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Traveling from Milan to Lake Como by train is fast, affordable, and convenient. The journey takes as little as 37 minutes, with up to 69 trains running daily between 5:39 AM and 11:33 PM. Tickets start at just €4.80, and both Trenitalia and Trenord operate frequent services, including regional and high-speed trains. Whether you’re heading to Como S. Giovanni, Lecco, or Varenna, you’ll find plenty of options to match your schedule and budget.
Quick Highlights:
- Fastest Route: Milano Centrale to Como S. Giovanni in 35–40 minutes.
- Ticket Prices: From €4.80 (regional) to €16 (EuroCity).
- Discounts: Kids under 14 get 50% off; seniors and groups enjoy savings too.
- Stations: Options include Milano Centrale, Milano Cadorna, and Milano P. Garibaldi.
With easy booking options and seamless connections to Lake Como’s scenic shores, this is one of the simplest ways to explore northern Italy.
How to reach Lake Como from Milan – Complete Guide
Train Routes: Milan to Lake Como
Traveling from Milan to Lake Como is straightforward, with three main train routes operated by Trenitalia and Trenord. These routes connect different parts of the lake, offering frequent and reliable service [3].
Main Route: Milano Centrale – Como S. Giovanni
The fastest and most popular route runs between Milano Centrale and Como S. Giovanni. This route offers both high-speed and regional trains, with travel times ranging from 35 to 40 minutes [3]. During peak hours, up to two trains depart every hour, starting at 5:39 am and continuing until the last train at 11:33 pm [1].
Como S. Giovanni station is close to the city center, making it convenient for accessing the lakefront and nearby attractions. Both EuroCity and Regionale trains serve this route, with EuroCity trains being slightly quicker [2].
| Route Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 39 km |
| Journey Time | 37–51 minutes |
| Daily Trains | 69 |
| First Train | 5:39 am |
| Last Train | 11:33 pm |
Other Routes: Lecco and Varenna
If you’re heading to the eastern shore of Lake Como, trains from Milan provide excellent connections to stops like Lecco, Varenna, and Colico [5]. Alternatively, trains from Milano Cadorna reach Como Nord Lago in about an hour. This station is just a short walk from the lakefront and offers scenic views [3].
Once you arrive at any of these stations, ferries and buses are readily available to take you to other parts of the lake [3].
Ticket Booking Guide
TrenItalia and Trenord Booking
For your train journeys, you can book tickets through Trenitalia or Trenord, depending on the service you need. Use the Trenord app or website for regional train tickets, while the Trenitalia website is ideal for high-speed trains from Milano Centrale to Como S. Giovanni.
Here’s a quick overview of the booking platforms:
| Booking Platform | Features | Payment Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Trenord App/Website | Store tickets digitally | Credit/Debit cards |
| Trenitalia Website | Book tickets online | Credit/Debit cards |
Available Discounts
Traveling by train can be more affordable with these discounts:
-
Age-Based Discounts:
- Children under 3 travel free.
- Kids aged 4-14 get 50% off on Trenord fares.
- Seniors (women 60+, men 65+) can enjoy up to a 20% discount on standard fares.
-
Group Travel Discounts:
- Groups of 10 or more adults get 20% off.
- Children under 14 in groups receive 50% off.
Booking early can secure fares starting at just €5 [4]. Additionally, the Trenord "IO Viaggio" pass offers extra savings for travelers with disabilities, allowing their carers to travel free of charge [1].
Times and Prices
Train Schedule
Trains operate frequently from 5:39 AM to 11:33 PM, with 69 daily connections [1]. Below is a snapshot of early morning departures on February 24, 2025:
| Departure Station | Time | Arrival at Como S. Giovanni | Duration | Service |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milano Centrale | 6:43 AM | 7:22 AM | 39 min | Trenord 25506 |
| Milano Centrale | 7:10 AM | 7:52 AM | 42 min | EC 10 Trenitalia |
| Milano P. Garibaldi | 5:31 AM | 6:40 AM | 1h 9m | Trenord 25016 |
| Milano Bovisa | 5:50 AM | 6:40 AM | 50 min | RE 2107 Trenord |
Travel times depend on the type of service:
- EuroCity direct trains: As quick as 36 minutes [2]
- Regional trains: Typically take around 49 minutes [2]
- Standard services: Average about 51 minutes [1]
Having this information lets you plan your trip more effectively. Now, let’s take a closer look at ticket prices and booking tips.
