The Italian Lakes Italy Travel Guide
Bellagio is accessible via Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) airports, each offering distinct connectivity.
Non-stop flights to Milan Malpensa (MXP) are can be rented from main North American cities and global hubs. Linate (LIN) and Bergamo (BGY) offer direct flights mostly within The old continent. Flight prices fluctuate seasonally.
Malpensa Express to Milano Centrale (50 min), then Trenord to Varenna-Esino (1h 3m), then ferry to Bellagio (15 min). Combines efficiency with scenic approach.
Direct bus from MXP to Como San Giovanni (1h), after THAT a singleSF Autolinee C30 bus (1h) or ferry (2h) to Bellagio. Offers choice of land or lake views.
Most direct, but the most costly option (€150-€250+). Suitable for groups or those prioritizing convenience. Available from all airports (MXP, LIN, BGY).
When traveling from Milan airports, buying a joint train and ferry ticket to Bellagio is occasionally possible, simplifying the process.
Always check the latest train and ferry schedules, especially during shoulder and low seasons, as frequencies change.
Factor in sufficient travel time travel from the airport to Bellagio, considering ferry and train connections. Allow ample time for transfers.
The closest train station to Bellagio is Varenna-Esino, located on Lario's eastern shore. This station sits on the Lecco-Colico-Sondrio line. From Varenna, a typical and frequent ferry service connects directly to Bellagio. This mix of train and ferry has a scenic and efficient route.
Bus services supplement ferries, presenting connections to towns not easily reached by water or for direct land routes. The main bus line is the C30, connecting Bellagio to Como. The D20 line connects Bellagio to Lecco.
Driving directly into Bellagio calls for careful consideration due to narrow streets, scarce parking, and ZTL restrictions. However, renting a car is useful for exploring the wider Lombardy region or other parts of Lario.
Major international car rental companies operate at Milan's airports and major cities. Booking in advance is suggested, especially during peak season.
Ferry services are the lifeblood of Lario transportation, presenting a scenic and practical way to travel between Bellagio and other charming lakeside towns. They provide an unique perspective of the landscape.
Bellagio has a key ferry service terminal located conveniently in the middle of town, directly on the waterfront. Ferry frequency varies significantly by season, most happens a lot in peak summer and limited in low season.
Lake Como is not a cruise ship a place in the traditional sense. Personalized boat tours and group lake cruises are common.
Not applicable for Lake Como. As an inland lake, there are no international immigration procedures at its peak ferry docks. Standard immigration occurs upon getting to the Schengen Area.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply to tourists departing Italy by air or land. Airline tickets or train fares generally include any applicable airport or station taxes.
For international flights departing from Milan (MXP, LIN) or Bergamo (BGY), arrive at least 2-3 hours before scheduled flight time. For flights within the Schengen Area, arriving 1.5-2 hours before departure is generally sufficient.
For train stations like Varenna-Esino or Milano Centrale, get there at LEAST 15-30 minutes before train departure. This permits time to find a platform and validate a ticket (for regional trains) if not already done so.
Allow ample time for transportation between different modes of transportation, especially when connecting from Bellagio to the airports.
Ferry and bus schedules vary seasonally; always check the latest timings for your departure day.
Major train stations like Milano Centrale have waiting areas, newsstands, and shops. Smaller stations present basic facilities.
Consider potential queues for tickets and boarding, especially during high season for both ferries and trains, to avoid any last-minute rush.
