The ferry network on Lake Como is one of the great pleasures of visiting the lake. Gliding across the water between Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio — mountains rising on all sides, villages glittering in the afternoon light — is something you’ll remember long after you’ve come home. This guide breaks it all down.
The Three Types of Vessel
Navigazione Lago di Como operates three different types of vessel, each with different speeds, routes, and purposes.
① Battello (Passenger Ferry)
The classic slow ferry. Battelli stop at almost every village around the lake, making them the most flexible way to explore. They’re the most affordable option and the best choice for sightseeing. Journey time from Como to Bellagio by battello is approximately 2 hours.
② Traghetto (Car Ferry)
The traghetto is the roll-on, roll-off car ferry that operates the central triangle: Bellagio–Varenna–Menaggio–Cadenabbia. Even if you’re not taking a car, you can ride the traghetto as a foot passenger. The Varenna–Bellagio crossing takes just 15 minutes and costs around €6 in 2026. These ferries run every 20–30 minutes in peak season.
③ Aliscafo (Hydrofoil)
The high-speed hydrofoil connects Como at the south with Colico at the north. It’s the fastest way to cover long distances (Como to Bellagio: about 50 minutes vs 2 hours by battello), but more expensive and less frequent. Best used when you need to cover significant distance quickly.
Key Routes and Approximate 2026 Prices
- Como → Bellagio (Battello, ~2h): €9–11
- Como → Bellagio (Aliscafo, ~50min): €14–17
- Varenna → Bellagio (Traghetto, 15min): €6
- Varenna → Menaggio (Traghetto, 15min): €6
- Bellagio → Menaggio (Traghetto, 15min): €6
- Como → Tremezzo (Battello, ~1h): €7–8
- Como → Varenna (Aliscafo, ~1h 10min): €15–17
Prices are approximate. Always verify at navlaghi.it before travel.
Day Pass: Is It Worth It?
The giornaliero (day pass) gives unlimited travel on battello services for one day. In 2026, approximately €22–25 for the full lake. If you’re planning to visit three or more villages in a day, the day pass will almost certainly save you money.
Note: the day pass does NOT include the aliscafo hydrofoil or foot passenger fares on the traghetto.
👉 Book a Lake Como Boat Tour or Ferry Experience
Compare tours and book online — free cancellation on most!
- Ticket offices at the main ferry piers (Como, Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, Tremezzo)
- Self-service ticket machines at larger piers
- On board some vessels (small surcharge may apply)
- Online at navlaghi.it — recommended for day passes in peak season
Always validate your ticket at the yellow machines on the pier before boarding. Inspectors do check.
Reading the Timetable
- Timetables change seasonally — summer (giugno–settembre) has the most frequent services
- Not all ferries stop at all ports — check your destination
- The traghetto triangle runs independently from the main battello network
- Services are less frequent on Sundays and public holidays
- Last ferries typically depart around 8–9pm — plan your return accordingly
The Best Ferry Journeys on Lake Como
Como to Bellagio by Battello (The Classic Route)
This two-hour journey along the western shore is quintessential Lake Como. The ferry calls at Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Argegno, Sala Comacina, and Tremezzo (for Villa Carlotta). Sit outside on the upper deck for the full experience. Take a morning service to arrive in Bellagio for lunch.
The Central Triangle: Bellagio–Varenna–Menaggio
A day spent hopping between these three towns — arriving by ferry, exploring for a few hours, then catching the next crossing — is one of the very best ways to experience Lake Como. The 15-minute Varenna to Bellagio crossing is particularly magical.
Sunset Cruise
Take a late-afternoon battello from Bellagio south towards Tremezzo as the sun descends. The lake turns gold, the mountains turn rose-pink, and the villages seem to glow. Return on the last ferry (typically around 8–9pm). This is unforgettable.
🎒 What to Bring on the Ferry:
• 🧥 Lightweight Windbreaker (Navy) — it gets surprisingly breezy on the water, even in summer.
• 🕶️ Polarized Sunglasses (CARFIA) — polarized lenses are perfect for the glittering lake surface.
• 👒 Wide Brim Sun Hat (UPF 50+) — open-air decks mean full sun exposure; protect yourself.
• 🤢 Sea-Band Motion Sickness Wristbands — the hydrofoil can be choppy; these are drug-free and discreet.
• 📱 Waterproof Phone Pouch (Hiearcool) — protect your phone from spray on the open deck.
Practical Ferry Tips
- Arrive 10–15 minutes before departure at busy piers in summer.
- Sit outside whenever possible. Bring a light layer as it can be breezy on the water.
- Large bags and suitcases are fine on the ferry.
- Check last ferries before making plans. Missing the last ferry from Bellagio means a long taxi or an unexpected overnight stay.
- Private boat hire is available at major piers from around €80–100/hour.
Ferry FAQ
Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?
For foot passengers on standard battello services, booking in advance is not required. Online booking is available and recommended for day passes during peak season.
Can I take a bike on the ferry?
Yes — bikes are accepted on the battello for a small surcharge. The traghetto also carries bikes.
Is the ferry suitable for people with mobility issues?
The larger battello ferries have good deck-level access. The traghetto is very accessible. Staff are generally very helpful if you need assistance.
Your Lake Como Ferry Adventure Awaits
👉 🚢 Book Lake Como Ferry Tours & Boat Experiences on Viator — Skip the queues — book guided boat tours and private lake experiences in advance.
There really is nothing quite like arriving at Bellagio by ferry on a clear morning. Once you’ve done it, you’ll understand immediately why Lake Como has been captivating travellers for centuries. The ferry isn’t just transport: it is the experience.
Ready to plan the rest of your trip? Read our complete Lake Como guide and our advice on what to pack for Italy in June.