. Moritz, and Bernina Red Train ride in the 2nd class.
  • Lake Como: Sail by private boat just after sunrise, passing postcard-perfect villages like Bellagio, and gracious lakeside villas.
  • St. Moritz: Free time and a guided walk in one of the world’s most famous Alpine resort-town, known for its luxury boutiques and mountain setting.
  • Bernina Red Train: Board a 2nd-class Bernina Red Train with openable windows, and enjoy glacier and Alpine views reaching 2,256m, before returning to Milan by coach.

Inclusions #

  • Round-trip luxury coach from Milan

  • Professional English & Spanish guide

  • Audio headsets for the tour

  • Private Lake Como boat cruise

  • Guided walking tour in St. Moritz

  • Bernina Red Train ticket, 2nd Class

Exclusions #

  • Meals and drinks

  • Seat reservations on the train

  • Bernina Express panoramic upgrade

What to bring

  • Carry a valid passport or EU ID, plus warm layers and rain gear for Alpine weather.

What’s not allowed

  • Pets are not allowed on the tour, except registered assistance dogs.

Accessibility

  • Infants travel free but do not have reserved seats and must sit on a parent’s lap.

Additional information

  • The train ride is in 2nd Class with openable windows; route order may change on the day.
  • The itinerary may change to guarantee the best experience, as noted by the operator.
  • Get full refund if you cancel 24 hours before the experience start time.

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We curate the best ways to experience

Why take a day trip from Milan to Lake Como?

Unforgettable scenery just an hour away

Lake Como offers dramatic alpine backdrops, shimmering waters, and postcard-perfect villages – all within a 60 to 90 minute journey from Milan.

Explore famous lakeside towns in a day

Visit Bellagio, Varenna, or Como city, each known for elegant villas, lakeside promenades, and historic charm. Easily doable on a day trip.

Luxury meets laid-back living

From sipping coffee at a lakeside café to spotting celebrity villas like George Clooney’s, Lake Como blends glamour with relaxed Italian vibes.

Flexible transport, seamless experience

Frequent trains and ferries make planning easy. Hop off in Varenna or Como and board a scenic ferry to explore the lake without a car.

How to reach Lake Como from Milan?

Best for: Fast & convenient travel
Duration: 35 to 40 minutes from Milan Centrale to Como S. Giovanni, 1 hour from Milan Cadorna to Como Nord Lago
Frequency: Every 30 minutes
Operators: Trenitalia (Milan Centrale), Trenord (Milan Cadorna)

  • Como S. Giovanni is faster and has more frequent regional services, while Como Nord Lago is slower but more scenic.
  • Como S. Giovanni is just a 10-minute walk from the lakefront, while Como Nord Lago gives you immediate access to the lakefront, ferry terminal, and Como’s old town.
  • Tickets start at approximately €5 for a standard one-way fare from either station.

Best for: Flexible and comfortable travel
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours (82 kms / 50 miles)

  • Take the A9 motorway and follow signs for Como, which is the fastest route, including tolls.
  • For a more scenic drive, you can take the SS340 (Strada Statale).
  • Use offline navigation apps as the narrow, winding roads around the lake can be tricky.

Parking: Look for secure parking garages near Como’s city center. Rates range from about €1.50-2.50 per hour. In smaller towns, spot the blue-marked parking spaces, which typically indicate paid parking.

Best for: Budget travelers and sightseeing
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Frequency: Every 2 to 4 hours

  • Buses typically depart from Milan’s Lampugnano bus station or Milan Centrale and arrive in Como.
  • FlixBus and Busitalia Sita Nord are popular operators and a one-way ticket generally starts from €5 to €10.

While buses are budget-friendly, trains are preferred due to their higher frequency and shorter travel time.

Passengers boarding a tour bus in Paris, France, for a city sightseeing experience.

Best for: Comprehensive, structured experience

Duration: Full day

Your options are

  • Lake Como & Bellagio: The quintessential experience that involves private boat tours and walking tours.
  • Lake Como, Bellagio, & Lugano: Adds on a comfortable cross-border escapade into the city of Lugano.
  • Lake Como & St. Moritz: Includes travel by Red Train, the chance to see the UNESCO-listed Bernina Pass, and a private cruise.

Getting around Lake Como

Ferries

The local public ferry system is available throughout the day and connects all the towns along the banks of Lake Como.

Service provider(s): Navigazione Laghi

Trains

Regional trains are a quick way to travel between towns. They cover the easternmost shores of the lake. You can take the line from Milan to Sondrio and stop at Varenna to get to the Central Lake Area.

Service provider(s): Trenord and Trenitalia

Buses

Local buses connect most of the towns around the lake. Buses are a good way to reach towns that aren't served by trains or ferries.

Service provider(s): ASF Autolinee

Taxis

There's also the option to book private taxis from main bus or train stations. However, these can be expensive, especially if booked on-the-spot.

Walking

You can walk around the lake on trails that range from 3km to 20km (2–12 miles). The Sentiero del Viandante trek, or Wayfarer's Path, is a 54km (34 mile) trek along the eastern shore of Lake Como.

