Looking for an amazing day trip in Northern Italy? In just one day, leaving Milan in the morning, you can wander through the beautiful streets of Como, take a boat ride on Lake Como, and explore the charming towns of Bellagio and Varenna.
With convenient train and boat connections, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip. We’ll show you the best times to leave, how to get tickets, and what to do in each town. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a regular traveler, this trip has something for everyone. Let’s get started!
1st. part of the Day trip – Get the train from Milano Centrale to Como S. Giovanni
First step of this journey will be to get an early train from Milano Centrale station to Como S. Giovanni. Depending on what connection you choose the train ride will be less than an hour. The connection suggested by Lake Como Travel Tips will take you 39 minutes, and cost 5,20€ for adults per person.
Go to Trenitalias website and look for trains from Milano Centrale and Como S. Giovanni. I would suggest to get an early start, so choose the train at 9:43 that will arrive in Como at 10:22. If you want more time in Como and you can choose an earlier train. That might give you time to see everything on the Top 10: Must-See locations in the Old Town of Como.
Arriving in Como, what to see?
After arriving at S. Giovanni station in Como its time to start enjoying your day trip. First, get out of the station, and head down the stairs shown on this picture:
Walk passed the hand sculpture – dedicated to disabled service people.
When you arrive at the busy street you can turn left and head directly to the lake that way. But i would suggest going straight and keep going straight until you make it to the intersection on this picture:
Follow the arrow on the picture, and you made it to The Old Town of Como. Keep in mind that the Lake is on your left side so whenever you feel like going towards the boats just head in that direction, and you will not be able to miss the lake. I suggest you keep going streith until you make it to “Piazza Alessandro Volta”. Depending on the time of year you are visiting, this is a buzzeling square with many bars and places to sit outside and enjoy a Cappuccino and a Brioche.
Enjoy your walk around Como, and if you want some suggestions for what to see take a look at our guide to Top 10 things to see in the Old Town of Como.
Getting the boat from Como to Bellagio
The next step in this one day trip on the Como Lake is to get to the lake and get a boat from Como to Bellagio.
To get tickets head to Navigazionelaghi.it and book it in advance. This way you avoid the crazy line outside the ticket office in the summer.
I suggest getting the 12:00 boat from Como to Bellagio, costing 10,40€ in 2024. It does take 2 hours and 15 minutes to get there, and the boat stops in many small towns along the lake on the way. It’s the perfect opportunity to get some stunning pictures of those small towns. Sadly, if you have only one day to see everything, there is no time to get off the boat and explore those beautiful towns.
Book the ticket for the boat on the picture above, and you will arrive in Bellagio at 14:15, just in time for a late lunch.
Bellagio: The Jewel of Lake Como
First small town to visit on this day trip is Bellagio. It is often called the “Pearl of Lake Como,” and it’s easy to see why. Located at the intersection of the lake’s two “legs”, this charming town has stunning views, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautiful gardens. With its picturesque setting and vibrant atmosphere, Bellagio is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Lake Como. Just have a look of some of the pictures i have taken from there:’
Since you arrived just in time for lunch here are a few suggestions for what to eat in Bellagio. As with most towns with many tourists there is something for everyone from expensive restaurants to cheaper options like a slice of pizza to go.
Lunch Suggestions
- **Expensive: Ristorante Bilacus
Located near the waterfront, Ristorante Bilacus offers a refined dining experience with breathtaking views of the lake. The menu features delicious local dishes made with fresh ingredients, including seafood and homemade pasta. The elegant atmosphere makes it perfect for a special occasion. - **Medium: Trattoria San Giacomo
This cozy trattoria serves traditional Italian food in a welcoming setting. Enjoy classic dishes like risotto, homemade pasta, and seasonal specials. The friendly service and relaxed atmosphere make it a great spot for a relaxed lunch. - **Cheap: Pizzeria Balognett
For a casual and budget-friendly option, Pizzeria Balognett is the place to go. Known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas, this eatery also offers fresh salads and local snacks. It’s a great spot to grab a quick bite while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
This is just a small selection of some of the restaurants in Bellagio. There are many, and i always suggests to take a look at Tripadvisor to see reviews before you choose a place. Maybe even call them and make a reservation, especially in the summer since Bellagio is a very popular destination on Lake Como.
What to see in Bellagio
After a nice lunch, it’s time to get up and stretch the legs a bit. Getting around in Bellagio is all about walking. Unless you are a resident there, or have a special permission, no cars are allowed inside the old part of Bellagio. So, take a relaxed walk around the narrow streets. Have a look in the charming shops, admire the colorful buildings, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to stop by the small artisan boutiques for unique souvenirs. Just enjoy the atmosphere and the exercise from all the steps.
If you want to go look at something specific you could visit these places:
Villa Melzi
This beautiful villa dates back to the early 19th century and features stunning gardens that stretch along the lakefront. Visitors can stroll through the meticulously maintained grounds, admiring the diverse plant species and breathtaking views of Lake Como.
