Lake Como Ferry Schedule: How to Plan Your Trip

Getting around Lake Como by ferry can feel like a puzzle, especially when you do not know which boat runs when. Follow these steps and you will move smoothly between towns, enjoy day trips and match the schedule with a stay at Villino Rubini.

Table of Contents

• Step 1: Find the Latest Ferry Timetable
• Step 2: Choose the Right Route for Your Destination
• Step 3: Purchase Tickets and Understand Pass Options
• Step 4: Plan Your Day Trips from Brunate
• Step 5: Align Your Ferry Schedule with a Stay at Villino Rubini

Step 1: Find the Latest Ferry Timetable

The official source for all routes, times and seasonal notes is the ferry operator’s website. The timetable page lists each line, first and last departure, and any service gaps. Look for the PDF or interactive map that shows the current season’s dates. The site also notes that routes may be suspended in bad weather, so checking the daily update before you leave is wise.

Because the schedule changes each year, download the PDF to your phone. That way you have a copy even if you lose signal on the boat. The PDF includes a colour-coded legend that helps you spot fast-service hydrofoils versus regular motor ships.

For a quick overview of Lake Como’s transport network, consult a general reference on Lake Como transport. It summarises the main ports and gives context on how the ferry system fits with trains and buses.

When you have the timetable, note the departure points you plan to use, Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, Cadenabbia and Como are the most common. Write the first-departure time for each line; this will become your reference when you build a day-by-day plan.

Remember that ticket offices close early in the off-season, so buying ahead can save you a queue.

Step 2: Choose the Right Route for Your Destination

Once you have the full timetable, match the routes to the places you want to visit. Bellagio is the hub of the network, appearing on half of all listed routes. If you stay in Brunate, the quickest way to reach Bellagio is the funicular to Como followed by the ferry from Como to Bellagio.

The table shows the core lines that serve most tourists. Note that only the Varenna-Menaggio line lists a 15-minute interval, even though Varenna is a smaller port. This is useful if you need a quick hop between the two towns.

Seasonal notes matter. Three routes run only in summer, and two reduce service from early November to late March. If you travel in October, check the “quiet period” column on the PDF.

When you decide on a route, write down the last-departure time as well. Many ferries stop running around 7:30 pm in winter, but some evening cruises extend to 9:00 pm in peak season.

Pro Tip: Aim for early-morning or mid-afternoon departures; they are usually less crowded than the 10 am-12 pm window.

For a deeper historical perspective on the operator, on Navigazione Laghi. It explains why most routes list the same company and how the fleet has evolved.

Step 3: Purchase Tickets and Understand Pass Options

Tickets can be bought at the dock ticket office, online or on board. The website lists adult fares around €18-€19 and child fares around €9-€10. If you travel with a vehicle, only certain stops marked “Traghetto” allow cars.

There are several pass types that can save money if you plan multiple trips. Some passes allow you to travel between ports on the same line and return to the original port without buying a new ticket. They are typically valid for a set period.

For families, the special family pass gives two free child tickets (ages 4-12) when you buy two adult daily tickets. The discount does not apply to fast-service hydrofoils, which always charge the full supplement.

Season-long travelers may consider a yearly subscription that offers unlimited rides on ordinary routes for a year-long period and starts on the first day of the month you choose.

When you buy a ticket, keep it handy. Staff may ask to see it during boarding, especially for discounted passes. If you lose a ticket, you can request a replacement at the ticket office, but you will need to show proof of purchase.

Step 4: Plan Your Day Trips from Brunate

Brunate sits above the lake and is linked to Como by a historic funicular that has run since 1894. From the top of the hill you have quick access to the ferry docks in Como. Use the funicular schedule , first car departs at 07:00, last at 22:30 , to sync with ferry times.

One popular itinerary is a morning ride from Brunate down to Como, then a ferry to Bellagio. From Bellagio you can explore the gardens of Villa Melzi, then catch an afternoon ferry to Varenna and visit the Villa Monastero. Return to Como in the early evening and take the funicular back up to Brunate.

If you prefer a quieter experience, aim for the early-morning ferry from Como to Cadenabbia (around 07:30). The boat is less crowded and the surrounding town opens its cafés later, giving you a relaxed start.

Keep an eye on the seasonal schedule: some evening cruises run only in summer. During the shoulder months (April, October) the last ferry may leave earlier, so plan to be back on the dock well before sunset.

Step 5: Align Your Ferry Schedule with a Stay at Villino Rubini

Villino Rubini offers ten rooms across three historic buildings, a heated pool, spa, sauna and gym. The estate includes a private shuttle that takes guests from the villa to the Como-Brunate funicular, removing the need to arrange your own transport.

When you book, request the shuttle time that matches your ferry departure. For example, if you plan to catch the 09:15 am ferry from Como to Bellagio, ask the shuttle to drop you at the funicular by 08:30. The villa’s staff can confirm the exact timing during the reservation process.

Because the villa does not have lake views, focus on the garden terrace and the art-nouveau interiors for your moments of calm. Breakfast is served in the main dining room, and you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beech forest before heading to the dock.

To reserve a room, use the online booking page. It shows availability, room types and the option to add the private shuttle. Prenotazione | Villino Rubini is the direct portal for reservations.

For a broader look at the estate’s rooms, see the CAMERE - Villino Rubini page. It lists each building, the number of bathrooms and the capacity for up to nineteen guests.

If you are planning a wedding or a corporate retreat, the venue also offers exclusive hire of the whole property. More details are available at the Villino Rubini: Luxury Villa & Wedding Venue Lake Como, Italy homepage.

FAQ

What is the best time of day to catch a Lake Como ferry?

The early-morning slots before 09:30 are usually the least crowded, and the mid-afternoon sailings between 14:00 and 16:00 also see fewer tourists.

Do ferries run in winter?

Yes, the service operates year-round, but many routes run on a reduced schedule from early November to late March.

Can I buy tickets on board?

You can purchase a ticket on board if the departure port does not have a ticket office, and there is no extra charge for doing so.

Are there discounts for residents?

Residents of participating municipalities may be eligible for reduced fares, though discounts vary by route and do not apply to night cruises or vehicle transport.

How do I get from Brunate to the ferry docks?

The private shuttle from Villino Rubini takes you to the historic funicular, which then descends to Como’s dock in about 10 minutes.

Is a pass worth buying for a short stay?

If you plan more than two trips in a day, a multi-ride ticket or day pass may be more economical than purchasing single tickets for each journey.

Planning your ferry rides ahead of time lets you enjoy the lake without stress.

Book your stay at Villino Rubini, check the latest timetable, and let the water carry you to the towns you love.