I will be travelling from the Cinque Terre (Vernazza) to Lake Como (Varenna) with luggage & I am wondering what the best way to get there is. I read somewhere that it takes approx 4-5 hrs to get to Varenna by train from Vernazza...is that correct? Will it really take that long? Will I have to go through Milan? Has anyone done this & can you shed some light onto the logistics of this? Thank you.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32352 posts
Sheron,
That's a fairly easy trip, but it's about 4-7 hours (depending on which train you choose), with 2-3 changes. You will indeed have to go through Milano.
From Vernazza take the local CT train to La Spezia. Check Rick's book for the times of the local train. At La Spezia, transfer to one of the "regional" trains to Milano (a reservation will probably be required for one or more of the trains you'll be using). At Milano, board the train to Varenna. When you check the large charts for your track number, your stop may be listed as Varenna Esino (Esino is another small town located above Varenna).
The trip to Varenna is about an hour from Milano. Be prepared to disembark promptly, as the train only stops for a minute or so! You'll be disembarking on the lake side.
There will probably be a few Taxis at the station when you arrive. Whether to use a Taxi or walk will depend on which Hotel you'll be staying in.
Hope this helps.
Happy travels!
Posted by
WPB, FL & Firenze
3112 posts
You might also be able to take the local train from Vernazza to Monterosso and board the Milan train there. If that works, it would save you a half hour of travel time.
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
There are several routes with varying numbers of connections. You can leave Vernazza as early as 04:51. To see all the routes and times, go to the German Rail site. Enter an arbitrary date between now and 13 December. (New timetables will go into effect on 14 December.) After you get summary timetables for Vernazza-Varenna, click on "Details for all" to see the connecting points.