Driving from Munich to Lake Como

One hiccup could be that picking up a car in one country and dropping it off in another country often requires a very steep fee. Some choose to pay it for convenience, but it may not be worth that for three days. So, first we need to know if you are flying out of Italy. Once that part is sorted, I am sure you will find someone who can advise on route.

Thank you! Yes, we will be flying out of Milan. Any scenic train routs and places to stay along the way if we forgo a car?Up for any suggestions.

Where exactly is your villa on Lake Como?

Any scenic train routs and places to stay along the way if we forgo a
car?

Any route through the Alps is scenic.

We are staying close to Torriggia in Como

I'm really unfamiliar with these routes and connections, but if I were in your shoes, I would look into getting to somewhere in Italy by train--maybe Bolzano?--and then rent a car (if needed).

By train from Munich, take the EC train to Zurich, then change to the EC train to Como S. Giovanni station. If you want to have a car at your villa, there are several rental locations by the train station, including the biggies (Hertz, Avis, etc). The train from Zurich, may or may not be scenic depending on whether the Gotthard Base Tunnel is fully functional in late September, as it is expected to be. Then you would go completely under those scenic Alps in a very long tunnel.

But since you have 3 nights, go from Zurich to Luzern and stay 3 nights there. Then take the Treno Gottardo to Bellinzona, then change to the EC train to Como. The Treno Gottardo will be quite scenic.

From Luzern, you can visit many quaint villages, either by train or boat for day trips.

In fact, if you take the Treno Gottardo there is no need to bother with the EC to Como, just take one of the many local trains.

Only when I looked at a 9 am departure, the EC train was the offered connection.

Rental car-- quick look revealed a one way drop fee ( Munich-Milan) ranging from $420-$660 ( in addition to the rental cost). Avis at the high end Sixt at the lower end. Plus the Swiss vignette.( ~$45).

Once you decide on a mode of transport, folks can probably come up with some ideas of where to spend your 3 days enroute.

There's a daily direct train from Munich to Verona (5+ hours). The train stops off in Innsbruck, Bolzano and Trento. Take your pick.

Train from Verona to Milan, about two hours. Bus from Milan up the west side of lake Como.