Unforgettable Day Trips from Como: Explore Italy & Switzerland
Como is a magnificent base for exploring Northern Italy. Its stunning lake and mountain views captivate travelers. However, many incredible destinations lie just a short journey away. Planning day trips from Como enhances your Italian adventure.
This guide highlights the best day trips from Como for 2025. We will cover charming lakeside villages and vibrant cities. Discover how to maximize your time in this beautiful region. Find out about transport, costs, and key attractions. Explore more about planning your Como itinerary for a deeper dive.
Exploring Bellagio: The Jewel of Lake Como
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Bellagio is often called the "Pearl of Lake Como." Its picturesque streets and elegant villas are world-renowned. Taking a ferry is the most scenic way to arrive. The journey itself offers breathtaking lake views.
Once you arrive, explore the charming pedestrian alleys. Browse local artisan shops for unique souvenirs. Visit the beautiful gardens of Villa Serbelloni. Enjoy a gelato while overlooking the sparkling water. This is a perfect day trip from Como.
Consider visiting the Punta Spartivento viewpoint. It offers panoramic views where the lake divides. Lunch at a lakeside trattoria is highly recommended. Expect to pay around €20-€40 for a meal. Bellagio offers an unforgettable experience.
Ferries run frequently from Como to Bellagio. Check the Bellagio ferry Como schedule for departure times. A round-trip ferry ticket costs about €10-€15. The ride takes approximately two hours, offering stunning scenery. Learn more about Como public transport options.
Discovering Varenna: A Picturesque Lakeside Village
Varenna presents another stunning option among day trips from Como. This tranquil village offers a stark contrast to Como's bustle. Its colorful houses cling to the steep hillside. The romantic Walk of Lovers leads to the town center.
Visit the beautiful botanical gardens of Villa Monastero. Its terraced gardens extend for over two kilometers. The villa also houses a museum and conference center. Entrance fees are approximately €10-€12. This is a must-see in Varenna.
Another highlight is Castello di Vezio, perched above Varenna. The castle provides incredible views of Lake Como. You might even see falconry demonstrations there. The walk up is steep but very rewarding. Allow about 1.5 hours for the ascent and exploration.
Reaching Varenna is easy by ferry or train. A train from Como San Giovanni takes about an hour. Train tickets cost around €5-€8 each way. Ferries offer a scenic route across the lake. Plan your visit during the best time to visit Como for ideal weather. Enjoy a relaxing Como Lake boat tour as part of your journey.
A Swiss Adventure: Day Trip to Lugano
Cross the border for a unique international experience. Lugano, Switzerland, is a fantastic day trip from Como. This vibrant city sits on the beautiful Lake Lugano. It blends Swiss efficiency with Italian flair.
Start your visit with a stroll along the lake promenade. Explore the charming city center and its shopping streets. Visit Parco Ciani, a stunning lakeside park. It features beautiful flowers and sculptures. You'll find many excellent local restaurants here.
Take a funicular up Monte San Salvatore for panoramic views. The return ticket costs approximately 30 CHF. Alternatively, hike up Monte Brè for different perspectives. Remember that Switzerland uses Swiss Francs (CHF). Exchange currency or use a travel credit card.
Trains connect Como San Giovanni to Lugano frequently. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. Tickets cost approximately €8-€12 each way. Remember your passport for border crossing. Ensure you understand how to get to Como and other cities easily. This cross-border adventure is truly memorable.
Milan's Charms: Fashion, History, and Culture
Milan offers a dynamic urban escape for day trips from Como. Italy's fashion and design capital is just a train ride away. Experience a bustling city with rich history. It is a stark contrast to Como's serene atmosphere.
Your visit should begin at the magnificent Duomo di Milano. Climb to the rooftop for spectacular city views. Pre-book your tickets online to avoid long queues. Expect to pay €15-€20 for entry and rooftop access. The must-see attractions in Milan are plentiful.
Next, explore the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This stunning shopping arcade is a landmark itself. Window shop luxury brands or enjoy a coffee. Don't forget to spin on the bull mosaic for good luck. Milan provides endless cultural experiences.
Art lovers must try to see Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper. Book these tickets months in advance. They are notoriously difficult to secure. Stroll through the fashion district, Quadrilatero della Moda. Find out about travel budget tips for shopping. Trains from Como to Milan take about 40 minutes. Tickets cost €5-€10, making it an affordable day trip.
