Lake Como transport guide

Getting around Lake Como

Ferries, trains, buses and driving, with practical routes for the day you actually have.

Curated byMatteoFounder, Teravia

Where are you starting?

Browse all routes

Lake Como ferries

Taking the ferry?

Check published crossings, times, return options and vehicle services.

Check ferry times

Not a booking service. Check fares, capacity and disruption notices with the operator before travel.

Beyond the ferry

Other ways to move

Choose the handover that matches where you are staying and how much freedom you need.

Explore Lake Como by boatPrivate and shared experiences, compared by fit.Without a carFerries, trains and buses.Driving Lake ComoRoads, parking, rentals and vehicle ferries.

Route directory

Popular routes

Start with the connections travelers use most often, or open the complete directory below.

Bellagio → VarennaBellagio → MenaggioVarenna → MilanMilan → Varenna

All routes

Central lake6
Bellagio → VarennaVarenna → BellagioBellagio → MenaggioMenaggio → BellagioVarenna → MenaggioMenaggio → Varenna
Lecco branch2
Lecco → BellagioBellagio → Lecco
Long-lake ferries10
Como → VarennaVarenna → ComoComo → MenaggioMenaggio → ComoComo → LennoLenno → ComoComo → TremezzoTremezzo → ComoComo → ColicoColico → Como
Places & attractions5
Villa del BalbianelloVilla CarlottaCastello di VezioNesso & OrridoOrrido di Bellano
Train & road7
Milan → ComoMilan → VarennaVarenna → MilanBellagio → MilanMilan → BellagioMilan → MenaggioDriving & rentals

The Vibe of the Lake

“A lake is the landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature. It is earth's eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature.”

Henry David Thoreau

FAQ

Lake Como transport FAQ

What is the easiest way to get around Lake Como without a car?

It depends on the branch of the lake. Ferries are especially useful across the central lake; trains are strongest on the eastern shore; and buses matter most along the western shore. Start with where you are staying and whether you need to cross the lake or travel along it.

Is Varenna the best station for Bellagio?

Varenna is a useful rail gateway for the central lake because the railway runs along the eastern shore and ferry connections continue to Bellagio and Menaggio. Leave time between a train arrival and a ferry departure, especially in high season.

Can I take a car on Lake Como ferries?

Some central-lake ferry services carry vehicles, while others are passengers only. Check the specific selected departure rather than assuming every crossing accepts a car.

Can I take a ferry between Lecco and Bellagio?

Some published public-line sailings connect Lecco and Bellagio, often with intermediate shore calls. Use the ferry planner for your date: it only shows a result when the reviewed timetable includes that exact connection.

Should I use the ferry or bus on Lake Como?

Use ferries when you need to cross the lake, want a scenic journey, or are moving among Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio. Use buses for travel along the western shore, where the road follows the lake.

Do Lake Como ferries run all year?

Timetables and service patterns change by season. Always check the current operator timetable and disruption notices before travelling.

How do I get to Bellagio from Milan?

For many central-lake itineraries, take the train from Milan to Varenna-Esino, walk to the pier, then continue by ferry to Bellagio. Check the live rail service and leave a margin before the ferry.

Is a car necessary for Lake Como?

No. The central lake is often easier by passenger ferry and on foot. A car is more useful for stays away from the rail and ferry network, or for continuing into the wider region.

Reviewed byMatteoTeravia · Reviewed 09 Sept 2026

Editorial review

Built from published operator information.

Teravia turns the sources below into route decisions, mapped terminals and timetable checks. They remain the source of truth for live changes on the day.

Reviewed September 9, 2026

    Published schedules, fares and service conditions can change. Re-check the operator immediately before travel.