How to Get to Lake Como from Milan, Malpensa, Linate & Bergamo Airports

Lake Como, with its elegant villas, mountain views, and romantic lakeside towns, is much easier to reach than many travellers expect. Whether you land at Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate or Bergamo Orio al Serio, or you are already in Milan city, there is a clear route that will take you to the lake by train, shuttle bus, car or a combination of all three.

This guide explains, step-by-step, how to get to Lake Como from each airport and from Milan city centre, and how to move around once you arrive. We focus on practical routes, realistic journey times and up-to-date transport options, without quoting ticket prices (as these change frequently). At the end, you will find sample itineraries and answers to the most common FAQs.

Overview: Why Getting to Lake Como Is Easier Than You Think

Lake Como lies around 50 km north of Milan. The southern towns of Como and Lecco act as gateways to the lake, while the famous mid-lake triangle of Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio sits roughly halfway up. You can comfortably reach the lake in about 1–2 hours from Milan or the nearby airports, most often using:

• Trains – fast, frequent and usually the easiest option.
• Airport shuttles and long-distance buses – simple, often direct routes.
• Car or private transfer – maximum flexibility and door-to-door comfort.
• Ferries and local buses – for moving between towns once you arrive.

Most public transport in this guide is run by Trenitalia/Trenord (trains) and Navigazione Laghi (ferries). Always check current timetables on official websites such as Trenitalia, Trenord, Malpensa Express and Navigazione Laghi before travelling.

Which Airport Is Best for Lake Como?

Three airports serve travellers heading to Lake Como:

• Milan Malpensa (MXP) – main intercontinental airport, west of Milan. Most convenient for Como and the western shore.
• Milan Linate (LIN) – small city airport close to central Milan. Ideal if you plan to stay in Milan first.
• Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) – low-cost hub near Bergamo. Very useful for reaching the eastern branch (Lecco, Varenna) and mid-lake area.

All three airports work well for Lake Como. The “best” choice depends on your flight options and which part of the lake you plan to stay in. Below you will find detailed routes from each airport, followed by instructions from Milan city centre and tips for moving around the lake.

How to Get from Milan City Centre to Lake Como

If you are already in Milan, the train is usually the fastest and simplest way to reach Lake Como. Buses and cars are useful alternatives depending on your plans.

By Train: Fastest & Easiest Option

Most travellers start from one of Milan’s main stations: Milano Centrale, Milano Cadorna or Milano Porta Garibaldi. Trains are operated mainly by Trenitalia and Trenord.

Milano Centrale → Como San Giovanni

• Direct regional and intercity trains run frequently from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni.
• Journey time is usually around 40–50 minutes.
• Como San Giovanni station is a short downhill walk to the lakefront and historic centre. Buses and taxis outside the station can take you to other villages.

Milano Cadorna → Como Lago

• From Milano Cadorna, Trenord runs direct regional trains to Como Nord Lago.
• The journey takes about 1 hour.
• Como Nord Lago station is directly on the lakefront next to the main ferry terminal – ideal if you want to continue immediately by boat to other towns.

Milano Centrale → Varenna-Esino (Best for Bellagio, Varenna & Menaggio)

• Trains from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino usually run about once per hour.
• Journey time is just over 1 hour.
• From Varenna-Esino station it is a short walk down to the ferry dock, where boats cross to Bellagio, Menaggio and Cadenabbia.
• This is the most efficient route if you want to stay in the mid-lake triangle or visit Bellagio and Varenna on a day trip.

Milano Centrale → Lecco & Northern Lake Towns

• Regional trains from Milano Centrale also run to Lecco, at the southern tip of the eastern branch.
• From Lecco, trains continue north along the lake to Varenna-Esino, Colico and beyond.
• Lecco can be a quieter, more local base with good connections to both mountains and lake.

Train tips: regional tickets bought at machines usually need to be validated in the small stamping machines on the platform before boarding. For exact departure times and connections, use the official Trenitalia or Trenord websites or apps.

By Long-Distance Bus from Milan

Several coach companies operate services from Milan to Lake Como towns.

