Venice to Lake Como

kaitlin,

Before offering transportation suggestions, it would help to know where on Lake Como you'd prefer to stay. The small town of Varenna on the east shore of the mid-lake area is a big favourite with many here.

Travel by train is by far the easiest method. If you decide to stay in Varenna, you'll use a high speed train from Venice to Milano Centrale, and then transfer to a Regionale for the short (1H) trip to Varenna (DON'T forget to validate your ticket before boarding). You'll use the same method to get back to Milan.

For hotel suggestions in Varenna, it would help to have some idea of your price range and desired "comfort level". There's a range of accommodations there.

Good question! I have not done enough research to know enough at this point, but am very open to suggestions. I have read that Varenna is very popular. It would work best for me to be in a place that is easily traveled to/from Venice and Milan. At this point in my voyage, I will be traveling alone, so my price range is about 75 American dollars or less per night if at all possible without having to stay in a hostile. This is the end of my trip, my traveling companion will be leaving me in Venice, so zero percent of my research has been done for these last few days June 22-24...eek!

kaitlin,

Varenna would be a good choice as it is very easy to get there from Milan. The train ride is "officially" 1H:03M each way. It's also a good home base to tour other parts of the lake, such as the posh town of Bellagio (about a 20 minute Ferry ride from Varenna).

The trip from Venice to Milan is also very easy. There are numerous high speed departures from Venezia Santa Lucia to Milano Centrale with a travel time of about 2H:35M. From Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino you'll transfer to the Regionale train (don't forget to validate your ticket prior to boarding).

I've never stayed there, but one place you could try in Varenna is Orange House B&B. There are lots of other places, but most will be above your price range. I don't believe there are any Hostels in Varenna. The nearest one is the La Primula Hostel in Menaggio, which is just across the lake from Varenna. While you could stay there, keep in mind that it would add to your travel time back to Milan.

IL perlo in bellagio is absolutely fantastic! I have stayed there in the past, and will be staying again in a fee weeks. Carlo, the owner is extremely friendly and helpful. There is no better view of the lake! Enjoy!! Italy is my favorite place on earth.♡