From Milan: Varenna and Lake Como Cruise Day Trip

If you’re considering a quick escape from the hustle of Milan to soak in the beauty of Italy’s most iconic lake, this Varenna and Lake Como cruise day trip offers a practical and charming way to do just that. The journey combines train travel, a scenic boat ride, and free time in two of Lake Como’s most picturesque towns. While it’s not a private luxury experience, it’s a solid option for those seeking a taste of authentic lakeside life without breaking the bank.

What I appreciate most about this trip is how it balances active exploration with relaxing moments on the water. The scenic boat cruise across Lake Como truly highlights the lake’s tranquil beauty, and the charming streets of Varenna and Como give you a glimpse of authentic small-town Italy. Plus, the inclusion of the Como-Brunate funicular provides an unforgettable panoramic view, something you’ll remember long after you leave.

However, a few considerations are worth noting. The schedule is fairly tight, with only about an hour free in each town, which means you’ll want to keep a keen eye on the clock if you plan to see specific sights. Also, since the tour relies on public transportation and boats, weather and schedule changes could slightly impact your experience. Still, for a well-organized day trip, it offers a worthwhile balance of activity and leisure.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic towns: Varenna’s quiet, narrow streets offer a peaceful, less touristy side of Lake Como.
• Scenic cruise: The boat ride provides stunning views of lakeside villages and the surrounding mountains.
• Panoramic vistas: The Como-Brunate funicular offers sweeping views that are well worth the extra ride.
• Efficient schedule: The itinerary is carefully timed, allowing a taste of each stop without feeling rushed.
• Value for money: The price includes train, boat, and funicular tickets—great for budget-conscious travelers.
• Guidance and info: A radioguide enhances the experience, helping you learn about the area without a guide’s presence.

Exploring Lake Como from Milan: A detailed look

Starting Point: Milan’s Central Station

The journey begins early at Milano Centrale, where you’ll board a regional train heading towards Lecco. The train ride lasts about an hour, giving you a comfortable and scenic start to your day. While the train itself isn’t the main attraction, it sets the tone for a smooth, organized trip. Remember, the train is second class, so don’t expect first-class luxury but enough comfort for a short ride.

The Journey to Varenna: A Slight Detour

Traveling from Milan to Varenna involves a transfer from Lecco to Varenna by replacement bus, which might seem a bit roundabout but is necessary due to the schedule. This part of the trip is a good chance to relax and observe the changing landscape as you approach the lake. The total travel time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, so bring a book or enjoy the scenery.

Varenna: Quiet Charm and Short Sightseeing

Once in Varenna, you get about an hour to explore this peaceful lakeside town. It’s less crowded than nearby Bellagio but equally picturesque. The town’s narrow streets, colorful houses, and lakeside promenade make for lovely photos. Some reviews suggest that guides or locals can point you toward hidden gems or recommend the best spots for a quick snack. But overall, it’s a brief stop—enough to soak in the ambiance and snap a few photos.

The Scenic Boat Ride Across Lake Como

Boarding the public boat from Varenna to Como is arguably the highlight. The two-and-a-half-hour cruise glides you across the lake’s calm waters, offering spectacular views of elegant villas, quaint villages, and lush mountains. A few travelers mention that the scenery is so stunning it’s hard not to stare out the window. The boat schedule may vary depending on the day, so timing is crucial to stay on schedule.

Discovering Como: Lake Town with a Living Past

Arriving in Como, you’ll have about an hour for sightseeing and lunch. The cathedral in Como is a notable highlight, with its impressive façade and interior worth visiting if time permits. Many visitors find that wandering around the lakeside streets gives a real sense of local life, contrasting with the more touristy spots like Bellagio.

The Como-Brunate Funicular: A Must-Do for Views

The funicular ride from Como up to Brunate offers some of the most memorable moments. The sweeping panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains are breathtaking—and well worth the ride. You can enjoy some free time at the top, perhaps grabbing a coffee or simply soaking in the scenery.

Return Journey: Train and Reflection

After a full afternoon, you’ll take the train back to Milan, arriving around 6:17 pm. That means a long but rewarding day. Many reviews mention that the trip is well-organized, with transportation and timing handled smoothly by the tour operators.

Who Should Consider This Trip?

This experience suits travelers who want a taste of Lake Como without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s perfect if you enjoy a mix of sightseeing, gentle walking, and boat rides, especially if you’re not looking for a full multi-day adventure. The tour tends to attract those interested in authentic towns rather than tourist-heavy spots, and the scenic boat cruise is a highlight for anyone craving stunning views.

However, it’s less ideal if you prefer a more flexible, in-depth exploration or if mobility is an issue, given the train, boat, and funicular transfers. The schedule is tight, so if you’re a slow walker or want to linger longer in each place, this might feel rushed.

Price and Value: What You’re Getting

For the price, you’re paying mainly for transportation—train, boat, and funicular—and the convenience of an organized schedule. The guided audio enhances the experience by providing background info, but there’s no guide accompanying you in person. Many reviews find the value fair, especially considering the included tickets and itinerary.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see Lake Como’s highlights, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s not the cheapest option but offers a well-rounded overview, especially helpful if you’re short on time. Since meals aren’t included, budget for lunch separately.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Trip

• Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as you’ll be walking and spending time outdoors.
• Keep an eye on the schedule—the short free periods in Varenna and Como mean you’ll want a plan for what to see or where to eat.
• The funicular can be crowded, so arrive early if you want a good view or a less busy experience.
• Check the weather forecast before you go—bad weather can impact boat schedules and views.
• Always have your tickets ready and be punctual; the tour’s success hinges on timely transfers.

The Sum Up: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This day trip from Milan offers a compact, scenic glimpse of Lake Como’s most charming spots, with highlights like the boat cruise and panoramic funicular rides. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided, well-organized day without the hassle of planning every detail. If you love beautiful scenery, authentic lakeside towns, and gentle exploration, this trip provides good value for the experience.

It’s less suited for those seeking deep, leisurely exploration, or travelers with mobility issues, given the schedule and transfers. Still, for most visitors, it’s a satisfying way to see a slice of Italy’s lakeside magic—short on time but big on memorable views.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a second-class regional train ticket from Milan to Varenna and back, plus a public boat ticket for the Varenna-Como route and a roundtrip funicular ticket from Como to Brunate.

How long do I have in each town?
You get about one hour in Varenna for sightseeing and exploration, and one hour in Como for sightseeing, photos, or a quick lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for kids, the boat cruise and funicular can be enjoyable for children. Just keep in mind the schedule is tight, and strollers might be inconvenient on the boat or funicular.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suited for walking and outdoor activities. A rain jacket is advisable if the weather looks uncertain.

Are guides available during the trip?
No in-person guides are included, but a radioguide provides informative commentary during the cruise, enhancing your understanding of the sights.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a pre-arranged group tour, flexibility is limited. However, you can choose to linger longer in certain spots if you’re mindful of the schedule.

Does the tour run year-round?
The timetable covers from June to October 2025, but boat schedules could change based on the public navigation schedule of Lake Como, so check in advance.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the transfers and stops involved.

What’s the overall value of this experience?
Considering transportation, the scenic beauty, and the ease of organized travel, many find it offers good value—especially for a short, well-structured day trip from Milan.

This organized day trip to Lake Como makes for a convenient and charming escape, combining scenic views and authentic towns with the practicality of public transport. It’s a wonderful way to capture the essence of Italy’s most famous lake, perfect for those short on time but eager to see something truly special.