Zurich to Como

Taking Bernina Express looks to be the long way. Going by way of Tirano, you have to go to Milan and back track. 10 hour journey with 5 or 6 changes vs 3 hour with the EC trains, direct from Zurich Hbf. You'll definately see more scenery on the Bernina Express because you'll be on the train for an extra 7 hours.

Are you going to the town of Como, or a different town on Lago di Como? It makes a difference in the route you choose.

We are going to Como. Our Hotel is at the base of the lake right across the street from where you buy the tickets for the ferries.

Como San Giovanni station is about 6 blocks from Piazza Cavour, at the base of the lake where the ferry dock is. Other than going through the Gotthard Tunnel, about 5 miles of the highest Alps, you make 2 switchbacks and 4 hairpins on the way to Como. Looks scenic to me. And 3 hours vs 10 hours.

Sam, Thank you for all the information but which train are you talking about that takes only 3 hrs.?

I assume that Sam is talking about direct trains from Zuerich HB to Como S. Giovanni. You will need to take a train from the airport to Zuerich HB and connect there to either a direct train or a train that requires a connection along the way. See the detailed timetables on the Swiss Rail site. Enter Zuerich Flughafen as your departure point and Como S. Giovanni as your arrival point.

Thank you Tim. I will go to that site and choose our train from there. I really appreciate the expertise and willingness to share from everyone on RS's Graffiti Wall.