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Plan Your Trip to Lake Como: Best of Lake Como Tourism

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Lake Como, Italy

A gorgeous spot that’s a convenient day trip from Milan, Lake Como recently earned fame as home to Hollywood star George Clooney. But celeb-spotting aside, it’s known for jaw-dropping natural beauty, elegant old villas—and the scenic towns surrounding the lake. Check out Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio, which offer great views, historic churches, and water-based activities such as ferries and passenger-only boats.

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Lake Como travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Public Transport

According to forum posts, public transportation around Lake Como is robust, with extensive ferry and bus services. The ferry is particularly recommended for scenic views and reaching key towns like Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio. Some travelers mentioned that the ferry schedules might change in mid-October, so checking the latest schedule at www.navigazionelaghi.com is advisable.

Road Travel

Travelers have called out that driving around Lake Como, especially the road between Como and Bellagio, can be challenging. It's suggested that for those unfamiliar with the area, public transport might be a better option. There is no mention of Uber, and while taxis are available, their availability varies significantly from one village to another, with more availability in larger cities like Como.

Specific Transport Services

For group transport, some users recommended hiring a private bus through providers like Lariobus for tours or larger group travel. This service can accommodate specific travel needs, such as air-conditioned buses for groups touring around Lake Como or nearby areas.

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Villa Recommendations

According to forum posts, Villa del Balbianello is highly recommended by travelers for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. It frequently hosts weddings and has been featured in several films, making it a favorite for many visitors.

Additional Villa Options

Other villas that received multiple mentions include Villa Carlotta and Villa Monastero. Villa Carlotta is praised for its art collections and botanical gardens, while Villa Monastero is known for its long lakefront and historical significance.

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Popular Villas

Many travelers have recommended visiting various villas around Lake Como. Villa Monastero, Villa del Balbianello, and Villa Carlotta are frequently highlighted for their beautiful gardens and historical significance.

Boating and Ferry Rides

Exploring Lake Como by water is a popular activity. Tourists often take ferry rides to different towns such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. Taxi Boat Varenna offers small group tours to places like Villa del Balbianello, providing an intimate way to see the lake’s attractions.

Outdoor Activities

For those interested in outdoor activities, hiking is a favored option. The Greenway del Lago and the trail to Castello di Vezio are notable hiking spots that offer scenic views of the lake and its surroundings.

Village Exploration

Visiting and exploring the smaller towns around the lake is another common activity. Locations like Bellano, with its Orrido gorge, and the various small, picturesque towns are perfect for leisurely strolls and experiencing local culture and cuisine.

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Popular Villages

According to forum posts, the mid-lake area, including Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna, is highly recommended by many travelers for its picturesque views and convenient ferry connections. Varenna, in particular, is favored for its scenic beauty and ease of access by train.

Accommodation Preferences

Some travelers have mentioned that Varenna is an ideal place due to its logistical convenience, offering easy ferry and train access. Bellagio is also frequently recommended for its beautiful views and proximity to various amenities. However, users have highlighted that towns like Como and Lecco, while larger, tend to be less ideal for exploring the lake due to their location and general ambiance.

Considerations for Stay

Travelers have called out that during peak seasons, especially in mid-August, securing accommodation in these popular areas can be challenging. Early booking is advised to ensure availability in these highly sought-after locations around Lake Como.

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Ferry Options

According to forum posts, there are two ferry systems operating between Varenna and Bellagio. One is dedicated to pedestrians only, while the other accommodates both cars and pedestrians. The car ferry service is noted for its higher frequency.

Frequency and Schedule

Some travelers mentioned that the frequency of ferries increases during the spring and summer months. Specifically, there are 19 daily car ferries on weekdays and 16 on Sundays. Additionally, the mid-lake passenger service, which only operates in the summer, further enhances connectivity.

Travel Time

Travelers have highlighted that the ferry ride between Varenna and Bellagio is quite short, taking only about 15 minutes. This makes it a convenient option for day trips or transferring between the two towns.

Ticket Information

It was noted that ferry tickets can be purchased on the day of travel from the ticket office at the Varenna ferry landing, providing flexibility for travelers.

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Weather and Atmosphere

According to forum posts, Lake Como in winter can be quite variable in terms of weather. Some travelers mentioned that it is often rainy or cloudy, though there are also chances for sunny days. The temperatures are noted to be a few degrees above zero during the Christmas and New Year period.

Activities and Accessibility

Travelers have called out that despite the colder months, the beauty of the lake remains, making it worth visiting. However, it's important to note that many villas and gardens are usually closed during this season. There is still a reduced ferry service available, allowing visits to places like Varenna and Bellagio.

General Recommendations

For many users, Lake Como during winter seems to be a quieter time with fewer tourists, which could be appealing for those looking for a more relaxed visit. Though some amenities might be limited, the scenic views and fewer crowds can compensate for the seasonal closures.

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Train Travel

According to forum posts, the primary mode of transportation from Milan to Varenna is by train. Trains depart from Milan Central Station, and the journey to Varenna typically lasts about an hour. This route is operated by Trenord, which manages regional train services in Lombardy.

Alternate Routes

Some travelers noted that direct trains might not always be available due to unforeseen circumstances such as landslides. In such cases, alternative routes involving a combination of trains and ferries are suggested, such as traveling to a nearby station and then catching a ferry to Varenna.

Travel Tips

Travelers have called out the convenience of using trains for this route, emphasizing the scenic and efficient nature of the train travel between these two locations. Moreover, the train station in Varenna, Varenna Esino, is well-connected, making it a practical choice for visitors heading to Lake Como.

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Accommodation Options

According to forum posts, some travelers recommend staying in Varenna due to its picturesque setting and convenient train access. Varenna is described as more beautiful and easier to base oneself compared to other towns. It has good access to walking trails and a promenade that is ideal for evening strolls.

Hotel Recommendations

Travelers have called out specific accommodations like Hotel Olivedo, which is noted for its proximity to the train station and ferry, making it a convenient choice. This hotel is highlighted for its cleanliness and comfort, offering easy access to other parts of Lake Como.

Availability and Booking

For many users, it's important to book accommodations as early as possible in Varenna, as properties can get fully booked quickly. The town's popularity, especially during peak travel seasons, means that earlier reservations could secure better options and potentially better rates.

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Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.