Lake Como Ferry Guide: Routes, Tickets, Timetables & Tips
9 min read
Lake Como in northern Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations. One of the best ways to discover the lake is by ferry. Whether you are in a hurry or have all the time in the world, this guide covers everything you need to plan your ferry trip.
Updated: 9 January 2024
Lake Como, located in northern Italy, is one of the most popular tourist destinations. With its breathtaking scenery, luxurious villas, ferries and charming villages, it attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year.
One of the best ways to discover the lake is by using its ferry network. Whether you are in a hurry or have all the time in the world, there is an option to suit your needs. In this article, I will cover everything you need to know to plan your ferry trip on Lake Como.
01The Lake and the Central Zone
Lake Como stretches for about 150 km, in an inverted Y shape with 3 branches. The central zone, located at the junction of the 3 branches, is home to many of the lake's most famous sites.
This is where you will find towns like Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, as well as prestigious villas and gardens like Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello.
It is naturally in this zone that most of the ferry traffic is concentrated.
Map of Lake Como and Ferry Stops
02Accessing the Central Zone
There are two main ways to access the central zone of Lake Como:
By Train to Varenna
Varenna is the only town in the central zone served by train. The station, a 5-minute walk from the ferry dock, is linked to Milan by around a dozen direct trains per day (journey of about 90 minutes).
It is an excellent starting point for day trips to the lake. Be aware, however, that the station and port can be packed at the start and end of the day during high season.
By Ferry from Como to Bellagio
Como, at the south-western tip of the lake, benefits from around fifty daily trains from Milan (journey of about 50 minutes).
Fast ferries (about 45 minutes) and traditional ones (allow 2 to 2.5 hours) connect to Bellagio and the heart of the lake.
Speedboats, more expensive and faster, depart less frequently and it is best to book your tickets in advance, especially during high season.
03Ferry Tickets and Fares on Lake Como
Before boarding a ferry, it is essential to buy a ticket in advance. Let's look at the different options available to you.
Ticket Types
Two main options exist:
Single tickets : ideal if you are travelling between two towns without stopping. For example from Como to Bellagio directly.
Free-circulation tickets: these allow you to hop on and off wherever you like between your departure and arrival points. Practical if you want to explore several towns around the lake in a day.
The latter can be valid for 1 day or 6 days depending on your needs.
Where and How to Buy Your Tickets
Several options are available:
Navigazione Laghi, only for standard service journeys, without the fast service supplement.
Allow 20-25 minutes before departure, queues are often long.
For a €1 supplement. Useful if your departure town has no ticket office.
People with reduced mobility can buy their ticket on board at no extra charge.
Sample Fares
Como-Bellagio: €10.40 one way
1-day pass Como-Bellagio : €23.30
Bellagio-Varenna: €4.60
Fares vary according to distance, number of stops and many other factors. Check the official website for the exact fare for your journey.
Tips for Your Ferry Tickets
Buy your tickets in advance, especially day passes which often sell out. And avoid, if possible, the long queues in the blazing sun!
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All ferries in the central zone serve the Varenna – Bellagio – Menaggio triangle, but the order varies. Don't be surprised if your ferry from Varenna to Bellagio stops at Menaggio first!
A direct crossing between two towns takes about fifteen minutes, plus boarding time.
Be aware that the Varenna-Bellagio routes are very busy from late morning to late afternoon in summer. You may have a long wait!
Main Ferry Timetables on Lake Como
You can download the ferry timetables for Lake Como in PDF format from the official Laghi website.
Here are the main routes. Check the official website for up-to-date timetables, as they vary by season.
Taking the ferry is undoubtedly one of the best ways to discover the charm of Lake Como. Here are some good reasons to choose this option:
Admire the superb landscapes and villas from the lake
Easily access the must-see sites
Travel at your own pace with day passes
Move around freely thanks to a dense network
Enjoy a relaxing trip on the water
The ferry lets you navigate easily between the lake's different gems and create your own bespoke itinerary. An unforgettable experience!
07Main Ferry Destinations
Let's now look at the main destinations you can visit by ferry in Lake Como's central zone:
Bellagio Ferry
At the heart of the lake, Bellagio sees the most ferry traffic and tourists. Numerous routes depart in all directions, including towards Lecco on the eastern shore.
The shopping centre begins right at the ferry dock. A pleasant promenade runs along the lake westward to the celebrated Gardens of Villa Melzi.
Varenna Ferry
Varenna, with its small station serving Milan, is very convenient for day trips.
The medieval village and its colourful fishing port are a 5-minute walk from the ferry dock. Don't miss the magnificent Villa Monastero Gardens, which run along the southern shore.
Menaggio Ferry
In Menaggio, passenger and car ferries depart from the same spot, a 5-minute walk from the panoramic promenade.
The atmosphere is more relaxed than in the busier tourist spots. An excellent choice for enjoying the lake away from the crowds!
Tremezzo Ferry and Surroundings
Tremezzo and Lenno are considered the most picturesque sections of Lake Como.
Numerous hikes are possible here, such as the magnificent Lake Como Greenway between villages and hamlets.
Must-See Stops by Ferry on Lake Como
Of course, during your ferry trip, you will want to visit some of Lake Como's must-sees:
With the ferry, all these wonders are within easy reach. You can easily visit them all in one day thanks to day passes.
08Practical Tips – Lake Como Ferries
To make the most of your ferry trip, here are some tips:
Buy your day passes in advance to avoid queues
Always check the exact timetable for each destination
Allow for delays and cancellations in bad weather
Avoid peak hours between Varenna and Bellagio
Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in Menaggio away from the crowds
With these tips in mind, you are all set for a magnificent adventure on the waters of Lake Como! You can easily create your personalised itinerary and discover the most beautiful sites at your own pace.
Wherever you step off the ferry, the beauty of the scenery will take your breath away. The splendid villas and charming villages are so many treasures to explore.
09FAQ — Lake Como Ferries
How often do ferries run on Lake Como?
In high season, traditional ferries depart roughly every hour, and car ferries every 30 minutes. Some run from 6am to 11pm, others stop earlier.
Can I buy my ticket on board?
Yes, purchasing on board is possible for a €1 supplement. Handy if your departure town has no ticket office.
Should I book my tickets in advance?
It is recommended for day passes which often sell out. For simple return trips, buying at the counter 20-25 minutes before is fine.
Are timetables reliable?
Generally yes, but allow for possible delays in bad weather or at peak times.
10Conclusion — Lake Como Ferries
I hope this complete guide has given you all the keys to plan your ferry trip on the majestic Lake Como.
Whether you opt for the convenience of free-circulation day passes or single tickets, you will enjoy a memorable experience on these magnificent waters.
Set off to discover the splendid villas, picturesque villages and idyllic landscapes, in complete peace of mind aboard the comfortable and practical ferries.
I wish you a wonderful trip on one of Italy's most beautiful lakes!
This guide is brought to you by Ame Boheme, the go-to blog for planning your trip to Italy. Find many more articles about Lake Como on the blog to plan your stay.
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