HOW TO GET TO LAKE COMO
Welcome, fellow traveler! You're about to embark on a journey to one of Italy's most enchanting destinations. The Lecco branch of Lake Como offers a more intimate, authentic experience compared to its famous western counterpart, where crystal-clear waters meet dramatic Alpine peaks in perfect harmony.
From Milan: Your Urban Starting Point
By Train - The Scenic Route
Milan's bustling energy fades as you board the regional train from Milano Centrale or Milano Porta Garibaldi. The journey to Lecco takes approximately 60-90 minutes, winding through Lombardy's picturesque countryside.
Direct Route: Take the regional train (Regionale) that stops in Lecco, Bellano, Varenna Esino, Colico
Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes
Cost: €6-8 one way
Pro tip: Sit on the right side for stunning lake views as you approach!
By Rental Car - Freedom to Explore
The drive from Milan offers complete flexibility to discover hidden gems along the way. Take the SS36 highway northbound - this scenic route hugs the eastern shore of the lake.
Journey Details:
Distance: 50 km (31 miles)
Duration: 45-60 minutes
From Bergamo: The Alpine Approach
By Train - Mountain to Lake
From Bergamo, your journey requires one connection but rewards you with diverse Italian landscapes.
Route: Bergamo → Milan → Lecco
Total time: 2-2.5 hours
Connection: Change at Milano Centrale
Alternative: Take bus to Milan, then train to Lecco, Bellano, Varenna, Colico
By Car - The Scenic Drive
The drive from Bergamo unveils Italy's natural beauty as you transition from mountain valleys to lake shores.
Route: Take A4 toward Milan, then SS36: exits Lecco, Bellano, Colico
Distance: 60 km (37 miles)
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
From Lugano: Cross-Border Adventure
By Train - International Journey
Your Swiss-Italian adventure begins with a cross-border train experience that showcases two countries' stunning landscapes.
Route: Lugano → Como → Lecco
Duration: 2-3 hours with connections
Border crossing: Seamless within EU
Scenic highlight: The transition from Swiss precision to Italian charm
By Car - Lake-to-Lake Drive
This drive offers some of Europe's most spectacular lake scenery as you journey from Lake Lugano to Lake Como.
Route: Follow signs to Como, then SS36 to Lecco, Bellano, Colico
Distance: 45 km (28 miles)
Duration: 1 hour (plus border time)
Check Current Border Wait Times
Your Como Branch Destinations
Once you arrive, these must-visit gems await your discovery:
Bellagio - The Pearl of the Lake
This postcard-perfect town sits at the lake's junction, offering:
Villa Melzi Gardens: Romantic botanical paradise
Silk Museum: Discover Como's textile heritage
Waterfront promenades: Perfect for sunset strolls
Varenna - The Fisherman's Village
Experience authentic Italian lake life:
Villa Monastero: Historic villa with stunning gardens
Castello di Vezio: Medieval fortress with falcon shows
Lakefront restaurants: Fresh fish with mountain views
Villa del Balbianello - Cinematic Beauty
This iconic villa has starred in James Bond and Star Wars films:
Guided tours: Explore opulent interiors
Terraced gardens: Cascading down to the water
Photography paradise: Every angle tells a story
Menaggio - Gateway to Adventure
Your base for outdoor activities:
Ferry connections: Easy access to all lake destinations
Hiking trails: Mountain paths with panoramic views
Golf course: Play with Alpine backdrops
Como City - Urban Elegance
The lake's sophisticated capital offers:
Gothic Cathedral: Architectural masterpiece
Silk shopping: Luxury scarves and accessories
Funicular railway: Ride to Brunate for city views
Insider's Travel Tips
Ferry Magic: Purchase a day pass for unlimited ferry rides between towns - it's your floating sightseeing tour!
Culinary Delights: Try risotto con pesce persico (perch risotto) - the lake's signature dish that locals have perfected over generations.
Golden Hour: Visit Punta Spartivento in Bellagio during sunset for Instagram-worthy shots that capture the lake's three branches converging.
Como Card: This tourist pass includes transportation, museum entries, and discounts at restaurants.
Purchase Como Card Online
Making Your Journey Unforgettable
The Lecco branch of Lake Como isn't just a destination - it's a sensory experience. Picture yourself sipping espresso at a lakeside café while church bells echo across the water, or discovering a hidden villa garden where centuries-old cypress trees frame snow-capped peaks.
Your adventure begins the moment you step aboard that train or start your engine. Each mile brings you closer to a place where time slows down, where every vista deserves a pause, and where Italian la dolce vita isn't just a phrase - it's your daily reality.
Start Planning Your Lake Como Adventure
Ready to fall in love with Lake Como's best-kept secret? Your journey to the Lecco branch awaits - where every moment becomes a cherished memory, and every view reminds you why you chose to explore beyond the ordinary.
