Your Lake Como Travel Guide: Airports, Best Time to Visit, Top Things to Do and Places Not to Miss!

Lake Como is one of Italy’s most breathtaking destinations, drawing visitors with its crystal-clear waters, charming villages, and historic villas. Whether you're wondering which airport is best for Lake Como, when to visit, what to do in Lake Como for a day, or if Lake Como can be a day trip from Milan, this guide covers all the essentials to help you plan a perfect trip.

From navigating the lake by ferry to exploring picturesque towns like Bellagio and Varenna, we’ve outlined the top 10 things you need to know about Lake Como, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

But first, have you booked your accommodation yet? While planning your trip to Lake Como ensure you've booked the perfect accommodation through Have You Got. Whether you're looking to stay in the centre or along the lakefront, you'll find the ideal place to suit your needs to make your stay even more enjoyable.

1. Which Airport Serves Lake Como?

Lake Como doesn’t have its own airport, but the closest and most convenient options are Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY).

• Milan Malpensa (MXP) – Located about 50 km from Como, this is the best airport for international travellers, with regular flights from Europe, North America, and Asia.
• Milan Linate (LIN) – At 70 km from Como, Linate is closer to Milan's city center and handles more domestic and short-haul European flights.
• Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) – About 90 km away, Bergamo is ideal for budget travellers, with many low-cost carriers like Ryanair operating here.

How to Get to Lake Como from the Airport?

• By Train – From Malpensa, take the Malpensa Express to Milan Centrale, then transfer to a train to Como San Giovanni (1 hr 30 min total).
• By Car – Renting a car provides flexibility, with highways connecting Milan to Como in about 1 hour.
• By Private Transfer – A direct taxi or private car is the most convenient but expensive option (€100-150 from Malpensa).

2. Best Time to Visit Lake Como

Lake Como’s climate varies throughout the year, offering different experiences each season.

Spring (March to May) – Ideal for mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer tourists. The villa gardens, like those at Villa Carlotta and Villa Melzi, are in full bloom.

Summer (June to August) – The busiest season, with warm temperatures (25-30°C) and long sunny days perfect for boat trips and swimming. However, it can be crowded and expensive.

Autumn (September to November) – The most underrated time to visit, with fewer crowds, stunning autumn foliage, and pleasant weather. Great for hiking and exploring without summer crowds.

Winter (December to February) – A quiet, magical time to visit, with snow-capped mountains and cozy lakeside towns. Some hotels and restaurants close, but you’ll have peaceful lake views.

3. Can Lake Como Be a Day Trip from Milan?

Yes! Lake Como is one of the easiest and most popular day trips from Milan.

How to Get from Milan to Lake Como for a Day Trip?

• By Train – The fastest way is by direct train from Milan Centrale to Como San Giovanni, taking 35-50 minutes.
• By Car – Driving takes about 1 hour, but parking can be tricky in peak season.
• By Organized Tour – Many guided day tours include transportation, ferry tickets, and visits to key towns like Bellagio and Varenna.

A day trip is enough to see the highlights, but for a more relaxed experience, consider staying overnight.

4. Top Activities for a One-Day Visit to Lake Como

If you only have one day in Lake Como, make sure to maximize your time with this itinerary:

Morning: Arrive in Como town and explore Como Cathedral, Piazza Cavour, and the waterfront promenade.

Midday: Take a ferry to Bellagio, the Pearl of Lake Como, and enjoy a stroll through its cobbled streets and boutique shops.

Afternoon: Visit Villa Melzi’s gardens or take another ferry to Varenna for a peaceful lakeside walk.

Evening: Return to Como, grab dinner at a lakeside restaurant, and head back to Milan.

5. Exploring Lake Como’s Most Beautiful Towns

Lake Como is home to many picturesque towns, each with its own unique charm:

Bellagio – Famous for elegant villas, panoramic views, and charming alleyways.

Varenna – A romantic fishing village with colorful houses and historic sites like Villa Monastero.

Menaggio – A relaxing town with a lively waterfront and great hiking trails.

Tremezzo – Known for the magnificent Villa Carlotta and its botanical gardens.

6. How to Get Around Lake Como?

The best way to explore Lake Como is by ferry. Ferries connect Como, Bellagio, Varenna, and other lakeside villages. There are:

Fast ferries (hydrofoils) – Quicker but more expensive.

Slow ferries – Cheaper and perfect for sightseeing.

Car ferries – Ideal if you're driving around the lake.

For those staying longer, consider renting a car or even a private boat for a more exclusive experience.

7. Must-Visit Historic Villas & Gardens

Lake Como is famous for its historic villas, each offering stunning architecture and incredible gardens:

Villa del Balbianello – Featured in James Bond and Star Wars films, this villa has breathtaking lake views.

Villa Carlotta – A must-see for art lovers, with Italian sculptures, paintings, and botanical gardens.

Villa Monastero – A lakeside villa in Varenna, known for its ornate architecture and lush gardens.

8. What to Eat in Lake Como?

Don’t miss these traditional dishes from Lake Como:

Risotto con Pesce Persico – A creamy risotto topped with fresh lake perch.

Polenta Taragna – A rich polenta dish with butter and cheese, often paired with meat.

Missoltini – Sun-dried fish, grilled and served with oil and vinegar.

Pair these dishes with a glass of Lombardy wine for an authentic local experience.

Here are a couple of highly-rated restaurants around Lake Como that offer authentic local cuisine:

1. Antica Trattoria Del Risorgimento

• Address: Via Sant'Abbondio, 8, 22010 Mezzegra CO, Italy​
• Review: "A hidden gem offering traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist. The ambiance is cozy, and the service is impeccable."​

2. Osteria del Gallo

• Address: Via Vitani, 16, 22100 Como CO, Italy​
• Review: "Authentic Italian cuisine in a charming setting. The pasta dishes are a must-try, and the wine selection complements the menu perfectly."​

Please note that while these restaurants are highly recommended for their local cuisine and ambiance, individual experiences may vary.

9. Outdoor Activities in Lake Como

For adventure lovers, Lake Como offers:

Hiking – Trails like the Greenway del Lago di Como and Sentiero del Viandante offer breathtaking views.

Water Sports – Try kayaking, sailing, or paddleboarding on the lake.

Cycling – Rent a bike and explore lakeside roads or mountain trails.

10. Essential Travel Tips for Lake Como

Currency – The local currency is the Euro (€), and most places accept cards.

Language – Italian is spoken, but English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Packing – Bring comfortable shoes, as many towns have steep streets and cobblestone paths.

Whether you're planning a day trip from Milan or a longer stay, Lake Como offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and Italian elegance. With its stunning scenery, charming villages, and fantastic food, it’s easy to see why Lake Como is one of Italy’s most loved destinations.

Have You Got your accommodation in Como, or the lakefront yet? We can help!

We've got great properties for you, so all you'll have to do is plan your days and create great memories. Happy travels!