Getting around Como: trains, boats, the funicular and the centre on foot
Two stations, two different lines
Como is easy to reach by train, to explore on foot and to enjoy on the lake by boat. First, though, it helps to understand two things: which station to use and where to leave the car, because the historic centre is a ZTL (limited traffic zone).
Como San Giovanni is on the Milan–Chiasso line, with regional, suburban and long-distance trains. The S11 runs through it (Como San Giovanni – Monza – Milano Porta Garibaldi – Rho). Como Lago is the terminus of the Ferrovienord trains from Milano Cadorna, on the lakefront, close to the boat piers. The journey from Cadorna takes about an hour: check the exact time on the Trenord timetable.
If you are leaving from Cadorna or want to go straight to the lake, choose Como Lago. If you are leaving from Centrale, Porta Garibaldi, Monza or Switzerland, the train takes you to Como San Giovanni.
On the lake by boat
Public boat services on Lake Como (the Lario) are run by Navigazione Laghi. From Como there are services to Bellagio, Menaggio, Varenna and Colico. Timetables are seasonal: before a trip, check the timetable on the Navigazione Laghi website and the departure pier.
Como–Brunate funicular
The funicular leaves from piazza A. De Gasperi and climbs to Brunate in about 7 minutes, with request stops along the way (Carescione). It is operated by ATM. Times and frequencies should be checked on the official website.
ASF city buses
Urban transport is run by ASF Autolinee. According to the 2026 mobility charter, the urban network includes lines 1–9, 11 and 12 (line 9 links the Brunate funicular with the Faro Voltiano and Cao). The urban network ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 75 minutes within the Comune di Como; for stretches of the urban lines outside the municipality you need the urban area ticket (€2.00, 90 minutes).
By car: ZTL and parking
The historic centre, the Città Murata (walled town), is a ZTL. Park outside the centre and continue on foot or by bus. Car parks mentioned by local guides include the Val Mulini multi-storey car park, piazza Atleti Azzurri d’Italia and Tavernola. If your accommodation includes a parking space, it is stated in the listing.
Practical tips from Easy Housing
On sunny weekends the boats fill up: get to the pier early. For Orticolario or the Festival della Luce, the train is more convenient than the car. For Lugano and Canton Ticino, bring a valid identity document.
Looking for a place to stay in Como? See our homes on ehisrlitalia.com.