• Direct coaches Milan → Como are usually operated by companies such as FlixBus and depart from terminals like Lampugnano or areas near Milano Centrale.
• Journey times are typically around 1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
• These buses are a good choice if you prefer a single seat without transfers and you are staying in or near Como city.

Check current routes and timetables on the bus companies’ official websites, as schedules and departure points can change between seasons.

By Car or Private Transfer from Milan

Driving gives you maximum flexibility, but you should be comfortable with narrow lakeside roads and limited parking.

• From central Milan, follow signs for the A8/A9 motorway towards Como/Chiasso. The distance to Como is roughly 50 km.
• Driving time is usually 1–1.5 hours, longer at peak commuter or holiday times.
• Many towns on the lake have restricted-traffic zones (ZTL) in the historic centre and limited parking. Always respect local signs and consider parking on the edge of town and walking in.

If you prefer not to drive, you can book a private transfer or taxi directly from your hotel in Milan to your accommodation on Lake Como. This is the most expensive option, but also the most comfortable if you have heavy luggage or are travelling with children.

How to Get from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Lake Como

Milan Malpensa is the main international gateway for northern Italy. It lies to the northwest of Milan and is well connected to the city by train and bus, with several good options to continue to Lake Como.

By Train: Malpensa Express + Regional Train

There is no single direct train from Malpensa to Como or Varenna, but connections are straightforward.

Option 1: Malpensa Express → Saronno → Como

1. From Malpensa Terminal 1 or 2, take the Malpensa Express train toward Milan and get off at Saronno station. The ride usually takes about 20–30 minutes.
2. At Saronno, change to a Trenord regional train to Como Nord Lago.
3. From Saronno, the train to Como Nord Lago takes around 40 minutes, arriving right on the lakefront in Como city.

This route is fast and avoids going all the way into Milan. Check schedules on Malpensa Express and Trenord.

Option 2: Malpensa Express → Milano Centrale or Cadorna → Lake Como

1. Take the Malpensa Express to either Milano Centrale or Milano Cadorna.
2. From Milano Centrale, continue by train to Como San Giovanni, Varenna-Esino or Lecco.
3. From Milano Cadorna, continue by train to Como Nord Lago.

This route is ideal if you want to combine your arrival with a short stop in Milan, or if you are heading straight to Varenna or the mid-lake area by train.

By Direct Shuttle Bus from Malpensa to Como

Several companies operate direct shuttle buses from Malpensa Airport to the city of Como.

• Operators such as Flibco and FlixBus typically run direct services from the airport coach area to Como.
• Journey time is generally around 1 hour, depending on traffic.
• These buses are convenient if you prefer to avoid changes and want to arrive directly in Como from the airport.

Always check the latest timetable and book in advance on the operator’s official website, as departures and routes can vary by season.

By Car or Private Transfer from Malpensa

• By car, follow the signs from Malpensa to the A8/A9 motorway in the direction of Como/Chiasso.
• The drive to Como usually takes around 40–60 minutes in normal conditions.
• A pre-booked private transfer from Malpensa to Lake Como is the most comfortable option if you want a door-to-door service, especially after a long flight.

Remember that once you leave the motorway, driving along the lake involves narrow roads and limited parking, particularly in high season.

How to Get from Milan Linate Airport (LIN) to Lake Como

Milan Linate is a smaller airport located close to Milan’s city centre. Although there is no direct train to Lake Como from Linate, the connection via Milan is simple.

Airport Shuttle or Metro + Train via Milan

1. From Linate, take the airport shuttle bus or the M4 metro line into the city (for example to Milano Centrale or San Babila/Duomo, then onward to Centrale by metro).
2. From Milano Centrale, follow one of the train routes described earlier to Como San Giovanni, Varenna-Esino, Lecco or other Lake Como stations.

Total travel time from Linate to Como is usually around 1.5–2 hours, depending on your connections in Milan.

By Car or Taxi from Linate

• Linate is located on the eastern side of Milan, with easy access to the ring roads and major highways.
• The drive to Como typically takes around 1–1.5 hours, while the drive to Lecco on the eastern branch can be slightly shorter.
• Official taxis and private transfers are available directly outside the arrivals terminal.

