Venice to Bellagio

Looking at the train schedules, it's about equal time on the train to either Como S. Giovanni or Varenna-Esino. You might get lucky and shave 30 minutes off of the journey from Milan to Como if you catch the faster EC train instead of the slower alternate. The ferry journey is far shorter from Varenna to Bellagio than it is from Como to Bellagio. Here's the ferry link. http://www.navigazionelaghi.it/eng/com/nlc_ora.html

"Is it worth a half day to go and explore Como?" The "worth it" type question is, of course, always difficult to answer: the same thing may be worth it to one person but not to another. That having been said, I get the impression, from hanging around here awhile, that many people are content to stay in the mid-lake area with its small villages and better views. Some travelers with an extra half day or so choose to explore Villa Carlotta, or Isola Comacina, or across the lake in Menaggio. Or you could add another country to your itinerary with about 5 or 6 hours, Lugano, Switzerland - take the bus from Menaggio.

Nothing of interest in Como. Varenna, Bellagio & Menaggio are the highlights of Lake Como. Roam, have lunch,dinner take pics and delight in SLOWING down, that is what Lake Como is about! Tranquility and beauty!!!

Brian, with such a short time frame, I don't think visiting Como is "worth" a stop. My suggestion would be to take the train to Varenna and then Ferry to Bellagio (it's about a 15-20 minute trip). When you arrive in Varenna, walk down the hill to Albergo Olivedo (bright yellow building). The Ferry dock is right in front of the Hotel. ¶ During your 2.5 days, exploring Bellagio and Varenna will probably keep you busy. If you have time, stop at Albergo Olivedo for dinner (restaurant opens at 19:00 as I recall) - Laura's Ravioli is awesome! Check the Guidebook for other sights to visit in that area. Happy travels!