The Italian Lakes, Italy
Milan's largest international airport and the most common arrival point for long-haul flights. It sits approximately 1.5-2 hours drive or train journey from Lake Como. MXP has a wide range of facilities and connections.
Milan Linate Airport (LIN): Closer to Milan city center, mainly serves domestic and European short-haul flights. Approximately 1-1.5 hours drive from Lake Como.
All Milan airports offer standard facilities: ATMs, currency exchange, car rental desks, duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, and airline lounges.
Train: Malpensa Express to Milano Centrale, then Trenord to Como San Giovanni or Como Nord Lago (total 1.5-2 hours). Bus: Direct services from MXP to Como city. Private Transfer/Taxi: Direct but more expensive.
LIN: Bus/Metro to Milano Centrale, then train to Como. Taxi/Private Transfer available. BGY: Orio Shuttle bus to Bergamo train station, then train to Como (via Monza or Milan), or bus to Milano Centrale then train to Como.
Milan’s airports make Lake Como highly accessible for international travelers.
Various transfer options offer convenience for reaching Lake Como from the airports.
Plan transfers in advance, especially during peak season, for a seamless journey.
Land transport offers another way to reach Lake Como, especially from within Italy or neighboring countries. Trains and buses provide efficient connections.
Direct long-distance bus services to smaller Lake Como towns from major Italian cities are limited. Connections usually involve Milan or Como city. Once in Como, local bus services (ASF Autolinee) provide transport between towns around the lake and further inland. For specific routes, check local bus company websites.
Car rentals are available at Milan airports and in Como city. You will need a valid driver's license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you are a non-EU citizen. Obtain your IDP before your trip. Major international companies include Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Sixt.
Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits are enforced. For car rentals, visit DiscoverCars.com.
Lake Como is an inland lake, not a coastal port of entry for international travelers. Therefore, sea or river arrivals as an international arrival point are not applicable.
For international arrivals, focus on the air and land transportation options outlined in sections 4.1 and 4.2.
Lake Como mainly serves as a destination accessed by air and land, with local water transport for internal movement.
Directly planning for sea/river international arrivals is not applicable for Lake Como itself.
Once at the lake, ferries provide the main means of moving between lakeside towns.
No separate exit fees or taxes are typically paid by passengers at Italian airports. These charges are usually included in the air ticket price when you book your flight.
Airports offer comprehensive facilities for departing travelers. This includes check-in counters, baggage drop-off points, security checkpoints, and duty-free shopping areas. You will also find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and lounges for your comfort before your flight.
Exit fees are typically integrated into air ticket prices.
Arrive early at airports for international flights (2-3 hours) and train stations (15-20 minutes).
Airports offer check-in, security, shopping, and dining. Train stations have basic amenities.
