Travel Note
We suggest booking hotels, AirBnB’s or VRBO’s in advance as June is a very popular time around Lake como. If you are seeking more traditional hotel accommodation, please see link provided below: https://www.weddingboxlakecomo.com/lake-como-accommodation Our wedding ceremony will be held at the Villa Regina Teodolinda which is on the North side of the lake. Please consider distance from wedding venue when making hotel accommodations.
Travel Note
Depending on the length of stay and plans before and/or after the wedding, we recommend flying into Milan (Milano), Italy. Please note, there are two airport options for Milan (Milano Malpensa Airport (MPX) and Milan Linate Airport (LIN)). We recommend flying into the Milano Malpensa airport as it is typically cheaper. If you are flying into another city in Italy, consider taking the train to Como as it is the cheapest and easiest way to get to Como. With the wedding being on a Friday, we strongly recommend arriving a day or two prior to the wedding to adjust to time differences.
Travel Note
Once you have booked your flights, we ask that you share your transportation details both with us and our wedding planner. If we have a number of guests arriving at the airport at the same time, we will arrange for a private charter bus to pick guests up and take them to Como. You may choose to take a taxi, rental car, private car, or train to Como. By car, Como is approximately 45 minutes from the Milpensa (MPX) airport. If you elect to take a taxi, fares will range from 120-150 Euro from MPX to downtown Como. You can also chose to use uber for cheaper fares. Taking a train is an inexpensive option, though does increase your travel time as it takes about 1 ½ hours to get from MPX to Como via train. For the most adventurous of soles, you can elect to rent a car during you stay in Italy. If doing so, please make sure you obtain an international drivers permit (available from a local AAA location) and research your planned journey as tollways and Innercity restrictions can be quite confusing and result in unplanned traffic violations being mailed to you months after your trip.
Travel Note
Here are some helpful travel tips for first-time visitors to Italy Learn Basic Italian Phrases: While many Italians speak English, knowing a few phrases like "Grazie" (Thank you) and "Per favore" (Please) can go a long way in showing respect. Book Tickets in Advance: Popular attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Uffizi Gallery can sell out quickly. Pre-book tickets to save time and avoid disappointment. Understand Meal Times: Italians typically eat lunch between 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM and dinner after 7:30 PM. Many restaurants close in the afternoon, so plan accordingly. Carry Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, smaller establishments and markets often prefer cash. Euros are the local currency. We recommend converting some USD to Euros prior to your trip. Many banks (like Wells Fargo) provide this as a service to their customers. For mor information, contact Josh. Use Public Transportation: Italy has an excellent train system for traveling between cities. Within cities, buses and trams are convenient, but be prepared to walk a lot. Beware of Pickpockets: Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas like train stations and tourist hotspots. Validate Train Tickets: If you're using regional trains, make sure to validate your ticket at the machines on the platform before boarding to avoid fines. Know Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, as service charges are often included in the bill. However, leaving small change as a gesture of appreciation is common. Plan for Siesta Hours: Many shops and businesses close in the afternoon, especially in smaller towns. Use this time to relax or explore less commercial areas. Check Electrical Adapters: Italy uses Type C, F, and L plugs, and the voltage is 230V. Bring a suitable adapter for your devices.
Travel Note
Lake Como offers a wealth of activities and day trips that are perfect for newcomers. Here are some suggestions to make the most of your visit: 1. Explore Bellagio: Known as the "Pearl of Lake Como," Bellagio is famous for its charming streets, boutique shops, and stunning lake views. It's a must-visit for first-timers. 2. Take a Boat Tour: A boat ride on Lake Como is a fantastic way to see the picturesque villages and luxurious villas that line the shores. You can opt for a private tour or use the public ferry system. 3. Visit Villa del Balbianello: This historic villa in Lenno is renowned for its beautiful gardens and has been featured in movies like Star Wars and James Bond. It's a short boat ride from many towns around the lake. 4. Discover Varenna: This quaint village is perfect for a leisurely day. Stroll along the lakeside promenade, visit the botanical gardens at Villa Monastero, and enjoy a meal at a lakeside restaurant. 5. Hike the Greenway del Lago di Como: This scenic walking trail takes you through several charming villages and offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. 6. Take the Funicular to Brunate: From the town of Como, ride the funicular up to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake and the Alps. It's a great spot for photography and a peaceful escape. 7. Day Trip to Lugano, Switzerland: Just an hour away, Lugano offers a taste of Swiss culture with its beautiful lake, vibrant city center, and delicious chocolate shops. 8. Visit Como Town: Explore the historic center, visit the Como Cathedral, and enjoy shopping or dining in this lively town. 9. Relax at a Lakeside Beach: Spend a day unwinding at one of the lake's beaches, such as Lido di Lenno or Lido di Bellagio. 10. Wine Tasting in Domaso: Head to the northern part of the lake to enjoy local wines and learn about the region's winemaking traditions.
Travel Note
Milan, Italy, is a city where history and modernity coexist seamlessly. It's the capital of Lombardy in Northern Italy and is known as a global hub for fashion, design, and commerce. Imagine grand architecture, bustling streets, and a vibe that’s both cosmopolitan and steeped in tradition. The city boasts iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Milano, a magnificent Gothic cathedral adorned with intricate spires and statues, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade with a glass-domed roof. Milan is also home to Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper", found in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie—an absolute treat for art enthusiasts.
Travel Note
Venice, Italy, is a city like no other—a floating masterpiece built on a network of canals. Known as "La Serenissima," Venice is a place where history, art, and romance converge. Picture gondolas gliding through narrow waterways, stunning architecture like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, and charming bridges such as the Rialto Bridge. The city is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, hidden squares, and vibrant markets, offering endless opportunities to explore and get pleasantly lost. Venice is also famous for its cultural events, like the Venice Carnival and the Biennale, and its unique craftsmanship, including Murano glass and Burano lace. Whether you're admiring the views from the Campanile di San Marco or enjoying cicchetti (Venetian tapas) by a quiet canal, Venice is a feast for the senses. If you're traveling from Como, Italy, to Venice by train, the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes on the fastest routes, with at least one transfer in Milan2. It's a scenic trip that adds to the magic of arriving in this enchanting city.
Travel Note
Rome, Italy, often referred to as the "Eternal City," is a captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant modern life. It's a place where monumental landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon coexist with bustling piazzas, charming cobblestone streets, and lively cafes. The city is steeped in history, offering glimpses into its imperial past while embracing contemporary culture. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and explore the artistic treasures housed in the Borghese Gallery. Rome is also a culinary haven, with mouthwatering dishes like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and gelato waiting to be savored. Traveling from Como to Rome by train takes approximately 4 hours and 3 minutes on the fastest routes, with a transfer in Milan2. It's a comfortable journey that sets the stage for an unforgettable Roman adventure.
Travel Note
The Amalfi Coast is a breathtaking stretch of coastline in southern Italy, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and sparkling blue waters. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a dream destination for travelers seeking beauty and charm. Imagine picturesque towns like Positano, with its pastel-colored houses cascading down the hillside, or Ravello, famous for its stunning gardens and panoramic views. The town of Amalfi itself is known for its historic cathedral and lemon-scented streets. The coastline is dotted with hidden beaches, quaint harbors, and winding roads that offer unforgettable views. It's also a culinary paradise, with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and the iconic limoncello made from locally grown lemons. Traveling from Como to the Amalfi Coast by train takes approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes on the fastest routes, with a transfer in Naples. It's a long journey, but the destination is well worth the effort.