On the east side of Lake Como, right in the centre, in front of Bellagio, Varenna is a key hub for ferry and boat services. From here, you can easily reach some of the Lake’s most famous towns, visit historic villas, and enjoy breathtaking views while gliding across the water. The ferry service makes moving between different locations simple and enjoyable!
Where can you go from Varenna?
The Varenna ferry dock connects both sides of Lake Como, with regular routes to Bellagio, Menaggio, and Cadenabbia. These ferries also carry vehicles, making them a practical choice for those willing to explore further.
Varenna is also one of the main stops on the Como–Colico and Lecco–Bellagio routes, offering easy access to many destinations along the Lake.
Timetables, ticket prices, and details on seasonal routes and special cruises are available on the Navigazione Laghi website.
Boat trips from Varenna: what to visit
With its central location, Varenna is an excellent starting point for discovering some of Lake Como’s most beautiful places.
- A ferry ride to Bellagio is one of the most popular choices. Known for its elegant villas and charming streets, it’s a perfect place to stroll, shop, or relax by the water.
- Another must-see is Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, famous for its impressive art collection and lush botanical gardens. The villa opens from March 21 to October 19, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with a reduced schedule in November and early December.
- For those who enjoy quieter locations, Comacina Island offers a mix of history and nature. The only island on Lake Como, it was once an important medieval settlement. It is open to visitors from May to the end of October, every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with an entrance ticket required.
Where is the Varenna ferry dock?
The Varenna ferry dock is located near the center of town, within walking distance of local attractions and services, and connected with the old picturesque harbor by the famous lakefront Lovers’ Promenade.
A short stroll leads to our Varenna Holidays Boutique, which offers a selection of handcrafted ceramics, artisanal jewelry, locally produced olive oil and wine, and other exclusive souvenirs.
Several of Varenna Holidays’ rental homes are also nearby, ideal for those who want to stay close to the Lake and its services. The area around the dock has cafés and traditional restaurants, making it a great place to relax before or after a boat trip.
Tips for ferry travel
Tickets can be bought in advance online, through the Navigazione Laghi website, which is constantly updated with timetables and news. Booking online ensures shorter waiting time and shows the effective availability of seats.
If you need to buy at the moment, it’s best to check the timetable and be at the ticket office 20 minutes before departure. During peak season and holiday periods, queues can be long, so arriving early helps avoid delays.
Passengers boarding at stops without a ticket office can also purchase tickets on board at no additional cost.
Ferries make it easy to explore Lake Como, the area is full of fascinating places to see, and traveling by boat lets you take in the beauty of the Lake from a different perspective.
For a well-organized stay, Varenna Holidays provides expert advice, excellent rental homes, and recommendations on how to make the most of your time in the area.