This is a comfortable option if you are travelling with heavy luggage or a family and want to arrive at your Lake Como accommodation without using public transport.

How to Get from Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) to Lake Como

Bergamo Orio al Serio is widely used by low-cost airlines and is well positioned for reaching the eastern branch of Lake Como and the mid-lake area.

Option 1: Shuttle Bus to Milan + Train

1. Take a shuttle bus from Bergamo Airport to Milano Centrale. Several companies operate this route; journey time is roughly 50–60 minutes depending on traffic.
2. From Milano Centrale, take a train to Como San Giovanni, Lecco or Varenna-Esino, depending on where you are staying.

This route is simple and works well if you prefer straightforward connections and are comfortable passing through Milan.

Option 2: Bergamo City → Lecco → Lake Como (Eastern Branch)

1. From the airport, take the local bus to Bergamo railway station. The ride is around 15–20 minutes.
2. At Bergamo station, take a regional train to Lecco. The journey takes about 40 minutes.
3. From Lecco, continue by train north along the lake to Varenna-Esino, Colico and other eastern shore towns, or connect by bus or ferry further on.

This is an excellent route if you plan to stay around Varenna, Bellagio or the mid-lake area, as it keeps you on the eastern side of the lake and avoids Milan entirely.

Option 3: Direct Buses from Bergamo to Como

Depending on the season, long-distance bus companies such as FlixBus may operate direct services from Bergamo city to Como. These buses usually depart from the main bus station in Bergamo and arrive in or near Como after about 1.5–2 hours.

Since schedules can change, always check the latest information and book in advance on the operator’s official website. Note that most direct buses depart from Bergamo city, not directly from the airport, so you will still need a short bus or taxi ride from Orio al Serio into town.

By Car or Private Transfer from Bergamo

• From Bergamo Airport, the drive to Lecco or the eastern shore of Lake Como is typically around 1 hour.
• Driving to Como city on the western branch usually takes around 1–1.5 hours, depending on route and traffic.
• Private transfers are widely available and can be booked in advance for a smooth door-to-door ride.

If you choose to drive, you can also consider a short visit to Bergamo’s historic upper town (Città Alta) either before or after your Lake Como stay – it is a beautiful, often overlooked stop.

How to Get Around Lake Como Once You Arrive

After you reach Lake Como, you will mainly move between towns using a combination of ferries, local buses, trains and – if you have one – a car.

Ferries: The Classic & Most Scenic Option

Ferries are the iconic way to travel on Lake Como. The official operator is Navigazione Laghi, which runs several types of boats:

• Slow ferries and boats calling at many towns along the shore.
• Hydrofoils and fast services skipping some stops for quicker journeys.
• Car ferries on certain central routes (for example between Menaggio, Bellagio and Varenna).

Important hubs include Como, Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Colico. Timetables change between summer and winter, and between weekdays and weekends, so always check the latest schedule on the official website or at the ticket office.

Local Buses Around the Lake

Local buses complement the ferries and are particularly useful for reaching villages without a ferry stop or for travelling when boat frequency is low.

• On the western shore, routes link Como with Cernobbio, Argegno, Tremezzina, Menaggio and further north.
• On the eastern shore, buses connect Lecco and inland towns with Bellagio and other villages.
• Timetables can be more limited in the evenings and outside the main season, so check last departures carefully.

Trains Along the Lake

Regional trains run along parts of both branches.

• On the western side, trains connect Como San Giovanni with Milan and with the Swiss border at Chiasso.
• On the eastern side, the line from Lecco runs north through Varenna-Esino to Colico and beyond.

Combining a train for the longer stretches with a ferry for the final legs is often the most time-efficient way to explore multiple areas.

Driving Around Lake Como

It is technically possible to drive almost all the way around Lake Como, but the journey is long, with narrow, winding roads that pass through many villages.

