I'm going to be spending a week in Varenna in late July and though it would be fun to take a day trip by train (if there's one available) north into Switzerland. Is this something that's easily doable? Any pointers toward info online? Thanks.
Deb
Posted by
Bay Area
3551 posts
Ricks book tells you how. Ferry from Varenna to Mennagio, bus towards Lugano, easily done on a day trip. I have done the St Moritz to Varenna and it is nice but takes a full day one way and is costly. You are too far away for a day trip except Lugano. I love Varrena but 1 week is more time than you need for the lake Como area why not split the time with a little of switzerland?
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
Deborah, lots of possibilities here although it could be quite a lengthy day trip depending on where you go. Here are a few ideas. 1) Take the ferry to Como where you could pick up the high-speed EC train going to Lugano. Under 2hrs. from Como to Lugano. Or, as suggested above, ferry to Menaggio and take the bus 12 miles to Lugano. 2) If you want to go further north, in Lugano, jump on the William Tell Express to Andermatt. Another 3.0hrs north. Andermatt is a stunning small town with great mountain and valley views. The Glacier Express stops in Andermatt. 3) Varenna to St. Mortitz. 5.5hrs-6.0hrs each way.
I'm really hesitant to recommend a day trip into the Berner Oberland beause it's 8hrs to get there and 8hrs back. Plus, you really need a lot of time to see the sights. It should really be an overnight or 2-day trip at minimum. Same for Zermatt.