The premier way to experience Lake Como — the public ferry network connects all towns at low cost, and self-drive motorboat hire from any main town gives total freedom to anchor in hidden bays, visit tiny villages, and see the villas from the water as they were meant to be seen.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
The ferry network (Navigazione Laghi) connects all main towns — the traghetto car ferries crossing between Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio; faster hydrofoils covering the full length. A day spent ferry-hopping — Varenna morning, Bellagio lunch, Tremezzo afternoon for Villa Carlotta, back by evening boat — is the classic Como itinerary. Self-drive motorboat hire (no license required for smaller boats) is available from Como, Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna — anchoring for a swim below a villa is the finest single experience on the lake.
What Stands Out
- Ferry network connects all major towns — tickets at lakeside kiosks
- no advance booking
- Self-drive motorboat hire: no license required for smaller boats
- Traghetto car ferry: Bellagio-Varenna-Menaggio — essential if driving
- Classic day: Varenna morning / Bellagio lunch / Villa Carlotta afternoon / return by ferry
- Last ferries approximately 8–9pm — check timetable at navigazionelaghi.it