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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 85 kilometre distance from Milan to Lake Como. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 4 ways to get from Milan to Lake Como. You can choose between the train, bus, day trip, private transport. The most affordable option is by train, starting from $4. The fastest route is by bus (0h 50m).
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50m
$5
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50m
$152
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2h
$4
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11h
$85
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Taking the train from Milan to Lake Como can be pretty flexible. You can choose to board the train from various railway stations: Milan Centrale, Porta Garibaldi, and Milano Cadorna, whichever is nearest to your hotel!
Take note that your arrival point will vary depending on which train you take.
A train ticket costs only 6 EUR when you book with Omio.
FlixBus operates direct buses from Milan to Lake Como daily. A bus ticket costs $5.
The estimated travel time is 40-50 minutes. However, keep in mind that bus departures can get delayed and that they can get stuck in traffic. You can expect the bus ride to Como to take around an hour or more.
Schedules vary daily, so we recommend that you check the FlixBus website for the latest departure times.
An alternative is to book with TrenItaly, but this option will include a 5-minute change in Saronno.You will be dropped off at S. Giovanni Bus Stop, just beside the train station. From here, you can take a 10-minute walk to the lake.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Lake Como is the 3rd largest lake in Italy (after La Garda and Maggiore) and has been named several times as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Backdropped by the Italian Alps, a cruise at Lake Como and a visit to any one of the surrounding villages — especially Bellagio — will bring you an unforgettable experience.
It’s common for tourists to visit this inverted Y-shaped lake as a day tour from Milan, but we think you need more time to enjoy the exquisite beauty of Lake Como. Here is the perfect destination for slow days hopping from one small commune to another while marvelling at nature’s gifts.
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Enjoy Lake Como by joining one of the many day trips offered from Milan. Here are some of our top choices:
A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Milan to Lake Como.
Rates start from $152 for a -seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s about per person. Travel time is around 40-50m.
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Carbon Footprint
This 85 km journey produces approximately 8 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
Latin America
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800 THB/night ($24)
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