Grand Villas and Gardens: Must-See Estates
Lake Como boasts incredible historic villas and gardens. These estates offer a glimpse into opulent pasts. They make for truly memorable day trips from Como. Many are accessible by ferry from Como.
Villa Carlotta in Tremezzina is famous for its botanic gardens. Rhododendrons and azaleas bloom spectacularly in spring. The villa houses masterworks of art. Entry costs about €12 for adults. It is open seasonally, so check 2025 schedules.
Another gem is Villa del Balbianello near Lenno. This iconic villa is known for its terraced gardens. It has featured in several famous movies. Access is by ferry or a lovely walk from Lenno. Entry fees are around €11-€20, depending on access. This offers a unique Como lake experience.
Consider a visit to Villa Melzi d'Eril in Bellagio. Its English-style gardens are perfect for a peaceful stroll. The villa itself is not open to the public. However, the gardens and chapel are beautiful. Enhance your visit by understanding what to pack for Como and these elegant villas. These villas are central to Como's must-see attractions.
The Bernina Express: A Scenic Alpine Journey
For an epic adventure, consider the Bernina Express. This UNESCO World Heritage train journey is spectacular. It connects Tirano, Italy, to St. Moritz, Switzerland. The route winds through stunning alpine landscapes. This is truly one of the most magnificent day trips from Como.
Getting to Tirano from Como requires a train connection. Travel from Como to Milan, then Milan to Tirano. The entire journey takes approximately 2.5-3 hours one way. Book your Bernina Express tickets well in advance. Especially during peak season in 2025.
The Bernina Express offers breathtaking views from panoramic cars. You will cross glaciers, bridges, and tunnels. Highlights include the Brusio Circular Viaduct. The train reaches altitudes over 2,253 meters (7,392 feet). This is an unforgettable rail experience.
Consider the complete route from Tirano to St. Moritz. A full return trip can be a long day. You might choose to go only partway, like Poschiavo. Check schedules and prices on the official Rhaetian Railway website. A round-trip ticket costs around €60-€80. This adventure is worth planning carefully. Review Como's public transport guide for connections. Consider the best time to visit Como for optimal scenic conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Como a good base for exploring surrounding areas?
Yes, Como serves as an excellent base for day trips. Its strategic location offers easy access to many destinations. You can reach charming lakeside towns by ferry. Major cities like Milan are a quick train ride away. Even Switzerland is just a short journey from Como. Discover more about where to stay in Como to make the most of your base.
What is the best way to travel for day trips from Como?
The best travel method depends on your destination. Ferries are ideal for lake towns like Bellagio or Varenna. They offer incredible views and a relaxing journey. For cities such as Milan or Lugano, trains are faster. The train network is efficient and punctual. Consider renting a car for exploring more remote areas. Remember to plan your routes using a reliable Como city walking map if you're exploring on foot at your destination.
Are there any less-known day trips from Como worth considering?
Absolutely! Beyond the popular spots, explore Brunate, reachable by funicular. It offers stunning views of Como and the lake. Visit Sacro Monte di Ossuccio, a UNESCO site. Its chapels provide a spiritual and scenic experience. The small town of Argegno also offers quiet charm. Consider visiting the ancient Roman baths at Erba. These offer unique, quieter day trips from Como. Each provides a different perspective of the region.
Como is an ideal starting point for amazing adventures. From lakeside villages to grand cities, options abound. These day trips from Como offer diverse experiences. Plan your journeys for a richer Italian holiday in 2025.
Remember to check transport schedules and book tickets. Explore charming Bellagio or historic Milan. Discover the beauty of Varenna or the Swiss allure of Lugano. Use our guide to create unforgettable memories. Start planning your perfect Como itinerary today. Don't forget to explore travel budget tips for an economical trip.
Key Takeaways
- Bellagio and Varenna are must-see lake towns for serene beauty.
- Lugano offers a unique Swiss-Italian cultural blend and scenic views.
- Milan provides a vibrant city experience with fashion, history, and art.
- Utilize ferries for lakeside excursions and efficient trains for city trips.
- Pre-book tickets for popular attractions and the Bernina Express in advance.