need help on how to do this economically. a have a travel agent wants to hire a private driver for only $800- ha. I need a train and a "how to for dummies". This hotel is a RIck Steves recommendation on his video when stayng in Lake Como- that is how and why we picked it...but we really need step by step on how to do this.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11839 posts
It will take 4 hours and 5 minutes by train with two changes.
Go to Sbb.ch/en to look up fares and schedules, but as an example:
You can leave Luzern at 9:18, arrive Varenna-Esino 13:23, 2nd class, for 86.00 CHF no discount, or 58.00 CHF non-refundable. (These fares are per person and do not assume you have any sort of Swiss pass.) You would change trains in Arth-Goldau and Monza. Note connections are tight but Swiss trains truly run on time and as long as you do not drag your feet, you will make the next train.
Fire your travel agent.
Posted by
Green Bay
21274 posts
How many are "we"? If it is 7 or 8, might not be a bad deal. It's a rare travel agent that has a clue about European train travel. No big commissions in it.
Once the train enters Italy, it becomes an Italian train, but there is a train every hour from Monza to Varenna, so if you miss it, just wait, your ticket will still be valid on it.
Posted by
The Heartland USA
9066 posts
You mean the Albergo Milano, right? Once you get to the Varenna-Esino train station (unmanned) walk down the hill towards the lake and turn left on the main street. Its a small town, anyone can help you. A taxi from the station (if there's one waiting there) will only take a few minutes and a few euro.