Best Lake Como town from Milan

Varenna seems to be a popular town in this Forum. Maybe because it's easily reachable by train from Milano.
I've stayed only in Bellagio when I've been there, which is just a across the lake by ferry from Varenna. All in all in my experience any town around the midlake would be best. Look for a train to Varenna-Esino on the trenitalia website. It's about an hour from Milan. I think you can visit both Varenna and Bellagio in a day trip.

I really like Varenna. You can easily take the train from Milan to Varenna. Its not as fancy as Bellagio but that's why I like it better. Nice tiny harbor and promenade. From Varenna you can take the ferry to the other towns if you would like to see more. Plus, there are amazing gardens you could visit at Villa Cipressi. Or visit Villa Carlotta the famous Villa.

We weren't a big fan of Varenna. It was nice. But that's about it. Not much/anything to do, very small, etc. We were there for 3 nights and ended up leaving a night early. But for a quick trip it could be nice.

Varenna has great food, and amazing lake views......it does not have crowds, and like everyone else in Italy plenty of wine and gelato. easy walk down the hill from the train station right into the heart of town....and you can take the ferry to another town if you like. (or hire a private boat)

Consider staying in Como itself. If arriving by train from Milan, you won't have to hassle with luggage to the ferry and then to your hotel. It's a nice city with some nice sights and great restaurants. Take the funicular up to the village of Bunate for great views of the lake and the alps. To visit the smaller lake towns, just head to the marina and hop a ferry.

I like staying in Como as well. I don't spend a lot of time there but it's easy to get to anywhere else on the lake and to Milano.