Are you in Milan but would want to spend a day away from the bustling city streets? Are the mountains, clean air, and shimmering Lake Como waters beckoning you?
We crammed as much as we could into a single day, travelling from Milan to Como (the city named after the lake), Bellagio, Varenna, and back: picturesque villages and cobblestone alleys; breathtaking vistas, boat rides, lovely gardens and mansions; and, of course, fresh pasta, gelato, and local wine.
You’ve come to the perfect location if you wish to travel from Milan to Lake Como on your own. Everything you need to know about travelling from Milan to Como and spending the day there is covered.
A self-guided day excursion will be far more fulfilling, even though there are organised Lake Como day trips that may transport you there and back to Milan in a single day! It’s also simple to do.
Which Towns Should You Visit
You’ll have time to visit several of Lake Como’s villages on a day excursion from Milan. I suggest going to Como, Bellagio, and Varenna.
Every location is unique and lovely in its own way. Additionally, you don’t have to rush to see them all in a single day because they are sufficiently close to one another.
Start Your Trip In Como
The largest town on the lake is Como. This historic city has a lot to do and see, including churches and piazzas, and is incredibly charming and walkable.
Compared to some of the other villages, we felt Como was more genuine. It has a rich history dating back at least to the Bronze Age, which took place between 3300 and 1200 BC. Fantastic, huh?
Unlike many other villages that partially shut in the low season, Como welcomes you year-round! (It’s ideal if you’re coming in the winter.) Additionally, you get 45 minutes to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of little, colourful villages and towering mountains if you take the lovely ferry from Como to Bellagio and Dudespin Casino!
Walk Through The Colourful Streets
Of the three towns you will see on your day tour, Como is the biggest. There’s no time to waste, there’s so much to do!
Spend a few hours exploring Como’s charming streets, perusing the numerous wine and souvenir shops, walking along the lakefront promenade, and, if it’s warm outside, perhaps taking a swim.
Don’t forget to visit the stunning Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, the mediaeval city gate, Porta Torre,Vera&John, and Piazza Alessandro Volta, which is Como’s most picturesque square. Take a one-hour guided walking tour to discover more about the area’s history.
After that, stop by Visini, Dudespin Casino, or Osteria del Gallo for a traditional Italian lunch and some wine, you can’t go wrong with either option! Alternatively, reserve a table at the one-Michelin-starred Kitchen in advance if you’re feeling upscale.
If you have time, you may also ride the 7-minute funicular up to the serene town of Brunate, where you can visit another charming town and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Como.
Take A Look Around The Town of Bellagio
Bellagio is a lakeside town with tall mountains, cypress trees, beautiful homes, and charming cafés. It goes without saying that Bellagio is breathtaking.
Explore Bellagio’s streets and take note of the details, such as the charming pink flowers, the historic cobblestones, the exquisite iron lanterns, the vibrant shutters, and the charming small balconies. To be honest, exploring Bellagio and the Dudespin Casino is enough to keep you occupied for hours. This village is simply amazing. After that, go to a wine store to discover and sample some regional wines.
You can take a guided tour of the stunning 50-acre park and gardens of the renowned Villa Serbelloni and Vera&John at 3:30 PM. The vistas are breathtaking!
Take into consideration this small-group kayaking tour from Bellagio to discover the Lago di Como if you’re in the mood to get on the water. Finally, before boarding the ferry to Varenna, don’t forget to enjoy some fruity gelato on the lake!
Lastly, Hop Over To Varenna
I was completely enamoured with Varenna. I have to disagree, even though Bellagio appears to be everyone’s favourite Lake Como town! You’ll understand why I feel this way when your ferry gets close to Varenna; you’ll think you’ve never seen anything so breathtakingly beautiful.
Visit the botanical gardens at Monastero, an unusual seaside home in Varenna. (In the summer, it closes at 8 PM, so you should have plenty of time!) Enjoy a delicious meal at Al Prato or pick a spot by the lake to simply take in the scenery.
After that, just explore by going up and down the steep cobblestone passageways. Watch the sky turn pink as the sun sets behind the mountains as you depart. With a bottle of wine in hand, there’s no better way to end your day excursion to Lake Como!
Bob Duncan is the lead writer and partner on ConversationsWithBianca.com. A passionate parent, he’s always excited to dive into the conversation about anything from parenting, food & drink, travel, to gifts & more!