Basilica di San Giacomo
Located in the heart of Bellagio, this historic church dates back to the 12th century and features stunning Romanesque architecture. Inside, you can find beautiful frescoes and a tranquil atmosphere.
Villa Serbelloni
Once a summer residence for nobility, Villa Serbelloni is surrounded by lush gardens and offers guided tours. The villa is perched on a hill, providing spectacular panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
Punta Spartivento
This scenic viewpoint is located at the tip of Bellagio, where the two “legs” of Lake Como meet. It offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it an ideal spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Bellagio to Varenna
After a beautiful walk around the narrow streets of Bellagio, its now time to head to our last destination of the day, Varenna.
Depending on how long you want to spend in Bellagio, there are different alternatives for which boat to get. The tickets to this boat can also be booked on Navigazionelaghi.it or you can buy them at the ticket office in Bellagio if you want a bit more flexibility in when to leave for Varenna. Here is a screenshot of the schedule for 2024:
As you can see one of the boats take 32 minutes to get you to Varenna, the rest take about 15 minutes. The one taking 32 minutes is because it first takes you across the lake to Menaggio (Where you should not get off) and then back across the lake again to Varenna the tickets costs 4,60€ no matter if you choose the faster trip or the one that will take you across the lake twice.
Arrived at Varenna
You have now arrived at Varenna. Varenna is a charming village on the eastern shore of Lake Como, known for its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere. With its colorful houses, picturesque streets, and beautiful waterfront, Varenna offers a more laid-back vibe compared to Bellagio and some of the other busier towns on the lake. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and water.
Have a look at some of the beautiful pictures i got there that will help you get a feel of the place:
Getting of the boat in Varenna I suggest you go right, this will take you on a narrow path along the lake, and strolling along the waterfront promenade is a must when visiting Varenna. Lined with colorful buildings, cafes, and shops, this picturesque walkway offers stunning views of the lake and a perfect backdrop for photos. Before it is time for dinner you might have a chance to visit some of places on the list below. But don’t try and visit all of them, pick a few and remember to have time to just walk around the streets and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of this beautiful village on the Como Lake.
If you really want to have a look at some specific places here is a list of a few places you could see:
What to see in Varenna
Villa Monastero
This stunning villa dates back to the 12th century and is famous for its beautiful gardens that stretch along the lakeside. Visitors can explore the villa’s elegant rooms and enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Como from the terraced gardens.
Castello di Vezio
Perched on a hill above Varenna, this ancient castle offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area. A short hike leads to the castle, where visitors can explore the historic ruins and enjoy the stunning scenery from the observation tower.
Chiesa di San Giorgio
This beautiful church, located in the center of Varenna, dates back to the 14th century. Its stunning bell tower and colorful frescoes make it a charming stop for those exploring the village. The peaceful atmosphere provides a nice break from the bustling streets.
What to eat in Varenna?
Before heading back to Milano, I suggest you find a nice place in Varenna to have dinner. Again i have tried to give 3 suggestions, so there is something for every budget:
**Expensive: Ristorante La Vista
Surrounded by the Pre-Alps and one of the most striking views of Lake Como, at La Vista Restaurant you can dine in the open air admiring spectacular sunsets, making you soothed by the magic of summer evenings where dominating is the lake’s atmosphere. The restaurant offers an à la carte menu with regional and national dishes.
**Medium: Al Prato
Al Prato restaurant is acclaimed for its exceptional food, featuring wonderful flavors and fresh ingredients, with guests particularly highlighting the presentation and variety of standout dishes. Diners frequently commend the establishment for its quaint and cozy atmosphere, which is enhanced by a quiet location and friendly staff.
**Cheap: La Cambusa
For a casual and budget-friendly option, La Cambusa offers a selection of sandwiches, paninis, and light bites. With a lovely terrace facing the lake, it’s an excellent place to enjoy a quick meal or a refreshing drink while taking in the beautiful views.
Time to head back to Milano
Sadly, the day have passed and it is not time to head back to Milano. You will have to find a train at the Varenna-Esino station, it is a short walk from the lake. You can again buy the ticket online at Trenitalia’s website. Look for tickets from Varenna-Esino to Milano Centrale. In October 2024 the last train back to Milano is 21:35. Taking you 1 hour and 8 minutes to get back to Milano and costing 7,40€ for an adult ticket.
As your day trip comes to an end and you head back to Milano, take a moment to reflect on the enchanting experiences you’ve had at Lake Como. From the stunning views of the shimmering water to the charming towns of Bellagio and Varenna, every moment spent here has been a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The warm hospitality, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery make it clear that one day is simply not enough to fully explore this beautiful region. As you board the train back to Milan, start planning your next visit—there’s so much more to discover, from hidden gems to picturesque hikes, that you’ll want to linger a little longer and savor the magic of Lake Como.
If you have any further suggestions for our readers please don’t hold back from leaving a comment here below and share your experience with other fellow travelers.
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