Things to know before booking a Milan to Lake Como day trip

  • Round-trip transfers via air-conditioned coach or train ensure a smooth and comfortable journey to Lake Como, which is situated only 80km from Milan. Day trips typically last 10-12 hours, offering a mix of guided tours, scenic travel, and free time to explore.
  • Every trip includes a panoramic cruise on Lake Como, which lasts between 50 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the season. These boat rides provide stunning views of the lake's iconic villas and surrounding landscapes.
  • Itineraries can include stops at other towns in addition to Como. Known as the 'Pearl of the Lake', Bellagio is a favorite for its cobblestone streets and scenic views. Some tours extend to Lugano or St. Moritz in Switzerland, offering a unique opportunity to explore two countries in one day. All transportation, whether by ferry or train, is included in the tour price.
  • For tours that include a visit to Lugano or St. Moritz, you’ll need an original valid passport. Non-EU travelers should also ensure they have the necessary visas and travel documents before booking.
  • An English or Spanish-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the journey, sharing fascinating insights, insider tips, and recommendations to enhance your experience. If your tour crosses the border into Switzerland, the guide will also help with any required documentation or formalities during transitions.
  • If you’re traveling during the high season (summer), it’s recommended to book your preferred trip at least 4 weeks in advance to secure your spot.

When’s the best time to take a Milan to Lake Como day trip?

🌸Spring

Average temperature: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)

April to June is considered one of the best times to visit Lake Como as it is perfect for enjoying the gardens in full bloom, with lesser crowds.

☀️Summer

Average temperature: 30°C (86°F)

July to August is the most busy season as the warm temperatures are perfect for boating, swimming, and water sports.

🍂Fall

Average temperature: 18°C to 26°C (65°F to 79°F)

For a more relaxed outing, September to October offers comfortable weather and beautiful foliage.

❄️Winter

Average temperature: 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F)

While the shoulder seasons can be great, avoid visiting between November and March as some lake towns and villas may be closed.

Plan your Milan to Lake Como day trip

Distance from Milan: 82 kilometers

Travel time: 1–2 hours

Budget range: €120–€200

Trip duration: 10–11 hours

Meeting/drop-off point: Near Milan Central Station

Craft Beer and Food Brewery at lake como
  • Passion Como | wholesome food, great coffee, and free Wi-Fi
  • Toast & Roll | bakery known for their sandwiches
  • Crotto del Sergente | homemade food and unique ambience
stay near lake como
  • Ostello Bello Lake Como | lakeside, budget-friendly
  • B&B Hotel Como City Center | central, budget-friendly
  • Avenue Hotel | 4-star, central
  • La Perla by SEDAR La Perla | 4-star, lakeside
Lake Como boat trip with scenic view of Lugano and surrounding mountains.
  • Book your transport within Como (ferry, train, taxi, etc.) well in advance, since spots fill up quickly – especially during the high season in summer.
  • March to May and October are some of the best months to visit Lake Como, with pleasant weather and relatively fewer crowds.
  • Make sure you budget for lunch/snacks during your trip as your day tours do not generally include food.
  • Looking to take a piece of Como back with you? High quality local products include silk, olive oil, and wine.

Here are some things to do if you're planning a longer stay

Villa Olmo

📍Como

This neoclassical masterpiece features a striking façade, ornate interiors, and expansive grounds. The surrounding gardens, offer promenades beset with vistas of the lake and the Alps.

Como Cathedral

📍Como

A magnificent blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, this titular church boasts an intricate facade and grand interior, adorned with beautiful frescoes and stained glass windows. This is a must-see for art and culture lovers.

Funicular Ride to Brunate

📍Como

Take a funicular ride from Como to the hilltop village of Brunate for panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding Alps. It's a great way to experience the area's natural beauty from above while exploring the charming village at the summit.

Villa del Balbianello

📍Lenno

This iconic lakeside villa has been featured in movies like Casino Royale and Star Wars: Episode II. Originally a Franciscan monastery, keep a lookout for its unique umbrella-shaped trees, and ancient statues.

Villa Melzi d’Eril

📍Bellagio

A quintessential symbol of neoclassical architecture with symmetrical exteriors, this villa in Bellagio also features an oriental pavilion with lotus flowers.

San Giovanni Beach

📍Bellagio

This pebbly public beach is perfect for a dip, with piers to plunge off. During the warmer months, a snack bar rents floating docks for swimming.

Museum of Navigation Instruments

📍Bellagio

A fascinating collection of over 200 rare navigational instruments from the 16th to the 19th centuries, including compasses, astrolabes, telescopes, and maps.

Tempio Voltiano

📍Como

A museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the Italian physicist who invented the electric battery and discovered methane.

Basilica di San Giacomo

📍Bellagio

An 11th-century stone church with a golden altar, shimmering apse, and mosaics. Set in Piazza della Chiesa, it's beset by a fountain, an ancient tower, art galleries, and cafés.

Frequently asked questions about Milan to Lake Como day trips

During the peak seasons between May to September, it is recommended to book all your arrangements at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance.

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