Travel

Flight

Milano Malpensa Aiport (MXP)

If you're traveling from the United States, the closest airport to Lake Como is Milan Malpensa (MXP), which offers several direct flight options from JFK. From Malpensa, you can reach Lake Como a few ways. By train: Take the Malpensa Express to Milano Centrale (about 50 minutes), then transfer to a regional train to Varenna-Esino (approximately 1 hour). By car: The drive from Malpensa to Varenna takes about 1 hour. Rental cars, private drivers, and shuttle services are all available.

Train

Train Travel

Traveling by train in northern Italy is affordable, easy, and convenient, especially between Milan and Lake Como. Trains connect the lake’s main towns and spare you the hassle of driving or parking. The link below provides helpful tips for navigating train travel in Italy. Where to Buy Tickets • Trenitalia: Italy’s main train operator — schedule and tickets at trenitalia.com. • Trenord: Local regional trains in Lombardy — schedule and fares at trenord.it. • Trainline: A user‑friendly site/app for planning and buying tickets across Italian rail companies: thetrainline.com. Tips • Book ahead: Regional trains usually don’t require reservations; high-speed or long-distance trains are best booked in advance. • Travel times: Trains run early morning to late evening; Milan to Lake Como takes 40–60 minutes. • Avoid rush hours: Weekday mornings and evenings are busy; midday trains are more relaxed.

Travel Note

Ferry Travel

The easiest and most scenic way to explore Lake Como is by ferry. You can view routes and schedules at the site linked. The main ferry route connects Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio (about 15–20 minutes between towns). A few tips: • We strongly recommend purchasing your ferry tickets online ahead of time to avoid lines at the ticket office • Arrive 20–30 minutes early, especially during peak times • Mornings tend to be less crowded • Note that ferries do not run in the evening, so you have to plan your travels accordingly

Rental Car

Renting a Car

For most guests, renting a car is not necessary. If you are staying in Varenna, Bellagio, or nearby towns, ferries and trains are the easiest and most scenic ways to get around. For those staying in Varenna and nearby areas, transportation will also be provided to and from all wedding events. That said, if you are staying outside the main towns or would like to explore more remote areas at your own pace, renting a car can be a great option. We have loved exploring Italy by car and are always happy to answer any questions. Driving in Italy is very manageable, but here are a few helpful things to keep in mind: • Hybrid cars are recommended, as some areas have low-emission zones that may restrict or charge higher-emission vehicles • Most rental cars are manual. Be sure to request an automatic if needed • Parking is limited in smaller towns • Roads can be narrow and winding, especially along the lake • Smaller cars are much easier to navigate and park • Check with your credit card provider to confirm rental car insurance coverage in Italy • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required and should be carried with you while driving If you choose to rent a car, we recommend picking it up in Milan (either at the airport or train station) for the most convenience. Parking will be available at all of our wedding venues.

Travel Note

Helpful Tips

Lake Como is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, and a few small tips can make your experience even smoother. • Wear comfortable shoes—cobblestones and hills are everywhere • Bring a light layer for cooler evenings by the water • Carry some cash for taxis, small cafes, or quick stops • Allow extra time for travel and embrace the slower pace Most importantly, relax and enjoy every moment, we’re so excited to share this special place with you!

House Or Rental

Airbnb

If you are traveling with multiple parties, Airbnb will be a cost-effective option.

House Or Rental

VRBO

Similar to Airbnb, a cost-effective option for villa and apartment rentals in the Lake Como region.

House Or Rental

Varenna Holidays

Vacation rentals in Varenna and surrounding towns at a variety of price points. We have used them in the past and had a positive experience.

Hotel

Maji Como Lake

Comfortable apartments in Mandello del Lario, the town where the wedding is being hosted. Has services of a hotel with a pool.

Hotel

Hotel Royal Victoria

Four star hotel situated in the center of Varenna next to the famous museum Villa Monastero. This hotel arranged the boat tour for our engagement :')

Hotel

Casa du Lac

Four star waterfont hotel located in the heart of Varenna, close to Hotel Royal Victoria.