Ticket Costs
Train tickets from Milan to Como S. Giovanni can be very budget-friendly if booked early:
- Starting fare: From €5.74 with advance booking [1]
- Standard fare: Approximately €16 for regular tickets [2]
- Last-minute purchase: Prices increase for same-day bookings [1]
Pricing depends on several factors:
- The time of travel
- Type of train (Regional or EuroCity)
- How far in advance you book
- Your choice of ticket class
Both Trenitalia and Trenord offer services on this route [1], and their fares are competitive. To secure the best prices, it’s recommended to book tickets ahead of time through their official platforms.
Travel Tips
Make your journey smooth and enjoyable with these practical tips, covering everything from planning to station navigation.
Advance Planning
Milano Centrale, one of Italy’s busiest train stations, connects travelers frequently to Lake Como [7]. A little preparation can help you avoid crowds and get the best deals.
- Book your tickets a few days in advance, especially for EuroCity trains.
- Travel outside peak hours (7–9:30 AM and 5:30–7:30 PM) for a more relaxed experience.
- Use the Trainline app for ticket management and real-time updates [7].
"If there’s one piece of travel advice I would offer for northern Italy, it’s to slow down and savor the experience. This region is rich in history, culture and stunning landscapes, so take the time to explore not just the popular attractions but also the hidden gems."
– Marisa Schwab, Fora Advisor [3]
Station Guide
Milano Centrale combines modern design with a range of helpful amenities. Here’s what you can expect:
- 24 platforms with easy level access from the main concourse [6].
- A selection of over 40 shops and 40 restaurants, cafes, and bars [7].
- Free WiFi throughout the station [6].
- Luggage storage services available for a fee [8].
Give yourself extra time to find your platform by checking the central departure boards. Be mindful of your belongings while navigating the station [6].
Key Services at Milano Centrale:
| Service | Details | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Porter Service | €5 per service (booking ahead recommended) | Main concourse |
| Bagaglio Facile | From €25 for the first bag | Designated counter |
| Special Assistance | Call 800210955 (48-hour notice needed) | Information desk [1] |
Interrail Pass Information
If you’re traveling with an Interrail pass, keep these points in mind:
Trenord Services:
- Folding bikes (up to 80 x 120 x 45 cm) and small pets in carriers (up to 70 x 30 x 50 cm) are allowed for free [1].
- The IVOL regional card is available for passengers with disabilities [1].
Trenitalia EuroCity Trains:
- No strict baggage limits [1].
- Bar-Bistrò service and free WiFi available on Giruno trains [1].
- Dedicated spaces for passengers with reduced mobility [1].
Conclusion
Traveling by train from Milan to Lake Como is both simple and quick. With 69 trains running daily and a travel time of just 37 minutes [1], it offers frequent connections and flexible schedules to suit a range of needs. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or a faster service, there’s something for every budget.
Regional tickets start at €5.20 [9], while EuroCity trains provide a faster alternative at €16 [9]. Plus, with multiple stations offering departures to Lake Como [3], reaching your destination is hassle-free.
"It is not easy getting around Como, and you should plan everything far in advance." – Wendy Wallace, Fora Advisor [3]
This advice highlights the importance of planning ahead. Booking your train tickets early can save you from the stress of parking and navigating busy lakeside towns [2].
| Key Benefits | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequent Service | Up to two trains per hour [3] |
| Quick Travel Time | As short as 37 minutes [1] |
| Affordable Tickets | Starting at €5.20 one-way [9] |
| No Traffic Worries | Skip parking and traffic issues [2] |
With dependable trains and wallet-friendly fares, starting your Lake Como trip couldn’t be easier!
