Lake Como. Just the name conjures images of stunning scenery, charming towns clinging to steep hillsides, and opulent villas reflected in the sparkling water. It’s the kind of place that lives rent-free in your daydreams, and for good reason.
But before you can sip Aperol spritzes overlooking that iconic vista, you need to figure out how to get there. And that’s where choosing the right airport comes in. The airport you pick can seriously impact your travel time, your wallet, and your overall sanity.
Luckily, Lake Como is relatively accessible, served by several airports in the Milan area. This article will help you decide which airport is best for your trip, giving you the lowdown on Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY). We’ll cover airport overviews, transfer options (both public and private), travel times, and some practical tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Whether you prefer the convenience of a private transfer or the budget-friendliness of public transport, know that many of these options can be booked easily online and in advance, letting you get one step closer to your dream Lake Como getaway!
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP): Your Gateway to Lake Como
If you’re dreaming of visiting Lake Como, Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is likely to be your arrival point. As Italy’s second-busiest international airport, Malpensa handles a huge number of flights from destinations all over the world. It’s located about 50 km, or 31 miles, from the city of Como, making it a convenient starting point for your lakeside adventure.
Getting from Malpensa to Lake Como
Once you’ve landed at MXP, you have several options for getting to Lake Como, each with its own pros and cons:
- Private Transfers: For a stress-free, door-to-door experience, a private transfer is the way to go. Pre-booking ensures a driver will be waiting for you, ready to whisk you away in comfort. This is the most convenient option, but also the most expensive.
- Train: You can catch the Malpensa Express train to Milan, then transfer to another train heading to Como. While generally affordable, this option involves connections and can take longer than a direct transfer. Be sure to check train schedules and allow for potential delays.
- Bus: Some direct bus services operate from Malpensa to various towns around Lake Como. While less frequent than trains, a bus might be a good choice if it goes directly to your final destination.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport, offering a direct ride to your destination. However, this can be a pricey option, especially for longer distances. Confirm the fare with the driver beforehand to avoid surprises.
- Rental Car: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the Lake Como region at your own pace. Keep in mind that parking can be limited in some towns, and be aware of ZTLs (traffic-restricted zones) where driving is prohibited for non-residents.
Travel Times and Costs
The journey from Malpensa to Como takes about 40 minutes by private transfer and around 1 hour and 20 minutes using public transportation. If you’re heading to Bellagio, which is farther from the airport, expect longer travel times due to the distance and winding roads.
The cost will depend on your chosen mode of transport. Private transfers are the priciest but offer the fastest and most comfortable journey. Public transport is more budget-friendly but requires more planning and can take longer.
Milan Linate Airport (LIN): Closer, but Potentially Less Convenient
Milan Linate is one of the ten busiest international airports in Italy, but it mainly serves destinations within Italy and Europe. It’s also the closest airport to Lake Como, at about 66 kilometers from the town of Como.
Transfer Options from Linate to Lake Como
Once you’ve landed at Linate, you have several options for getting to Lake Como:
- Private Transfers: If you want to go directly to your destination on Lake Como, a private car or shuttle is probably the easiest choice. Be sure to book ahead, especially if you’re traveling during the busiest months of the year.
- Public Transport: You can take a bus to Milan’s main train station (Milano Centrale) and then catch a train to one of the towns on Lake Como. Keep in mind the time it’ll take to get from the bus station to the train station.
- Taxi: A taxi will take you straight to your destination, but it can be quite expensive. It’s a good idea to negotiate a flat fare with the driver before you get in the car.
- Rental Car: If you want to explore the Lake Como region at your own pace, renting a car is a good option. Just be aware that traffic can be heavy, and parking can be tricky in some of the towns.
Estimated Travel Times and Costs
If you’re heading to the town of Como, expect the trip to take about an hour and 20 minutes by private transfer. Public transport will take longer. If you’re going to Bellagio, plan on a longer journey no matter how you travel.
Private transfers are generally the priciest option, while public transport is the most budget-friendly.
Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY): The Budget-Friendly Option
Bergamo Airport, also known as Orio al Serio Airport, is another option for reaching Lake Como. It’s about 83 km (51 miles) from Como and 60 km (37 miles) from Bellagio.
A lot of budget airlines use this airport, so you may find that flying here is cheaper than flying into Milan Malpensa or Milan Linate.
Transfer Options from Bergamo to Lake Como
Once you land at Bergamo, you have several ways to get to Lake Como:
- Private Transfers: A private car or shuttle is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to your destination, but it can be more expensive because of the distance. If you choose this option, it’s best to book your transfer in advance.
- Public Transport: You can take a bus from the airport to the Bergamo train station, and then catch a train to one of the towns on Lake Como. Keep in mind that this will involve multiple transfers and can take quite a bit of time.
- Bus: There are direct bus routes from Bergamo Airport to some towns on Lake Como. Be sure to check the bus schedules ahead of time.
- Rental Car: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore both Bergamo and Lake Como at your own pace. Just remember to factor in travel time and the cost of parking.
Estimated Travel Times and Costs
To get to Bellagio from Bergamo Airport, a private transfer will take about 1 hour and 35 minutes. Public transport will take significantly longer.
The cost of your trip will depend on how you choose to travel. If you save money on your flight by flying into Bergamo, that might offset the higher cost of a private transfer.
Public vs. Private Transport: Which is right for you?
Once you land, you’ll need to decide how to get to Lake Como. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
Public Transport
Public transportation is the most budget-friendly way to travel. You can usually find train and bus connections from the airports to Lake Como. However, keep in mind that public transport can take longer due to transfers. It can also be less comfortable, especially if you’re traveling with luggage.
Private Transfers
Private transfers are more expensive, but they offer a faster and more convenient way to reach your destination. With door-to-door service, you won’t have to worry about navigating public transport with your bags. This is a great option for families, groups, or anyone who wants a hassle-free journey. Booking in advance guarantees availability and fixed prices, so you can avoid any surprises.
What to consider
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, how much time you have, the size of your group, and how comfortable you want to be.
Tips for a smooth transfer
Getting from the airport to Lake Como can be easy if you plan ahead. Here are a few pointers:
- Book ahead. This is especially important during peak season. Booking online lets you compare prices and reserve your spot.
- Check travel times. Use tools like Rome2Rio or Google Maps to get an idea of how long your transfer will take. Don’t forget to factor in potential traffic delays, especially during rush hour.
- Be aware of ZTLs. If you’re renting a car, familiarize yourself with ZTLs (traffic-restricted zones). These zones can be confusing and result in fines. Choose accommodations that offer parking or have parking nearby.
- Pack smart. Lake Como weather can change quickly. Bring layers of clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen.
- Arrive during the day. Arriving during daylight hours gives you more transfer options and makes navigating unfamiliar areas easier.
With a little planning, you can start enjoying the beauty of Lake Como as soon as you arrive.
In Summary
So, which airport is best for getting to Lake Como? Milan Malpensa is the largest and most international, offering the widest range of flights, but it’s also the furthest from the lake. Milan Linate is closer and more convenient for domestic and European flights, but might require a connecting flight depending on where you’re coming from. Bergamo Airport is a budget-friendly option, especially if you’re flying with Ryanair, but it’s also a bit further out than Linate.
No matter which airport you choose, planning is key. Book your flights, transfers, and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season. Consider pre-booking a private car service or shared shuttle from the airport to your hotel or villa in Lake Como to avoid any hassle upon arrival.
Lake Como is a truly magical place, offering a wealth of experiences for every traveler. From exploring the opulent villas and gardens to hiking in the surrounding mountains and indulging in delicious Italian cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to take a boat tour to admire the stunning scenery from the water.
We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Lake Como! Enjoy the breathtaking views, the charming villages, and the unforgettable Italian atmosphere. For more information about Lake Como and the Lombardy region, check out the official tourism websites. Buon viaggio!