• Expect sharp bends, tunnels and occasional tight squeezes when buses or trucks approach from the opposite direction.
• Many visitors choose to drive shorter segments and use ferries to cross the lake instead of attempting a full loop.
• Parking is often limited in popular towns, especially in summer and on weekends, so allow extra time to find a space.

Staying in one of the villages? Keep our guide on how to reach Como city from the Lake Como villages to hand for the return leg — it covers the boat, bus and train combinations village by village.

Sample Routes & Step-by-Step Itineraries

Milan → Como (Fast and Simple)

1. From Milano Centrale, take a train to Como San Giovanni (about 40–50 minutes).
2. Walk down to the lakefront (10–15 minutes) or take a local bus or taxi to your hotel.
3. Use ferries or buses from Como to explore other towns along the lake.

Milan → Bellagio (via Varenna)

1. Take a direct train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino (just over 1 hour).
2. Walk from the station down to the ferry dock (about 10 minutes downhill).
3. Take a ferry across to Bellagio (around 15 minutes, with regular departures in the main season).

Bergamo Airport → Varenna

1. Take the local bus from Orio al Serio Airport to Bergamo railway station (about 15–20 minutes).
2. From Bergamo, take a regional train to Lecco, then continue on the same line or with a simple change to Varenna-Esino.
3. Walk down to the lakefront or your accommodation, or take a ferry to Bellagio or Menaggio.

Malpensa Airport → Como

1. Take the Malpensa Express to Saronno or to Milano Centrale/Cadorna.
2. Change to a regional train for Como San Giovanni or Como Nord Lago.
3. From the station, walk, bus or ferry to your final destination.

FAQs About Getting to Lake Como

Is there a direct train from Malpensa to Lake Como?

No, there is no single direct train from Malpensa Airport to Lake Como. You will need to change at Saronno, Milano Centrale or Milano Cadorna, depending on your route. Connections are straightforward and well signposted.

Which airport is closest to Lake Como?

In terms of distance, Milan Malpensa is generally the most convenient international gateway for Lake Como, especially for Como city and the western shore. Linate is closest to Milan city itself and is useful if you are spending time in Milan first. Bergamo Orio al Serio is ideal if you plan to stay around the eastern branch (Lecco, Varenna) or mid-lake area and are flying with a low-cost airline.

Is Lake Como possible as a day trip from Milan?

Yes, Lake Como is a very popular day trip from Milan. With an early train from Milan and a late return, you can comfortably explore Como and enjoy a ferry ride to one or two nearby towns such as Bellagio or Varenna. For a more relaxed pace and to visit several areas, staying at least one or two nights is recommended.

Do I need a car to visit Lake Como?

No, you do not need a car to visit Lake Como. The combination of trains, ferries and local buses is usually enough to reach most popular towns and attractions. A car is helpful if you want to explore quieter, less-connected villages or mountain areas, but it also brings challenges such as narrow roads and limited parking.

Are ferries on Lake Como frequent?

Ferry frequency depends on the season and route. In the main season, services between key towns like Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Cadenabbia are frequent throughout the day. In winter and in the evenings, timetables may be reduced, so it is essential to check the current schedule on the Navigazione Laghi website or at the ticket office.

What is the easiest way to reach Bellagio?

For most visitors, the easiest way to reach Bellagio is to take the train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino, then the ferry from Varenna to Bellagio. This combination is quick, scenic and avoids difficult driving on narrow roads.

Are timetables and routes the same all year?

No. Train, bus and ferry timetables can change between summer and winter, and additional services may operate on weekends or holidays. There can also be occasional disruptions due to strikes or maintenance. Always check the latest information on official websites shortly before you travel, and leave a little flexibility in your schedule in case you need to adapt your route.

With these options and tips in mind, you can choose the route that best matches your travel style and start planning your journey to Lake Como with confidence.

• Share on Facebook
• Email this Page
• Share on Reddit
• Share on Telegram
• Share on X
• Share on WhatsApp
• Share on SMS
• Share on Pinterest

Related Lake Como guides

• Lake Como ferry guide
• Best towns to stay on Lake Como
• Driving & parking around Lake Como